Discover the winners of the 2025 BLADE Show West Custom Knife Awards—nine categories of world-class craftsmanship.

Salt Lake City once again became the hub of the knife world as the 2025 BLADE Show West took over the Salt Palace Convention Center October 10-11. Now in its fourthyear in Utah, the event drew an impressive mix of custom knifemakers, manufacturers, and collectors from across the country and abroad.

At the heart of the weekend stood the Custom Knife Awards—always one of the most anticipated moments of the show. Makers went head-to-head across nine categories, putting their best work forward for consideration. Judged by a panel of anonymous experts, the entries were measured on design, originality, choice of materials, functionality, and overall execution.

The results reflected the diversity and skill of today’s custom knife community. With a crowded field and no shortage of standout pieces, the 2025 competition underscored why BLADE Show West continues to be a must-attend event for knife enthusiasts everywhere.

Best Custom Hunting Knife And Overall Best In Show: James Rodebaugh

Best Custom Damascus: Trevor Morgan

Best Custom Fixed Blade: Christopher Moss

Best Custom Folder: Javi Garcia

Best Custom Kitchen Knife: Kelly Frasier

Best Custom Slip Joint: Bill Ruple

Best M.A.C.K.: Tom Krein

Best Of The Rest: Kelly Frasier

See More Award Winners:

• 2025 Knife Of The Year® Award Winners
• 2025 BLADE Show Texas Custom Knife Award Winners
• 2025 BLADE Show Texas Factory Knife Award Winners
• 2024 BLADE Show West Custom Knife Award Winners
• 2024 BLADE Show West Factory Knife Award Winners