International Knife Day – From My First Knife to My Collection Today.
- Raffco
- Aug 24
- 3 min read
Every year on August 24th, enthusiasts around the world celebrate International Knife Day—a day dedicated to one of humanity’s oldest and most important tools. Knives are more than just sharpened steel; they are survival companions, works of craftsmanship, and often deeply personal objects that carry memories and traditions. For me, this day is a chance to reflect on my own journey with knives—from a humble first folder to the collection I’m proud to own today.
My First Knife – A Pipeworks Market Treasure
Like most collectors, my journey began with a knife that wasn’t fancy or expensive, but unforgettable. I picked it up at Pipeworks Market: a small folding knife with wooden handles, a Bowie-style blade, and “Made in Japan” etched into its 440 stainless steel. It cost me about ten dollars.
I remember the feeling of slipping it into my pocket for the first time—I felt like an absolute boss. That knife was more than a market find; it was independence, responsibility, and pride, all wrapped up in a tool I could carry every day.
Family Inspiration – Lessons from My Dad and Grandfather
My passion for knives didn’t just come from that first purchase. It was shaped by two men who carried before me.
My Dad – Always practical, my dad never carried a knife as part of a collection—it’s simply an everyday necessity for him. He uses it for everything. But the best part is still watching him at the dinner table today, proudly pulling out his Benchmade Bugout to slice a piece of cheese. He’ll mention—sometimes more than once—that it cost him $300, and you can see the pride on his face. For him, carrying a good knife isn’t about showing off; it’s about having the right tool and enjoying the moment.
My Grandfather – His knife was a simple slipjoint, worn smooth after years of use. He never made a fuss about it, but the way he carried it steady, respectful, and always with purpose inspired me. To him, a knife wasn’t just a tool; it was part of his identity.
Those early lessons stuck. Carrying a knife became more than habit—it became tradition.
My Favorite Blades Today (I will do a seperate write up on this)
Over the years, my collection has grown, and each knife has its own story. Some are for function, others for nostalgia, and a few for pure craftsmanship.
The Everyday Folder – My modern go-to. Reliable, sleek, and tough enough for any daily task.
The Slipjoint – A tribute to my grandfather. Simple, timeless, and full of character, it connects me back to the roots of why I carry.
The Fixed Blade – Built for the outdoors. Whether camping, hiking, or tackling jobs around the yard, this one is all about rugged reliability.
The Collector’s Pieces – Knives I don’t carry daily, but admire for their design and artistry. These are the blades that remind me knives are as much craft as they are tool.
Multitools - The perfect sidekick for any task!
Why International Knife Day Matters
Knives often get a bad wrap—especially here in Melbourne. Too often the media only talks about them in the context of crime or violence, painting them purely as weapons. But the truth is, knives have always been tools first. They’ve helped us cook, build, craft, and survive since the very beginning of human history.
For me, International Knife Day is a chance to flip that narrative. It’s about celebrating knives as essential, practical tools—symbols of craftsmanship, tradition, and responsibility. When I think about my own journey, I don’t see weapons. I see my ten-dollar market folder that sparked my passion, my dad’s practicality, my grandfather’s steadiness, and the collection I continue to build with pride.
Closing Thoughts
My first knife may have been a cheap little folder, but it started something bigger than I could have imagined. It taught me independence, it connected me to my family’s traditions, and it sparked a passion that continues today.
So this August 24th, on International Knife Day, I’ll sharpen up my favorites, carry one with pride, and reflect on what these blades represent: utility, craftsmanship, tradition, and a piece of my own story.
Because at the end of the day, knives aren’t just tools—they’re part of who we are.
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