The Knife Junkie Podcast

Bob "The Knife Junkie" DeMarco
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The Knife Junkie podcast is the place for knife newbies and experience knife collectors to learn more about knives and knife collecting and become true "knife junkies." Twice per week, Bob DeMarco talks knives and brings you special sections such as Knife Life News, pocket checks and more. In addition, your calls and comments will be featured on the podcast -- dial The Knife Junkie Listener Line at 724-466-4487. And be sure to visit The Knife Junkie online at www.theknifejunkie.com

  1. 1D AGO

    12 Totally Unique Folding Knife Designs: The Knife Junkie Podcast (Episode 659)

    Bob DeMarco counts down 12 totally unique folding knife designs on this week\'s episode of The Knife Junkie Podcast. From the Civivi Vision FG and its innovative locking mechanism designed by Snecx to the Microtech Stitch with its Borka Blades-designed profile and Ram-Lok system, Bob walks through a dozen folders, each bringing something different to the knife world. Along the way, he shares what changed his mind about the Off-Grid Knives Raptor, why the Pinkerton Knives Feral Folder is built for real-world self-defense, and what makes the DC Blades Sting one of the most ergonomic reverse-grip folders he has handled. The episode opens with a Pocket Check featuring the Microtech SOCOM Elite Ram-Lok, the Jack Wolf Knives Gunslinger Jack, the Hogtooth Knives Ruffian, and the Jed Hornbeak Necromance. In Knife Life News, Bob covers a new 14C28N slip joint from RoseCraft Blades, a new Exskelibur from Boker in proprietary BKR-10 steel, the return of the Kopis Designs L-Via at KnivesShipFree, and Buck\'s 13th Stealth Run, an automatic 110 in CPM MagnaCut. The First Tool segment takes a trip through the history of the Italian stiletto switchblade, from its origins as a Renaissance-era thrusting dagger to the iconic automatic knives that emerged from Maniago, Italy, after World War II. Bob traces the cultural impact from the Beltrame family workshops to the Federal Switchblade Act of 1958. In State of the Collection, Bob shows off the new AUX MFG Deadhead Pocket Bowie Frame Lock, the folding version of a fixed blade he has been carrying for months. With an M390 blade, a fluted titanium handle, and Michael Jarvis\'s signature coffin-shaped design, Bob calls it an outstanding addition to the Auxiliary Manufacturing lineup. Whether you are a collector looking for something that stands out or just want to stay current on what is new in the knife world, this episode has something for everyone. Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/659. Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions. To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use our preferred platform: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

  2. MAR 4

    15 Great Everyday Defense (EDD) Blades: The Knife Junkie Podcast (Episode 658)

    On Episode 658 of The Knife Junkie Podcast, host Bob \"The Knife Junkie\" DeMarco presents 15 of the best everyday defense blades — or EDD blades — available today. Unlike standard EDC knives, EDD blades are purpose-built for personal defense, with blade geometry, grip ergonomics, and sheath systems designed to enable fast, reliable deployment in real-world defensive situations. Bob covers 15 options that span the full range from affordable production knives to small-batch makers and custom-adjacent designs. Whether you carry a pocket fixed blade or a defensive folder, this episode gives you a strong shortlist to work from. Before getting into the main topic, Bob opens with a pocket check featuring the Microtech SOCOM Elite Auto, the JWK Timber Jack, the Hogtooth NoVA-2, and the Cold Steel Espada XL in ESK. Knife Life News covers four current stories: a new Ostap Hel design from Bestech, an upcoming Torbé/Civivi collaboration, a maritime-themed folder from GiantMouse, and a classic reproduction from TOPS Knives in partnership with another legendary American brand. The First Tool segment examines the Roman pugio—the compact dagger carried daily by Roman legionaries as a personal-defense backup—and how it connects directly to the philosophy behind modern EDD carry. Bob also highlights two additions to the State of the Collection: Jack Wolf Knives' Gunslinger Jack and Norman Tactical's Fighting Bowie. The main segment covers 15 EDD blades in detail, including the Fisher Blades Beckwith Covert, the Amtac Blades Northman, the Cold Steel Urban Edge, the TKell Agent 001, the AB Knives 302, the Regiment Blades Lo-Viz, the Gunfighter Customs Gunfighter, the TOPS Felony Stop, the Hogtooth Knives EDC Tanto, the Pinkerton Knives Matador, the Brock Blades Magni XL, the Gross Motor Gear Mamushi Mini, the AUX MFG Pocket Rocket, the Kramer Customs Voodoo, and the Savage Creature Defense Tools Masako Hachi. Bob explains what makes each blade stand out in the EDD category, covering carry methods, blade geometry, grip design, and real-world defensive applications. This episode is essential listening for anyone who takes everyday defensive carry seriously, from new to the EDD concept to experienced carriers looking to expand or refine their options. Bob brings years of study in martial arts and blade culture to this list, and every knife on it earns its spot for a reason. Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/658. Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions. To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use our podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

  3. FEB 18

    10 Great Combat Knives: The Knife Junkie Podcast (Episode 657)

    In Episode 657 of The Knife Junkie Podcast, host Bob DeMarco counts down his personal list of 10 great combat knives—real-world fixed blades built for fighting utility, not just show. From the IDF-inspired TKell Knives Outrider to the legendary USMC KA-BAR to a Bill Harsey-designed Spartan Blades Kukri, Bob walks through each knife with honest commentary on steel, design, ergonomics, and real carry experience. Whether you are a collector looking for your next fixed blade or just want to understand what separates a great combat knife from a great dagger, this episode breaks it down clearly and without the fluff. Before the main event, Bob runs the Pocket Check with four knives he has been carrying: the Off-Grid Knives Polaris XL in Vanax steel, the Jack Wolf Knives Timber Jack, the Bald Man Knife and Tool Serpico, and the TOPS Wild Pig Hunter. He also covers the latest Knife Life News, including the WE Knife Co. Nivron flipper, the Boker Club Knife modern traditional, the TOPS Lil Chete, and the RoseCraft Blades Barren Fork Jack, now featuring 14C28N steel. The episode also includes a First Tool segment on Nessmuk—the 19th-century outdoorsman who argued that lighter was smarter and changed American camping culture with a short, wide-bellied fixed blade and a philosophy that most bushcrafters still follow today. Bob also shows off three daggers from the State of the Collection—a Randall No. 2-7 Combat Stiletto, the Ek-44, and the Spartan Harsey Dagger—to draw a clear line between a pure fighting blade and a true combat knife. Also covered: the February 2026 Gentleman Junkie giveaway knife, the Knives by Nuge Textured Wicket, and going to one lucky Patreon member or YouTube member on Thursday Night Knives, February 19. And a shoutout to sponsor 3 Dog Knife—Alaska-made outdoor fixed blades available at theknifejunkie.com/3dogknife, and save 25% off with the code knifejunkie. Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/657. Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions. To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use our podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

  4. FEB 15

    Christopher Adelhardt, Pariah Knives: The Knife Junkie Podcast (Episode 656)

    On this episode (656) of The Knife Junkie Podcast, Bob DeMarco speaks with Christopher Adelhardt of Pariah Knives, a maker who brings a unique background to the craft. Before Christopher ever ground his first blade, he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and taught ceramics at the Erie Art Museum for more than five years. He also worked as a finish carpenter for nearly a decade, learning precision and craftsmanship from his father. This combination of artistic vision and hands-on building skills created the perfect foundation for what would become Pariah Knives. Christopher creates Japanese-inspired knives that blend traditional designs with modern materials. His work features distinctive geometric details and hand-shaped wooden handles that reflect his sculptural training. Each knife comes with a custom sheath, often using traditional Japanese saya construction with his own signature touches. His background in Kendo, a Japanese martial art he practices in Austin, Texas, gave him hands-on knowledge of traditional blade forms and how they should feel and move in the hand. The name Pariah Knives reflects his experiences growing up. He felt like an outcast—someone who chose art school while others played football. He describes himself as a late bloomer and a socially awkward kid who never quite fit the standard mold. This philosophy runs through every aspect of his work, creating pieces that stand apart from mainstream production knives and honor the past while pushing into the future. Listen to the full episode to hear Christopher discuss his journey from ceramics and carpentry to blade making, his techniques for creating hamons in high-carbon steel, and how he uses social media to connect with customers worldwide. Bob and Christopher also talk about the similarities between sculpture and knife making, the evolution of his style from fantasy blades to Japanese-inspired designs, and what it means to create modern interpretations of ancient blade patterns. Find Christopher Adelhardt and Pariah Knives online at https://www.pariahknives.com and follow along on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pariah_knives. Learn more at https://www.theknifejunkie.com/656. Be sure to support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. You can also support The Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions. To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use our podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

  5. FEB 11

    10 Great Outdoor Fixed Blade Knives: The Knife Junkie Podcast (Episode 655)

    In Episode 655 of The Knife Junkie Podcast, Bob DeMarco shares his top 10 outdoor fixed blade knives, each tested through years of real-world use. From budget Moraknivs to the legendary Cold Steel Trailmaster he has carried for nearly three decades, this lineup represents knives that actually perform when you need them most. Bob walks through his current pocket check featuring the Emerson Zero Tolerance 0620, Jack Wolf Knives Timber Jack, TKell Nightstalker, and Cold Steel Desperado. The episode covers the February 2026 Gentleman Junkie giveaway from Knives by Nuge, the ongoing 3 Dog Knife affiliate partnership offering 25% off Alaska-made outdoor knives, and recent releases from Defiant 7, Civivi, and LionSteel. Bob also takes a historical look at the Japanese Kiridashi utility knife and shares his thoughts on the new Off-Grid Knives Polaris XL with Vanax steel. The main event features 10 outdoor fixed blades that have seen serious use: the Condor Hudson Bay knife that took down an entire hedgerow, the classic Morakniv Number 2, the TOPS Tex Creek, 3 Dog Knife MAK, Knives by Nuge Bruin, Bark River Boone 2, L.T. Wright Small Northern Hunter, Off-Grid Tracker, BPS Knives MP5, and the Cold Steel Trailmaster that has been batoning logs since 2008. Bob also shares honorable mentions, including additional models from BPS, Knives by Nuge, Morakniv, and Off-Grid Knives. Whether you need a knife for weekend camp chores, serious wilderness adventures, or everyday outdoor tasks, this episode provides real-world recommendations based on actual experience. Bob shares the scars, chips, and reprofiles that prove these blades work when it counts. Join host Bob DeMarco for honest talk about outdoor knives that deliver performance beyond the hype. TKJ affiliate links for knives in this episode: • 3 Dog Knife (25% off hardcore Alaskan-made knives with coupon code: knifejunkie): https://theknifejunkie.com/3dogknife • Off-Grid Knives: https://www.theknifejunkie.com/offgrid • T.Kell Knives: https://theknifejunkie.com/tkell (Get 10% OFF with coupon code: knifejunkie) Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/655. Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions. To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use our podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

  6. FEB 8

    John Curran, Curran Blades: The Knife Junkie Podcast (Episode 654)

    Welcome to The Knife Junkie Podcast, Episode 654. This week, Bob DeMarco sits down with John Curran of Curran Blades, a custom knife maker from Vero Beach, Florida, who builds bold, one-of-a-kind tactical folders and fixed blades. John began making knives about 20 years ago after he could not find a specific hunting knife in stores. That first rough blade, built with a torch and motor oil, sparked a passion that eventually became a full-time career. Three years ago, John caught what he calls 'the bug' for building folders, and it has become an obsession driven by the search for perfection. In this conversation, John discusses the technical challenges of building custom folders, why attention to detail matters most, and how he creates knives that look bold yet remain rooted in real-world function. He shares his thoughts on building a sustainable knife-making business without trying to become the next big production company, and why repeat customers mean more to him than anything else. You will also hear about the materials John works with, including CPM-154 steel and high-carbon options like 1095 and O1. Plus, John reveals his dream project: a big, beautiful Damascus Bowie knife that he plans to build when the time is right. Check out the full episode at TheKnifeJunkie.com/654. Find John Curran and Curran Blades at CurranBlades.com, on Instagram @curran_blades, and on Facebook. Be sure to support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. You can also support The Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions. To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use our podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

  7. FEB 4

    Nostalgia Knives: The Knife Junkie Podcast (Episode 653)

    Episode 653 of The Knife Junkie Podcast takes a deeply personal turn as host Bob DeMarco shares the knives that hold the most meaning in his collection. This episode goes beyond steel types and blade geometry to explore the emotional connections that make knife collecting a lifelong passion. From family heirlooms nearly 100 years old to custom collaborations that mark personal milestones, Bob presents thirteen blades that represent different chapters in his life and collecting journey. The episode opens with Bob\'s practical pocket carry during the 2026 ice storm, featuring the robust Demko Knives AD20, the new Jack Wolf Knives Timber Jack designed by Tracy LaRock, the Knives By Nuge Bruin fixed blade, and a vintage USMC KA-BAR from 1990 that his brother gave him decades ago. Bob explains his emergency carry philosophy and why he chooses non-titanium handles in extreme cold. The Knife Life News segment covers exciting developments from Kombou and Bestech, Jared Price and Boker Plus, and new innovations from WE Knife Company. The heart of the episode focuses on thirteen nostalgia knives that tell the story of Bob\'s life. Family treasures include his grandfather\'s 1937 Jean Case Cutlery Co. hunting knife, with \"Robert Tinnirelli\" carved into the handle, and an L.F.&C U.S. 1918 Trench Knife that fulfilled a childhood dream shared with his brother. Production classics like the SOG Stingray, Cold Steel Tanto, Emerson Commander, Microtech SOCOM Elite, and Spyderco Sage 2 represent different eras and innovations in knife design. Design collaborations, including the Hogtooth Knives NoVA-1, TKell Knives Agent 001, and the 50th-birthday Hogtooth sub-hilt fighter, showcase Bob\'s work with talented makers such as Matt Chase and Tim Kell. The 50th birthday sub-hilt fighter stands out as perhaps the most meaningful knife in the collection. Inspired by Bob Loveless patterns, this double-edged fighting knife features a Damascus blade made from 15N20 and 1095, wrought iron reclaimed from Boston\'s Longfellow Bridge, antique black Micarta spacers, and beautiful stag. With 27 individual components perfectly balanced for its purpose, this knife represents not just exceptional craftsmanship but also the love of Bob\'s parents, who insisted on purchasing it as a birthday gift and handled all the arrangements with the maker, Matt Chase. Bob invites listeners to reflect on their own nostalgia knives and share the stories behind the blades that mean the most to them. This episode reminds us that the best knives are not always the most expensive or technologically advanced. The best knives are the ones that were present during important moments, given by people we love, or represent personal achievements and milestones in our collecting journey. Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/653. Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. Let us know what you thought about this episode, and leave a rating and a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions. To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use our podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

  8. JAN 21

    Most Loved Folding Knives of 2025: The Knife Junkie Podcast (Episode 652)

    Bob DeMarco returns with another year-end roundup on The Knife Junkie Podcast, counting down his favorite folding knives from 2025. After covering his top fixed blades last week, this episode focuses on the folders that earned the most pocket time throughout the year. From tactical self-defense designs to classic patterns with sentimental value, this list covers the full range of what makes a great folding knife. The episode begins with community feedback and a pocket check featuring the Cuda Maxx 5.5, Jack Wolf Knives Timber Jack, Brock Blades Magni XL, and Work Tuff Gear Steadfast L. Bob also discusses the classic Case Trapper. He shares his experience finally putting his MoraKniv carbon steel fixed blade to work. The Knife Life News segment covers new releases from Sencut, the return of the Bareknuckle, and the Stealth Fighter-inspired Zero Tolerance ZT0117. The main event features folders that stood out in 2025. The list includes the Cold Steel Rajah 3, Kansept Bison, JW Kollab Tango, DC Blades Sting, Buck Range Elite, North Mountain Blade BBMN, Kansept Deadite, Manganas Steel Aurelia, a vintage Buck 112 Ranger with serious history, and the Cold Steel Mayhem. Each knife earned its spot through real-world carry and use, not just initial impressions. Bob shares honest thoughts on what worked and what surprised him throughout the year. Some knives delivered exactly what he expected, while others exceeded all predictions. The Manganas Aurelia claimed top honors as his favorite folder of the year, while the vintage Buck 112 from his friend Mike carried emotional weight that goes beyond materials and design. Whether you prefer tactical folders, classic patterns, or modern designs, this list offers something worth considering. Watch the full video to see all these knives in action and hear detailed discussions about blade grinds, materials, and what makes each folder special. This episode demonstrates that the most reliable knife reviews come from actual use over time, providing viewers with the information they need to make informed decisions about their next purchase. Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/652. Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions. To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use our podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

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About

The Knife Junkie podcast is the place for knife newbies and experience knife collectors to learn more about knives and knife collecting and become true "knife junkies." Twice per week, Bob DeMarco talks knives and brings you special sections such as Knife Life News, pocket checks and more. In addition, your calls and comments will be featured on the podcast -- dial The Knife Junkie Listener Line at 724-466-4487. And be sure to visit The Knife Junkie online at www.theknifejunkie.com

Information

  • Creator
    Bob "The Knife Junkie" DeMarco
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    50
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 The Knife Junkie Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Knife Junkie Podcast

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