Iron Owl Custom Blades is a bespoke knife-making studio rooted in passion, craftsmanship, and a shared love for traditional metalwork. Founded in Fort Worth, Texas by two dedicated artisans, Iron Owl emerged from a simple idea: do what we love and create quality blades while we’re at it. This philosophy drives every piece that leaves their workshop, where creativity and hands-on skill merge to form functional works of art.
The story of Iron Owl began through a shared interest in renaissance fairs and the ancient traditions of blade-making. The founders first connected while working under a master swordsmith, where they honed their appreciation for the heritage and technique of forging knives and swords. It was here that the spark for their own journey was lit — and Iron Owl was born.
The team behind Iron Owl includes three passionate makers with distinct backgrounds:
Merritt Lee Kendall, a native Texan and seasoned knifemaker with over two decades of experience shaping metal into finely crafted blades. His deep roots in the craft and membership in the Texas Knifemakers Guild reflect his commitment to quality and tradition.
Vincent Garcetti, who began learning the craft under Merritt’s mentorship in 2013. He quickly developed his own skill set and artistic voice within the studio’s collaborative environment.
Ian Kendall, who has taken up the craft under his father's mentorship in 2020. His journey has led him to develop his own styles for a modern time pulling from historic references.
Together, Merritt, Vince, and Ian have built Iron Owl into a collaborative space where craftsmanship evolves with every project. From custom commissions to unique original designs, each knife is crafted with precision and heart — a testament to their ongoing dedication to the art of bladesmithing.
