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The Portland Knife Center of Excellence Presents: National Knife Day Portland Maker Showcase
In 2024, in an unprecedented show of collaboration and community building, five competing Portland-based knife brands (Benchmade, CRKT, Gerber, Leatherman, and STEELPORT Knife Co.) - who are also five of the most notable American knife brands in the world - united to form the Portland Knife Center of Excellence (PKCoE). One of PKCoE’s objectives is to bring global awareness to Portland as a destination to connect and celebrate the passionate Knife Community while building pride in American craft, education, and innovation. The Portland Knife Center of Excellence continues to strengthen and now has nine local knife brands as members.
The PKCOE will host its third annual Showcase Event highlighting Portland’s knifemakers and the history of local knife manufacturing to celebrate “National Knife Day,”.
In addition to all nine brands being present, the showcase will also feature knife forging demonstrations, local food and drink, and more. This event is open to the public, and welcome to all who have an interest in the past, present, and future of knifemaking in Oregon.
WHAT: The Portland Knife Center of Excellence Presents: National Knife Day Portland Maker Showcase
WHEN: Sunday, August 23, 2026, 10am-2pm
WHERE: The STEELPORT Knife Co. Factory parking lot - 3602 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, Oregon 97232
FEATURING:
- All Nine PKCoE Member Brands: Benchmade, CRKT, Gerber Gear, Kershaw, Leatherman, STEELPORT Knife Co., The James Brand, William Henry, and ZT, with many knifemakers and original company founders on-site with their products to talk shop and connect with the knife community.
- Founder Tool Signing: Bring a tool to be signed by knife icons, including Columbia River Knife & Tool (CRKT) Founder Rod Bremer, Leatherman Founder Tim Leatherman as he celebrates his forthcoming book, and other special guests (11am-Noon)
- Forging Demonstrations: See steel forged into blade before your eyes with live forging demos by bladesmith Arnon Kartmazov of Bridgetown Forge.
- Past & Future of Knifemaking: Historical pieces from member brands tracing the story of Portland's knifemaking history, plus a display from the Oregon State University Blacksmithing Club.
- Ultimate Portland Knifemaker Giveaway: A final chance to enter to win from more than $11,500 in prizes.
- Local Food & Drink: Barbecue from Pitmaster Ben Vaughan of Lil’ Barbecue and drinks from pFriem Family Brewers.