Bryan Baker, Master Cutler started his knife making business from necessity in 1983. Made redundant by the untimely demise of an engineering firm, the 18 year old decided to turn a hobby into a practical business. The early SVÖRD Knives were forged individually and therefore expensive. Bryan Baker had to rethink his production methods and pricing to secure a share of the New Zealand sports market. He began using the ‘stock removal’ method and soon carved a niche in the sports market, with attractive, affordable, handmade outdoor knives. Designs improved styles and a steady demand saw SVORD Knives grow in credibility and popularity with the sporting public of New Zealand. A chance meeting with an elderly Czechoslovak knife maker gave Bryan Baker’s business a real boost for this master craftsman was able to pass on to Baker many cutlers secrets and knife know-how. Especially important was the unique hardening and…