California Knife Expo 2026: What You Need to Know
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California Knife Expo 2026: What You Need to Know
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What It Is
The California Knife Expo is the premier showcase of American bladesmithing, bringing together the finest knife makers, collectors, and enthusiasts under one roof. This isn't a retail store experience—it's a direct connection to the artisans who forge, grind, and finish each blade by hand. On February 28, 2026, the Brea Community Center transforms into California's ultimate destination for custom knives, mid-tech innovations, and high-end factory pieces.
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Who Should Attend
Collectors looking to acquire exceptional pieces directly from makers—no middleman, no markup, just straight talk with the person who made the blade.
Knife enthusiasts who appreciate craftsmanship and want to see the full spectrum of what's possible when steel meets skill.
Outdoorsmen and professionals seeking custom tools built for serious use—hunting knives, tactical folders, bushcraft blades designed by people who understand function.
Aspiring makers wanting to see world-class work up close, ask questions, and connect with the community before committing to the craft.
Anyone curious about the intersection of art, engineering, and tradition. If you've ever wondered what goes into a $5,000 knife versus a $50 one, this is where you find out.
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Who Will Be There
Master bladesmiths with decades at the forge, whose waiting lists stretch years.
Rising talent pushing the craft forward with new materials, designs, and techniques.
Production knife representatives showcasing the highest tier of factory-made blades.
Fellow collectors and enthusiasts who speak your language and share your appreciation for quality steel.
The beauty of the Expo is the access—makers who are normally buried in orders take time to meet buyers, discuss their process, and share what makes their work unique.
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Why It Matters
In an age of mass production and online shopping, the California Knife Expo preserves something essential: human connection to craft. You're not clicking "add to cart"—you're holding the knife, feeling the balance, examining the grind lines, and hearing the story directly from the person who made it.
For $10 admission ($5 with the flyer), you get:
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Access to hundreds of custom and high-end knives available for purchase
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Face-to-face time with the makers
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Entry into the door prize raffle
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A chance to win the exclusive 2026 CKMA Club Knife (raffle tickets sold at the show)
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Free parking
Plus, admission is free for military members, veterans, police, firefighters, and children 12 and under—a small gesture of appreciation for those who serve.
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The Bottom Line
Whether you're adding to a serious collection, buying your first custom piece, or simply want to witness exceptional craftsmanship, the California Knife Expo offers something you can't get online: direct access to the makers, their knowledge, and their work.
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February 28, 2026 | 10AM-5PM | Brea Community Center
This is where California's knife community comes together. Be part of it.
Knifemaking Community
Blade Artisans United
Our Story
In November 1981, Bob Loveless gathered California's knife makers in Visalia with a clear vision: create a space where craftspeople could share knowledge, refine their skills, and advance the art of knifemaking. That vision became the California Knife Makers Association, and it's guided us for over four decades.
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What started as a handful of makers has grown into a thriving community of blade smiths, stock removal artists, collectors, and enthusiasts, all united by a respect for the craft and a commitment to doing it right.
A Community Built on Shared Knowledge
CalKnives is more than an organization. It's a network of makers who believe that knowledge shared is knowledge multiplied. Whether you're setting up your first shop or teaching the next generation, you'll find experienced members ready to discuss steel selection, heat treatment, handle materials, finishing techniques, and everything in between.
We connect through:
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Shop talks and demonstrations where members share techniques and troubleshoot challenges
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Educational webinars covering both traditional methods and modern innovations
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Member newsletters with project features, technical articles, and community news
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The annual California Knife Expo where makers showcase their work and collectors discover exceptional pieces
Membership
For $30 per year, CalKnives membership gives you access to our full community and resources:
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Quarterly newsletters with technical content and member spotlights
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Invitations to workshops, demonstrations, and educational events
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Exhibition opportunities at the California Knife Expo
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Direct connection to experienced makers across the state
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Support from a community that values craftsmanship and continuous improvement
We welcome everyone, from first-time makers figuring out their grinders to master craftsmen perfecting their Damascus patterns, and collectors who appreciate the artistry of a well-made blade.
What We Stand For
Excellence in Craft
We're committed to advancing knifemaking through education, practice, and the honest exchange of techniques. Every maker deserves access to quality knowledge.​
Community Over Competition
The best blades come from makers who learn from each other. We foster collaboration, mentorship, and the kind of straight talk that makes everyone better.​
Celebrating California's Makers
From San Diego to the Oregon border, California knife makers bring unique perspectives and exceptional skill. We showcase that talent and tell those stories.
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