Josh Smith – Montana Knife Company

Can you share more about your story starting MKC? How did you first get interested in the business?

Starting Montana Knife Company was really the culmination of a lifelong passion. I made my first knife when I was just 11 years old, and I became obsessed with bladesmithing, eventually earning my Master Bladesmith title at age 19.. Over the years, I realized there was a need for quality, American-made knives specifically built for hunters and outdoorsmen, designed to hold up to the tough demands of our environment. That’s where MKC was born. I wanted to combine my skills as a bladesmith with my love for Montana to create knives people could rely on for generations.

How did growing up in Montana influence your interest in starting MKC?

Montana is a big part of who I am. Growing up here, you learn to respect the land and the work that goes into making something last. We’re a state of hunters, ranchers, and hard-working folks who rely on good tools, and that’s a huge influence on MKC. It’s about building something that’s practical, tough, and true to the Montana way of life. I wanted to create a product that’s as rugged and reliable as the people who use it.

How has the business evolved since 2020 when it first started?

When we launched in 2020, it was a leap of faith. I started out small, with just a one design and the help of my kids in my garage, but we quickly saw demand take off. Since then, we’ve expanded our lineup and grown our team, but the core of what we do—crafting high-quality knives with purpose—has stayed the same. Now, with our new facility being built in Missoula, we will be able to bring even more jobs to the community and keep up with demand, while still focusing on craftsmanship.

How does your role as the Master Bladesmith keep you engaged in the work and business?

As a Master Bladesmith, I’m deeply involved in every aspect of the knife-making process, from design to testing. Being hands-on with the craftsmanship keeps me connected to what makes MKC unique. It’s not just about running a business for me; it’s about creating products I’m proud to put my name on. Every knife that leaves our shop has to meet the standards I’ve set as a bladesmith, and being involved in that process is what keeps me passionate about the work.

What differentiates MKC from other knife manufacturers?

Our knives are built for the real-world needs of hunters and outdoorsmen, and they’re made right here in Montana. No other major knife company is actually led by a master bladesmith. We focus on creating tools that are dependable, versatile, and durable enough to pass down. We also do things a little differently with our drop releases, so we’re producing in smaller, focused batches that let us keep quality high. We’re proud to offer knives that are made with precision and designed specifically for people who share our love for the outdoors.

The hunting community in Montana is incredibly important to us because that’s who we’re building these knives for. We’re at hunting events, conservation gatherings, and we’re always talking to our customers to get feedback. The majority of our team members are hunters themselves, so we stay connected to the needs and preferences of local hunters. We also contribute to conservation efforts to help preserve the land we’re so lucky to have here.

Why is Montana a great place to start an outdoors-focused business?

Montana is really the perfect place to build a brand like MKC. The rugged landscape, the culture of self-reliance, and the respect for the outdoors all play into what we do. People here appreciate gear that’s reliable and durable because they know what it means to really rely on your tools in the backcountry. Plus, the outdoor community here is tight-knit and supportive—it’s a great place to start a business that’s built around those same values.

How do you utilize Montana’s hunting and fishing access to test your knives and develop products?

We’re lucky to have some of the best hunting and fishing access in the country right here in Montana, and we use it to our advantage. We’re out there using the knives ourselves, putting them through real-life tests to make sure they can handle everything our customers will throw at them. I’d rather see a knife fail in testing than out in the field, so we make sure every product is field-tested to handle the demands of hunting and outdoor use.

What are you most excited about with your new facility in Frenchtown?

The new facility in Frenchtown is a big step forward for MKC. It lets us expand production and create more jobs right here in Montana, which means we can keep up with demand without sacrificing quality. I’m excited about the potential for growth, and it’s an honor to build this business in my home state, supporting local workers and putting out a product we’re all proud of. We broke ground on an even bigger facility in Missoula just a few weeks ago, and I am excited to see our continued growth there.

Where is your favorite place to spend time outdoors in Montana?

My favorite memories in the Montana outdoors have been in the Missouri River Breaks with my kids. Before MKC, I took my kids out to eastern montana and camped with them while mule deer hunting and we had the best time. That country is incredible to sit in while looking at the Missouri river and imagine what it was like as Lewis and Clark rowed canoes by.

Your company has really gone viral over the last couple of years with drops selling out regularly. What do you attribute this success to for your company?

I think it comes down to our focus on quality and authenticity. People know that when they buy an MKC knife, they’re getting something made by folks who love the outdoors as much as they do. Pair that with people’s desire to see manufacturing brought back to the US, it makes for a great recipe of growth. We take pride in every knife we put out there, and I think our customers see that. Our community has been incredibly supportive and loyal, and the demand just keeps growing. It’s a testament to the quality we put into every blade and the connection we have with our customers.

How can people follow you on social media and learn more about MKC?

We’re active on Instagram and Facebook, where we share updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes looks at the knife-making process. Our handle is @montanaknifecompany, and it’s a great place to see what we’re up to, learn about upcoming drops, and connect with us. We also have a website at montanaknifecompany.com, where people can learn more about our story, products, and how to get involved.