Running Man Forge is the California-based workshop of bladesmith Justin Stinson. Located at Travis AFB, the forge specializes in handcrafted kitchen cutlery and outdoor knives. Stinson began making knives as a teenager and transitioned to full-time knifemaking in 2019 after developing the craft alongside his regular day job.
Running Man Forge emphasizes in-house production and individual construction. Stinson performs a wide range of processes himself, including forging, grinding, heat treatment, handle work, wood stabilization, and the production of custom Damascus steel. His goal is to make each finished knife distinct rather than reproduce identical factory-style pieces.
The workshop is particularly associated with chef knives and other culinary blades, including Gyuto, Santoku, cleaver, Sujihiki, and related forms, while also producing outdoor knives and occasional collector-focused pieces. Carbon steels, stainless steels, San Mai construction, Damascus, and Honyaki techniques appear across different projects. This combination of individual forging and functional geometry places Running Man Forge within the practical side of handmade custom knives. Stinson places particular emphasis on the relationship between cutting performance and visual design. Handles frequently use hardwoods and stabilized burls, while carbon-steel blades are intended to develop a natural patina with use. The forge also provides detailed guidance on sharpening, cutting surfaces, handle maintenance, rust prevention, and long-term care.
Running Man Forge continues to produce custom orders, small batches, and individually designed knives for professional cooks, home users, and collectors. Finished RMF knives are available both directly from the maker and through selected specialty cutlery retailers in the United States.
