Jay spent over forty years as an antique dealer with a passion for what he fondly calls “Boy’s Toys”—old guns, tools, fishing gear, military memorabilia, and especially vintage knives. That lifelong appreciation for fine craftsmanship eventually led him to create his own line of handcrafted blades under the name Jay Bear Knives.

Deeply inspired by the historic knife makers of San Francisco and the Old West, Jay’s designs often echo those classic styles.

Jay crafts high-quality knives for hunting, skinning, camping, culinary use, and everyday carry. He’s known for his attention to detail, sturdy build quality, and practical designs. A customer favorite is the railroad spike knife—compact, durable, and sold with a handmade leather sheath. At $150, it makes a distinctive and functional gift.

Each Jay Bear knife is built to be used, admired, and passed down.