- Tony,
thank you for the beautiful job you did restoring my Panther folding stainless steel hunting knife.
It was given to me about forty years ago and I have hunted with it all my life. When the locking mechanism
failed, I knew it was time to try and have it fixed. As folding
hunting knives go, its a very useful one because of the second bone saw
blade with aggressive teeth.
It is quite amazing to me that you were able to manufacture new parts,
polish and sharpen the blade, replace the rivets (as if they had never
been removed), restore the wood and make the brass shine like new.
I found you on the Internet. Your customer letters and the many before
and after photos on your site convinced me that you were the right
person to be trusted with the job.
The attached photo does not do the
knife justice. I show it to my friends and tell them that its 40 year old
knife and they are amazed too.
BE - Killarney, Ontario
-
Hello Tony,
The knife arrived in pristine order. I am simply amazed by the feel and quality of it and I am so glad that you were able to fix it.
You are quite a master craftsman and artist! Thank you so much for your hard work and time.
The pride that you take in your work is simply astonishing. I simply cannot think of the words to express my gratitude.
Feel free to use me as a reference for any other customers that you have in the future.
With my deepest appreciation,
Nathan Rikard - nathanrikard@gmail.com
-
Tony,
I am the recipient of the stiletto knife that Nathan has been in touch with you about.
I can only say in utter shock and disbelief that this is truly a work of art and you are nothing short of a craftsman of the highest degree.
I have been showing it off to anyone and everyone that will listen and detailing the arduous process that the repairs necessitated.
A select few people could have repaired the knife but I sincerely doubt that anyone except yourself could have repaired the knife and in the process improved the aesthetics of it as well! Thank you very much for your work and dedication!
This knife had a high sentimental value and to have it back again, functional, and better looking than ever means a great deal to me. Again, thank you.
With best regards,
Seth Connor - sethconnor@gmail.com
-
Tony,
The former Keen Kutter looks and feels wonderful. As I said before, it is stronger and better built that when the original manufacture produced it many years ago. I will always in the future depend on you for my repairs.
I would trust you with my most precious keep sakes. Every knife you have rebuilt for me always comes back home to me exceeding my wildest expectations!
Thanks a million,
Brooks C. Marshall, Acuff, Texas U.S.A.
brookscloymarshall@yahoo.com
- Dear Tony, Thank you for the superb work on my Ka-Bar folding knife.
This was my Grandfather's favorite hunting knife back in Wyoming.
By the time I got it, it was a lump of rust and broken scales, as
when you saw it. I very nearly threw it away, and I am so happy now
that I didn't. Now it is like new again, and I'll be able to give
it to my grandchild. As you said, "like a phoenix, reborn". I certainly
do appreciate your skill, and hope you will use me as a reference.
Your potential customers would be welcome to e-mail me for a very
positive recommendation. Thanks again,
Franklin D. Munkres - Fdmunkres@msn.com
-
Hello Tony, just received the folder which now looks more like a work of art!!!!
This is one beautiful job, and am 200% satisfied with it. The handle slabs are just perfect and matched to perfection.
This folder was made around 1885 and looks like it was made yesterday.
I almost don't want to use it because its so perfect, but I will use it. Thanks for the fine work, my best, Don
Don Perrone - udpdonnie@yahoo.com
-
I received the knife on Saturday. I just go home and opened it tonight
(Sunday).
Tony, you have far exceeded my fondest anticipation of ever seeing this knife
in such mint condition. You have done nothing short of a miracle. You have
restored for me, the single most representative item that ensured the safety
of a paratrooper after he landed in a precarious situation, prior to meeting
his mission objectives.
The first time I flicked the blade open, I felt the tremor of security so
often felt by men like my father and others when they landed in trees,
flooded canals, and fields, everywhere from North Africa, to Sicily, to
Italy, to France, Belgium, and finally Germany itself. I am so proud of what
you have done. The second time I flicked the blade open, tears came to my
eyes.
You did it right my friend. From the bottom of my heart to the top of my
Paratrooper's helmet, I thank you and will of course recommend you to every
one of my friends and re enactor buddies who need a custom knife or knife
repair.
Thank you again...you have returned to me a living link to those men and I
will never forget your "learning experience."
Daryl - Daryl1861@aol.com
- Warm regards, Hi Tony, I cant believe what a wonderful job you did on
the knife;I cant tell you how pleased I am the hatchet fits well also, I was
wondering would you also refurbish the hatchet ..........
-
Hi Tony, received the hatchet, beautiful job as usual.
If I ever need or know of anyone who needs work on a knife I will certainly
recommend you. Thank you again for the work. Have a good one.
Leonard - lensfish@email.msn.com
- Hi Tony, My knife arrived yesterday and I am thrilled with the results!
It looks brand new!
Thank you for such a speedy response time too.
I will definitely recommend your service to anyone we know.
Best regards, Linda - LCurtis647@aol.com
- Greets, Tony
Just got back into town and the knife was waiting for me at home. The lanyard
loop is better than I had envisioned. There is a very graceful sweep to your
design that easily accepts the line I am using for the lanyard.
Excellent
repair work, and the finish you put on the metal surfaces is better than new.
I am glad I sent the knife your way, Tony, and will recommend your services to
anyone who needs repair or custom work. Thanks for your efforts and attention to
the heirloom-to-be, best wishes for a fine spring in the BC wilds.
Mark Hollomon- HOLLODOGS@email.msn.com
-
Tony, I am currently overseas, and my mother has received the knife.
She doesn't even like knives and says it looks beautiful!
She's visiting me in ten days and will be bringing the knife -I send you a mail
as soon as I have it in my hands...........
- My mom arrived last week with the knife -Absolutely excellent!
Now I have a problem: My dad wants the knife!
His birthday is in March -maybe you would be up for doing another one?
Many thanks Tony -it really couldn't have turned out nicer.
Jack - jack@blindsight.org
-
Got the knives today. The package was a little beat up but the knives were
fine. I can't tell the repaired handles from the originals, so you picked
the right color. Nice job on the repair. Will keep you in mind for future
work. Thanks and good luck.
Garrett - jonesgr@email.msn.com
- Tony: Looks great!..I knew that this would not be easy. Again, thank you for
taking
on the challenge. I like the old stuff and I am delighted to find someone
like you who enjoys the old stuff and is an artist who can do the
repairs...and enjoys the fun of rebuilding an antique.......
- Tony: Thank you! It looks like it is new..and I know that it is better than
new!
Let me know if you need some extra money for this and I will send it along.
Thank you. John Besser - JBesser2@aol.com
- Hi Tony!
Wow! Great job! My Dad's knife came out GREAT! I really had no hope for
it and expected it to be "junk" and not repairable at all. In fact, it
never looked so good. I am amazed that you were able to find enough steel
left on it to re-grind it at all. Wow. It is also the sharpest knife I
have ever held. I am glad you warned me! You are very correct -- it
doesn't feel sharp when you test it with your fingers! But I could truly
shave with it.
My knife is also beautiful and much better than I expected. I like the way
you refinished the handles on both knives as well.
The pocketknife is in my pocket and is the sharpest it has ever been as
well.
I can't thank you enough. You have all my knife business from now on. All
of my friends' and family's business included.
Daniel Chase - chaselings@email.msn.com
- Tony,
It took me hours to realize that the knife you returned to me was actually
mine.
What a beautiful job. You are an artist, but it's obvious, judging from your
work, you've heard that before.
Sincerely, Paul De Simon - desimone@snet.net
- Hi, Tony;
I cant believe the knife repair. I thought for sure the best you could do was to smooth out the damage.
I must say I am impressed. I bought the knife years ago in London. I've been back numerous times through the years and never found another one like it. I suspect it was a " one of" from Sheffield. You should have charged for the repair. It looks great. thanks
Dr. Joe - drjoe@telus.net
- Tony, got home from a business trip today, was near Paducah, Kentucky (near
the Illinois border) all week doing an audit of a polymer manufacturing
facility. While I was gone this week, knife came in the mail, so I asked my
wife to open it up. She said "wow, he really did a nice job, you'll like
it". This really got me excited, much anticipation coming home tonight to
see the knife.
What an understatement. Tony, your work on the knife in
short, blew me away. Outrageous.
I'm not one to make spontaneous, off-the-cuff remarks, but in all candor, the
knife is simply outstanding.
Your work on refurbishing the knife has absolutely exceeded all of my
expectations in every way - I just cannot say enough. My only wish is that
you were close by so I could thank you in person.
Here in Houston, people demand to be paid exceedingly well for highly skilled
handwork like what you have done on my knife, I dare say $75-$100 per hour.
Your fee for all of the work you did to bring my treasured grandfather's knife
back to like new (albeit used) condition is truly phenomenal.
Again, Tony, I am truly appreciative for what you've given back to me with your
work.
In closing, I just wanted to mention that before I sent you my treasured
knife, I again looked over your web page to peruse customer comments about
your work. The comments I read there were very positive of your work, but I
must say, no one spoke with the kind of pleasure and gratitude that I feel
about your work. Again, thanks.
Trey Scofield - Houston - oscofield@houston.rr.com
- Tony: They're exquisite! What a wonderful job you did of restoring them.
And you got those handles and the knives all soldered together was just
brilliant! Anyway...Wish I had more knives of that quality that needed
fixing....but I certainly will recommend your services every chance I get.
Thanks again. From initial e-mail to final delivery of perfect product, the
entire exchange was wonderful.
Blanche Brann - BlancheBrann@Home.com
- Well Tony,
My knife arrived today and I can't thank you enough for the effort and
craftsmanship you displayed in bringing back to life my Grandfather's vintage
knife. Obviously, I had read the exerts from your web site, but your work far
exceeded my expectations and I am very grateful!
Thanks again for your time and efforts and feel free to use me as if reference
if you desire.
Sincerely, Bruce Stewart - bruce.j.stewart@gte.net
- Hi Tony,
WOW...WOW...and WOW again! Grrrrrreat job! It looks better than when I got
it from Jim (but please don't tell him I said that). I could not have asked
for a better job. Thanks for taking care of that grind/sharpening problem
area too. Perfect blending! You truly are a master of your craft. I will be
very happy to pass this heirloom down to my children so that they may enjoy
is as much as I have.
It was a distinct pleasure dealing with you and meet you even though it was
only through e-mails. I will recommend you to any who ask me for the name of
a true knife craftsman!
Take care and God bless,
Frank De Luna - San Jose, California - FDeluna@aol.com
- Tony:
I've been very remiss in saying "Thank You !!!!" for your hard work and
beautiful craftsmanship !
The work you did in recovering my dad's knives was first class all the way
and I wanted to say "Thanks" for you efforts.
I've taken your work and made a beautiful memorial for my dad with his
Burial flag and your knives and his medals and awards that commemorates
his life and achievements and without your work it would not have been
complete.
I know and trust that if I ever have any work to be done in the future
that I can give you a call and if you say "it can be done" I am assured
that you can do it and do it right.
I am very very grateful for your talents.
Your truly,
David Katz Portland, OR - dkatz@ix.netcom.com
"A true fan !"
- Dear Mr. Hnilica:
Superb! Phenomenal! Excellent! Thank you so very much for the work you did on
the knife! The picture you sent does not do it justice.
I will not hesitate to use your services again, and I will recommend you
to anyone who will listen.
Take Care,
Greg Beaton - Vancouver, BC - gbeaters@yahoo.com
- Tony,
I received the BSA knife. The quality of your craftsmanship exceeded my
expectations. Was able to show knife to my dad when I visited him at
Easter. Hard to believe the knife is pushing 40 years of age. Looking forward to
many more years of service from it thanks to your efforts. I cannot
thank you enough.
Thank you,
Charlie - cjo_ies@msn.com
- Hi Tony!
Wow! Great job! My Dad's knife came out GREAT! I really had no hope for
it and expected it to be "junk" and not repairable at all. In fact, it
never looked so good. I am amazed that you were able to find enough steel
left on it to re-grind it at all. Wow. It is also the sharpest knife I
have ever held. I am glad you warned me! You are very correct -- it
doesn't feel sharp when you test it with your fingers! But I could truly
shave with it.
My knife is also beautiful and much better than I expected. I like the way
you refinished the handles on both knives as well.
The pocketknife is in my pocket and is the sharpest it has ever been as
well.
I can't thank you enough. You have all my knife business from now on. All
of my friends’ and family’s business included!
Best regards,Dan
Daniel Chase - chaselings@email.msn.com
- The knives arrived today,and they're beautiful! Thank you very
much. I will certainly call on you again if I have any other knife
problems.
Sincerely,
Peggy Norris - Water2459@aol.com
- Hi Tony,
Absolutely, this knife is 1000% better than what I hoped for,
you are an incredible workman with knives.
I couldn't be happier with your work and I know have a knife that not only
works like new, looks like new, but after I put it to work
for the next 40 years, (I hope at least that being 36 years
old), would be a nice present to a nephew or niece.
You are the man,
Rob Franke - rfranke@rcn.com
- Hi Tony!!
...it arrived!! I haven't been this excited about a knife since the day I
discovered the original knife many years ago. The locking mechanics of the
knife really fascinated me. Now that it is usable again, it will bring me
more years of pride and fun.
All thanks to your masterful craftsmanship. Thanks again, Tony! Great work and superior service .....
Competent, courteous, concerned, passionate, professional, open-minded,
imaginative.
Tony Hnilica at Custom Knives & Services is all this and much more. This avatar of service takes nothing for granted and your only trepidation is whether the courier can get your repair to him and back.
You will not be disappointed. Tony does more than provide a service. He
creates a life experience.
E-mail me for a personal reference at: jenserge@hotmail.com
Sincerely, Serge Gossmann
- Tony,
I thought the last time you out-did your self. I was wrong, You have surpassed my highest expectations.
I have been searching for several years to hope to find the right person to refurbish these antique stag carved knives. I always thought they had hope and now they have a new life entirely.
All I can say is: WOW, THEY LOOK GREAT!!!
Thanks again for such fine quality work and your turn around time is amazingly fast.
Thomas Litton - thomaslitton@msn.com
- Hello Tony,
My knife arrived safely this morning and I'm still smiling!
You did a beautiful job, Tony.
I love how the designs in the abalone fit so nicely with the contour of the knife.
The color and depth seem to leap right out at you.
I'll send you a picture after it's engraved.
It's been a real pleasure meeting and working with you and I will recommend you to my knife buddies.
Thanks for everything...including the fast shipping!
Until next time!
All the best,
Ty Franklin - TyFranklin@aol.com
- Hi Tony,
What can I say, the two knives surpass all expectations. You did a remarkable job. Their history is secure and their future is sure to be long.
I can only say thank you so much. With the recent events the knives mean that much more to me and to see the care and skill that you applied to them makes me extremely grateful to you and so happy that I found you to restore them.
Take care and thanks,
Mark - mark@blakemail.com
- Tony,
The knife arrived home safely. All I can say is thank you so very much for the beautiful job and workmanship. I was stunned with the work you did to restore it, as well as making the new spring. It looks like it did that night in 1958 when I bought it in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. We were waiting for a snow plow to clear the road ahead and were trying to get home in time for Christmas.
Many thanks and let me know if you need a good reference.
Warm regards,
John Schroeder - jschroeder@perigee.net
- Hi Tony,
The knives arrived safely today. What amazes me is the different feel I get
just by holding them in my hand. Both knives feel much more solid than
before. I appreciate your fine work and the timely manner in which it was
done. As I continue collecting knives - I hope if ever I need your services,
you are available.
Sincerest Regards,
Cliff
- Hi Tony
A small package arrived today and I'm smiling.
You have done a wonderful job, it's so much better than the original.
Thanks very much for looking after me so well.
I have a very special knife.
Regards and all the best
David Hayman - tradewind@wave.co.nz
- Tony
Arrived today. Knives and case look great. Thanks.
Very nice dealing with you. Do not hesitate to use us as reference.
Warmest regards
Ed - mc010162@direcway.com
- Hi Tony,
The knife arrived in the Mail on Friday. It is truly a beautiful job, I could not be happier. I’m so pleased that the knife retained so much of it’s characteristics. I’ll be dropping it in Dad’s stocking this Christmas. I’m sure he will be very pleased too. Thanks so much for your fine work and craftsmanship.
The only thing I see as being a problem is it may be too pretty for him to use now!
Have a terrific Christmas, and thanks again.
Sean - SLewis@Ottawahospital.on.ca
- Dear Tony,
I just received my knife today in the mail. It is beautiful!!!
You are a true craftsman. I know you don't do this for the money(of course it
helps); but rather because you love to see the restored product. You
really are a artist. I appreciate so much what you did.
This knife is one I will pass on to my sons with a new chapter added to its
long and interesting history.
If you ever get down this way please
give me a call. I would love to show you some southern hospitality
Sincerely Jerry Ogle - jerry.ogle@earthlink.net
- Tony,
The knife came today. I can not tell you how happy I am with your work! The knife is outstanding.
The work you did is incredible! The handles fit and look perfect. The metal looks brand new.
This whole project came out better than I ever expected. Plus, it is super cool that you got it done so quickly.
This is the best knife in my collection. Thank you so much!! You are the best.
Harv Donohue - hjdonohue@comcast.net
- Tony,
We just got our knife and we are completely astounded that it is the same knife we sent you!
It is truly unbelievable that this is the same knife that my husband used to play Army with as a kid.
It was so rusty and dull that it was completely harmless back then.
Although we are not completely sure if this knife came from his uncle, that served in WW2 or his grandfather that was a butcher in NYC.
We know that is a part of his family history and we are proud that you transformed it into a beautiful piece of art!
Thanks so much!
Brooke Kerzner - skytoots@yahoo.com
- Good morning, Tony,
My knife arrived yesterday and I am delighted. The action is smooth and the lock very positive. The polishing job makes the knife look better than new and the blade pivots more precisely along the centerline of the frame than when it was new. It is in my pocket as I write this note and I am very happy to have it back in service again. Thanks very much for your help and excellent craftsmanship.
By all means post my note in your Customer Comments section. My comments are just the simple truth, and I would be pleased to think that a prospective customer might find them reassuring.
Be assured that I will come to you again if I need another repair or if I decide to have a custom knife made. Thanks, again, for everything.
Best regards,
James O'Steen - Houston, TX
- Tony,
I received my knife and it looks great. Beautiful restoration job! I sent the knife to replace a pin and it came back totally restored. Thank you very much, great job!
You are a true craftsman. Thank you!
Yes, absolutely you may use my words. Very impressed with the quality of your work and the total experience.
Thanks again,
Glenn Walsh - Petaluma, California
- Hello Tony,
You have no idea of how pleased I am! The knife looks absolutely beautiful from the photos.
I cannot wait to see it, and am even more excited for the day that I am able to return it to my friend.
I so appreciate all that you have done for me, and for all the attention and effort that you have put forth on my behalf. I cannot even find adequate words to express it.
Before I resorted to the internet and found you, I can't tell you how many "experts" I went to in order to have the knife repaired.
They all thought I was crazy. They said it wasn't worth much and certainly not worth fixing, and that I should just buy him a new knife.
It may be true that it's not worth a whole lot, but it did have immeasurable sentimental value. I felt bad enough at having been responsible for breaking it, so their words were less than comforting to me.
They did not seem to understand the importance of why I wanted to fix that particular knife. Thank God for you. You not only understood, but you were willing to take the time to work with a person, namely me, who knows absolutely nothing about knives, not to mention the pain I must be with my technological skills so lacking. Many, many thanks! I am truly grateful.
Have a wonderful day!
Becky Lawler - Warrensburg, NY
blsmithlawler@yahoo.com
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