Mendenhall, Harry

Harry Mendenhall was an American custom knifemaker renowned for his intricately engraved fixed-blade knives. Active primarily during the 1980s and early 1990s, he was known for his meticulous craftsmanship and the detailed designs adorning both the blades and bolsters of his creations. Mendenhall's knives often featured polished stag handles, tapered tangs, and nickel silver bolsters with elaborate engravings. A notable example is a custom fixed-blade knife from 1986, showcasing intricate designs on both sides of the blade and a smoothed stag handle for ergonomic comfort. He was active in the knifemaking community during the late 20th century and was associated with the Bay Area Knife Collectors Association (BAKCA). Mendenhall's work included both fixed-blade knives and folding knives, often featuring intricate designs and high-quality materials. In addition to crafting knives, Mendenhall was proficient in engraving and scrimshaw, often adorning his creations with detailed artwork. His attention to detail and commitment to quality made his pieces highly sought after by collectors. He was known to have collaborated with other artisans; for example, he engraved bolsters for knifemaker Jay Harris.