Wuertz, Travis

Travis Wuertz, a master bladesmith and two-time History Channel “Forged in Fire” champion, hails from Coolidge, Arizona. His journey into the world of knives began at the tender age of 13 when he learned to craft them on his family’s farm. His father, Marvin, recognized Travis’s passion for knife-making after taking him to a blade show. Since then, Travis has been forging and grinding knives, fueled by his interest in all things mechanical. Travis’s background is as unique as his creations. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in agricultural engineering. But it’s not just academia that defines him; Travis embodies ingenuity and innovation. His family lineage includes three generations of farmers, yet he chose a different path. Instead of tilling the land, he designs and builds remarkable machinery. One of his groundbreaking inventions is the TW-90 vertical/horizontal grinder, affectionately known as the “Cadillac of belt grinders.” This ingenious creation revolutionized the bladesmithing industry, providing an exceptional tool for finishing knives. Travis’s passion for engineering and his dedication to craftsmanship shine through in every blade he produces.