Alabama Toothpick

Pardue, Mel

"I started making knives in 1957 and also worked with several engineering companies and continued making knives part time during this period. In 1974, I had the opportunity to join the Knifemakers guild and serve as an apprentice for two years. In the third year, I was voted in as a voting member of the Knifemakers guild, and after a few years I was elected as a director of the guild. After serving this position for several years, I was elected as the vice president of the Knifemakers guild, and served in these positions for a total of 35 years. I also have worked with Benchmade Knife Company for 24 years as a knife designer. Benchmade has manufactured many of my designs and currently continues to do so. Over the last 22 years, I have had the opportunity to teach knife making classes at the American Bladesmith School in Arkansas, and also at the Tannerhill symposium in Alabama. I have also taught many knifemakers in my shop. In 2019, I was inducted into the Knifemakers Hall of Fame at the blade show in Atlanta, Georgia." Mel Passed away in 2022.