Profile
Al Massey: A Journeyman Bladesmith with a Passion for Craftsmanship
Introduction:
Al Massey is a respected ABS Journeyman Bladesmith residing in Nova Scotia, Canada. With roots in Southern Ontario, Al has developed a profound passion for bladesmithing, stemming from his original interest in martial arts. His journey in this intricate craft began in the early ’80s, evolving from a mere interest to a dedicated pursuit of excellence in blade crafting.
Philosophy and Background:
Al’s philosophy in bladesmithing is deeply intertwined with his life experiences, relationships, and his service in the Canadian Forces. His creations are more than just blades; they are a reflection of his journey, symbolizing adventure, practicality, and a deep connection with martial arts. Al’s commitment to his craft is evident in his meticulous approach to designing and crafting each piece, ensuring functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Craftsmanship and Material Selection:
Al is renowned for his versatility in using different types of steel, depending on the project. He prefers using 10-series steel or 5160 spring steel for crafting larger blades and opts for high carbon steel laminated with either L6 or 15N20 nickel tool steel for pattern-welding. Al’s dedication to quality and precision is manifested in his choice of materials and the intricate crafting process, avoiding the use of mild steel or pure nickel in his Damascus creations.
Custom Orders and Ethical Standards:
Al welcomes custom orders, pricing his creations meticulously, considering the intricacy and materials used. He maintains high ethical standards, forging athames or other ritual tools while refraining from creating anything with a Satanic theme or connected with hate groups. Al’s ethical approach extends to avoiding forging stainless alloys and refraining from making copies of specific movie or television series swords to avoid legal complications.
Payment and Pricing:
Al’s pricing for non-Damascus blades is around $20.00 CAD per blade inch, including sheath, with additional features impacting the final cost. Damascus blades are priced between 30 to 35 CAD per blade inch. He accepts various payment methods including e-transfer (within Canada), postal money order, bank draft, or personal cheque.
Closing:
Al Massey stands out as an ABS Journeyman Bladesmith with a rich background and a deep passion for bladesmithing. His dedication to quality, ethical standards, and his openness to custom orders make him a distinguished figure in the bladesmithing community. Al Massey’s work is a true representation of craftsmanship at its finest, reflecting his life’s journey, philosophical approach, and commitment to the advancement of bladesmithing.
