Winkler Knives: Carolina Craftsmanship Forged for Special Operations
From hand-forged prototypes to a modern factory, Winkler Knives bridges traditional bladesmithing and mission-driven engineering.
Daniel Winkler started as a self-taught bladesmith in Boone, North Carolina, where a dedication to forging tough, simple fixed blades quickly defined his work. Early pieces emphasized full-tang construction, practical ergonomics, and robust geometry attributes prized by outdoorsmen, first responders, and eventually special operators. Winkler’s approach blends old-world forging techniques with modern steels and heat treatments, producing knives and tools that are easy to maintain in the field and designed to perform under extreme conditions.
Winkler’s reputation in special operations grew through personal connections and demonstrable performance. Kevin Holland, who served with Naval Special Warfare Development Group (NSWDG), aka SEAL Team 6, and later joining Delta Force (1st Special Operations Detachment-Delta / CAG) recommended Winkler’s work to NSWDG leaders based on field use and regional ties. That introduction led to collaborative work supplying fixed-blade tools tailored to Tier One unit's needs, cementing Winkler’s place as a trusted maker for demanding breaching, utility, and combat applications.
Winkler also contributed to film work. He produced historically influenced tomahawks and related tools used in the movie The Last of the Mohicans, released in 1992; providing props and weapons that matched the film’s period aesthetic.
Because of that operational pedigree and long service with special operators, Winkler knives are prized possessions amongst Navy SEALs. Winkler’s knives are highly regarded, the most sought-after, used, and deployed fixed blade knives in modern Navy SEAL history.
As demand expanded beyond a small shop, the business scaled up while maintaining hands on quality control. Winkler Knives moved into a purpose built facility in Boone—reported at roughly 30,000–35,000 square feet bringing production, finishing, and sheath making under one roof and allowing greater consistency and output without abandoning the workshop ethos that made the brand respected.
Winkler Knives stands at the intersection of Appalachian bladesmithing and mission-driven tool making. Rooted in traditional forging and proven over decades in modern operational environments. Whether for collectors, outdoorsmen, or professionals, Winkler’s fixed blades carry a legacy of craftsmanship and real-world performance that has earned them a distinctive place in American knife
