Book excerpt: The World's Greatest Knife Book Returns! From unique art pieces to hardened tools of war and industry, every knife has its own allure, utility and even soul. This complex and fascinating nature defines a particular knife and is the driving force behind today's growing and thriving custom knifemaking culture. The pages of KNIVES 2023, 43rd Edition present the best of the best knives and knifemakers the world of blades has to offer. KNIVES 2023 spotlights every class and style of blade with more than 900 striking full-color images, with complete descriptions of the craftsmen who created them. In this edition, you'll find fascinating and in-depth feature articles on a wide variety of knife styles and designs, trends in materials, patterns, and much, much more. Furthermore, you'll discover in its pages unparalleled industry resources, including an updated Custom Knifemaker Directory, the perfect way to find the creator of your next favorite blade. * Captivating historical features on sub-hilt use and New England knifemaking, the lost art of Guilloche, sword making, celluloid knife handles and more. * Trends section with the hottest designs for flippers, daggers, chef knives, fighters and nearly every conceivable style you can imagine. * State of the Art chapter parades carved, sculpted, damascus, engraved, san mai steel and artisan knives from some of the world's most skilled craftsmen. KNIVES 2023 is your go-to resource for all things knives, blades and edges. Dive into the World's Greatest Knife Book and discover the intriguing universe of custom blades.