The
FLORIDA KNIFEMAKERS' ASSOCIATION
MEMBER PROFILE
TOM ENOS
I was born and raised in Tampa, Florida, where I graduated
from Plant High School
and the University of Tampa. I earned a BS degree in Mathematics, Chemistry
and
Physics and went to work in the Aerospace Industry at Cape Canaveral in the
early
1960's. As an engineer in computer programming and data analysis I worked on
various
projects: the Saturn Rocket Engine and later the Moon Launch Project. I worked
for a
number of aerospace companies including Martin Orlando, RCA, Chrysler, STL,
and ILS.
One day while on a break from an overseas project I stopped in at Randall Maade
Knives
in Orlando to purchase a Randall knife. I was greeted by an old friend from
my days
at Martin, Pete Hamilton who was the shop foreman. He invited me to come to
work for
Randall, the requirement being that I would be able to grind a straight line
on a round wheel.
It took me a few weeks but I finally learned the art and worked at Randall
Made Knives for
about a year then decided to give knifemaking a try on my own. We converted
my airplane
hangar into a metal-working shop. After investing heavily in machinery and
supplies,
in 1973 I began marketing my own knives under my trademark: my name inside
a Bowie
outline. I enjoy knifemaking, which I consider an art form, and like to create
unique designs
and make everything from Throwing Knives to Swords, and Minatures to Hunting
and Kitchen knives.
Over 1760 knives of every type have been made and sold under my trademark.
I work in only
stainless steels, mostly 440 C using the stock removal process and man-made
and natural
materials for handles. My trademark and the year are always acid etched on
the right hand side
and the steel type and serial number on the left. I also make my own leather
sheaths and have
always offered a lifetime guarantee on all my work. I have never had any returns
except for repairs
which I am happy to do for my customers. Now I only do a limited number of
special request as I
have slowed down on knife production to enjoy my other hobbies: Flying, Motorcycle
riding, camping,
boating, and photography. I am a member of a number of social societies including
Sigma Phi Epsilon,
NRA life member, National Geographic Society, AOPA and others.
EXAMPLES OF MY WORK
CONTACT ME