I first joined AK University as a gift from my dad, and what started as excitement over a unique experience quickly turned into a deep passion for knife making. I wanted to learn what goes into crafting a quality knife—from the materials used to the techniques required—and AK University delivered on all fronts. I particularly loved the hands-on learning environment where I could dive into the artistry and mechanics behind creating a unique blade. The belt grinder, which felt intimidating at first, became a tool I mastered, and I learned to treat it as an extension of myself as I worked with mild steel and high carbon steel.

What truly set AKU apart for me was the learning approach. The laid-back but structured atmosphere allowed me to understand why we were doing things a certain way, not just how to do them. Andreas was an incredible instructor, always patient and welcoming, with an amazing range of designs that inspired me throughout the course. He gave me the freedom to make mistakes, learn from them, and ultimately get a feel for the process myself.

One of my favorite moments was when I finished shaping my blade, and after heat treating it, I tested its durability—it was an eye-opening experience to see how the smallest details, like proper tempering, could make such a big difference in the knife’s reliability. The flexibility of AKU’s courses was another standout aspect. From scheduling to the focus areas, I could explore what interested me at a pace that made sense, and everything I learned was applicable not just to knife making, but to other creative fields as well.

I can’t recommend AK University enough for anyone interested in exploring knife making. Whether you’re looking to try it as a hobby or take it further, AKU’s courses provide an incredible depth of knowledge, practical skills, and artistic freedom