I started making knives about a year before I found Andreas’s class at AK UNIVERSITY. I had taken classes elsewhere but never really got the skills I was looking for. I was frustrated, overwhelmed with YouTube info, and stuck. Funny enough, I found Andreas on the Combat Abrasives website—turns out, he was right down the street the whole time.

During my time at AKU, I learned a ton of unique techniques. We dove into knife geometry and spent serious time on grinding and the push-stick method. I had a lot of questions, and Andreas answered every single one. We moved on to finishing and handle design—an area I always struggled with—but he gave me a solid game plan and showed me how to build a multi-layered handle. He also taught me how to sharpen knives using a 2×72 belt grinder, a skill I had really wanted to learn.

The hands-on learning is completely tailored to the individual. Andreas brings energy and passion that’s honestly contagious. Time flew by because I was having a blast. He quickly honed in on my strengths and weaknesses, so I could focus where I needed it most and actually take skills back home to my forge.

Andreas didn’t just meet my expectations—he exceeded them. At other schools, it’s all group-based with minimal one-on-one time. Andreas is different. He teaches, shows, and lets you make mistakes—with him right there beside you. He’s in the trenches with you the whole time. It’s amazing how much energy this man has.

I know it sounds cliché, but I truly loved the whole experience. From being able to ask questions, to seeing his work, to finally making a knife I’m proud of—it was all incredible.

My interest in knife-making has absolutely evolved. Andreas gave me the confidence to get out there and make mistakes. He taught me the 12-to-1 rule: practice 12 times before making the real knife. I’ve always been too hard on myself, but Andreas helped me get out of my own head and enjoy the process. Messing up is part of it. He’d push me just enough, and that challenge built the confidence I really needed.

Andreas made the whole experience special. He’s even better in real life—an amazing instructor who pushes you to improve and radiates passion and energy.

I’m genuinely excited about the other courses at AKU. I asked about leather sheath making and plan to take that class, and I’m looking forward to trying a chef’s knife next. Forging is the dream, and I can’t wait for Andreas to teach me when I’m ready.

Scheduling was easy. The only hard part was waiting two months until my calendar finally lined up with the class dates.