Brian Nadeau – Sharp By Design Tactical Knife Maker
Although he has only been making knives for a few years, multiple award-winning knife maker Brian Nadeau of Sharp By Design has rapidly become one of the most sought-after tactical custom knife makers in the world.
With over 15 years of experience as a precision machinist in the printing industry, Brian has spent his career mastering the fine tolerances and technical skills that now define his approach to custom knife making.
His design philosophy is straightforward: each knife should be simple, strong, and memorable. When asked which makers inspire him, Brian points to innovators—those who push the limits of design and functionality—as his primary motivation to keep improving his craft.
Brian’s favorite materials are Titanium and Carbon Fiber—Titanium for its durability and versatility, and Carbon Fiber for its aesthetic appeal, lightweight strength, and modern character.
Awards and Recognition
At his very first show, Blade Show 2014, Brian made an unforgettable debut by winning both “Best New Maker” and “Best Tactical Knife” for his now-famous “Typhoon” design. Only a few months later, he again took home “Best New Maker” honors at The Gathering in Las Vegas—solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the tactical knife world.
Following these early successes, Brian was inundated with custom orders, leading him to temporarily close his books due to high demand. We’re proud to be among the select few dealers working closely with Brian Nadeau to share his exceptional knives with discerning collectors worldwide.
Exhibitions and Future Goals
Currently, Brian regularly attends the Blade Show and The Gathering, and has also been invited to the Tactical Invitational in Las Vegas (2015). He plans to expand his presence to include the New York Custom Knife Show and the East Coast Custom Knife Show, both located in New Jersey.
When asked about his future goals, Brian expressed his commitment to using state-of-the-art equipment and innovative engineering techniques to craft the highest-quality knives technology can produce.
From the industry response and collector enthusiasm surrounding his work, it’s clear that Brian Nadeau is well on his way to becoming one of the defining names in modern tactical custom knives.
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