Barr has been working with tool steel since 1977 and as a professional knife maker has had the opportunity to work with some of the best bladesmiths and blacksmiths in the country.

He gained additional experience after receiving an Idaho Arts Council grant in 1985 which allowed him to apprentice with a traditional Japanese swordsmith.

Barr has taken his knowledge and skill and applied them to the making of fine woodworking hand tools.

In a day and age where most tools are drop forged, stamped or cut out and then poorly tempered, a majority of people have never had the pleasure of using a well-made tool. Hand forging with hammers compresses the steel, introducing more carbon into a smaller area. Carbon is what cuts, therefore you get a superior edge. After annealing, the tools are quenched then tempered to the proper hardness. The tool is then fitted with a hardwood handle that seats properly in the socket. The shock ring on top helps prevent splitting.

Barr’s tools all come shaving sharp and may be shipped back for re-sharpening and repair work at any time for a nominal fee. If for any reason you are dissatisfied with these tools, simply return within one year for a full refund or exchange.