Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Eggert.
Hi Anthony, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
It all started when my wife bought me an anvil and hammer set for our 10th year anniversary in 2019. Little did I know what was in store for us. With the rise of COVID-19 in Houston, my construction business declined drastically. After a couple of months, my wife asked me if I thought I could make money making knives. I said: I don’t know, but I’m going to try! Then Blades by Tony was born. Today we make culinary knives of all styles, some unique and classic everyday carries and various camp, field and game knives. What I really enjoy making are full custom knives. It is amazing to see what kind of metal art folks really appreciate.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road at all. One of the challenges was trying to find the right markets to sell our knives. Whether to sell in person or online, both avenues presented challenges. Also trying to find the right audience to sell to. Not everyone is a knife enthusiast. My wife is a whiz at social media, but it was a challenge to get our store up and running on one of the largest social media platforms.
We have to stay on top of the ever-changing algorithms in the social media world. We also experienced an issue with the payment platform we used. We sell a variety of knives, but tactical knives and self-defense knives are not one of them. After one of our successful markets, the payment platform suspended and locked our account for “selling weapons” stating it goes against their policies. We definitely do not sell weapons.
They were holding on to a significant amount of our revenue until we appealed their decision and they released our funds to us. That was very tough for a small business like us. Obtaining materials is also a constant challenge. The market changes constantly depending on the world scene and the cost of materials or even the cost of shipping can double overnight. Despite these challenges, we have become a stronger business and my wife and I work together as a team.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I make custom high carbon knives. I specialize in the customize arena. I love seeing my customers eyes light up when they see the knife that is their own design! They pick the color, style, and even the finish on the blade. It truly is THEIR knife. I’m known for the balance and beauty of my blades. Folks that pick up one of my blades mention how well balanced they are. I try to keep them weighted to prevent fatigue as much as possible, but balance never takes away from their strength.
I’m proud to be able to say that I make tools that you will be able to pass down to your children. When I was a teenager, I remember holding my great-grandpa’s knife. He told me that he had it since he was a teenager. At that time, I couldn’t understand how a knife could have lasted that long. But now that I make them myself, it makes sense. It is all about the care and attention that goes into making the piece. That’s what makes a blade last so long.
What sets me apart is my versatility. If I see it, I can build it. If you need it, I can make it. If you can dream it, I can make your dream a reality. Most knife makers have a set of styles that they stick to. Since I don’t limit myself to only a few styles, I continue to learn and grow.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
We love the diversity of the food and cultures in our city!!! You can go around the cuisine world and never leave our city.
Houston’s weather conditions are my least favorite. The swing of temperatures and volatility of the storms can be challenging. These are probably the only downsides of our fair city.
Contact Info:
- Email: Bladesbytony@gmail.com
- Website: www.bladesbytony.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/bladesbytony
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bladesbytony
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bladesbytony
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCswXU1e8maa3CnDsfmZyuFw
Image Credits
Rachel Eggert
