Jared Ondovchik, Bladesmith and Artisan Blacksmith

Jared Ondovchik, owner of Artifact Metalworks, began his journey as a bladesmith when necessity and curiosity drove him to forge his first knife after his pocketknife went missing. Today, his thriving business specializes in creating hand-forged custom knives and artisan metalwork that combine beauty with functionality. His work caters to chefs, outdoorsmen, farmers, adventurers, home cooks, and artisans seeking high-quality, durable blades.

Growing up in Western Pennsylvania near Pittsburgh, Jared was steeped in a rich legacy of steel and craftsmanship. His grandparents and great-grandparents worked in the steel mills that defined the region until they closed in the 1980s. Both his father and grandfather were avid hunters who exposed him to guns and knives at a young age. This caused him to develop a deep passion for metalwork. A cherished family heirloom—a buffalo skinning knife passed down from his grandfather—remains a constant reminder of his roots and enduring love for quality blades.

Jared’s design philosophy is simple: form follows function. Whether crafting a sleek kitchen chopper or a rugged outdoor skinner, each knife is meticulously forged to ensure optimal edge retention, strength, and usability. He is fascinated by the transformative power of heat and steel, a process that redefines the metal’s molecular structure and brings each piece to life.

Inspired by the raw, natural, and classical designs of Iron Age blacksmiths, Jared blends traditional blacksmithing techniques with modern innovation. His commitment to quality and craftsmanship has established Artifact Metalworks as a trusted name in the world of custom knife making and artisan metalwork.

Discover the passion and precision behind every piece at Artifact Metalworks, where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary design in every hand-forged creation.