Crafting tools for the hunt

by Rod Hoare 

Jay Cross, the craftsman behind JC Bladeworks, along with his supportive wife Chon, is a renowned name in the Aussie knifemaking, hunting and outdoor community. Based in Brisbane, Queensland, Jay turned his passion for blades into a full-time career in October 2020, quickly earning a solid reputation as a maker of reliable, high-performance knives perfect for hunters, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts across Australia.  

Jay’s journey into knifemaking was sparked by a personal desire to create tools that could withstand the rigours of outdoor life. Using the stock-removal method of knifemaking, which allows the use of high-performance knife steels not suitable for forging, he crafts blades with precision and care, ensuring they can handle everything from field dressing game to survival tasks in the wild. Though self-taught, his dedication and skill are evident in every blade he produces.  

For hunters, the functional quality of a knife is paramount, and this is where JC Bladeworks excels. Jay prioritises blade geometry and edge durability, designing knives that perform reliably in the field. His expertise in grinding bevels—a process requiring precision and a keen eye for detail— ensures that each blade is not just sharp, but optimised for each application, whether it be a flat, hollow, convex, scandi, sabre, asymmetrical or compound grind, you can be sure it’s a fit-for-purpose blade. Combine this with an extensive range of handle materials from Aussie hardwoods and Micarta through to synthetics such as G10. Plus, each knife is accompanied by a sheath made from Kydex or leather, depending on the customer’s preference and purpose; you are sure to find a functional, yet visually appealing package.  

Jay’s love for hunting and fishing fuels his passion for knifemaking, having been a member of SSAA Queensland for more than 10 years. He often tests his designs in real-world conditions, refining them based on firsthand experience and feedback from his loyal customer base. This direct feedback loop ensures his knives are practical and effective, whether for skinning a deer, processing a roo, or preparing camp meals, you can be sure they are up to the task. Jay actively participates in knife shows across Australia, including his home Queensland Knife Show. These events allow him to connect with hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, showcase his work, and receive valuable feedback from users who rely on his knives in the field. Seeing hunters return for additional knives or hearing stories of his tools being put to hard use in the field is the ultimate validation of his craft. He takes pride in upholding the high standards of Australian-made knives and contributing to the country’s respected knifemaking tradition. He is a proud member of the Australian Knifemakers Guild and Australian Knife Art Association.  

From apprentice carpenter to knifemaker, Jay Cross has channelled a lifetime of hands-on experience into creating tools that hunters and outdoors people can rely on. Through JC Bladeworks, he continues to craft knives that are as dependable in the field as they are a testament to his passion and skill. You can contact Jay through Facebook or Instagram as JC Bladeworks on both platforms. Email: jcbladeworks1@gmail.com or 0407 219 933.