Damastmesser VG – Forge Tradition in the Sixth Generation

Tradition and craftsmanship since 1849

The craft of forging has been in our family for generations. My great-great-great-grandfather Johannes Christoph Vollmer (1810–1868) was already a master smith in Krebeck. This tradition was continued by his son Franz Joseph Vollmer (1849–1890), who also worked as a master smith. My great-grandfather Karl Vollmer (1873–1921) and his son Franz Vollmer (1904–1976) also carried on the craft as master smiths.

In 2004, my father Franz built the smithy on our property and laid the groundwork for making Damascus knives. He devoted himself passionately to this craft, and in 2015 I finally discovered it for myself. From 2015 until his death in 2020, we ran the smithy together – a wonderful time during which he passed on all his knowledge and experience to me. Since then, I have continued this tradition in his spirit.

Today I craft high-quality hand-forged Damascus knives – from hunting and kitchen knives to individual custom pieces. My focus is on precision, durability, and the combination of traditional techniques with modern influences. Every knife that leaves my smithy is a unique piece – carefully forged, ground, and refined.

Beyond my own work, it is important to me to pass on knowledge of this craft. That is why I offer forging courses in which I introduce enthusiasts to the basics and subtleties of knife making. My goal is to keep the tradition alive and share the enthusiasm for forging with others.

For me, forging is more than a profession – it is a heritage that I carry forward with pride in the sixth generation.