In the world of bladesmithing, where tradition meets craftsmanship, Kevin and Heather Harvey stand as beacons of excellence. Their journey is not just about mastering the art of forging blades but also about sharing their passion with the world. As award-winning Master Bladesmiths with the American Bladesmith Society (ABS), members of the Knifemakers’ Guild of Southern Africa, and founder members of the Southern African Bladesmiths Association, their impact on the craft is both profound and inspiring.
Theirs is a story of dedication, skill, and a love for the craft that spans decades. Kevin and Heather made history as the first married couple to attain their M.S stamps in 2003, a testament to their shared commitment and expertise. Heather’s achievement as the second lady Master Bladesmith paved the way for other women in the field, with the number of female Mastersmiths steadily increasing since then.
At Heavin Forge, their bladesmithing school nestled in South Africa, Kevin and Heather not only create exceptional knives but also impart their knowledge through accredited ABS courses. Their facility stands as one of only 9 such institutions worldwide, recognized for its quality instruction and dedication to preserving the art of bladesmithing and is only the second such facility outside of the U.S.A. Kevin and Heather are two of only 30 registered ABS instructors.
The scope of their work is as diverse as it is impressive. From crafting knives and teaching bladesmithing to forging their own Damascus steel and writing books on the subject, Kevin and Heather’s contributions to the craft are multifaceted. Their expertise extends to making Damascus rings, a testament to their innovative approach and mastery of metallurgy.
Kevin’s specialization lies in crafting collector-grade Bowies, infusing them with old-world charm and character. His use of natural handle materials and distinctive Damascus steel sets his creations apart, earning him accolades such as the BR Hughes award and recognition from the Historic Bowie Knife Association.
Heather assists with the instruction of bladesmithing students but sadly can no longer actively participate in the workshop due to two, non-workshop related injuries to both her hands in 2013. She does all the admin, the website and collaborates with Kevin in writing knifemaking related books as well as writing her own books.
Their dedication to teaching is evident not only in their school but also in their involvement with bladesmithing and blacksmithing clubs in South Africa and the U.S.A. They tirelessly promote the craft, sharing their knowledge and passion with enthusiasts around the world. They offer courses ranging from a simple 3-day Basic Bladesmithing course right up to three and a half weeks consisting of the ABS Intro to Bladesmithing course, followed by Handles, Fittings and Sheaths and finishing off with Introduction to Damascus course. These three courses run back to back and are extremely popular with overseas students as they can do all the courses while staying on the property. Many stay on for a local hunt or trip to the Kruger National Park.
In recognition of their contributions, Kevin and Heather were honored with the prestigious “Chairman’s Award” in 2015 and 2023 by both the American Bladesmith Society and the Knifemakers’ Guild of Southern Africa. Their efforts in promoting the forged blade and establishing their Bladesmithing School in South Africa have left an indelible mark on the craft. Kevin was awarded the “Distinguished Service Award” by the ABS in 2021 and Heather the “Margaret Moran Silver Slipper” award for service by a lady ABS member in 2023.
As two of only three ABS Master Bladesmiths on the African continent, Kevin and Heather Harvey’s legacy is one of craftsmanship, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Through their work and dedication, they continue to inspire a new generation of bladesmiths, ensuring that the artistry and tradition of forging blades endure for years to come.
Click here to visit Heavin Forge
