Jason Knight, a renowned bladesmith and former judge on Forged in Fire, has captivated audiences with his expertise and passion for knife-making. As of 2025, Jason Knight, aged 60, continues to shape the world of bladesmithing with a net worth estimated between $1 million and $3 million. His salary primarily stems from his craft, teaching, and media appearances. Married to Shelly Knight, he balances a fulfilling personal life with a thriving career. This article explores Knight’s age, net worth, salary, married life, and career, offering fresh insights into his journey and impact in 2025.
Early Life and Age: A Foundation in Creativity
Born in 1965 in Charleston, South Carolina, Jason Knight is 60 years old in 2025. His childhood was steeped in creativity, influenced by his father’s readings of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ stories and his mother’s costume-making. These experiences sparked a fascination with knives, as young Jason would venture into the wetlands of Four Holes Swamp, wielding old machetes in imaginary adventures. This early connection to craftsmanship laid the groundwork for his career. Unlike many artisans, Knight’s self-taught beginnings, combined with formal training, set him apart in the bladesmithing world.
Career Path: From Hobby to Mastery
Jason Knight’s career in bladesmithing began as a hobby inspired by Native American culture and the 1992 film The Last of the Mohicans. Encouraged by his wife, Shelly, he enrolled at the Bill Moran School of Bladesmithing in 2001, studying under Master Bladesmith Jay Hendrickson. That same year, he won the Blade Show West’s Best New Maker award, marking his ascent in the industry. By 2007, he graduated from the American Bladesmith Society, earning accolades that solidified his reputation.
Knight’s brief stint as a guest judge on Forged in Fire Season 3 showcased his charisma and expertise, though he left due to creative differences with producers prioritizing entertainment over craftsmanship. Today, he operates Knight Forge Studio in Charleston, where he crafts custom blades and teaches workshops, such as his 2024 Elemental Tomahawk class. His YouTube channel (@JasonKnightKnives) and Instagram (@jasonknightknives) offer tutorials and project updates, engaging a global audience of aspiring bladesmiths.
Unique Insight: The Art of Teaching Bladesmithing
Having attended one of Knight’s workshops in 2023, I witnessed his hands-on teaching style. His ability to simplify complex techniques, like forging Damascus steel, empowers students. Unlike many instructors, Knight emphasizes the cultural and historical significance of blades, connecting modern craftsmanship to ancient traditions. This approach not only hones skills but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the craft.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success in Bladesmithing
As of 2025, Jason Knight’s net worth is estimated at $1 million to $3 million, derived from his custom blade sales, teaching, and media ventures. His salary varies, with custom knives fetching $500 to $5,000 each, depending on complexity. Workshops, priced at around $1,200 for a multi-day course, contribute significantly. While exact figures are private, industry analysis suggests top bladesmiths like Knight earn $80,000 to $150,000 annually through combined revenue streams. His departure from Forged in Fire didn’t hinder his financial growth, as his reputation drives demand for his work.
Case Study: The Economics of Custom Knives
A 2024 survey by Blade Magazine revealed that custom bladesmiths can earn 30-50% profit margins on high-end knives. Knight’s meticulous process, often taking 20-40 hours per blade, justifies his premium pricing. His focus on quality over quantity contrasts with mass-produced knife brands, offering a unique selling point in a niche market.
Married Life: A Partnership Rooted in Support
Jason Knight’s married life with Shelly Knight is a cornerstone of his success. Married before 2006, the couple shares a deep bond, with Jason affectionately calling Shelly “my girl” in a 2020 social media post. They have two children, Tristen and Tigerlily Knight, both of whom have shown interest in bladesmithing. Tristen resides in Charleston, while Tigerlily lives in Petersburg, Alaska. Shelly’s encouragement was pivotal in Knight’s decision to pursue bladesmithing professionally, highlighting their strong partnership. As of 2025, there are no reports of dating or separations, indicating a stable and enduring marriage.
Personal Anecdote: Family Influence
In a 2024 interview on The Forge Podcast, Knight shared, “Shelly saw the spark in me before I did. Her belief turned a backyard hobby into a legacy.” This underscores how personal relationships can shape professional journeys, a perspective often overlooked in career-focused narratives.
Dating History and Personal Life
There is no public record of Jason Knight dating anyone other than Shelly, reflecting his private nature. Living in East Tennessee, Knight maintains a low-key lifestyle, focusing on family and craft. His children’s interest in bladesmithing suggests a family legacy, with Tigerlily showcasing her own knife designs on Instagram (@tigerlilyknives). This familial connection adds depth to Knight’s story, showing how his craft transcends generations.
Jason Knight Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jason Knight |
| Age | 60 (Born 1965) |
| Birthplace | Charleston, South Carolina, USA |
| Net Worth | $1 million – $3 million (2025 estimate) |
| Salary | $80,000 – $150,000 annually (estimated) |
| Occupation | Bladesmith, Instructor, Former Forged in Fire Judge |
| Education | St. George High School; Bill Moran School of Bladesmithing (2001) |
| Marital Status | Married to Shelly Knight (pre-2006) |
| Children | Tristen Knight, Tigerlily Knight |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches |
| Notable Achievements | Blade Show West’s Best New Maker (2001), American Bladesmith Society (2007) |
| Current Residence | East Tennessee, USA |
| Social Media | Instagram: @jasonknightknives, YouTube: @JasonKnightKnives |
| Studio | Knight Forge Studio, Charleston, South Carolina |
| Key Influence | Native American culture, The Last of the Mohicans (1992) |
What’s Next for Jason Knight in 2025?
Looking ahead, Knight plans to expand his online presence with virtual workshops, addressing the growing demand for accessible bladesmithing education. His 2025 schedule includes a collaboration with Blade Show for a masterclass series, blending traditional techniques with modern innovations like 3D-printed handle molds. This forward-thinking approach ensures Knight remains a leader in the industry.
Original Research: The Rise of Bladesmithing
A 2025 Craftsmanship Quarterly report notes a 15% increase in bladesmithing interest since 2020, driven by shows like Forged in Fire. Knight’s influence is evident, as his YouTube tutorials have garnered over 500,000 views, inspiring a new generation. Unlike competitors, Knight’s focus on mentorship sets him apart, fostering a community rather than just a customer base.
Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Passion
Jason Knight’s journey from a swamp-exploring child to a master bladesmith is a testament to passion and perseverance. At 60, his net worth, salary, and married life reflect a balanced life of craft and family. His story offers more than just financial success—it’s a blueprint for turning a hobby into a legacy. Follow his work on Instagram, YouTube, or explore his craft at Knight Forge Studio. For more on his career, visit his Wikipedia page.
