Edgeworks Knife and Supply

CUTLERY

Edgeworks Knife and Supply

When it comes to fine cutlery, knives and darts, Sean Norris has a sharp edge. Not only has he owned Edgeworks Knife and Supply in Downtown Frederick for 14 years, but also he worked in the store before that. Norris bought the business when the original owner retired.

Norris started out with only a mild interest in knives, but has acquired extensive knowledge and an enhanced fascination with them in the 21 years he has worked at Edgeworks.

“It was primarily just a job while I went to college,” said the lifelong area resident. Norris studied computer science at Frederick Community College and also took a few accounting classes, which have been useful in his business career, he says.

Edgeworks “has grown quite a bit” under his ownership, with an “expanded customer base and inventory,” Norris said. He attributes the boost to a little more marketing and positive word-of-mouth.

Another contributing factor, he said, has been an online store launched at the start of the pandemic. “The timing was coincidental,” he said. “We had been planning to go live later in the month. It worked out well.”

Norris offered advice to people interested in purchasing knives. “The knife should have a shape that suits the task it is intended for. It should be made of quality materials, and comfortable to hold and use. It should look nice, and be affordable, too.”

Edgeworks’ Downtown Collection line of kitchen knives has been a bestseller since its debut four years ago. Norris helped create the line, choosing blade and handle shapes, materials and patterns. The cutting edge of the fishbone-pattern Damascus blade has excellent slicing ability and isn’t difficult to sharpen, and its handles are made of a durable woven type of fiberglass. The line comes with a lifetime warranty and free in-store sharpening.

Keeping cutlery sharp is important for safety, Norris said. Higher-end companies “spend a lot of time engineering balance points and shapes to maximize efficiency, so not only does it stay sharp longer, but it feels more natural and is easier to use,” he explained. “It cuts better, lasts longer, and is more comfortable.”

Edgeworks offers in-store professional sharpening as well as guidance on self-sharpening. Norris’ advises sharpening “when you think you need it.” The store also carries a vast array of darts, dart boards and related accessories.