We want to recognize some businesses that we like, admire and encourage our customers to check out or patronize.
Our first business is really two organizations run by one man, Ron Hardman.
KILROY’S WORKSHOP
Kilroy’s Workshop – Blacksmithing & Welding Classes
Ron and his group teach blacksmithing and welding. Incredibly competent and compassionate! We love that he says that they “make metal things, but our product is people and community.”
He, his daughter, and several students participated and won “Forged in Fire.” See this episode where father and daughter go up against each other!
Watch Forged in Fire Season 7 Episode 12 | HISTORY Channel
EXCALIBUR OUTDOORS USA
Here is where Ron sells his creations! He has an exclusive contract with the United States Air Force Academy Association of Graduates (USAFA AOG) to sell the Air Force Academy sabers that are etched with the USAFA name. Currently, he is the only one licensed to use that.
His quality is ten times that of the previous manufacturer. He uses Aeb-L steel, which is heat-treated and much stronger than other sabers. “The handle is wire-wrapped, spinning done in-house around a core” (“Coming Home” Blog).
He offers a Lifetime Guarantee (who does THAT anymore?!). Not happy? Send it back and he’ll fix it, for free. He’s been repairing and refurbishing the old sabers for years!
Here is a video to talk more about these new sabers:
How to purchase one? Go to the AOG website and get on the waiting list: www.shop.usafa.org.