It seems outdoor pursuits such as hunting require edged equipment, that is, knives. Syd McKay of Opasquia Custom Knives has been producing all kinds of knives for the past 20 years. McKay turns out everything from small paring knives to a half inch chef's knife to hunting and filleting knives. He also produces some specialty knives such as a beaver skinner. "I don't think anybody else makes anything like it," he suggests.
He often custom designs his own knives. Sometimes people bring him a knife they really like but is made of poor quality steel. "I will make a copy of that with whatever modifications they want," McKay states.
In producing his custom blades, McKay typically uses ATS 34, a stainless steel. It's heat treatable and holds a very good edge, he claims. He can offer other metals if requested.
McKay started making custom knives in 1992. An avid hunter, he made a hunting knife for himself because he couldn't find one he liked. Somebody saw it and wanted to buy it. He sold it and made another which someone also wanted. He made two more which sold quickly. He bought some better equipment and the business kept growing from there.
Generally McKay attends four or five shows a year, including the Brandon Gun Show, Dugald and The Pas Trade Show as well as the Flin Flon and Thompson trade shows.
Anyone wanting information on McKay's wares can visit his website, www.opasquiacustomknives.com where many of his designs are featured or they can call him at (204) 624-5416.
In addition to producing knives, McKay turns out hand sewn leather sheaths for his knives.
