Gavin Coleman

I have been a full time knifemaker since 2017 when I started producing my own specialized self defense knives in Cape Town.

However I have always been interested in the art and craft of Japanese Swords, and in 2026 I founded Akitsu Forge to mark my new journey of focusing specifically on this art form.

I still make knives which are fixed blades that blend modern design with Japanese tradition. I am a specialist in Japanese Tsukamaki, using authentic materials and techniques. I also occasionally work on restoration of genuine Japanese Swords.

My ultimate focus is to develop my own sword smoothing practice which is respectful of traditional Japanese bladesmithing while also being distinctly my own style. My aim is to produce sole authorship pieces for serious collectors, that incorporate my own themes and unique materials.

I am open to custom commissions but I limit this to only a handful of pieces per year.