We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tom Mann a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Tom thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

This began as a homeschool project. We built a coal-fired forge in the backyard. By the time I had finished the first knife, I was hooked.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’ve always been a “knife guy”. Most of my life has been spent outdoors, either in the woods or on a job site. So naturally, I’ve always carried and used knives. As a kid I could have named more knife designers and makers than I could football teams. I’ve had the joys of owning and using some really incredible blades over the years, so I had a very high standard for my own blades when I started making them. My knives are designed to USE and so are made of very durable materials, are properly heat-treated and have sculpted handles that area pleasure to hold. I also make custom fit sheaths for each field knife, so the customer can carry with confidence.

We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.

I still hold a builder’s license, been in the trades my whole life. But there was a clear moment when I realized both that this venture had real legs, and also that if it remained a side hustle I’d never put the time into it to grow. So I stopped taking on building jobs and threw myself whole heartedly into Woodsmann Outdoors.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

It brings me joy to put quality knives into the hands of those that can use and appreciate them.

Contact Info:

• Website: WoodsmannOutdoors.com
• Instagram: @WoodsmannOutdoorsNews
• Facebook: Woodsmannoutdoors
• Youtube: WoodsmannOutdoorsNews

Image Credits
Liz Rose