August 29, 2025 Benchmark Abrasives

Mike Leonard (Tool'n Knives)

Welcome to this week's #benchmarkspotlight (formerly the #weldershowcase) - we had the opportunity to sit down with Mike from @tooln_knives and talk a little shop.

If you would like to be featured in our weekly spotlight (100% FREE) and have a chance at winning one of our Grinder Hoods please send us an email to leo.benchmarkabrasives@gmail.com to get you scheduled in an upcoming week. And for those of you that take the time to share your story with us, we'd be happy to provide a free BA banner. These spotlights are intended to highlight your skill, your business, and your tips and tricks. Most of all it's to have a little fun!

Name: Mike Leonard

Business Name: Tool'n Knives

Location: Central, WI

Socials: IG: @tooln_knives FB: ToolnKnives

YouTube: @ToolnKnives

Specialties: Custom designed knives

Tell us about yourself - what inspired you to get into your trade? And how long?

I started making knives when I retired 4 years ago. I started to make just one for myself. A friend saw it and wanted to buy it so I eventually gave in and sold it figuring I can make myself another. I started with a cheap 1x30 belt sander that took hours to grind a bevel as it only had a fractional HP motor. Word of mouth spread and I started making and selling more knives soon I was updating my equipment. When I hit #200 I never expected to get to that point so I did a follow along build on facebook for that knife calling it the 200. I had a drawing and gave it away. To date I have made, sold, donated or given away 250+ knives.

What keeps you motivated throughout the day?
Coming up with a new idea or design.

What is your favorite shop tool and why?
My 2x72 belt sander.

What's your favorite piece that you've worked on?
That's a hard one as I have so many. One that stands out is a custom design that the customer wanted his autograph lasered into the blade. It was my first time doing a laser job like this.

If you could have any job as it relates to question 1 what would it be and what would you do with that?
Being retired I do not want another job. I do want to continue knife making and improving them.