Deadmoose Forge is the work of Zeke Ziegler, a Minnesota craftsman building functional knives, blacksmith-made tools, and preserving historic industrial equipment.
Long before making knives, Zeke trained as a gunsmith, where precision, fit, and function were expected—every time, without exception. He later built a career spanning more than two decades in manufacturing leadership, overseeing production operations, quality systems, Lean manufacturing initiatives, and continuous improvement for medical device, consumer products, and ammunition manufacturers.
That background continues to influence every project that leaves the shop.
Whether forging a knife, restoring a century-old vise, or building a blacksmithing tool, the process is deliberate. Geometry, heat treatment, materials, and finish are approached methodically, with an emphasis on performance, durability, and long-term reliability.
Each piece is built individually, allowing the time to do the work correctly rather than quickly. No shortcuts are taken to meet production quotas or deadlines. If something doesn't meet the standard, it doesn't leave the shop.
In addition to building new work, Deadmoose Forge is dedicated to conserving historic anvils, vises, blacksmithing equipment, and industrial machinery. Rather than restoring for appearance alone, each project seeks to preserve the history, craftsmanship, and working character of the original tool while returning it to reliable service.
Many of these projects are documented through the Deadmoose Forge Restoration Journal, creating a permanent record of the research, conservation methods, and restoration process behind each piece.
Today, Zeke is a member of the Guild of Metalsmiths and continues to spend countless hours refining his craft—building tools meant to be used, preserving tools that deserve another lifetime of work, and striving to improve with every project.
Deadmoose Forge is not a production shop. This is not volume work, and it is not driven by the need to turn out inventory. Because of that, Zeke is able to stay selective about what he builds and how it is built.
Projects are approached deliberately, without shortcuts, and without compromise to meet timelines or demand. If something doesn’t meet the standard, it doesn’t leave the shop.
This independence allows for a focus on doing the work right—clean grinds, solid heat treatment, durable finishes, and tools that perform as intended. Each piece reflects that approach.
Whether building a new knife or restoring a century-old piece of machinery, the goal remains the same: create work that honors craftsmanship, performs without compromise, and stands the test of time.
