About Me


Me In My Workshop

I arrived on Skye in 1991, after several years of playing in a band and having various jobs. I had an interest in History and Mythology which led me to thinking about making swords. I taught myself entirely from books and application over a period of three years while working from a friends garden shed in the day and making my living working in hotels at night.

I didn't plan to become a Professional Bladesmith, it just happened. People came by and saw what I was doing and insisted on buying from me so nowadays I have a good reputation and a long waiting list. Initially I was interested in finding out how to make the sword in an authentic manner using as many locally sourced materials as I could. I get some iron from the island of Raasay , digging it out of the old peat bogs, or local wood for the grips. Whalebone washed up on the shores of the island that myself or friends collect on sea kayaking trips.

I use high quality carbon steels for my blades and hand forge the pieces in my fire here at Strathaird, Working alongside Garth Duncan, renowned Goldsmith and knife maker.

All my work is to commission only these days. Usually a wait of around ten months to have a custom made sword or knife. If you are interested please enquire as to the current times.

The blades are all 'working' pieces, hand forged, tempered and hardened to produce a superior and strong blade, tough enough for battle re-enactment or cutting tests.


A Blade In The Belt Grinder

My Mark On The Blade Of A Damascus Piece

Everything is made entirely from scratch, forging and pattern making, moulding and casting, leatherwork and wooden scabbards, all made here in the shop to your exact specifications. I try to maintain an attention to detail in all the authentic Historical pieces that I make.

I hope that you enjoy your look around the site, there are updated pics of current projects, a forum to chat to other enthusiasts and videos amongst the other things. For those familiar with swords and the terminology used this will hopefully provide some inspiration for those new to the subject.welcome.

Remember, this is a custom sword making service, I can make pretty much anything to order, so don't be afraid to ask.

Head over to the "Contact Me" page to order or inquire.

 

 

Rob Miller can be contacted on 01471 866376 or www.castlekeep.co.uk, rob@castlekeep.co.uk
 


A Blade In The Forge