The American Knife & Tool Institute has lined up sponsors for its two highest-profile events in 2026: the Free to Carry online auction and the annual Knife Industry Mixer.
While the date for this year’s Free to Carry is still being determined, Chris Reeve Knives of Boise, ID, stepped up to serve as the auction sponsor.
The Knife Industry Mixer, an invite-only event held the first night of the annual Blade Show in Atlanta, will be sponsored this year by Krate Tactical of Winder, GA.
AKTI Executive Director Jan Billeb said having the support of businesses for the two showcase events allows the organization to allocate more resources to its efforts to reform knife laws at the state and federal levels and to serve as an advocate for the knife industry.
“We appreciate Chris Reeve Knives and Krate Tactical for their financial commitment. Their support helps us achieve successes that benefit the entire knife community,” said Billeb.
Chris Reeve Knives is an Associate (Platinum) Member, and Krate is a Premier Member of AKTI.
