The entire knife industry and community was saddened today to learn of the unexpected death of prolific knife designer Blackie Collins.

The 6th AKTI president was selected at Blade 2011. Bill Raczkowski of Gerber follows AKTI President Goldie Russell, A.G. Russell Knives, who successful led the organization for four years, including through the U.S. Customs effort.

The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) was named AKTI’s first “American Knife & Tool Institute Advocacy Partner,” recognizing CSF importance as the voice of American sportsmen to legislators.

Northern Knives donates Randall Knife for Blade Show Silent Auction, a William Henry E6-5 for an AKTI drawing, and starts an AKTI supporter wristband fundraiser for the American Knife & Tool Institute’s Legislative Fund.

That individuals can make a difference in their communities and states to make sure that our rights to own and use knives are not infringed is exemplified in the story of New Hampshire Representative Jenn Coffey.