Pub-Started, Globally Trusted: The Origin Story

Tassie Tiger Knives is a brand that has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality knives designed for hunters, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts. But the story behind the creation of the brand is more than just a passion for blades, it’s about overcoming challenges, evolving through dedication, and establishing a unique Australian brand.

The spark behind Tassie Tiger Knives

The journey began with a problem. Craig, the founder, a lifelong hunter and outdoorsman, was frustrated by the growing restrictions on importing quality knives. As someone who had spent much of his life hunting and fishing, Craig understood the importance of having a reliable, well-crafted knife. Yet, finding high-quality blades was becoming increasingly difficult as import regulations tightened.

Craig took matters into his own hands. He decided to design his own knife that would meet the needs of people just like him—hunters who demanded durability and performance. Using his expertise, he carefully selected the right materials and created his first design. He had the first batch of 50 knives made, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Soon after, Craig’s designs gained popularity, leading to an expansion of his product range. If you’re looking for steak knives, a knife sharpener, a filleting knife or a fishing knife then Tassie Tiger Knives is for you.

The evolution of the products

Initially, the focus was on knives that would cater to hunting and outdoor activities, but as demand grew, the brand expanded to offer a wider variety of products. Today, the brand offers an extensive range of knives and accessories designed for various purposes. Each product has been meticulously crafted with the same care and attention to detail that Craig applied to his very first design.

The brand’s commitment to quality and performance is evident in the materials used—each knife is made from premium materials that are ideal for outdoor use. The products are built to last, ensuring hunters and adventurers can rely on them in the most challenging conditions. As the business grew, Craig’s focus remained on designing products that met the needs of real outdoor enthusiasts.

Achievements and milestones

Over the years, the brand has expanded its reach, and Craig’s hard work has paid off. One of the proudest achievements for the brand was breaking into the American market. With a competitive knife market and some of the best manufacturers in the world, the United States was a tough nut to crack. However, the commitment to quality and uniqueness resonated with American hunters, and the brand gained a solid footing.

Reaching more than 200 stores across Australia was another significant milestone, and today, Tassie Tiger Knives are available in more than 220 shops nationwide. The brand’s reputation continues to grow, with a presence in New Zealand and the U.S. As the business expanded, Craig’s dream of making high-quality knives accessible to more people became a reality. But the journey wasn’t without its challenges.

The inspiration behind the name

The name “Tassie Tiger Knives” is rooted in the brand’s desire to create something truly Australian. After brainstorming over several pub meetings, Craig and his team settled on the Tasmanian Tiger, an iconic Australian animal that symbolised strength, uniqueness, and ruggedness. The Tasmanian Tiger is extinct, but its legacy lives on in the TTK brand. It’s a fitting tribute to the spirit of adventure and resilience that TTK strives to represent in every blade it crafts.

Tradition and innovation

Today, every meeting, from design brainstorming to business strategy, is still held at the pub. The minute notes are still written on the back of coasters, a tradition that Craig and his team hold dear. It’s a reminder of where it all began and how far they’ve come.