Mark Hazen started his career in 1976 as a custom knife maker. At that time, he could not afford to purchase a custom knife, so he decided to make his own. That's when it all began. Initially, Mark made knives for his friends and eventually, his creative talent was sought after by customers throughout the USA. After 30 years as a renowned knife maker, Mark decided to retire in 2007. On September 23, 2013, he received a call from Colonel Jack Tobin, president of The Special Forces Association at Fort Bragg, NC. While at an estate auction preview, Colonel Tobin saw a knife which he felt would be perfect for Special Forces active duty personnel, as well as the members of the association. Mark came out of retirement and began his journey by making a knife in honor of his fallen friend, MSG Robert Horrigan, a Special Forces Operator stationed at Fort Bragg, NC.