Dave Saunders founded Silver Fox Tools in 2019 when he decided he wanted his own mini pocket axe and couldn’t find one he really liked. So he invented the Jack Axe and the rest, as they say, is history…
Why do you want to reinvent and rejuvenate old design language?
When we hold something in our hands that feels so well made, we can’t ever imagine throwing it away. It becomes a legacy. This is the spirit old time tools have, this is the same spirit I want at Silver Fox Tools. We make tools that wouldn’t look out of place in your grandads tool box. Just like those tools I want Silver Fox tools to be use and abused. We have designed them to improve with time and gain amazing patinas.
Why do you like making tools?
Being a Maker and EDC collector, I want to combine these two passions and design tools that are made for the EDC makers. I love the idea of using traditional materials such as Brass and Steel, or using classic designs with modern every day carry metals such as Titanium
Where does your inspiration come from?
Pioneer tool makers of past. Whether it’s old blacksmithing or old military tools. I often look though vintage tool magazines or scan eBay for obscure bits of brass for inspiration. My buddy and colleague Marcus loved rusty old tat and weird objects and there’s nothing we love more than a rummage at the salvage yard looking for vintage every day carry and preloved pocket tools.
What was the biggest mistake or product that didn't quite make it?
Most of our tools have a few failed prototype attempts but one that never got off the ground was in the early days. I designed a beard comb! I cringe just thinking about it. I had the idea to make a beard comb in the shape of an axe. After we cut it out of steel on the CNC plasma it was more like a potential face bloodbath comb than a grooming dream.
How did you come up with the product names?
A lot of our tools are named after family or friends. For example the Crichton coin is named after my grandfather who ran a stationery company back in the 60’s. The new range of knives are named after the mountains that surround our workshop. Nature can inspire and spark conversation and we wanted to represent that in out every day carry range of leather and tools.
