Why Iron Antler? Our Story, Our Mission, and Why We're Here to Stay
At Iron Antler, we’re more than just a brand — we’re a community built on hard work, passion, and a love for the outdoors. This has been a dream in the making for years, and now it's finally real. So why Iron Antler? Why now? And why do we believe we’re here to stay?
The Beginning: A Dream Years in the Making
Long before I married my wife Kaylee in 2019, I dreamed of starting what would become Iron Antler. The idea was simple: combine my lifelong passions for hunting, fitness, and the outdoor lifestyle into something real — something that could connect with others who live for the same things.
For years, we talked about it — building a brand that felt like home for people like us. But the timing just wasn’t right. That is, until now.
A New Chapter: Brotherhood, Blades, and a Bigger Purpose
In 2024, I took a leap and became a full-time firefighter in Wyoming. That’s where I met Sam — a talented bladesmith with a deep passion for knife making and the outdoors. After my first wildland season, I came home and told Kaylee, “That Sam guy is the real deal. I can’t wait to be friends with him.”
Fast forward to January 2025, and that friendship turned into something bigger. Sam and I came together over a shared passion: knives, hunting, and outdoor adventure. The rest is history.
Sam dove headfirst into refining his craft, hand-forging high-quality custom knives designed for real-life field use. Meanwhile, I started developing fitness plans & apperal tailored for hunters, firefighters, and anyone who wants to live strong and stay ready for whatever life throws their way.
The Iron Antler Family: Built by Passion
Of course, Iron Antler wouldn't be complete without Kaylee my wife. She’s the engine behind our brand’s marketing, photography, and visual identity — what she calls the "aesthetic" side of our business. In June 2025, she officially brought her talents to Iron Antler, helping shape our vision into a brand that not only performs but looks damn good doing it.
Since I was 13 years old, I’ve lived and breathed the outdoors — from hunting and fishing, to grinding it out in the gym. That fire never left. And today, with the support of amazing friends and our families, Iron Antler is officially here.
Why We’re Here — And Why We’re Not Going Anywhere
Iron Antler is more than gear. It’s more than knives, workouts, or apparel. It’s a lifestyle brand built for those who live to push limits, respect the wild, and chase something bigger than themselves.
We’re here to build quality gear, create a strong community, and inspire others to live with purpose — just like we do.
To everyone reading this: Thank you. Whether you’re here for the knives, the workouts, or just because you believe in what we’re doing — we’re honored to have you in the Iron Antler family.
Here’s to the future. Here's to building something real. And here’s to doing it together.
– John Vervynck
Founder, Iron Antler