About Brodbeck Ironworks

Brodbeck Ironworks, LLC was founded by Ryan Brodbeck in August 2018 when he created the first weld-together Brodbeck Ironworks tilting 2x72 grinder. Ryan’s design efforts continued and by June 2019 the original welded design had evolved into the bolt-together grinder kit Brodbeck Ironworks is known for today.

Vince Molina joined Brodbeck Ironworks in June 2019 after competing with Ryan on an episode of the popular History Channel show Forged in Fire. Ryan and Vince worked together to refine the tilting grinder design which was released to the public in July 2019. The Brodbeck team continues to evolve and develop new products to better serve our customers.

Our goal is to provide customers the highest value and return on investment per dollar spent. The Brodbeck Ironworks grinder has been designed with more features and functionality than any other grinder on the market today at an affordable price.

In May 2020, Brodbeck Ironworks entered the abrasives and leather sewing machine markets. We have partnered with VSM and Cowboy Leather Sewing Machines to bring their products to our customers. In the near future, Brodbeck Ironworks will be a one stop shop for blade and blacksmithing enthusiasts and professionals.

The Grinders

The Brodbeck Ironworks grinder kits are the best value in the market today. They are packed with features and functionality not found in any other grinder in this price range. Our grinders have been designed, analyzed and tested by a team with over 45 years of combined design experience AND over 10 years of combined bladesmithing and blacksmithing experience.

The Brodbeck grinder is reliable, sturdy, easy to use, and easy to configure. Its elegant rock-solid design has made the Brodbeck Ironworks the preferred choice for bladesmiths and blacksmiths such as J. Neilson, David Baker, Jason Knight, Ben Abbott, Curtis Haaland, Ilya Alekseyev, Matt Stagmer, Chris Cash, and Geoff Feder, among others.

The Team

Ryan Brodbeck Owner

Ryan has a strong background in engineering design and lean manufacturing, with previous experience at MI-Swaco, a Schlumberger Company, Rotex Global LLC, Intelligrated, Honeywell Company. He is also a blacksmith and knife maker.

Follow Ryan's work: nightowlforge

Vince Molina Owner

Vince is a mechanical engineer with 25 years of experience in product development manufacturing, and business development. He has developed products for companies such as Dorman, Apple, MTI, Precor, among others. He is also a bladesmith and fabricator.

Follow Vince's work: dreamerforgeknives

Ben Secrist Sales and Customer Service Manager

Ben has worked retail most of his career and started making knives in 2017. He joined the team in 2021 part time as customer service and went full time in 2022. Ben is a Forged in Fire Champion of Season 9 Episode 5 in 2022. 

Follow Ben's work: Fieryiceforge

Industrial Testimonials

Gavin J.

Metal Technologies Systems - Cincinnati, OH

"We purchased a Brodbeck Grinder for our Sheet Metal Shop and it has been a game changer! Between the adjustable platen and variable speed motor, we have cut our grinding and deburring time in half due to the absolute versatility of the machine. Highly Recommend."

"I've been using the Brodbeck Ironworks 2x72 belt grinder for over a year now, and it's hands down the best investment I’ve made for my knife making business. The build quality is outstanding, and the attachments are incredibly versatile. Plus, it's OSHA compliant, which gives me peace of mind when I’m in the shop."

"As a fabricator and welder, I needed a belt grinder that could handle heavy stock removalandprecision work. Brodbeck Ironworks nailed it. Their 2x72 workstation is tough, reliable, and Made in America. I love supporting a small business that actually cares about quality."

"Whether you’re beveling, profiling, or finishing, this grinder does it all. I’ve tried other knife making equipment before, but nothing compares to the Brodbeck system. Fast shipping, great customer service, and top-tier performance."

"I’m a first-time grinder owner and the team at Brodbeck Ironworks made the process easy. Their setup instructions were clear, and the customer support was phenomenal. The 2x72 grinder is solid, quiet, and smooth. It’s perfect for any maker—knife maker, welder, or hobbyist."

"I bought the Brodbeck Ironworks belt grinder for my blacksmithing shop. This thing is a beast! The variable speed motor gives me total control, and the tool arm system makes switching attachments effortless. This is serious industrial-quality gear for a great price."

"Brodbeck’s grinders are engineered for makers who demand performance. I’ve used mine for metal fabrication, woodworking, and even polishing stainless steel. The versatility is unmatched, and everything is built like a tank."

"It’s rare to find a company that delivers on all fronts: American-made, OSHA compliant, durable, and backed by great support. I’ve recommended Brodbeck Ironworks to every fabricator and knifemaker I know."

"The Brodbeck 2x72 grinder is the heart of my knife shop. From profiling blades to final polish, it does it all. The modular design and optional attachments make it the most efficient workstation I've ever used."

"Excellent grinder, top-notch customer service. Ryan and the team are true makers who understand what craftsmen need. If you’re serious about knife making or metalworking, Brodbeck Ironworks is the gold standard."

"Love supporting American manufacturing! The quality of my Brodbeck belt grinder is unreal. It’s rock-solid, easy to use, and does the job of three machines. Great product from a small business that’s clearly built for makers."

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