👋 Meet Eric Cooper ak@steelofapproval from Utah, USA.

👋 Meet Eric Cooper ak@steelofapproval from Utah, USA.

What do you do when you’re not talking knives?
Professionally I’m a mental health crisis clinician in my local emergency department. At home I’m a husband and father of two who loves to cook and hike with my dogs.


Which ANSØ knife do you own – and how did it find its way into your hands?
I currently own a Monte Carlo, ARN, and a Sheepsfoot fixed blade. The ARN and Sheepsfoot are recent acquisitions. I felt particularly compelled to buy the fixed blade after watching the YouTube video discussing its historical/personal significance to the “Anso of Denmark” legacy. The Monte Carlo was my first and still favorite Anso knife. It first belonged to my brother, who is responsible for introducing me to your knives. I fell in love instantly and was able to buy it off him; it remains my trusted work carry to this day.


What made you choose this knife in particular?
My Monte Carlo is a full titanium construct with the Cuprum anodization. I love the “shipwreck” vibes. That paired with a crispy hand-rubbed blade and firm detent makes it my ideal slipjoint carry. As for the other two, the fixed blade has full carbon fiber scales, and the ARN has Cuprum handles with a carbon inlay; a perfect thematic trio.


What has surprised you most about owning an ANSØ knife?
Not a surprise, but like many collectors I’m enamored with Anso designs. Danish design obviously carries quite a pedigree, and this is evident in your work. One aspect I love about my Monte Carlo is the discretion. When using it in front of non-knife people I never have to worry about them being concerned. The maker’s mark is also one of my favorites; so elegant and subtle.


What else do you carry every day?
I’m one of those knife collectors who doesn’t much partake in the rest of the EDC world. I’ve worn the same watch for the past 9 years: a Casio G-Shock model Rangeman. For knives I have a few pieces that stay in rotation most consistently; my Monte Carlo, a Gerry McGinnis Catalyst, or an Alpha from Tom Krein. On occasion I’ll carry a micarta coin from Patrick Doyle; particularly if I’m going somewhere that I cannot bring a blade.


Do you have an EDC tip or habit you think more people should know about?
I’d say just collect what you like and carry what suits your needs; don’t get caught up in the hype game or trends. Let your freak flag fly and enjoy what makes you happy.


When you’re not thinking about knives – what’s your other obsession?
Though not as active in recent years, my longtime passion has been nature photography. Having lived in the Utah mountains for a couple of years I really tried to take advantage of the landscapes and wildlife the region is home to. Since moving somewhere a little less wild, I’ve narrowed my photography efforts to my knife collection. Taking pictures of my knives, I believe, has enhanced my appreciation of the intricate details that make these objects so special.

 


 

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