BUDK Announces Exclusive Ownership of Kissing Crane Knives Brand


ATLANTA, GA--(Marketwire - February 2, 2010) - BUDK®, industry leader in top quality edged collectibles, today announced the company is now the exclusive owner and manufacturer of Kissing Crane knives. BUDK currently offers a varied selection of traditional favorites from the Kissing Crane line including the Classic Yellow Series, Mother of Pearl Series, Abalone Series, and Classic Stilettos, which feature a Damascus blade version. Now that BUDK has exclusive ownership of the Kissing Crane brand, they will be showcasing many new and unique items in the near future.

Founded in 1834, Kissing Crane creates quality pocket, hunting and folding knives long-established for their quality materials as well as their attention to detail. A collector's favorite, each knife by Kissing Crane is assembled and polished by hand, keeping alive traditions started 175 years ago by the Robert Klaas factory in Solingen, Germany. The brand's continued focus on quality and detail remains a top priority for every Kissing Crane pocket knife.

"We are pleased to be the exclusive manufacturer of Kissing Crane knives and to carry on its heritage for generations to come," says Clint Kadel, CEO and owner of BUDK. "This traditional brand continues to be one of the best-sellers among our customers. We are confident that knife collectors will be delighted by the craftsmanship of these knives, as well as the breadth of new items launching in the future."

The Complete Line of Kissing Crane Knives Are Featured at www.budk.com.

Top 3 President's Picks for February

1. Kissing Crane Burnt Bone Damascus Stiletto Folding Knife (Item# KC 5054). This burnt bone handle stiletto features a rugged burnt bone handle and brass plated pins, bolsters and a brass Kissing Crane cast shield on every handle.

2. Kissing Crane Pearl Sod Buster Folding Knife (Item# KC 5012). This unique new design from Kissing Crane features a stainless steel blade, brass bolsters, and a handle made of beautiful imitation pearl.

3. Kissing Crane Abalone Congress Folding Knife (Item# KC 5045). Kissing Crane brings generations of unrivaled quality and tradition to this new abalone handle family. This 3 1/2" Congress offers 4 stainless steel blades and brass pins to accent the beautiful abalone handle. 3 1/2" closed.

Some new and exciting items in the works for the Kissing Crane brand include a genuine Stag Series, a Classic Black series, and some quality fixed blade hunters. "With such a traditional, classic brand, our options for expanding the product line are limitless. Not only will we be adding more in the traditional pocket knife area, but we will be expanding into some other great areas like sharpeners and collectible sets," says Michelle Hampton, Vice President of Product Development for BUDK.

Kissing Crane fans can see the entire product selection by visiting www.budk.com or by checking out THE BUDK CATALOG, a product packed catalog featuring a large selection of knives, swords, and various self defense products. You can order a FREE BUDK CATALOG at www.budk.com or by calling 1-800-543-5061.

Dealer inquiries are welcome. If you are interested in becoming a dealer please call 1-800-543-5061.

About BUDK®

BUDK® offers high-quality, direct-to-consumer swords, knives, medieval and fantasy weaponry, air guns, and other collectible weapons. BUDK® was founded by Clint Kadel over 20 years ago and has been a thriving success since. BUDK® distributes The BUDK Catalog and operates the www.budk.com website. For a free catalog or to view the entire BUDK® product selection, visit their website. BUDK is also on Facebook (keyword Budk) and Twitter at www.Twitter.com/BudkCatalog.

Contact Information: Contact: Angela Singletary Gio Public Relations 612-309-2811

Kissing Crane Knives