Today we’d like to introduce you to Dustin Hill.
Hi Dustin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My name is Dustin Hill. I was a career police officer in Wahpeton ND. During my 20-year career, I worked K9 and was able to retire my K9 Gypsy. I started my business as a way to deal with stress. My grandfather Douglas Burkett and I used to make knives. We named our business after him. Burkett Family custom knives.
He and I were also avid fossil hunters and rock hounds so we incorporated those into our knives and grips. We added lasers to our business and have since added three more lasers. We have a portion of our business in Breckenridge MN where I started from my garage and expanded across the river to Wahpeton ND to a 700o square foot building and storefront.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Working a full-time police officer job and being on call for the dive rescue team, K9 unit, and drug recognition expert made finding time for my hobby turned career difficult.
We also own a boarding facility for dogs in Breckenridge MN called Pinewood Kennels so time is precious.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We make custom knives and grips for the hunting and sports industry.
Our work has been featured in magazines and some custom show builds as well as leading makers in the sport shooting industry.
What matters most to you? Why?
Preservation of the past not only to the memory of my grandfather Douglas Burkett who was a career naval medic who served in World War 2 but to my family through the heirlooms we make. Family.
This is a family business from my daughter who was 7 when we started and she helped sew sheaths to my brother-in-law Joseph Tollefson who is my business partner and best friend.
Contact Info:
- Website: Burkettcustoms.com
- Instagram: @Burkettcustoms
- Facebook: Burkett Family Custom Knives
