In an effort to attract more interest in the W. F. Moran Award presented at the Blade Show in Atlanta, ABS officials have altered the rules associated with this award, named for the late Bill Moran, the man singly most responsible for the creation of the American Bladesmith Society.

In the past, a specific Moran style has been specified as the basis for judging. However, this year any ABS member wishing to enter the competition may make a Moran style of his/her own choosing. Thus, the smith may create a Bowie, camp knife, dagger, folder, or hunter based on a Moran creation. “Hopefully, this will create more participation in the competition,” said B. R. Hughes, an ABS founder and author of “Master of the Forge”, a Moran biography.

In addition, the plaque traditionally presented, will be upgraded and will be an award that should be one of the showpieces of any trophy room. Judging will take place at 10:00 A.M. Friday morning in Atlanta prior to the opening of the Blade Show. The room in which judging will take place will be Room #103.