Good luck on your endeavor. To set yourself apart, a few thoughts:
- To me the feel in your hand is as important as the steel. It is like a good fitting shoe. Since you are using CNC you should strive for a method to semi-custom machine your handle to fit my hand.
- Handle warmth and fit are extremely important - I like non slippery wood
- Do not think that you can solve edge retention, consider shipping a ceramic edge tuner with every blade and offer free lifetime sharpening. Everyone loves a freebie and those customers will be repeats and your best marketeers.
- Consider non-serrated steak knives - I love them and 2 strokes per side on a ceramic rod cleans them up every time
- Do not underestimate the importance of high quality heat treatments incl. nitro - get a pro like Peters to do it, everyone says they can do it but environmental controls are everything
- Never send out a knife that has not been inspected under magnification - your best customers are picky yet loyal but its all about transparency, trust and confidence; Especially if I am going to buy a knife which I have never held in my hand
- Manage your own expectations on what is possible and how much $$ you are willing to lose upfront while you establish your customer base
- Find a mentor who has done this before and is willing to share knowledge, again do not underestimate what it is going to take to truly make a living out of doing this
- You are up against major competition, will need to find your nitch, determine who your customers are and make clear the value you bring them
- Get someone to handle the phones - custom makers are famous for never answering the phone
- Consider offering 2 steels - carbon 52100 and stainless AEB-L (or Nitro-V), call NJ Steel Baron and talk to Aldo about you needs and specs
- Read Verhoeven's works on Knife Metallurgy and Sharpening - great stuff on what works