A River Tempered by Time

1950s: The First Steps in Toolmaking

In the 1950s, in the coastal city of Yangjiang, the story began in the local knife cooperative, where Mr. Zhang—the father of HX OUTDOORS' founder—was one of the original team members. He worked on the factory floor, focusing on the early design and fabrication of production tools and simple molds for knives, and helped lay the industrial foundation of the region. With practical design ideas and a drive to conserve materials, he demonstrated exceptional talent in the factory. In the post-war recovery period, his improvements in tooling and processes greatly enhanced production efficiency, providing solid technical support to local factories and workshops. His knack for improvement and high efficiency gradually earned him a reputation in the community.

1960s: Innovation Amid Hardship

As China’s industry became more centralized in the 1960s, the newly established Yangjiang State Knife Factory absorbed local workshops and expanded production. Mr. Zhang, now a technical pillar, played a leading role in improving blade grinding techniques, significantly enhancing the sharpness and durability of the knives—qualities that became hallmarks of the factory’s products. The 1960s were marked by material shortages and aging equipment. Despite these harsh conditions, with only obsolete Soviet-style machinery available, Mr. Zhang led his team to continuously optimize workflows and improve tool design and maintenance. These pragmatic innovations steadily improved the quality and durability of their knives, ensuring their products remained essential tools even in times of scarcity.

1970s: Breakthroughs on the Eve of Reform

After many years in the state enterprise, Mr. Zhang’s flexible and effective approach to tool improvement had earned him industry recognition. By the 1970s, dissatisfied with the rigid planned economy and eager for technical breakthroughs, he sensed opportunity on the eve of reform and opening up. He left the state factory, taking years of experience and equipment with him to launch a small workshop at home. Relying on his unique understanding of tool structure and material efficiency, he continued to supply local factories and workshops with efficient tools and simple molds. These improvements not only reduced material waste but also increased the efficiency of component processing, laying a solid foundation for the family’s future.

1980s: Expanding the Family Business

The reforms of the 1980s created new opportunities for technology upgrades and equipment importation. When advanced German grinding machines entered China, Mr. Zhang immediately saw their transformative potential. The family pooled their resources to invest in new equipment, and Mr. Zhang led his two sons in months of dedicated research—analyzing part tolerances and hand-drawing diagrams to successfully reverse-engineer and replicate the dual-sided grinding systems. This achievement brought a leap in both efficiency and precision. With these innovations, the family workshop expanded into knife component manufacturing, gradually evolving into a well-respected local supplier.

1990s: Marketization and Diversification

With the market reforms of the 1990s, the Zhang family business underwent a pivotal generational transition. The founder’s sons began steering the company’s transformation. They not only continued to deepen their expertise in knife components, but also explored the production of a wider range of outdoor knives and tools, gradually developing the ability to independently design and manufacture finished products. During this period, the business transformed from a single-purpose processing workshop into a diversified manufacturer of knives and multi-function tools. Growing technical and manufacturing expertise laid a strong foundation for future brand development.

2000s: International Partnerships and OEM Excellence

After China joined the WTO, the Zhang family company quickly integrated into global supply chains, establishing OEM partnerships with several internationally renowned tool brands. By adhering to strict partnership standards, the team mastered advanced precision manufacturing and quality control systems, continually pushing beyond the limits of traditional production. Collaboration with overseas partners also drove improvements in testing and process optimization, providing valuable experience for the launch of their own brand.

2010s: Brand Building and Domestic Market Expansion

From the 2010s onward, the company increased investment in China’s domestic market, strengthening distribution networks and customer service. The HX OUTDOORS brand was officially established, positioning itself as a premium provider of tactical and outdoor gear to satisfy the country’s booming outdoor recreation market. Through ongoing design optimization based on user feedback and active participation in digital retail, the brand steadily gained recognition among outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.

2014–Present: Leading the Chinese Market

Since 2014, HX OUTDOORS has held the top spot in China’s outdoor knife category for more than a decade. Deep insight into local user needs, rigorous end-to-end quality control, and relentless scenario-driven innovation have earned the brand the trust of both professional adventurers and casual users.

2018–Present: Reaching Global Heights

Starting in 2018, the 3rd generation of the Zhang family has actively expanded into international markets, participating in major events such as OUTDOOR by ISPO in Germany, Hunting & Fishing in Russia, and SHOT SHOW in the United States. The company showcases its innovative designs and manufacturing strength to a global audience, continuously adapting to diverse outdoor demands while steadfastly upholding its legacy of craftsmanship and quality.

Three Generations, Seventy Years: Advancing Together

From a modest workshop to an industry benchmark, three generations of perseverance and innovation have defined our commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Building on this legacy, HX OUTDOORS will continue to lead the way in outdoor equipment innovation.

From the workbenches of Yangjiang to the summit of Everest, we craft not just tools—but a heritage of craftsmanship that spans heights and generations.

Our Mission