Don Glaser (the G of GRS) recalls his enjoyable visits to the Iowa home of brother-in-law John Rohner (the R of GRS) during the mid 1960’s. It was during these visits that John showed Don his favorite hobby… firearms engraving. About this same time a better known Iowa engraver, James B. Meek, gave John the raw parts to make an engraving vise.

Don built that special vise for John because he was an experienced machinist and was intrigued with engraving. Working with the traditional hammer and chisel method, John convinced Don there was a real need for a new power tool for gun engraving. In his home shop, Don applied his pneumatic design experience and built a unique machine. He fell irresistibly in love with metal engraving while testing the machine that would later be named the Gravermeister. Although Don’s engineering job kept him quite busy, he found time to learn engraving by skipping T.V. after supper. “It was a great trade-off,” says Don with a smile.

GRS co-founder, Don Glaser credits two important things that made him a successful engraver: First, the improved tools he and John Rohner developed, and second, John’s help as an accomplished engraver. Today, GRS offers you the same two fundamentals: Innovative tools that make it much faster and easier to engrave, set stones, carve, and make jewelry, plus the opportunity to learn from outstanding experts in each field.
GALLERY

Don A. Glaser passed away in his home on April 12, 2005, but his legacy and love of engraving art continues. Engraving was Don's self-described "therapy" for nearly 40 years because he found it a rewarding endeavor with the right combination of personal growth, challenge, and satisfaction. One aspect Don found particularly invigorating was sharing his engraving experiences and breakthroughs with others. Thousands of people today attribute a portion of their engraving success to what Don shared with them. This includes top professionals, as well as hobbyists who, like Don, engrave mainly for fun.

Two important educational opportunities are available today in part due to Don's dedication to engraving. The GRS Training Center and a new fine arts bachelors degree program at Emporia State University with emphasis in engraving are available.

This accredited university program has already received pledges and financial support from others. If you would like to join them in helping to strengthen and expand this new, accredited university program, please contact the office of the ESU Foundation at the Sauder Alumni Center at (620) 341-5440.