GrumpyOldVeteranUK

Hi, I'm Jim, the founder of Grumpy Old Veteran.

I'm a military veteran who found himself having to retire due to ill health. But me and doing nothing have never been a particularly good combination!

What started as a hobby, creating pieces for my family, gradually became something much more important. It gave me a purpose, a creative outlet and, in many ways, a lifeline.

I never imagined that something I started doing for myself and my family would attract so much attention. As people began sharing my work, my hobby grew into a business, with customers and supporters around the world.

From a personal passion to Grumpy Old Veteran

Today, Grumpy Old Veteran brings together two things that mean a great deal to me: craftsmanship and military heritage.

I specialise in detailed 3D printed regimental crests, traditional hand-carved hardwood pieces, mess shields and personalised gifts that celebrate the history, pride and traditions of the British Armed Forces.

My work covers the British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Air Force, including historic regiments, specialist units and organisations with proud military connections, but you will see that I will be adding more to my ranges that go beyond this.

Whether it's a gift to mark someone's retirement, a reminder of years spent serving, or simply a piece to display with pride, we understand that these items often carry a meaning far beyond their appearance.

A love of craftsmanship and materials

I've always enjoyed working with beautiful hardwoods, particularly unusual timbers I've discovered during my travels.

Where possible, we use sustainably sourced materials, choosing quality woods for their character, grain and natural beauty.

Alongside our traditional woodworking, we've embraced modern 3D printing technology, allowing us to create detailed regimental crests and decorative pieces in a range of sizes and finishes.

For me, traditional craftsmanship and modern technology complement each other. What matters most is creating something we're proud to put our name to.

A small team with a shared commitment

Grumpy Old Veteran is a small, independent business based in North Wales.

Although I started out working on my own, I'm now supported by a small team. Ben works alongside me in the workshop, helping bring our products to life, while Jamie looks after our website, online shops and much of what happens behind the scenes.

We're not a big company or a faceless retailer. We're three people working together, each bringing different skills to the business.

We're proud to be a veteran-owned, MOD-licensed British business, and we take our responsibility to our customers seriously.

Made with pride, made to mean something

What began as a way of keeping myself occupied has grown into something I never expected.

But the reason I started hasn't changed.

I still get satisfaction from seeing a finished piece, particularly when I know it will mean something special to the person receiving it.

Whether you're serving, a veteran, a military family member or simply someone who appreciates our work, we're delighted you're here.

Thank you for visiting Grumpy Old Veteran and supporting my small business.

Jim x.

Founder, Grumpy Old Veteran

Veteran Owned | MOD Licensed | Made in North Wales