Skateboarding, like any other sport, has its challenges. One such challenge is the presence of skate stoppers, those pesky knobs and metal protrusions designed to deter skaters from enjoying public spaces. However, in Southern California, a masked hero has emerged to combat this issue, working to free skate spots across Los Angeles County. Meet the Knob Buster, an anonymous figure dedicated to making skate spots more accessible to everyone.
The Knob Buster, a name that has quickly become synonymous with skate spot liberation, operates under the cloak of anonymity. Despite his secrecy, he actively uses social media to share his work with the skateboarding community. His Instagram account showcases the spots he has successfully “unknobbed,” and he encourages skaters to use the hashtag #calltheknobbuster when they spot locations that could use his help. By doing so, skaters can put in a request for the Knob Buster to visit and potentially make their dream skate spot a reality.
To understand the scope of the Knob Buster’s work, Jenkem Magazine sent Bobby Bils to follow him for a day. The video captures the Knob Buster tackling a couple of rails, facing some close calls with onlookers, and ultimately removing the skate stoppers. After some hard work, he successfully transformed two more areas into skateable spots, further expanding the skating possibilities in LA.
The Knob Buster carefully removes skate stoppers from a rail, preparing it for skateboarding.
The Knob Buster’s efforts highlight a broader issue within the skateboarding community. The frustration with skate stoppers is widespread, and his actions have ignited a sense of hope among skaters who have been longing for more skateable spaces. The act of “unknobbing” isn’t just about removing physical barriers; it’s about reclaiming public spaces for the community and fostering a more inclusive skateboarding environment.
The video of the Knob Buster’s exploits gives viewers a glimpse into the dedication and effort required to make these changes. It’s a physical endeavor, involving tools and some elbow grease, but it’s also a statement about the value of community engagement. His anonymity creates an air of mystery around his work and a sense of intrigue for skaters who are eager to see where he will strike next.
The Knob Buster’s work also brings up a discussion about property and public spaces. While his actions could be viewed by some as property damage, many skaters see it as a form of reclaiming public spaces that were made unusable for their sport. The conversation surrounding the ethics and legality of these actions is ongoing, but the fact remains that the Knob Buster has created a buzz and inspired many in the skate community.
A close up of the tools used by the Knob Buster, illustrating his hands-on approach to skate spot liberation.
The movement also serves as a reminder for skaters to take an active role in their community. It encourages them to identify and report unusable spots and to participate in the process of making their environment more skate-friendly. By using the hashtag #calltheknobbuster, skaters are engaging in a direct dialogue with the movement, contributing to the sense of community and shared purpose.
The Knob Buster inspects his work after removing the skate stoppers, making the spot ready for skateboarding.
In conclusion, the Knob Buster’s actions are not just about removing obstacles; they represent the spirit of innovation, perseverance, and community within the skateboarding world. His willingness to engage in this hands-on approach and share it through social media has made him an inspiration for many. So, if you know a spot in need, within reason, it might be time to heed the call and tag #calltheknobbuster.
References
- The Knob Buster’s Instagram
- Jenkem Magazine
