Mr. Bowles began fencing in 2005 at Humboldt State University through Antone Blair. He met Maestro Ramon Martinez and Maestro Jeannette Acosta Martinez that same year and has trained under their tutelage ever since.
During his career at Humboldt State University, Mr. Bowles participated with the HSU Fencing Club and held the offices of Armourer and Teacher's Assistant for multiple years, as well as Club Secretary and President. He was a founding architect of HSU's annual tournament, the Redwood Coast Assault of Arms in 2008. In the summer of 2013 Benjamin earned the rank of Instructor in French Foil through the Academy and opened the Golden Gate School of Arms in San Francisco.
In 2009, Mr. Bowles founded Benjamin Arms to manufacture high-quality, historically accurate fencing equipment. His catalog includes French and Italian foils, epees, and sabres and continues to expand with his knowledge and expertise. Under Maestro Ramon Martinez Mr. Bowles has been taught the traditional construction techniques, handling characteristics, and care & maintenance requirements for multiple types of weapons. He is the only holder of an Fourbisseur's (Swordmaker's) Brevet through the Martinez Academy of Arms.