Pocket knives by country of manufacture
Pocket knives by country of manufacture
EXPERT KNOWLEDGE POCKET KNIVES BY COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE
Japanese pocket knives
Japanese pocket knives are known for the excellent quality of their steel and handles. Steels such as VG10 steel and Aogami steel, also known as blue paper steel, are particularly popular. These steels are characterised by their high hardness, which enables extremely sharp cutting edges. Damascus steel, which consists of several layers of steel and is characterised by its distinctive pattern, is also frequently used.
Fine types of wood, micarta or high-quality plastics such as carbon fibre are used for the handles.
Another unmistakable feature of Japanese pocket knives is the high degree of manual labour that goes into their production - especially with renowned brands such as Nagao and Hiro. This gives each knife an individual touch.
Swiss Army Knife
The best-known pocket knife variant is the Swiss Army Knife, often referred to as the Swiss Army Knife. It has several blades of different lengths as well as other folding tools. The original Swiss Army Knife is produced by the Swiss company Victorinox and Wenger, which also produces the official Swiss Army Knives. These iconic knives are normally fitted with red plastic handle scales. However, there are also officer's knives with handle scales in different colours and materials. The simpler versions of the Swiss Army Knife are equipped with a blade and a combination tool that can be used as a bottle opener, can opener, screwdriver and wire stripper. The more comprehensive models, on the other hand, offer numerous functions. There are also specialised Swiss Army knives for specific target groups such as cyclists, golfers or anglers. Knives; Tools; Knives and tools; are made of stainless steel.
Production of Victorinox Swiss Army Knives is based on over 100 years of tradition and experience. The original knife workshop was founded in 1884 by Karl and Victoria Elsener, and the first delivery of soldiers' knives to the Swiss army took place in 1891. When Karl Elsener developed the first officer's knife in 1897, he could not have foreseen that it would become a worldwide symbol of quality, functionality and the inventive spirit of Switzerland. Today, the Swiss Army Knife is internationally protected and symbolises the famous Swiss Made seal of quality like no other product. Victorinox has succeeded in harmoniously combining functionality and design.
Similar knives with the same tradition are produced by the knife manufacturer Mikov in the Czech Republic. The company, which was founded by Ignaz Rösler in 1794, initially produced not only knives but also sickles and scythes as well as pipe bowls and accessories. The Manufacturer now produces knives for hunters as well as sports knives, work knives and household knives in various versions.
Western pocket knives
Opinel knives are inexpensive folding knives with a wooden handle that have been manufactured in Savoy, France, since the end of the 19th century. They were originally designed for farm work, and over time only minor adjustments were made to their function and design. Today, Opinel knives are known and widely used all over the world. In France, they are considered a cult object of everyday culture. Most models have rustproof blades, although variants with carbon steel blades that are not rustproof are also available.
Laguiole knives: Laguiole is not a brand, but a designation of origin, a region in France. Many small knife workshops around the municipality of Laguiole offer classic Laguiole folding and pocket knives, the original shape of which goes back to the knives used by Spanish and French shepherds in the 19th century. Our changing range of original en Aubrac knives includes variants with handles made of stag horn, olive wood or ebony. The sharp blades of these high-quality folding knives are opened by a nail nick and locked with a classic slip joint knives mechanism. A Laguiole knife is a stylish accessory for discerning people. They cut just as good a figure as a cheese knife on an exquisite cheese platter with wine as they do as a particularly sharp steak knife.
Atelier Perceval from the knife capital of Le Thiers in France has been producing pocket knives of the highest perfection since 1995. These straightforward knives are characterised by genuine craftsmanship, an exceptional selection of handle materials and high-quality Sandvik 19C27 Steel. Versions in Rustproof Damascus (Damasteel) are also available from this manufacturer.
Legal regulations for folding knives and pocket knives
It is crucial to know the legal requirements for folding knives in your country.
§ Section 42a of the Weapons Act (WaffG) at a glance
In Germany, Section 42a of the Weapons Act regulates the conditions under which weapons may be carried in public. This clearly defines when a gun owner may transport or carry their weapons or ammunition outside of the private sphere and what proof is required.
One example of a ban is the public carrying of a lockable one-handed knife. Such a knife can be opened with one hand and its blade locks automatically. These characteristics make it an object that falls under the carry ban.
Before buying or using a folding knife, you should inform yourself about the applicable laws in order to avoid possible legal consequences. In our shop, all knives that fall under Section 42a of the Weapons Act and may not be carried without a legitimate interest are labelled accordingly.
What does the Ban on carrying without legitimate interest mean?
The prohibition on carrying in accordance with Section 42a of the Weapons Act states that the carrying of certain knives in public is prohibited unless the owner can demonstrate a legitimate and recognised interest. This may be a professional necessity or a special leisure activity, for example. Without such proof, the open carrying or carrying of these knives is prohibited.
Versatile uses for folding knives / pocket knives
Pocket knives are extremely versatile and are therefore categorised as EDC (Everyday Carry):
- In everyday life: Ideal for cutting fruit, opening parcels or small repairs.
- Outdoor and camping: Indispensable for carving, preparing meals and other tasks in the great outdoors, for example as a complement to Hunting Knives.
- Professional use: Many craftsmen and rescue services rely on the dependability of folding knives.
- Collector's items: Pocket knives are also coveted collector's items due to their craftsmanship and historical significance.
Care and maintenance of folding and pocket knives
Regular care is essential to ensure that your folding knives or pocket knives are always ready for use:
- Cleaning: The blade and handle should be thoroughly cleaned after use.
- Oiling: The joints of the folding mechanism should be oiled occasionally to ensure smooth operation.
- Sharpening: A sharp blade is the be-all and end-all. Regular sharpening ensures optimum cutting performance.
