Marttiini Ilves Black Edition Knife

The Ilves Black Edition knife is a modern version of a familiar classic. It includes the best features of the classic Ilves knife in a modern, understated package. The birch handle that incorporates a groove for the forefinger has been dyed black and treated with a natural protective oil and provides an excellent grip. The forged blade is made from resilient carbon steel.

• Blade: Carbon steel 80CrV2, forged surface, HRC 59.5, 11 cm
• Total length: 23 cm
• Handle: Treated birch dyed black
• Sheath: leather
• Made in Finland

The stainless steel used for blades by Marttiini is easy to take care of and ensures that the blade remains sharp for longer. The steel alloy contains 13% of chromium and its hardness is 53–54 Rockwell units (HRC). Diamond sharpeners are recommended for chromium steel. Curly birch is a traditional material for the handles of Finnish knives. The material is sourced from Central Finland, the curly birch zone. Flame patterned curly birch is an excellent material for knife handles as it is durable and pleasing to the eye. The availability of beautifully patterned curly birch is limited, so its price is significantly higher than regular birch.

The leather sheaths of Marttiini knives are made of either vegetable or chrome tanned ox hide. The leather hides are purchased from both Europe and South America. The knife sheaths are still made mostly by hand. Each sheath has to be exactly the right size and shape, so it forms a fitting pair with the knife.