# Job openings at Knivesandtools

With 11 webshops, we operate in 9 countries in Western Europe, and we are rapidly expanding. At Knivesandtools, we are passionate about kitchen knives, pocket knives, sharpening products, torches, binoculars and other quality outdoor products. With a large range of more than 16,000 products and unparalleled service, we have experience in e-commerce since 1999 and are continuously growing, year after year.

That's why we're regularly looking for great new colleagues to join our team. Working at Knivesandtools means working in a dynamic and international company. Did you know that Knivesandtools employs people from as many as 16 different countries?

This company was built and made successful by its employees. People who get the freedom to grow in the company and develop their careers. That's why we value mindset over education and experience. If you have the ambition, you can grow within your role and within the company.

Keep a close eye on our vacancies and who knows, maybe we'll see you soon!

[Check out our vacancies](https://nl.indeed.com/cmp/kato-group)

Interested in working for Knivesandtools? Send us your CV via Indeed with a clear motivation as to why we should have a cup of coffee with you (in person or online). Keep in mind that we're located in Apeldoorn, the Netherlands.

_Recruitment agencies and intermediaries: please do not contact us with unsolicited services or offers._

Vacancies

If you are looking for a splitting axe, hatchet, hand axe, throwing axe or even a wood splitter, you've come to the right place. From traditional hand-forged Swedish axes from Hultafors, to modern Fiskars axes, and throwing axes and tomahawks from brands such as Cold Steel. We've got it all! Are you looking for a low-risk option? Check out our wood splitters from Flint and Kindling Cracker.

Axes

The Hultafors axes are so special because of the heritage of Östergötland and the quality of the production process. Hultafors axes have been manufactured traditionally for over 300 years. The result is a stunning, reliable product that will last a lifetime. A Hultafors axe is made to last generations. As such all axe heads from the Premium collection come with a lifelong warranty. Recently Hultafors expanded the Premium collection with a [sharpening stone that is stored in a luxurious storage case](kato://product/HF840792) and a [unique leather accessory](kato://product/HF840791) for various outdoor purposes. 


## Which premium axe will you choose?


It is important to think about which axe you will need. After all, with the right axe you work more efficiently and don’t need as much energy. More importantly: by using the right axe for the right task, you also work a lot safer. As such you should always think about what you want to do with the axe. 


## Felling trees


Want to fell a tree? Go with the [Åby](kato://product/HF841770) or the [Qvarfot](kato://product/HF841720). These felling axes are perfect when cutting down a tree. In addition, the Åby is great as an all-round axe. The Qvarfot is a specialist when it comes to chopping. All you have to do now is learn more about [how to fell a tree](kato://content/migrated_topic_618)! 


## Splitting wood


When splitting wood a splitting axe like the [Hult](kato://product/HF841740) will be the perfect choice. The heavy head has a devastating impact on the block of wood. [And this is how you split wood!](kato://content/migrated_topic_27)


## The smaller tasks


For all small chopping tasks you go with a smaller hand axe. This type of axe is also perfect when you go hiking. Great examples are [Hultån](kato://product/HF841701) and the [Ågelsjön](kato://product/HF841760). These axes are also great for bushcraft purposes. Especially the smaller Ågelsjön! With these hand axes building shelter will be a piece of cake, but also [producing kindling](kato://content/migrated_topic_611) for your fireplace or campfire is child’s play. 


## Hunters axe or throwing axe


Looking for a hunters axe? Stop looking! The Hultafors Premium collection also contains the [Ekelund](kato://product/HF841710) hunters axe. Its name suggests that you can only use it for hunting purposes, but you can do a lot more with the Ekelund. In terms of size it is a happy medium between a larger splitting axe and a smaller hand axe. As such this axe is also great for the smaller cutting tasks in and around the camp. With the [Wetterhall](kato://product/HF841750) Viking axe/throwing axe you can use one side for the rougher tasks and the other side for the smaller, more detailed tasks. Or you could, of course, use it as a cool throwing axe. 


## Take good care of your axe


When you purchase an axe you want to use it for a really long time. The solution? Proper maintenance! Check your axe regularly to see if you can still safely use it. It will be a piece of cake if you use this [checklist](kato://content/migrated_topic_615). Maintenance is comprised of two parts: sharpening the head in time and maintaining the handle. In our how-to's you can read all about how to [maintain](kato://content/migrated_topic_616) and [sharpen your axe](kato://content/migrated_topic_418)!

Hultafors Premium

## Features of a survival axe

Survival axes come in many shapes and sizes. This is a good thing; it allows you to pick the perfect axe for the task you have in mind. Some axes have different built-in tools as well, giving them a distinct look. Survival axes are generally robust yet compact axes made of stainless steel or carbon steel, and with a handle made from strong plastic. These axes can handle more than you'd think based on their size. Chopping, prying, hitting and cutting, a survival axe can do it all and more! Ideal for camping, but also in emergency situations. For example, if you need to quickly escape from your car, or build a shelter for the night. A survival axe can do it all.

## Types of survival axe

### Multi-tool axes

Multi-tool axes are axes with a distinct look, thanks to the many tools you'll find in the axe head. These axes are multi-functional and will offer a helping hand in many kinds of situations.

### Survival hand axe

Survival hand axes are characterised by their compact size and the fact that they are made from the strongest and most durable materials, making them suitable for heavy-duty use. These axes are made to be carried at all times and are relatively lightweight.

### Survival axes for first responders

Survival axes for first responders are axes that can be used not only to chop wood but also to force open a door, for example. These axes usually have a sharp point at the back.

### Tomahawk axes

Originally, the tomahawk was intended as a combat weapon. Nowadays, they're commonly used as multi-purpose survival axes. Tomahawks can be used to chop, cut, or as a pickaxe or throwing axe. It wouldn't look out of place as decoration on your wall either! Polypropylene handles are stronger than traditional wooden handles. Still, there are tomahawks with replaceable handles, should worse come to worst.

Survival axes

Premium EDC knives are amazing tools that are definitely worth showing off. A lot of attention is paid to the design and the production quality. Knives you can be proud of. Sometimes there are even limited editions made available, which is always very cool.

Premium EDC Knives

Bestech produces knives. Very good knives. Bestech's range is rapidly growing. This brand aims to provide high-quality products. Bestech pocket knives are designed by their in-house designers and highly acclaimed by professional designers from all over the world! Bestech Knives carefully selects the highest quality materials possible to manufacture their knives in a way that keeps them affordable.

Bestech Knives

Many children love binoculars, perhaps you even had a pair of binoculars growing up! Binoculars help children become interested in nature and the world around them. A good pair of children's binoculars is way more fun than those toy binoculars. With a good pair of binoculars they really see nature from up close. And you can use it yourself as well, together with your child. We understand that children's binoculars should not be expensive. In fact, they should be as low-cost as possible. That's why this page features children's binoculars for great prices.

## What do you need to pay attention to when purchasing binoculars for children?

When you're buying binoculars for your child, and you don't want one of those toy binoculars that break within two days, there are a few things to keep in mind. It is important that the pair of binoculars you choose isn't too heavy and will fit inside a child's hand. You also want to make sure your child can properly see through them and knows how to use them. Also pay attention to the following:

* Choose a pair with a magnification factor of up to 8 to make sure the image doesn't start shaking when you look through them.
* It is also great if the pair comes with a storage bag to make sure you can easily store the binoculars.
* Does your child wear glasses? Choose binoculars with dioptric correction.
* Also look for a pair that contains a cord or strap to make sure your child can carry it around their neck.
* Roof prism binoculars are often more compact and can handle dust better than the porro version. That is why they are a better choice for children.

At Knivesandtools you will find compact, light-weight binoculars that can handle their own. As such, your child will receive a pair they can also use when they are older. For example, the [Eden HD 8x32](kato://product/EQA103). Great for children and for a great price.

Binoculars for children

The CJRB Hectare is a modern pocket knife, and CJRB's answer to the growing demand for their interpretation of a knife specifically designed for EDC. When you're cooking on the go, opening packages or removing a stubborn tie-wrap, this knife will come in handy. CJRB has accomplished its goal with flying colours. This EDC champion stands out, especially when you take the price into consideration.

CJRB Hectare

Store your knives neatly and make your kitchen look nicer at the same time with a knife block or magnetic knife strip! We love showing off pretty kitchen knives, which is why we offer good and stylish solutions for storing your kitchen knives.

Storage and transport

The Fissler Ceratal pans have a water-based ceramic non-stick coating that is completely free of PFAS, PTFE and PFOA. This new ceramic non-stick coating is not only a sign of technological progress, but also of growing awareness in the industry. Fissler prioritises sustainability. And that bodes well for the future! This makes the Fissler Ceratal pans a sustainable and eco-friendly option while retaining the convenience of a non-stick coating. The series consists of frying pans of different sizes with the comfort or classic handles.

Fissler Ceratal

An Eden knife block will store your knives in a safe, inexpensive and stylish way. Will you choose a more traditional knife block, or an elegant magnetic knife block? Eden knife blocks are available in different colours and materials, so you can choose which knife block fits your kitchen's design. By showing them off with an Eden knife block, you really do your kitchen knives justice!

Eden knife blocks: store your knives in style

The Fontenille Pataud Corsican knives are a bit of an oddity. Inspired by farm life in Corsica, the knives are very strong. These folding knives were created in collaboration with the Zuria brothers. Like other Fontenille Pataud knives, the Corsican is made from natural materials and beautifully finished. On the blade you will find the image of the distinctive Corsican 'head'. The site of the traditional bee is embellished by an outline of the island of Corsica. It's an extraordinary pocket knife, showing the pride of Corsica in full force.

Fontenille Pataud Corsican

## WOOX: decades of knowledge
WOOX has only been around for a couple years so chances are you have never heard of it before. But the brand was founded by the Minelli Group, an Italian company that has been producing wooden parts ever since 1937. For hand tools, kitchen utensils, toys and many more products. At Minelli they therefore know exactly how to turn natural materials into great tools. The same applies to WOOX. Despite the fact that it is still a brand-new brand, it is quickly growing in popularity. Justifiably so, we might add!

WOOX axes

## Features of Böker Tirpitz 

### Damascus steel 

The blade of the Böker Tirpitz is a sight to behold. The blades are made from damascus (or damask) steel, with each knife showing a unique pattern. This steel is known for its toughness and exceptional cutting capabilities, making it perfect for everyday use as well as for your display case. This steel was forged by Andreas Henrichs. This German damask blacksmith is known for the excellent quality of his steel. This is not a knife to hide away in a drawer, this piece of art deserves to be seen. 

 

### Comfortable handle 

The Böker Tirpitz knives combine aesthetics with functionality in their ergonomic handles. Often made from natural materials like wood or antlers, these unique handles are stunning and feel great in hand. The Böker Tirpitz is available with different locking mechanisms, like a slipjoint or a liner lock, and available as a one-handed opener and a two-handed opener. 

 

### Unique pocket knife for knife fans and collectors 

For anyone who values exclusivity, the Tirpitz is the perfect choice. These knives are made with great attention to detail, making each one extra special. Collectors and knife fans alike, especially those who appreciate history, will love this knife. It's the type of knife that will be passed on through generations.

Böker Tirpitz

Condor has been producing its axes in El Salvador, South America for years. Did you know, however, that Condor started in Solingen, Germany? Today it is one of the largest manufacturers worldwide working hard 24 hours a day, seven days a week to meet the growing demand for outdoor products. Condor also produces other top-quality products in addition to axes such as [bushcraft knives and machetes](kato://content/migrated_pageid_1037).

Condor Tool & Knife Outdoor

## Fontenille Pataud Le Saint Bernard: features 

The knife makers at Fontenille Pataud have again created exceptionally beautiful pocket knives for this collection. With a slightly heftier design compared to traditional Laguiole knives, these knives feel great in hand. The solid backlock is easy to unlock because it is at the very end. The wide and angular opening at the end offers ample space for a lanyard or other cord. This prevents you from losing your unique knife. 

 

### Fontenille Pataud Le Saint Bernard: blade 

The blade is caught by a 'stop' when closing. This prevents the sharp blade from hitting the inside of the knife too hard, increasing the sharpness retention of the blade. The knife has a blade length of 8.5 cm. 

 

### Fontenille Pataud Le Saint Bernard: handle 

We have knives with handles made of raw buffalo horn, olive wood and juniper wood. These are natural materials, so each knife is unique. The wood has a smooth finish, showing off the wood's natural markings. The somewhat rough surface of horn gives the knife a slightly less polished appearance and the back of the knife is tastefully decorated. A suede pouch is included.

Fontenille Pataud Le Saint-Bernard

## Why choose Roselli? 

Roselli knives are made from the type of steel that the founder, Heimo Roselli, invented himself, namely UHC steel. UHC stands for Ultra High Carbon. This steel thus has unprecedented hardness thanks to its high carbon content, allowing Roselli knives to stay sharp for a very long time. What you should bear in mind is that harder steel is often more difficult to sharpen. Fortunately, Roselli has thought about this too, which is why this company also offers a free sharpening service. You will need to cover the shipping costs to and from the Roselli factory in Finland yourself. 

 

## Roselli product types 

Roselli is mostly known for their razor-sharp hunting knives, carpenter's knives and all-round outdoor knives. In addition to this, Roselli also produces knivesaxes. Like the knives, these axes are known for their unparallelled hardness. Usually, a high hardness means that a steel is more brittle, but Roselli has found the perfect mix between hardening and tempering. 

 

## History of the Roselli knives 

The story behind Roselli started in Finland. Heimo Roselli was born and raised on the countryside, and spent a lot of time outside fishing and hunting. Growing up, he really hated bad knives. That is why he started producing his own knives, to find the best balance between hardness and flexibility. He spent dozens of years looking and experimenting, and became a master at metal work and metallurgy. This is clear when you look at the Roselli products! They are known for their sustainability and very hard and sharp steel. 

 

### Warranty on Roselli knives 

Roselli believes in their products. It is why the first owner of their products receives a lifelong warranty. This warranty also covers material and production flaws. Only for the knife, not the sheath. Damage to the tip and edge are not a part of warranty, unless it was clear that this damage was caused as a result of a material flaw. Damage caused by misuse or improper use are not covered by the warranty.

Roselli knives

## Why choose CJRB 
In the world of practical, budget-friendly pocket knives, CJRB is now impossible to miss. Models like the CJRB Pyrite or the CJRB Maileah are examples of EDC knives that offer excellent value for money. All CJRB knives are made in the same factory where Artisan Cutlery knives are made. CJRB aims to make high-quality products accessible to all, by compromising as little quality as possible in terms of materials or construction. All CJRB knives are machined and assembled in the same way, by the same craftsmen who work on the ‘premium’ Artisan Cutlery line. As a result, you will enjoy good workmanship for the price and higher quality than you are probably used to at this price.


### CJRB AR-RPM9 steel
AR-RPM9 is a steel developed specifically for knives by the experts at CJRB. Thanks to its powder technology, AR-RPM9 offers a nice combination of hardness and toughness. The main advantage of AR-RPM9 is something else, though. CJRB has extensively tested AR-RPM9. What stood out most during these months of testing was AR-RPM9's exceptional ease of sharpening. Even after tough tasks that made the blade completely dull, it took only a few minutes to get it razor-sharp again. And unlike many other steels with this trait, AR-RPM9 retains that sharpness for an extraordinarily long time. This means the steel can be sharpened quickly and easily in the field and ready for a whole day's work without becoming dull.


## CJRB series
### CJRB Pyrite
The CJRB Pyrite is a practical, medium-sized EDC knife that offers great value for money. The button-lock mechanism makes this knife user-friendly, and because of its popularity, there are several versions available to suit all tastes.

### CJRB Nova
The Nova is a medium-sized tactical knife with a tanto-style blade. The thumb ramp provides the perfect grip. 

### CJRB Hectare
The Hectare is an EDC pocket knife equipped with a user-friendly crossbar lock. Thanks to its lightweight design and compact size, you effortlessly carry it with you. 

### CJRB Prado
The Prado is a large, robust and impressive pocket knife with a surprisingly lightweight design. With the deep-carry pocket clip you can comfortably and discretely carry the knife in your pocket.

### CJRB Frack
The Frack is a large pocket knife with a heavy handle. The ergonomics of the knife make it stand out. Thanks to the thumb hole, you easily open the knife with one hand, even when wearing gloves!
 
### CJRB Maileah
The Maileah is a smaller pocket knife with a practical blade shape that is suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. The handle is very ergonomic. The blade has a thin grind to ensure excellent cutting capabilities. 

## About CJRB
In 2019, in response to the ever-growing demand for even more budget-friendly tools, Artisan Cutlery decided to launch the CJRB brand. With a focus on quality at an affordable price, the CJRB line quickly gathered a large fan base. Every once in a while, they even asked customers and fans themselves to indirectly collaborate or help design their new releases. This immediately made CJRB a ‘crowd favourite’ among the budget EDC community. Since its launch, CJRB has proven itself time and again as a competent competitor in the world of pocket knives and EDC.

CJRB

You want to find out which [axe](kato://content/migrated_pageid_629) will suit you most. A good question! There are, after all, many different types of axes out there. The most important question is what you want to do with the axe. Think of: chopping, cleaving or throwing. If you use an axe for a purpose it is not meant for, it will cost you a lot of unnecessary energy and it can be dangerous. When making the right choice the weight of the head of the axe and the length of the handle are also key. We made a buying guide to help you find your way through the broad range of axes.

**Contents**

* [Felling axes: when felling trees](#chap01)
* [Splitting axes and hammers: splitting your own wood](#chap02)
* [Hand axes: for kindling and splitting and cleaving smaller pieces of wood](#chap03)
* [Throwing axes](#chap04)
* [What else do you need to know?](#chap05)
* [All about axes](#chap06)

Axes buying guide: what types of axes are there?

## The head of the axe


The head of the axe is comprised of many different parts. The most important are: cheek, butt, lug, eye, heel, tip and edge. The lug of the axe enlarges the contact surface between the axe and the handle. As such the handle is properly secured in the head.


## The handle


Of all types of wood Hickory is the one that is most used to produce axe handles. Hickory is incredibly strong and, at the same time, also very flexible. Parts that are made from plastic are also a great option nowadays. These don't require as much maintenance and are a little more forgiving if you miss. Which one you prefer all comes down to taste.


The end of the handle usually contains the knob. A thicker part that ensures you have more grip over the axe. There are also axes with straight handles, these are throwing or racing axes. The knob is usually enhanced with a 'lanyard hole'. We, however, only use this to hang the axe from a nail. Tying a rope to an axe is namely more dangerous than you might expect. The rope can namely get caught behind a branch making the axe slip from your hands.

Anatomy of an axe

## Which knives are counterfeit?

We have seen knives from many different brands that were counterfeit. Some brands that stand out are: [Spyderco](kato://content/migrated_pageid_476), [Zero Tolerance](kato://content/migrated_pageid_508), [Fällkniven](kato://content/migrated_pageid_1062), [LionSteel](kato://content/migrated_pageid_443), [Benchmade](kato://content/migrated_pageid_282), [ESEE](kato://content/migrated_pageid_356) and [Cold Steel](kato://content/migrated_pageid_331). Often models that are already popular, so that there is as much demand for the counterfeit version as possible.

## Where do counterfeit knives come from?

We can safely say that all counterfeit knives come from Asia, mainly from China. Sometimes people whisper that there are counterfeit knives that are produced in the same factory as where the original is produced. We dare to say that that is almost never the case. We were, at least, never able to prove it.

Brands that would sell their own knives on the black market would simply be throwing money out of the window. On the one hand they break down their own legal trade by selling their knives for a lower price on the black market. On the other you break down your own brand because people can no longer rely on the authenticity of your products.

In addition, renowned brands spend a lot of time fighting counterfeit goods. One of the brands that is often copied is [Spyderco](kato://content/migrated_pageid_476). Spyderco director Eric Glesser told us that he spends quite a lot of time fighting and suing the individuals selling counterfeits. [Spyderco even sued eBay](https://knifenews.wpengine.com/spyderco-suing-ebay-over-counterfeits/) because they don't do enough to combat the sale of counterfeit goods. [Spyderco and eBay settled](https://knifenews.com/ebay-settles-spyderco-counterfeit-lawsuit/) this matter, after which eBay changed its policy.

## What about homages?

There is also a category that, by some, is called an 'homage' or 'tribute'. A model that strongly resembles a specific model of another brand, but without copying the brand markings. With these models you can also clearly tell that someone is not trying to pretend that the knife is made by the original brand. Highly debatable, but already relatively normal in the watch industry.

Counterfeit knives: what is the deal with those?

### Types of steel used for knives

Not every type of steel can be used to create knives. After all, a blade shouldn’t only be sharp because it can be sharpened, it should also retain its sharpness. And, preferably, it shouldn’t break, bend or rust when you are using it. For this reason you cannot simply use any type of steel when manufacturing pocket knives. Some types of steel are used for ball bearings, or other type of high-tech equipment. Other types of steel are specifically designed to be used for knives. The structure of the steel used for knives should be as fine as possible. To achieve this high-end types of steel are manufactured by pouring metal into a nozzle. Instead of throwing the different parts in large kettles, melting them down and stirring them, the types of steel are sprayed. To put it differently, they are heated and sprayed out as tiny droplets. Alternatively, the particles can first be grinded down to a powder to be mixed more accurately. An example of this type of steel is also called _powder metallurgy_.

What determines the price of a pocket knife?

UK knife law allows you to carry non-locking pocket knives with a blade length up to 3 inches (7.62 cm) without any need for a valid reason.


You are allowed to carry a knife which exceeds these guidelines in public, but please remember: you will do need a good reason to carry it. Gov.uk has the following to say on good reasons to carry a knife:


*'Examples of good reasons to carry a knife in public can include:*


* *taking knives you use at work to and from work*
* *taking knives to a gallery or museum to be exhibited*
* *the knife is going to be used for theatre, film, television, historical re-enactment or religious purposes, eg the kirpan some Sikhs carry*


*A court will decide if you’ve got a good reason to carry a knife if you’re charged with carrying it illegally.'*


## Abuse is still illegal


Also remember that using any knife (legal or illegal) in any threatening way, is also illegal. So using your (legal) Swiss Army knife in any threatening way is still illegal.


## UK Friendly


Because of the conditions listed above, we like to call these knives [UK friendly](kato://content/migrated_pageid_1073) instead of UK Legal. Knives that are sold on our website that are not UK Friendly are fine as long as you keep them in your own home, or on your own property.


## Knife-free zones


There may be zones where you are not permitted to carry any knife at all, regardless of size or locking mechanism. As you may understand this often is the case in football stadiums, bars, clubs, city centres and other crowded places.


## Other banned knives


There are several other types of knives that are illegal to own. Other banned knives include the following list:


* flick knives (also called ‘switchblades’ or ‘automatic knives’) - where the blade is hidden inside the handle and shoots out when a button is pressed
* butterfly knives - where the blade is hidden inside a handle that splits in two around it, like wings; the handles swing around the blade to open or close it
* disguised knives, eg where the blade is hidden inside a belt buckle or fake mobile phone
* gravity knives
* sword-sticks
* samurai swords (with some exceptions, including antiques and swords made to traditional methods before 1954)
* hand or foot-claws
* push daggers
* hollow kubotan (cylinder-shaped keychain) holding spikes
* shuriken (also known as ‘death stars’ or ‘throwing stars’)
* kusari-gama (sickle attached to a rope, cord or wire)
* kyoketsu-shoge (hook-knife attached to a rope, cord or wire)
* kusari (weight attached to a rope, cord or wire)
* machetes
* zombie (style) knives*

The definition of a zombie knife has changed since 24-08-2024:

A **zombie style knife** is a bladed weapon with:

* A plain cutting edge
* A sharp pointed end, and
* A blade of over eight inches long

Which also has one or more of the following:

* A serrated cutting edge over two inches long
* More than one hole in the blade
* Spikes
* More than two sharp points in the blade


This list is not complete, and laws can change. Please contact your local police when in doubt, and check the [Gov.uk website on Knife Laws](https://www.gov.uk/buying-carrying-knives) for additional and current information.

*No rights can be obtained on the basis of this article. Knivesandtools cannot be held responsible on the basis of the information provided on this page.*

UK Knife Laws

The FX-140 is a great choice for a basecamp knife. The steel properties make it perfect for long-term use, and its chunky micarta handles would fit comfortably in almost any hand I think, even with gloves on. I’m looking forward to giving the FX a run for its money here in the Finnish winter season, which will be upon me before I can say 'jumalauta'! But I expect that it will perform well, throwing it into my pulka (sled), ready to be called upon as soon as I get to camp.

Fox FX140 Kato Exclusive | Review by Padraig Croke

## Excellent milling technique


Some people might still think that modern pocket knives simply roll out of a CNC-milling machine. Add the material, load the program and start looking at the clock. Let us burst your bubble: it is not that simple. With the extremely strict tolerances that are necessary for common high-end pocket knives, more craftsmanship than ever is needed to design the right milling programs to end up with the best finishes. Anyone who thinks that simply throwing money at a CNC-milling machine will leave you with the best knives, is mistaken.


Especially this type of milling work is what WE Knife excels at. Almost all We Knife knives are enhanced with extensive milling work in the titanium handles. All with an extremely good surface finishing. You will never find any traces of the milling work and all lines are clean.

Spotlight: WE Knife 815 Double Helix pocket knife

When you look closely you can see that in three different places the rockwell hardness is 58\. Does the steel have the same quality in all three places because it is at 58 HRC? Not by a long shot. For one of these points the steel is more corrosion resistant than for the other. There is also a point where the steel is more wear and tear resistant. You won't see this difference when you look at the HRC value alone.

As said before, there is a lot to be said against the above, but it is an example that demonstrates that there is more to such an HRC number as you might think.

## Structure of the steel vs the hardness

We talked about the hardness before, and the construction of the steel. The example of the wall was already quite clear, but we will take it one step further. We will go from 2D (a wall) to 3D (a large, solid, brick block).

Because for several decades now, types of steel are not only made by throwing different alloy elements in a large melting pot, and stirring it a couple times. Today there are also types of 'powder steel'. These are types of steel for which the different alloying elements are pulverised and mixed. This leaves you with a much finer structure. Now we are no longer talking about bricks, but pebbles. Which are tighter together, with thin layers of cement in between. Does anything break? Then it's not the entire brick coming off, but just a small pebble. Much stronger. Examples of this are CPM types of steel from Crucible, such as S30V, S35VN and all other types of steel that start with CPM. For Carpenter, they are MicroMelt (MM) steels. Like CTS-XHP and CTS-204P. For Böhler, for instance, we are talking about the famous [Böhler M390](kato://content/migrated_topic_606), which is made according to their MicroClean process.

What does hardness tell you about a knife?

The use of Teflon has been debated for years. While initially it was 'normal' to use Teflon in pans, more and more people start to question what Teflon is and if it is harmful to use. Recent research proved that when Teflon pans become too hot due to incorrect use, substances such as PFOA and PFAS are released. That is why more and more people say goodbye to their Teflon pans, but what is a suitable alternative? We made an overview.


## Sheet steel pans


A [carbon steel fryingpan](kato://category/frypanscarbonsteel) is basically a very simple product. It is made from 100% iron. At first this pan is nice and natural, but in time it will turn black. In fact, it needs to be treated before use. This is also called 'seasoning'. This isn't difficult at all, but it takes some time. The black layer, or the patina, you create functions as a non-stick coating. This natural layer will always work. Even if you 'mess up' you can repair the 'damage'. Simply clean the pan and season it again! This does mean you need to start over, but it is possible. A Teflon pan can only be thrown out after a disaster in the kitchen!


The main advantage of sheet steel pans is also that they can handle very high temperatures.  Also, you can use steel cookware without worrying about damaging the non-stick coating. But that is not all! They are also favourably priced. 

 

It is important to clean the pan after use with clean water, so without detergent. After cleaning it you need to dry it immediately, and, if necessary, grease it! Steel namely start to rust. Will you go with a top-quality sheet steel pan? Why not check out the [De Buyer](kato://content/migrated_pageid_257) pans. Extremely affordable, sustainable in use.

Alternatives for Teflon pans

There are so many necessary fundamental skills for a woodsman to have in their arsenal. From fire lighting, to camp craft, water purification and knotmanship, just to name a few. It can be overwhelming when you start your outdoors journey to know where your focus should lie, and what skills you should master. With that being said, arguably, one of the most fundamental skills any bushcrafter or outdoor enthusiast can focus on is tool maintenance.  


## Sharpen your skills


With the right knowledge and practice, a belt knife or an axe is going to allow you to thrive comfortably in the woods, making it possible to construct or craft anything you  may need around camp and in some cases can mean the difference been having a fire to cook on and purify your water to going to bed cold and hungry.  


This is why it’s important that tools are kept sharp, clean and ready for any job thrown at them. A dull knife or axe is more dangerous than a sharp one, with unnecessary force  and pressure used with the tool, slipping and messing up is a lot more likely. Incurring an injury due to lack of tool maintenance is inexcusable to a woodsman. As the old saying goes; “look after your tools and they will look after you”.


Yes, it’s true that things like edge geometry, steel compositions and Rockwell hardness are all part of the rabbit hole of knowledge that is outdoor tools, and to some, this may seem like an overwhelming subject to get into. But honestly, with a few basic pieces of understanding, with knowing how your knife or axe was designed and how it should be sharpened, you will be well on your way to hair popping edges on every cutting edge in your house!    There are so many options out there when it comes to sharpening, and everybody will have their preferred way to keep their tools in check. There are everything from traditional Japanese whetstones, industrial diamond coated files, ceramic plates, wet and dry sandpaper and Arkansas Stones to name a few.

Skerper Arkansas Stones: Expert Review by Padraig Croke

## Sal Glesser: the early years


Sal was born in June 1943 in Brooklyn, New York, United States. As a school boy he discovered that he could add a sharp edge to a railroad spike (a nail that is used to secure railroad tracks), by sharpening it on the edge of the kerb. A great tool to make sure you and your lunch money could safely arrive at school in the poor areas of Brooklyn of that time.


In the seventies Sal and his wife Gail travelled the country visiting market after market. In a converted baker's van, towing a Volkswagen Beetle. They produced and sold small tools. From a type of spider-like clamp with multiple arms, great for jewellers and electricians when soldering, to knife sharpeners. His interest in sports cars led him to the name Spyderco. The large brands namely all had sports cars named Spyder of Spider. You could say that the oldest, still active Spyderco product is the Sharpmaker. Even though, throughout the years, the design evolved.

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