What are Kivalo knives made of and how should they be cared for?

Kivalo knives are Finnish design knives that are handmade in Rovaniemi, Lapland. When designing our knives, our main focus is on combining functionality, durability, and timeless aesthetics. Every material choice is based on our team's decades of experience in finding solutions that stand the test of time and work in practice.

We have used and tested various knives ourselves, both at work and in our free time. Based on this experience, we select materials for Kivalo knives that are not only durable and practical, but also beautiful and ergonomic. A good knife is not just about its appearance. It is based on an understanding of how materials behave in use and in natural conditions from year to year.

For me, knife design always starts with knowing the materials. I want to know how the wood feels in my hand and how it will age over the years. Every part of the knife, the blade, the handle, and the sheath, forms a carefully considered whole. In this text, I will share my views as a designer and manufacturer on the materials we use in Kivalo knives and how to care for them to ensure they remain in good condition for a long time.

Why is carbon steel used in Kivalo knives?

Kivalo knives use blades made of carbon steel (80CrV2, hardness HRC 59, Scandi Grind). The blades are manufactured by the traditional Laurin Metalli in Kauhava, and we finish them in our own workshop in Rovaniemi. The grinding and finishing are done by hand. We want to ensure that every blade works as it should and meets our high quality standards.

I particularly appreciate the excellent performance characteristics of carbon steel. The blade stays sharp and is easy to sharpen. These are qualities that I consider important for both everyday crafts and more demanding expeditions. It's nice to know that the blade can easily be restored to its original sharpness, even in the wilderness.

Since carbon steel can rust, I always dry the blade after use and recommend others do the same. A light oil treatment helps protect the blade in the long term. I use unsalted cooking oil, which has worked well.

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How do the handle material and surface treatment affect the use of the knife?

The handles of Kivalo knives are made from dense Finnish Lapland birch and rowan. These types of wood have proven to be excellent in use. They are durable, look good, and fit well in the hand.

I particularly like the character of dense birch: it feels warm, provides a good grip and ages beautifully.

We select our wood locally and responsibly. Each blank is inspected before processing to ensure the best possible result. I have found that birch, which grows slowly in the Lapland climate, gives the best results.

We treat the handles with Osmo Color wood wax, which protects the surface while allowing the natural feel and appearance of the wood to shine through. For some models, we also use colored wax or special shades to give the knife a unique look. If the surface of the handle starts to dry out, we recommend treating it with a new coat of wax or a light protective oil. I add wax from time to time to keep the surface of the handle in good condition and protected.

How does colored veneer make Kivalo knives unique?

We add colored veneers to some knife models to create a personal and distinctive look. We use Finnish, through-dyed birch veneers manufactured by CWP Colored Wood Products. They are not only beautiful, but also extremely durable and high quality.

The colored veneer is not just decorative. It is part of the overall structure of the knife and adds depth. As a designer, I feel that colored veneers allow me to add something surprising and distinctive to the knife that will be remembered. This gives each knife its own unique character, making it an excellent gift or a special tool for personal use.

Why are Kivalo knife sheaths made from Finnish leather?

The sheaths for Kivalo knives are handmade from genuine vegetable-tanned cowhide supplied to us by the Finnish company Pelo Oy. This material is durable, malleable, and retains its natural feel. It also develops a beautiful patina over time.

We cut the leather by hand and shape each sheath individually to fit each knife. The stitching is done by hand with strong thread. This makes the structure sturdy and flexible, but also aesthetically pleasing. I make each sheath myself, and it is important to me that it fits the knife perfectly. It must not be too loose or too tight. Even small differences affect the user experience.

A good sheath not only protects the knife. It makes the knife safe and pleasant to use year after year. I like how the leather molds to the user. Over time, the sheath takes on its own character, just like the knife itself.

The sheath does not require constant care, but it can be treated with leather conditioner if desired. The most important thing is to dry the knife after use before putting it in the sheath. This will keep both the blade and the sheath in good condition for a long time.

How are the quality of the materials and experience reflected in Kivalo knives?

Kivalo knives are the result of a combination of genuine craftsmanship and long experience. For us, materials are not just details, they form the basis of the entire knife. From my point of view, this means continuous learning and experimentation. I am always looking for ways to improve the details: grinding, gluing, or how the handle feels in wet hands.

When you choose a Kivalo knife, you get a tool that combines functionality, durability, and aesthetics. With these care instructions, you can keep your knife in good condition for years to come and, at its best, even for the next generation.

Heikki, knife designer and manufacturer