KNIVES INTERNATIONAL REVIEW # 2015 03 by KIR

N°3/67-B 2015

INTERNATIONAL KNIVES REVIEW

THE MAGAZINE OF EXCELLENCE IN KNIVES AND BLADES

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OUR TESTS Paolo Bozzo - WP4 Rough Wolf 5.11 - DRT Bark River - Boone Hunter Handyman - Victorinox Zero Tolerance - 0801 Zwilling - Five Star

CUSTOM Young KnifeMakers Piero Petronzio

EVENTS Culter Expo 2014

OUTDOOR Maserin - Jaeger Gerber and Bear Grylls Survival Kits

SNEAK PEAK Sergio Consoli,

Titanium & Carbon

WWW.ANTONINIKNIVES.COM - info@antoniniknives.com

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Titanium & carbon

Piero Petronzio

Count on the pack

A small everyday companion

A timeless classic

Everything you need

Culter Expo 2014

Sweet and sour

For hoofed mammals

Outdoors adventures

Five stars cuisine

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2014

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Design by Jesper Voxnaes

M A D E I N I TA LY

Disegnato dal noto designer danese Jesper Voxnaes, Odino è un chiudibile di alta gamma caratterizzato dall’architettura frame lock con sistema di rotazione su cuscinetti e dall’uso di materiali nobili e tecnologici (frame integralmente in titanio e guancetta in fibra di carbonio, titanio o G-10). Lo stile unico di Jesper Voxnaes, influenzato sia dal design scandinavo che dalla coltelleria americana, la cura dei dettagli e l’eccellenza delle lavorazioni tipica di Viper creano un coltello assolutamente originale e di alto livello. Odino is a premium-level folding knife designed by talented Danish designer Jesper Voxnaes. It sports a frame lock mechanism with ball bearings at the pivot and it is made out of noble and technological materials (the frame is full titanium and the scales are available in carbon fiber, titanium or G-10). The unique style of Jesper Voxnaes’ design, influenced both by Scandinavian design and American knifemaking, the “typically Viper” fine details and excellent finishes are combined into a stunning and absolutely original knife.

Tel. +39 0427 700153 · www.tecnocut.net · www.viper.it

Editor's letter KIR wants you!

e are at our third issue of Knives International Review, and the answer received from you readers has been great. We have received many mails containing thanks, ideas and requests. In the following months, we shall fulfill them all. In this issue you’ll find a number of reviews on industrial knives, we’ll make you meet some great Italian and foreign knifemakers, and the section dedicated to the arts and crafts we’ll show you how to build a butt cap. The idea is to offer you a global vision of the knife world, without extremism and preclusions. Since its beginning, Knives International Review made a bet: to be distributed free of charge to reach the greatest number possible of readers in order to help create a better culture on knives and blades. Each month, our magazine reaches a considerable number of producers, dealers and end users, offering new ideas and making known new trends by dealing with technical and non-technical issues. Recently, to our newsletter, we added a Facebook page. It is the place to find the latest news, and where companies and knifemakers can freely share and post their creations. We are making every effort possible to give you the best, but now we really need your help! In fact, it is you, the reader, that plays a fundamental role in our adventure. Share this magazine by liking it or sharing the link with enthusiasts and professionals as you! Help us make it Viral! Too often, around the globe, we have seen measures taken to limit our passion, aiming in making illegal certain kind of blades, as well as its carry. Many times these initiatives just derive from ignorance and the ensuing fear of those who do not know much about knives. ‘ L e t u s m a k e K I R r e a ch NTS EVE S the highest number of T S TE OUR people possible, so that R DOO more people will start to T U O understand how complex, TOM faceted and fascinating CUS K PEA AK E N our world is. S ION

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Tommaso Rumici

Editor's letter KNIVES INTERNATIONAL REVIEW N. 3/67b - 2015

Editorial Director Roberto Canali Managing Director Filippo Camperio Chief Administrative Officer Silvia Cei Editorial Staff Massimiliano Duca (redazione2@caffeditrice.it), Gianluigi Guiotto (coltelli@caffeditrice.it) Graphic Designers Jessica Licata, M-House Ed. di Luca Morselli Studio grafico Stefano Oriani English Version IT-wire srl (info@it-wire.com) Tommaso Rumici (zatodesign@gmail.com) Contributors Gianni Daffara, Alfredo Doricchi, Fabio Ferrari, Vincenzo Goffredo, Tommaso Rumici, Vincenzo Tumbiolo, Luigi “Sator” Tumolo, Giuseppe Vernocchi, Marco Dell’Acqua, Marta Cammilletti, Giorgio Alessandri, Francesco Pascoli, Francesco Pachì, Roberto Allara, Mauro Maggi International Advertising Luca Gallina +39 347 26 86 288 vendite3@caffeditrice.it Italian Advertising Paolo Maggiorelli +39 349 4 33 69 33 vendite1@caffeditrice.it Published by C.A.F.F. Editrice via Sabatelli, 1 - 20154 Milano tel. +39 02 34537504 fax +39 02 34537513 knives@caffeditrice.com www.caffeditrice.com

Milan Court Registration Number n. 521 issued on 10/09/2001. Copyright by C.A.F.F. srl All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher. For permission requests, write to the publisher at the address above.

We've got mail Knives opens its pages to all the reader in order to let them contribute to the growth of the magazine with their ideas, suggestions, advises, critics and requests. Everyone interested in asking us questions can send their letters to the Editorial Staff (C.A.F.F. Editrice - Knives, via Sabatelli 1, 20154 Milano) or send an email to: knives@caffeditrice.com

The “perfect” one Dear Knives, having read in your magazine about knives with ball bearings, I decided to buy one and specifically I’ve bought a CRKT Ripple. I was astonished feeling the smoothness and quickness of the folder opening, so much so that I have asked myself why manufacturers keep avoiding the use of this system, which, in my opinion, is the perfect one? Francesco e-mail Dear Francesco, we totally understand your enthusiasm on the IKBS and similar systems. We ourselves were really surprised when we tested it the first time, and we have to admit that with time these applications got even better, especially since the balls are any longer free, but enclosed in a metal track.

On the other hand, we prefer not to be so drastic, and would rather evaluate each time whether to use a ball bearings or washers. It’s a fact that ball bearings on flippers offer great advantages. But on folders destined to heavier usage, in sandy, salty and other extreme situation, the maintenance would be easier and faster with bronze washers. And think about artisans that have to deal with pivots of unusual sizes. In their case, the handiness of Teflon is unbeatable. With simple instruments they can easily perforate it so to create washers of the desired dimensions, even of those you’ll never find on the market. You should also keep in mind that different materials offer different levels of smoothness. T.R.

Dalla collaborazione tra lo scrittore Nicolai Lilin e Coltellerie Maserin Ă¨ nato il 987 Siberian knife. Pugnale dalle forme tipicamente siberiane, ha lama e fodero con disegni che riprendono temi e simbologie della tradizione siberiana presenti anche nelle opere figurative e nei tatuaggi realizzati dallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;autore del libro best seller Educazione Siberiana.

Coltellerie Maserin snc via dei Fabbri, 19 - 33085 Maniago (PN) Tel. +39 0427 71335 - Fax +39 0427 700690 www.maserin.com - info@maserin.com

SNEAK PEAK

Titanium & carbon

n t h e cu st o m k nives worl d i s q u i t e d i f f i c u l t t o i nve n t something new and at the same time able to create a recognizable style. There are way too many and too good knifemaker s that already made their name known. But, sometimes, someone shows up with knives that as soon you start looking at them, makes you say: "Aha, this is certainly made by...." And such is the case of Sergio Consoli. Even if he stepped in this world at 40 and created his first knife in 2003 with no preparation but what he learned by himself, his production is clearly recognizable and with very personal traits. And certainly the merit has to go to the "flipper" opening system, which makes the blade rotate on 8

Sergio Consoli, knifemaker from Brescia, shows us some prototypes he will present in Milan, at the Cic Show as one of the Master Knifemakers of the Corporation by Gianluigi Guiotto

1- The 262 is liner-lock folder 190 mm long; the blade is RWL34 and 77 mm long. Bolsters and spacers are bronze anodized titanium, and the scales and the clip are carbon fiber 2-The 262, when closed, has compact dimensions, suitable for an every day carry 3- The 260 liner-lock, 190 mm long, has carbon fiber scales and clip in the new color style â&#x20AC;&#x153;lightning strike bronzeâ&#x20AC;? which properly match the bronze anodized titanium of the bolster and back spacers

4-The 256 differs from the 260 for its bigger dimensions (it's 220 mm long) and for the shape of the titanium spacers 5- The 265, 192 mm long, as all the knives by Consoli, carr y a flipper opening system which relies on ball bearings

ball bearings, matching the opening speed to an automatic, but with no spring and the ensuing legal complications. Just few weeks before the Cic Show, Sergio showed us the four models he will display at the Marriot Hotel in Milan, the historical location of

the show. As per tradition, Consolis' tactical knives bear just numbers for name: 256, 260, 262, and 265. They all are folder (with a flipper opening) and characterized by bolster and spacer s of bronze anodized titanium, whereas the scales and the clip (derived from

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For information: Sergio Consoli, mobile. 338 315.72.15, www.consoliknives.com 9

the block) are carbon fiber. The latter is black, but some models carry the new color "lighting strike bronze" which perfectly blends the anodized titanium. M o r e o v e r, S e r g i o i s t r y i n g o u t a 5 m m t h i ck n e s s fo r t h e blades that properly suits the tactical destination of use. But it's not all, the knifemaker from Brescia has more to show. In January 2015, at the Shot Show in Las Vegas, the biggest worldwide show of weapons, Consoli has presented the fruits of his collaboration with Maserin: a huge tactical knife with a 5 mm blade, flipper opening and blade rotation on ball bearing. "There are going to be different versions of integral scales made of carbon fiber and surely titanium integrals, all car r ying clips positioned so to stick out from the scales as minimum as possible" says Consoli. In our next issue, we will be able to give you more news from Brescia.

YOUNG KNIFEMAKERS

Piero Petronzio It's only from 2011 that he creates knives, after years of just dreaming about it due to lack of time. In 2012, he has been accredited at the Italian Knifemakers Corporation by Knives Staff

â&#x20AC;&#x153;S

ince I was a child I was fascinated by knives, and with time I started collecting them. But I felt something was always missing. Later on, many years ago, I learned that an old friends of my dad started creating knives as a hobby, and this intrigued me a lot. Unfortunately, due to work and logistics I had to put away my project of creating my knives". And this is how Piero Petronzio of Noceto (PR) - one of the newest knifemakers of the Italian artistic knifemaking filed starts his story: In 2011, eventually, I managed to make real my dream. Still lacking mechanical experience, specific studies and working experience, I decided to give it a try and I bought a grinder and started working with 2 1

it. In 2012 I passed my first exam for the Italian Knifemakers Corporation and I was accredited". Certainly, an explosive start, sign of a uncommon ability. Which are the sources and documents from which you find the inspiration fro your knives? I p re fe r c re at i n g h u n t i n g a n d

fighting knives, following the steps of the greatest American artisans. I truly like the knives of masters like: Loveless,S.R. Johnson, Randall, Velarde, Kious. Plus I am madly in love with the Bowie knives. Generally, I star t off by getting inspired by a knife I see and then I decide how to interpret it. 3 1

5 1

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1. Attack, 440C steel blade , satin finishing, tapered tang, 416 steel pins, carbon fiber handle 2. Chute Knife, D2 steel blade, mirror finishing, tapered tang, 416 steel guard, handle made of treated giraffe bone 3. Push Dagger, 440C steel blade, mirror finishing, tapered tang, 416 steel guard, handle made of bi-color camel bone 4. Hideout, 440C steel blade, mirror finishing, tapered tang, mosaic pins, desert ironwood premium handle 5. Proto 1, liner-lock folder with titanium and carbon scales, RWL34 blade 6. Pietro Petronzio in his lab in Noceto (PR)

Which are the materials you prefer to use for your blades and handles? My motto is that when you decide to do something, you have to try to do it at your best. Therefore, I use the best materials I can find on the market, such as, for the steels 440C, Ats34, Rwl34, 154CM, N690CO and D2; and for the handles: wood, micar ta, carbon, bones, hor ns, everything must be the best quality. I also produce the sheaths by myself, and usually they are made of leather as well as Kydex. What advantages does the damascus offer in respect to the standard steel? I think that the damascus does not offer more advantages than white

steels, on the contrary, I believe it's harder to work and to take care of. I see the choice of damascus as an aesthetic one. What tools will we find in your lab? My small lab has a grinder, which soon will be replaced by a better performing one, a tower-drill, a poilsher, a Dremel, a belt saw for woods, a compressor and many files and sanding papers. In your opinion, what's the best quality of your works? I believe the best side of my knives is the precision. A hand-made knife has to be perfect in each and every part, and the same principle applies to the military/utility knives which by definition do not require such fine finishing. I set a high quality standard that normally you cannot find in an industrial knife. Which is the most challenging part to make? Without a doubt the finishings. Since my first exam in 2012 for the C.I.C., I understood that the finishing is most important step of a custom knife. Making a knife it's not difficult, but creating a knife with precise matches, even bevels, lack of striations is the most difficult thing and the most time-consuming, too. Do you create knives upon requests? Sure, I like it very much. This offers me the chance to propose to the customer materials and shapes that î ľ better suit his requests.

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For information: Piero Petronzio, mobile: 348 441.23.63, www.petronzioknives.com, piero.parma@hotmail.it 11

MULTITOOL

Count on the pack The WP4 Rough Wolf is a multitool designed by a survival instructor and produced by Maserin. Together with the designer, we will tell you about the main characteristics of the project text and pictures by Tommaso Rumici

t would be limiting defining the WP4 Rough Wolf a knife, as it has been designed to be a multitool. Due to the complexity of the project, we wanted to meet its creator, Paolo Bozzo and we did during one of the Wolfpack Survival courses he holds as a chief instructor. Thanks to the location, we managed to test the WP4 in its own environment, and especially verify if the intentions of the designer were met in end result. How did you become a Survival Instructor? I n 1 9 8 9 I h av e h a d m y f i r s t experience, and at 16 I participated to my first one-week course held by the Jacek Edward Palchiewicz, school - one of the most renown

Paolo Bozzo

European instructors of the 80s. Since then, I've never stopped. I am a Krav Maga Instructor, I have a skydiving license, I am a swimming instr uctor, an exper t climber and have more than 15 years of experience in fitness and athletic preparation. Since 2009, I am tactical survivor and man hunting instructor for the Tactical Response Team of Maryland Police. What can you tell us about your school? I am the founder and chief instructor of the ASD Wolfpack Sur vival, and my brother Giuseppe is the President. Since 1996, we organize survival courses, well before they became a trend. We are the only 1

3 1.The WP4 Rough Wolf has a compact and unmistakable design, that springs from the desire of creating not a knife but a multipurpose tool, able to carry out all the important operations in a survival situation 2. In order to reach maximum versatility, meaning able to perform rough as well as precision tasks, the WP4 has a groove that allows a forward grip, skipping the inferior guard with the index finger 3. One of the most important steps of the project was the one pertaining the sheath. manufactured by Radar, it's made of sturdy Kydex and offers up to three different retention systems.The available colors are green and brown 4. Inside the handle there is a recess, capable of hosting small objects. The insure an ease of access also on field, the head of the screws are slot drives - no need for exotic tools

Italian school that consistently has abroad facilities where real life drills can be carried out. Aside our head offices in Bienno (BS), we have a camp in the Moroccan desert, one in the coast-line of Croatia and one in Norway for winter drills. Soon, we hope, we should have another structure that allows us to complete the range of environments. Presently, our organizational chart sets, myself aside, other six expert instructors and and nine in training candidate instructors. What kind of courses does your organization provide? Briefly, our school organizes different types of courses. The outdoor ones teach how to live nature counting on equipments, the survival ones prepare the students to make it

without the tools. In the tactical survival courses, we train operators engaged in manhunts, and in the military survival ones, things get a little bit more complicated due to the adverse conditions of the environment.Then, we have specific bushcraft courses, that teach how to prepare yourself for a long term stay after you have satisfied your main needs. We also organize indepth sessions on specific topics, as handling the psychological issues, first aid, botanics, orienteering and topography, reaction to catastrophic events also in urban environments and much more. How come you decided to design this knife? While designing the WP4 Rough Wolf, I wanted to create a multitool that could be at the same time 13

MULTITOOL

strong but precise to control. Since I have never found something like this on the market, the only way was to create one. I have tried to encapsulate in this design 25 years of experience, years where I have challenged myself in the most different situations, experienced, on my own skin, starvation, cold, fear, injuries in deserts as well as in snowy mountains. I did not take into consideration the aesthetics of the knife, because in survival mode, nice but ineffective makes the difference between life and death. As this is a multitool, you had to compromise a lot? The ideal situation is when you have at the ready all the specific tools for each task. But in survival, it's already a rarity having one of them. I have designed the Rough Wolf trying to group as many functions as possible. Clearly, it will not shine in every operation, but it does the job of the majority of tools.After this one, I want to develop other blades, but this time they'll be environmentspecific.

versatile is its handiness. Another extremely important thing is the possibility to forward the index finger over the guard thanks to the groove. The barycenter has been shifted forward so to exert more power when striking the blow and let weigh all the mass in the area used more frequently for the

blows. A similar barycenter, on th other hand, doesn't favor precision works. That's when the possibility to forward the grip which allows an optimum balance kicks in. With the blade you can dig and, though we have aimed to a maximum robustness, the bevel is very high so to give a perfect penetration. It 5

What are the main characteristics of the WP4? The main trait that makes it really 5.The peculiar shape of the back of the blade is suitable, among other things, to be used as a hammer. In the photo you see how the back hits the picket at the right angle, and the user does not need to make an effort to find the right angle 6. To show off the WP4 versatility, Paolo Bozzo used it to prepare different measures of wood for the fire. Each time changing the grip 7. An example of the many possible configurations of the sheath, ensured by the rotating posterior plate and by an abundance of fastening points. In the picture, Paolo Bosso wears his WP4 on a leg pad, with other accessories.The camo color is custom 8. How to use the WP4 with two hands. In this case to remove some bark from a log. The shape of the back and the striations on the flats of the blade offer a safe grip even to a weak hand 9. The designer name is on the right side of the blade, together with the model name and the infos on the steel. The producer name - Maserin is found in back of the tang.The handle can be green or brown

OUR IMPRESSIONS During our meeting, we had the chance to try out the WP4 in the woods. The G10 is comfortable, with just a little protruding edge between the index and middle fingers, which we would smooth a bit. For those of us who do not need to get into combat, would have avoided the crusher at the end of the handle, instead we would use the edge on the back of the blade. In its use, the knife keeps its promises. With nonchalance we moved from chopping logs to preparing tinders for the fire. It's not a knife, but a multitool, that having to have compromises, prefers to be able to carry out the major number of tasks in respect to perfectly perform in just a few. This is its strength, because it is extremely versatile, and at the same time, its weakness as who did not receive a specific training will have a hard time in understanding it and fully exploit it. Is this a knife for you? It depends on what you want to achieve and on the number of tools you are willing to carry with you. One thing is sure, this is not one of those huge and proportionally useless blades. We suggest you to try out, maybe with its designer, if you have the chance.

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A real multitool To use it you need some explanations

Distributor: Egroup Srl tel. +39 0522 160.63.87 mobile +39 392 963.60.07 www.wolfpacksurvival.it info@egroup.re.it Model: WP4 Rough Wolf Designer: Paolo Bozzo Blade material: N690Co Handle material: G10 Total length: 325 mm Blade length: 190 mm Blade thickness: 5.8 mm Weight: 570 g (780 g with sheath) Sheath: Kydex

What are the criteria you used to design the handle? The WP4 handle had to be safe in prolonged uses and even in situations of deep physical deficit and without regard to mud, water, heat and cold. It had to allow dirty jobs as well as of precision, even wearing tactical gloves. The section is thought to avoid the rotation of the handle in the hand.The two grooves offer a good grip for the index and middle fingers and then the section widens under the ring and little fingers to prevent any slipping. The green or brown G10 scales, have a knurled finishing and suitable for a prolonged use. They hide a recess, that it can be easily accessed with a

coin or the zipper slider. In the guard area I have set to holes and I have avoided to put a hole in the back to prevent the oscillation of the knife when secured to the wrist of the user. It's not a combat knife, but as it is intended for a military use, I decided to equip it with a crusher that would protrude enough not to become limiting. Are there any particular reasons for the pattern on the back? The original shape of the back is meant to offer a blow mass and it can be used as a hammer while keeping a natural posture of the wrist. The thumb find always the right support.After studies on blades dynamics and biomechanics of the arm, I decided to make a blade lower than its handle, so that the exerted force will never get reduced.

The striations on the plates offer a two-hand grip during operations of bushcraft flaying Do you have any particular note on the sheath? It's manufactured by the Italian Radar, known for the production of accouterments. It is made of two 3 mm Kydex shells, green or brown, and allows its securing in every position thanks to 12 possible inclinations offered by the rotating posterior plaque, thus making it completely ambidextrous. There are three retention systems: the Kydex itself, a small sliding arch that locks the guard and a lanyard equipped with a snap button - both removable. It is safe also for a skydiving.

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is a full-tang, and the steel used is the N690Co, with stonewashed finishing.

UTILITY

everyday companion

One of the most common critiques made to knives is that they have more blade than what's needed. The DRT 5.11 certainly cannot be accused of such a thing.On the contrary, you may question if there's enough blade! by Marco Dellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Acqua

n line with other utility knives, the DRT is a folder liner lock with a blade just 5 cm long, with a quite squatly spearpoint. Its design, as often happens, it's the fruit of the collaboration with the renown knifemaker, Mike Vellekamp.The edge won't reach the pin, instead it offers a groove for the index finger - allowing a safe forward grip in the event precise tasks with the point have to be carried out. The blade material is AUS-8, a martensitic stainless steel comparable to a AISI 440B with vanadium - to further the hardness - which has gone through a black oxide process

that resulted in a quite strong blade. I used it as a bottle opener many times, and no sign were left on it. It may not sound as an exceptional steel, as we are so used to hear about the usual 440C, ATS34 and other kinds of wonder steels (even listing the 440C among the wonder steels may be not appropriate). My suggestion is to not get carried away by acronyms, but to focus on the performances. I own knives made of 440B that during many years of extensive use look like new, their sharpness never failed me, and compared with blades with an hardness of 63 HRc, a blade with 59 HRc, as

ď ° The 5.11 DRT has small hindrances.Take a look at the groove for the index finger

is the case of the DRT, has the great advantage that is much easier to re-sharpen. The handle appears to be a olive-green G10. That is already an insurance of robustness, and if we carefully obser ve the knife, we'll notice that the scales are strengthen hosting two solid steel plates. The blade slides fluidly on the pin and locks solidly. There are no side wiggles and when the knife is closed, it's properly centered in its enclosure. The opening loop works correctly and its borders are sufficiently smooth so not to be sharp, still not to be too rounded to slip, making the opening and closing of the knife with one hand possible. The pivot and three Torx screws per side hold together the structure. Th e k n i fe c a n b e t a ke n completely apar t. In the packaging we find an L-shaped key and some spare screws.

 The clip is set for a tip-up type of carry and can be mounted both on the right and left side

 Closed near a 2 Euro coin, the DRT in its compactness

 Both scales are secured on a steel frame to ensure further robustness

 Detail of the Liner-Lock

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Quality of the blade, spare screws None

Producer: 5.11, Usa Distributor: Bignami tel. 0471 803.000, www.bignami.it Type: Folder Type of closure: Liner lock Materials: AUS8 steel, G10 Length when closed: 10.2 cm Length when open: 16.5 cm Blade length: 5.5 cm Clip: ambidextrous tip down Weight: 94 g

holes to set the carry to tip-down, but hey, we cannot have everything. In its practical use, the DRT covers all the tasks that usually we expect from a cutter, while offering quite a lot of sturdiness and safety. I've seen a number of incidents caused by broken blades of cutters that I really want to stay away from. It's clear the DRT cannot perform tasks of big camping or hunting knives, but with almost all the common usages, the quality of the blade is what you would need. Th e h a nd le i s s u f f i ci ently dimensioned to insure a good

grip and to allow the use of a conspicuous amount of strength when facing tough materials. For an EDC, in a more urban environment, like an office, eve n a s m a l l e r d i m e n s i o n would have sufficed, but surely this would have considerably impacted the practicality of this tool in its most generic use. Probably it would be advisable a less aggressive military-green. But those who really are into it, there is the Min-Pin in an elegant navy gray, even if the blade is slightly different.  17

The clip is set for a tip-up carr y and can be mounted both on the right and left side. Unfor tunately, there are no

FIXED BLADE

A timeless classic

Would you like to have a classical American clip point, well crafted and to a price that won't force you to store it in a display? By taking a look at the Bark River catalog, you may actually find out that the answer to your question is the Boone Hunter text and pictures by Tommaso Rumici

mong the production lines of Bark River, the Historical Series encompass the models with the shapes that are more linked to the stars and stripe tradition. In particular, the Boone Hunter is based on the classical American design, designed around the end of Nineteenth Century and for long a leading one, that managed to profoundly influence the famous U.S.M.C., the WWII utility - fighting knife. Even if the American cutlery has evolved in a huge variety of stiles, still today, this kind of blades remains one of its pillars. As its illustrious ancestors, this fixed is excellent for outdoor or hunting use, remaining glamorous and pragmatic.The blade is made of A2 steel, with a clip point

profile - typical of the Bowie - and a satin finishing. Unlike the greater part of the industrial blades, here the bevels are convex and zero on the edge. In its practical use, this translates to a lower tendency of getting stuck in wood together with a superior robustness which do not sacrifice the cutting characteristics. The fuller gives more character to the blade and allows a good grip to thumb and index in precision tasks. The tang goes through the guard with two nickel silver branches, then through a number of synthetic spacers in a handle of stacked leather. The posterior extremity is screw-on, so to allow the locking of the pommel. The section of the handle is oval to avoid its rotation

and the diameter varies to better match the hand. Extremely satisfying to the sight as well as to the touch, holds up to the expectation even the details. The combinations and details are very well-finished, pommel and guards are mirror polished and the guard branches are skilfully rounded in the area

1.The Bark River Boone Hunter, with aesthetics belonging to other times, represents a proper alternative for those looking for a classical American clip point without spending the amount of many required for great customs or vintage knives 2.The tang goes through the guard, the handle is made of stacked leather and a pommel. A brass female is secured on the screw-on extremity, which then it's leveled and polished together with the aluminum end. The system is not meant to be taken apart 3. The sheath is sturdy and detailed, really suitable for the use. It is meant to be used in deser ts and has a locking lanyard with a snap button, which in the picture is locked in the open position, getting the best out of the genial conformation of the belt fastener

4. By comparing the Boone Hunter with the famous Marines knife, it is clear that at that time - in respect to our days - there was a less clear distinction between military and hunting blades. This Bark River carries a convex grind blade , a geometry that we rarely see outside the Nordic cutlery. Sturdy and with little inclination to get stuck, shines in outdoor or hunting use

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Classy and detailed Only a right handed sheath

Producer: Bark River Knives www.barkriverknifetool.com Model: Boone Hunter Blade material: A2 58-60Hrc Handle material: sections of leather Length when open: 240 mm Blade length: 126 mm Blade thickness: 4.8 mm Weight: 190 g Sheath: leather

where the hand rests so to ensure a comfortable and safe and strong grip. The hidden tang construction does not interfere with aesthetics, instead it favors the lightness of the knife. The Boone Hunter is extremely light while offering the proper sturdiness. To perfect the balance, there are the guard and the pommel that backward the barycenter. By opening the hand, the knife will naturally stay in the palm of the hand. A peculiarity of the Bark River production are the many different variations.We cannot list them, so we invite you to check their website.Aside the leather used in the knife described in this article,

We would like to thank Maxblade (www.maxblade.it), for having supplied the model in the pictures

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there are many other materials one can choose form: different types of micarta, every color of G10, precious woods and different kinds of brierroots. Our suggestion is to try to remain faithful to the stacked leather. We doubt that heavier materials will offer the perfect balance we've seen with this model.Of course the sheath had to be made of leather, with a belt fastener. It's well sewed with a strong white thread which gives a nice contrast. The edges are smooth and the trademark is on the back. The knife is retained by a lanyard with a snap-button and has a fine detail which testifies the care given to this production. Thanks to the special shape of the fastener, when we want to extract and put back in place the knife several times, we can lock the lanyard in its open position, so cutting it is not an option. Unfortunately, as for all the classical sheaths, this one does not take into consideration left-handed people.

MULTITOOL

EVERYTHING YOU NEED in your hand According to the worldly wisdom, you can't have your cake and eat it. Probably in Victorinox they don't know about it, at least by taking a look at the Handyman - a compact and light multitool with peculiar functions text and pictures by Tommaso Rumici

ecently we've asked ourselves if multitool pliers like Leatherman Wave and the Victorinox Spirit are really the best choice to carry around everyday. Certainly, the assortment of tools makes them truly handy, but sometimes we wish they were less bulky and heavy. The problem is that the lighter and smaller solutions, usually force you to face some sacrifices in respect of the number of available functions and its sturdiness. So, what can we choose if we do not want to compromise? A perfect answer

wo u l d b e t h e H a n d y m a n b y Victorinox. Among all the models of the Swiss giant, this is the one we believe owns the ideal mix between portability and tools assortment. True is that some of the functions of the upper-scale models are not present, but none of the basic ones are missing.Think about it, MacGyver succeeded with a meager version. Inside the typical red plastic scales, we firstly find a bigger and a smaller blade, the latter is perfect for situation where using the bigger one may cause

s o m e p re o c c u p at i o n . D o n o t underestimate the possibility of sharpening them in different ways. Then we find the nail and metal file, which works as a nail cleaner and metal saw. The wood saw is another fundamental tool, mainly due to the worldly effectiveness of the Victorinox one. There is also a sturdy scissor, that even if can be equally replaced by the blade, often makes for, more precise cuts.To our surprise, the Handyman contains a plier with wire cutters, not very big but sufficiently strong so to not regret those we started with. The

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Perfect mix of functions and portability Nothing Producer: Victorinox Model: Handyman (V-1.37 73) Importer: Kunzi, tel. +39 02 614.51.61 www. kunzi.it Blade material: Stainless steel Handle material: Red Cellidor Length when open (main blade): 157 mm Length when closed: 91 mm Blade length: 67 mm Main blade thickness: 2mm Weight: 156 g Lock type: simple spring

1. The selection of tools offered by Handyman is quite complete. There are just few missing functions that are instead on upper-scale models, but the essential ones are there

difference between our model and the Craftsman, we have a corkscrew. After a careful evaluation, we actually prefer it, as you can stow the eye-wear screwdriver available as an accessory, and because the Philips is pretty-well replaced by the one on the can opener. On the other hand there are no alternatives for the corkscrew. Icing on the cake, under the scales you find the tweezers and a toothpick, there is also a place for a pin, that you can find as an accessory too. All this abundance of tools is enclosed in a oval folder which is extremely compact, carrying no sharp edges. In respect to the multitool pliers we mentioned at the beginning, the weights decreases of more than 50 grams and the difference in the hindrance

3. Aside the principal tools, from the back there are few nonetheless useful. Specifically, we are astonished the care taken into the creation of the punch/ reaper 4. Usually, in the scales, the Handyman carries a toothpick and tweezers. It's possible to add a fine screwdriver, that can be screwed on the corkscrew lever, and a pin in the scale

is even more remarkable. Moreover, the Handyman has no lock for the blades, therefore the legal implications are really reduced to a minimum. But now a question for you readers: what is your ideal multitool? Which functions you do not want to give up? Let us know by writing to: knives@caffeditrice.com

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second-last tool is cap lifter, which as usual has a slot screwdriver and a wire stripper. Finally, we have the can opener, which end with a peculiar flat screwdriver, designed to work even on Philips screws. But there is more. The back of the multitool offers other interesting accessories. Aside the punch/ reaper, we find a multipurpose hook of which, many passionates of the Swiss brand, manged to find the most disparate uses from carrying shopping bags to securing ice skate laces. There is yet another screwdriver, finer than the others. Victorinox has also included a sharp chisel, useful to remove small burrs from plastic or aluminium, avoiding the use of the blades. Finally, instead of the Philip screwdriver, which was the single

2. Compared to the multitool pliers, like the Spirit here in the picture, Handyman offers less weight and overall hindrance, making its carry easier

EVENTS

Culter Expo 2014 Consistent to tradition, "Parco esposizioni di Novegro" (the Novegro Park dedicated to fairs) hosted an important show for all knives enthusiasts: the new edition of Culter Expo, which sported many interesting pieces. We were there! by Knives Staff

The new fixed blade Maxpedition are now in production, and we saw the very first samples here at the Maxblade cutlery. Available in 12 variations, have a double tempered D2 blade by means of a below zero treatment Molded handle and Kydex sheath

This image shows the LC cultlery stand and gives an idea of the wide assortment of materials that customers can buy. Here, in particular, an outlook of the different micarta and G10 colors

In this occasion, the famous razors by Mastri Livi were displayed along a huge razor, carrying a stainless steel blade and Thuja birch-wood handle. Just below, an identical version, but with standard dimensions

Back-lock by Paolo Petricca, with a RWL-34 blade.The bolsters with a spider-web are made of Doug Ponzio damascus, and the scales are of buffalo horn, with a scrimshawed spider.The liners are refined with a filework

Beside the various creations by Daniel Cattaneo, here is a liner-lock with a mosaic damascus blade and explosion damascus cutting-edge. Even the tabs are made of mosaic damascus, whereas the scales are made of mammoth tooth

Alongside the usual selection of materials for knife-crafting, K-Steel presented what will be news for the coming year: a carbon-steel laminate. It can found it in bars, but customers will have a chance to have applied the carbon sides to their own blades

Compact fixed blade in a military style, seen on Mattia Orlandi table. Sandblasted RWL 34 blade with 61HRc, camo micarta handle and titanium through and through tubes. It sports a silver Kydex sheath

The sleek "saracca romagnola "by Fra Diavolo, the handle is made of spotted boxwood and carbon steel C70 blade, as per tradition. Even the back spring is made of the same material

Designed with cooking enthusiasts, the Kiritsune by Giuseppe Fichera, has a ladder damascus blade, and cutting edge in white steel.The handle is a composition of snake-wood, ebony, brass and stones

EVENTS

Collini cultlery from Busto Arsizio (VA), the importer of Pohl Force, presented the Mike One Tactical Limited Edition. Produced in only 200 pieces, it is recognizable for the green G10 scales. It is equipped with a Kydex neck sheath

Giorgio Movilli is a enthusiast connoisseur of Japanese blades. For his blade he chose a fossil ivory handle with ebony details, where Andrea Longagnani scrimshawed a Yukio Mishima drawing

This impressive fixed by Gianferrari clearly was inspired by a Randall, carrying a San Mai damascus.The guard with two branches is made of brass, the handle of stacked leather and the pommel of aluminium. Synthetic spacers are between the components

Extraordinary elegance displayed by Marcello Inconsi with his liner-lock, sporting a feather damascus by Valter Fornasier.The handle made of fossil ivory hides titanium liners. Everything is held together by Torx screws

In this close-up photo the handle if a folder by Giuseppe DessĂŹ, from Udine.The head has been chiseled on a single piece of ram horn, no details have been attached

Giovanni Cristalli displays his huge "rasulu ammanicatu", a combat knife from Catania 54 cm long. The blade is a forged file, and the handle, with iron liners, carries buffalo horn scales

Zaccheoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knife shop proposed the folder "Queen Cutlery", imported from the United States.There's a pump-lock, and the scales are jigged bone.The knife is characterized by a two branches of the guard pivoted in the D2 blade

Quite difficult not to take a picture of the San Mai damascus ax by Luca Pizzi. The peculiar coloration of the steel is obtained through salts bath, and the badges are melted silver.The handle is made of deer antlers from New Caledonia

The Piccioni brothers well represented the Sardinian tradition. Here is a "scanno a serramanico", with a warm bovine horn handle. The blade is in MA5M, and the cap is stainless steel burnished by flame

EVENTS

Giorgio Longhi managed to create a fixed without need of frills, showing winding and streamlined shapes. The blade is in MA5M, the scales are in Osage Orange, with a frontal outline that offers the space for the logo of the craftsman

Among the various blades displayed at the Coltello.biz stand, there was a Nighthawk, historical collaboration betweenTops and Buck.The 420HC blade went through a thermal process by Bos. The rubber handle has a very neat ergonomics, designed to be used for long period of time and with strength

This compact neck knife by Manuele Messori has a K720 coated with DLC cutting-edge.The bevels are asymmetric and the flats of the blade were worked with small round milling machine.The handle is in paracord and the sheath is in thermoforming Kydex

Integral with a super-shiny Bowie blade by Enrico Corradini, strting point a O1 bar. Two brier-wood scales are applied to the tang, secured via a stainless steel pin. Under the scales you find two micarta spacers

Scintilla cutlery displayed an extremely flourished selection of industrial and custom knives. Lastly, the Oberland Arms Imwoid Sepp, a compact fixed designed for outdoor and military use, wih a D2 blade and a Kydex sheath

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Improvedâ&#x20AC;? by Piero Petronzio is a hunting knife that leaves nothing to improvisation.The cutting-edge is in RWL 34, finely satined.The handle is made of micarta with a stainless steel pin.To reduce the weight, the tang is tapered

To their third year of activity, brothers Matteo and Antonello Maiorano dedicated their 50th piece: The N690 blade carries a written engraving to celebrate the event.The handle is made of giraffe bone, with synthetic quartz insert and the 416steel bolsters

Elegance and simplicity are the main characteristics of this 440B fixed by Andrea Zanacchi.The handle is made of two half of sambar deer, and separated by the tang with two synthetic spacers, held permanently together by three pins

Fortuna Sport armory displayed an impressive Tanto by Edmund Davidson, made in 1993. It's an integral construction, and the blade made of 440C is matched with a micarta handle, with four incision for the grip

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Doriano Bertarini takes us to Africa with this classic integral in O1, with a double bevel. The handle, engraved by the same knifemaker, displays floral patterns and a pair of elephants. The handle is completed by a mother-pearl insert

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FOLDER

SWEET AND SOUR We have have carefully studied the Zero Tolerance 0801 developed with Rexford Knives. The design, materials and mechanical machining are excellent, except for the clip text and pictures by Giorgio Alessandri

he Zero Tolerance ZT 0801 has been designed by knifemaker Todd Rexford, who used his Singularity series folder as foundation. It's a framel ock produced i n t h e U ni t ed States, completely made of titanium, a material that generally is associated to lightness, but i n t h i s c a s e, c o n s i d e r i n g t h e amount used, is instead synonym of sturdiness. Anyway, the folder is highly portable, even as EDC, where the laws allow it. The two halves of the handle are separated just by three hourglass spacer s, secured by the same number of pair of Torx, so to avoid any dirt piling. Less than 4mm thick, the two liners have a lively surface due to the 1 ♥

grooves that, above all, better the grip. The exception is the area near the pivots, which is smooth and suggests the presence of a bolster, and overall balancing the aesthetics between the blade and the handle. The blade is made of stone-washed Elmax and promises great cutting performances, high resistance to cor rosion and wear by maintaining the right toughness. All the mechanical machinings are, as we expected, carried out i n an exe m p la r y m a n n e r. I t 's amazing the liner cut, with an extremely narrow width and very few signs of machining. out of the box, the 0801, is already very sharp, ready to be used. On the blade profile we cannot say much, since

the only peculiarity is the swedge on the spine which performs only an aesthetic function. We can, on the other hand, appreciate its functionality. It's really a jack of all trades pocket-knife, long enough and with a conveniently dropped down point, in line with the handle. At very first glance, once outside the box, we were surprised to see how much the cutting edge moved sideways. Fortunately, the cause was a pivot that was loose and with some lubricant on it. An inconvenience quickly solved with a Torx key and a drop of threadlocker. Once adjusted the rotating pin, the movement was perfect, with no wiggling of sort. The flipper opening system is

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2. On the right side of the blade, we find all the pertaining information for the knife . The opposite side sports just the logo of the company. Look carefully at the liner extremely thin - that testifies on the precision reached by the producer 3. When closed, the 0801 is compact and easy to carry in the pocket. The only protrusions are the flipper, necessary to open it, and the sharp edge at the end of the handle, that will not be inside the pocket 4. The clip, and in particular the two protruding flaps on which it's secured, is the only out-of-place d e t a i l . I t ' s t o o s i m i l a r t o m a ny cheap models and sure is not up to rest of the knife, which is created irreproachably 5. The inferior guard sticks out from the scales to be used as a flipper. Extremely perfect are the dimensions, profile and depth of the knurling and the opening is very swift and show no hesitation

simply perfect. When the knife is closed, the bottom guard sticks from the scales, and it's easy to use the index finger to open it. It's round and a knurling deep enough to enhance the grip and not to bother. The rotation thanks to the KVT ball-bearings system is exceptionally fluid and swift. The retention of the closed blade, through the usual ball bearing in the liner, is enough to avoid misopenings, but not so strong to slow down the opening. The locking system showed no hesitations, still only a long period o f u s e c a n g ive u s a c o r re c t evaluation on wear ing and reaction to different stresses. And to let it last longer, Zero Tolerance has decided to equip the framelock with a steel insert, and limit the wearing out. The only detail that didn't convinces us is the clip, clearly unassuming and with two side fastening flaps too similar to those found on many cheap products. What a pity! The only consolations

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Very finely crafted Inadequate clip

Producer: Zero Tolerance, zt.kaiusaltd.com Model: 0801 Designer: Todd Rexford (www.rexfordknives.com) Blade material: Elmax Handle material: titanium Length when open: 210 mm Blade length: 90 mm Blade thickness: 4 mm Weight: 165 g Lock type: frame lock

is that, at least, it carries out its task, letting protr ude just the lanyard hole from the pocket. We thank Scintilla cutlery (www. coltelleriascintilla.com) for having supplied us the model you find in the pictures.

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1. The Zero Tolerance 0801 owes its design to Todd Rexford's Singularity folders series. It instills robustness and at the same time it appears light weighed, even if the structure is all metal

HUNTING BLADES

FOR HOOFED MAMMALS The Maserin Jager is the outcome of expert hunters when asked to create a knife with the right materials, functions and dimensions to work on a prey by M.C. di Danilo Liboi & C.

60 years of experience - you immediately feel its sturdiness. It's a extremely robust and s o l i d k n i fe, ava i l abl e w i t h precious woods or orange nonslip G10 scales. It's designed to be held safely without slipping in even the most delicate steps and to be easily washed hundreds of times and never getting ruined. The Jager sports three 440C steel blades which perform with no hesitation the tasks they were designed for. There is the classic 85 mm point blade for easier tasks (evisceration), this blades has at its base a hole of generous dimensions (that won't affect its solidity) that will let you open it with one hand. There is a saw suitable to cut bones and then a concave blade - the skinner - that is perfect to carr y out the first cuts on the skin without touching the flesh. The three locks on the back are independent and of quite generous dimensions. The central one protrudes to offer an easier unlocking while working with gloves or dirty hands.

1. The three locks on the back are independent and of quite generous dimensions. The central one protrudes to offer an easier unlocking while working with gloves or dirty hands. 2. The Jager by Maserin is also available with wood scales 3. The grip is solid and won't let the hand slip when working on the prey

The scales are solidly secured with stainless steel screws which allows to take the knife apart completely. The Jager is supplied with a Cordura fabric sheath. Designed and produced in Italy by Maserin Cutlery following the highest quality standards, the Jager is most probably the sturdiest and most functional knife to treat prays that we can find today on the market. For information: Forest Italia www.forestitalia.com Tel. +39 045 877.87.72

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never liked folder s to be used to work on preys. I've seen a lot of them abruptly cl o s i n g w h e n wo r k i n g o n symphysis pubis or sternum. But just by holding in your hands the box containing this knife, produced by Maserin - a company with more than

The Jager by Maserin has three blades it's perfect to work on the prey

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Has three independent safeties on the back Nothing to point out

Producer: Maserin, www.maserin.it Model: Jager Blade: Sandblasted 440 stainless steel (85 mm) Length when open: 224 mm Weight: 298 g Accessories: saw, skinner Handle: Orange G10, olive wood and Paosantos Sheath: nylon

OUTDOOR

Gerber offers an entire line of products dedicated to the outdoor, and includes some tools that may come in handy during an walk or a overnight camping. Let's have a look by Gianluigi Guiotto

erber is the American brand known around the wo rl d fo r t h e p ro d u c t s designed for the outdoor. Founded in Portland (Oregon) in 1939 by the hands of the tycoon Joseph Gerber, has just landed i n I t a ly w i t h a w i d e ra n g e o f multitool products - appreciated world-wide - for the free-time and the professional activities. Along the six lines presented i n I t a l y ( E s s e n t i a l , O u t d o o r, Hunting, Tactical, Survival and Industr ial), we have selected some products of the Sur vival line, created in collaboration with Bear Grylls - survival expert and leading actor of some TV shows like "Extreme Survival",

"Man vs Wild", "Escape from Hell" and many other. Compact II The Gerber Bear Grylls Compact II, pocket knife of last generation, is built based on the traditional knife and contextualized into t h e s u r v iva l u s e. Th e r u bb e r over-mold handle and the large finger groove offer a more solid and robust grip. With a fine drop 420HC steel blade, the Compact II can be easily extracted thanks to the nick on the handle, it's ready at your hand whenever you need it. Moreover, the blade has a jimping on the top of the blade and rubber over-mold handle is ergonomic and non-slippery.

 Gerber Bear Gr ylls Compact II h a s t r u ly c o m p a c t d i m e n s i o n s i t ' s extremely light, it weighs only 28 grams

This ensure its use in the most extreme situations. The locking system of the blade allow the use of the knife in complete safety and it's possible to easily close it even if wearing gloves. Finally, the lanyard hole gives different choices to fasten the Compact II. In the packaging you'll find also a shor t sur vival guide, a fundamental tool for beginners and experts. Basic Survival Kit Gerber and Bear Grylls created three survival kits (Basic, Scout Essentials and Ultimate), within the Survival line of products, and contain tools that has to be in every backpack of adventure and

 It's a liner-lock: you press on the spine of the handle, on the half-moon left free by the scales

Compact II folder

 The Compact II blade is 420HC steel and 6.7 cm long

Blade: 420HC steel, 6.7 cm Handle: nylon and 30% of fiber glass Lock: liner-lock Total length: 15.6 cm Length when closed: 8.9 cm Weight: 28.3 g

Basic First Aid Kit Light waterproof bag Contents: Mini-Paraframe Knife, emergency whistle, fire starter, waterproof matches, Snare Wire, Emergency Cord, Cotton Ball - Fire Tinder, Lightweight, ripstop nylon bag with waterproof zipper, Land to air rescue instructions, Pocket guide to survival essentials Weight: 119 g

as cotton and bandages.

 Alongside the three available kits, the Basic is the entry level, still offering the fundamentals to carry with you on an outdoor afternoon

waterproof matches, Snare Wire, Emergency Cord, Cotton Ball - Fire Tinder, Lightweight, and some other tools for the first aid

For information: www.gerbergear.it

Compact Fire Starter Length: 8.6 cm Diameter: 1.4 cm Weight: 22.7 g Case: anodized aluminum Handle: polypropylene

 C o m p a c t F i re S t a r t e r h o l d s together small hindrances and the utility of having a fire always at the ready

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outdoor enthusiasts. The Basic Kit, which we describe here, is a light and waterproof bag that contains an emergency whistle, a Mini-Paraframe Knife, a fire starter,

Compact Fire Starter The new design of the Compact Fi re S t a r t e r m at ch e s p e r fe c t ly i t s p o cke t dimension, it can be comfortably s e c u re d o n a ke y - ch a i n o r b a ck p a ck o r kep t among your per sonal items. The simple structure, made of two pieces, make it possible to use it when it's cold and wearing gloves. It's very easy to use, you just need to rub the rod on the anodized aluminum cap and this will create sparks to start the fire. The Gerber Compact Fire Starter thanks to the metal rod with a polypropylene handle, can undergo big blows and used under heavy rains.

IN THE KITCHEN

The Zwilling Five Star products are designed to meet a greater audience, this line offers something more from an aesthetic point of view, without giving up functionality and being dishwasher safe text and pictures by Giorgio Alessandri

he Five Star series is already appreciated around the wo r l d , b u t i n I t a l y i s a n innovation that wishes to match the new needs of this evolving clientĂ¨le. As the Four Star series, in which the Five Stars has its roots, this product line has been developed through a strong collaboration with many professional chefs. I t o f fe r s p e r fe c t e rgo n o m i c s , granting a bit more aesthetics - i n c o m p a r i s o n t o t h e Fo u r Star - but leaving unchanged its functionality. The handles are made of polymer s, molded directly on the tang to seal it thus avoiding t h e c re at i o n o f no n- hy gi e ni c interstices and obviously they are dishwasher safe. The shape is winding and elegant, but it 1

does not represent a mere styling exercise. The central section is a flattened oval, which perfectly stands in the palm of the hand and won't rotate when using it, even with smaller hands. The curve itself helps the grip, avo i d i n g t h e u s e o f g r i p p i n g t ex t u re s . O n t h e b a ck o f t h e handle there is the company logo. The lightness of the Five Star is deeply appreciated by professional clientĂ¨le - which will be able to work for long periods with less fatigue - as well as the amateur one, especially if not used working with knives or have tiny physiques. The blades are forged as per Sigmaforge process. Like all the western style blades, they have a pronounced bottom guard where the index can rest comfortably,

a n d , i n t h e m e a n t i m e, o f f e r great safety. The Santoku is the exception, as it needs to preserve the typical agility of the oriental shape. All the aspects that lead to a perfect cut have been perfectly taken care of. Zwilling uses a proprietary steel formula since 1 9 6 5 , wh i ch evo lve d t h ro ugh continuous researches to optimize the specific characteristics of the culinar y use and to reach the perfect ratio between carbon, chromium and other components of the alloy. Th e s a m e at t e n t i o n i s g ive n to the ther mal treatments, among them, shines the Friodur cryostatic treatment, as well as the polishing and sharpening of the blades, controlled also with laser machines. At this time the available shapes 1. Chef and Santoku are the blades that run for the King of the kitchen award, being both extremely versatile. The first carries a though bottom guard, whereas the second, with its oriental style, doesn't 2. At the bottom of the handle you see the c o m p a n y l o g o. I t ' s a useless detail, from a functional point of view, but tells a lot about the care taken in the creation of the Five Star line

4 3. Zwilling created handles of different dimensions, so to mount the one that properly matches the overall dimensions of the blade. The result is a perfect control, quickness and comfort 4. The bread knife, at the top, has a l o n g s e rr a t e d blade, and the areas between the serrations are extremely sharp. The same cutting edge can be found on the utility knife which makes the perfect companion to make sandwiches

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Beautiful and also with ergonomics Nothing

Producer: Zwilling J.A. Henckels www. zwilling.com Series: Five star Blade material: proprietary stainless steel formula Handle material: ABS Blade shapes: 7 Blade lengths: from 90 to 200 mm

a re s eve n . A l i t t l e t o o few i f compared to the other series destined to a wider public, but enough to carry out all the steps for preparing food. The small vegetable knife with a sheepfoot p r o f i l e, i s h a n d y a n d q u i ck , perfect for peeling and finishing fruits and vegetables. The paring knife, a little longer, is for works where a more traditional point is needed and is perfect for larding and garnishing. The king of the kitchen is always the Chef, and in this case a 20 cm long blade, with a carefully studied cur ve that

can easily chop herbs, cut meet, fish or vegetables. Its supremacy, though, is under mined by the Santoku since many prefer the latter. Only when it's time to cut meet, both have to give way to the more slender and specific blade. For the bread we need a serrated blade, and in the case of Zwilling, each serration is extremely sharp - a shared characteristic of the utility knife 13 cm long. The latter is a real jack of all trades, perfect to make sandwiches, since it's ideal to cut cured meats, cheeses, vegetables and bread. î ľ 35

5. The blades of the meat and peeling knives have a flat cutting edge, less versatile in comparison with the Chef and the Santoku, but even sharper

Our special limited version in CPM S 125 V with scales in Ranger Green G 10 represents the maximum in terms of cutting capability andÂ rust resistance. With reference to theÂ specifications of the Crucible steel plant, the life of the cutting edge of CPM S 125 V is 4 times higher than the CPM S 30 V which is already high.

FREE TIME AND COLLECTION

PROFESSIONAL AND KITCHEN KNIVES

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