The Story of the Kullervo Knife
"In the family Hakkarainen represents Veikko Kullervo the fourth generation of utility knife makers.
The Kullervo knife is an example of an ancient model of northern Finnish knives.
Veikko Hakkarainen is a recognized knife smith, awarded with the title "Best knife maker in Finland".
The Kullervo is handmade from the start, with over 60 phases in the making. Its each part, from the blade to the sheath is made by Veikko himself.
The handle is made of nature's own material, birch bark which is one of the oldest materials used in this purpose.
A handle made of bark is very durable, comfortable, warm and gives an excellent grip.
A few weeks from Midsummer is called the "Bark Month" which means that Veikko spends his time gathering bark.
The blade of the Kullervo knife is hand forged of carbon steel and its extremely precise hardening is a proof of quality even to the most demanding user.
The final sharpness of the knife is achieved through hand-sharpening with a water cooled grinder.
Later the knife is easily sharpened with a grindstone.
The smith, Mr Hakkarainen:
It is important to me that the tools I make, the knives, are as good and of good quality as possible.
Old, proven good methods are essential in my production, but I don't hesitate utilizing new technology, methods and materials either.
Being a knifesmith in fourth generation I feel obliged to do my work in the best possible way.
I have seen how tools can be made since I was a child and thus my interest in the profession of a smith.
I became a smith when I was a young boy. I find it very challenging and there is always something to learn"
In fact, I have now sold most of my "tactical" knives, I have kept only only those two I liked most, one because it is so outrageous and one because It is just my favourite in that scene. All the others are traditional and there is no turning back.
