Fallkniven manufactures fixed blade and folding knives using laminated steel construction that sandwiches high-performance core steel between tougher outer layers. VG-10 models feature a molybdenum-cobalt stainless core laminated between 420J2 stainless outer layers, hardened to 59 HRC for edge retention. The outer layers provide 20 percent greater lateral strength than solid VG-10. The 3G configuration uses Super Gold Powder Steel cores at 62 HRC flanked by VG2 stainless layers, delivering extended edge retention with resistance to chipping. Cobalt Special Steel models employ high-alloy cobalt cores at 60 HRC between 420J2 layers, balancing hardness and fine grain structure for superior sharpening response. This three-layer construction bonds through hot rolling, creating monolithic blade strength without delamination risk under field stress.
Convex Ground Blades for Edge Strength
Fallkniven applies convex grinds to fixed blade models, creating curved tapers from spine to edge rather than flat bevels. The convex profile maintains substantial steel mass behind the cutting edge, increasing resistance to edge rolling and breakage during batoning, chopping, and penetration tasks. This grind geometry eliminates secondary bevels and shoulders that create cutting resistance, allowing smoother entry through wood fibers and game. Hand-applied convex grinds require specialized manufacturing capability rarely seen in production knives. The curved taper concentrates hardened core steel at the apex while positioning softer outer laminate layers where lateral stress concentrates during use.
F1 Swedish Air Force Pilot Survival Knife
The F1 serves as official survival knife for Swedish Air Force pilots since 1995, designed for ejection seat carry and emergency wilderness survival across varied climates. The 3.8-inch drop point blade measures 8.3 inches overall with 0.17-inch thickness, sized for cockpit storage while maintaining chopping capability for shelter construction and firewood processing. Thermorun elastomer handles enclose full tang construction, preventing metal-to-skin contact in sub-zero temperatures where exposed tangs risk frostbite. The F1 and S1 Forest Knife received approval from US Naval Air Warfare Center testing in 2000 for USMC and USN aircrew use. F1 Pro models upgrade to laminated CoS cores with stainless guards for increased durability in demanding applications.
Seki Japan Manufacturing by Hattori and Moki
All Fallkniven-branded knives are manufactured in Seki, Japan through partnerships with specialized producers. Hattori manufactures fixed blades, applying convex grinds by hand to maintain precise geometry across production runs. Moki produces folding knife models, bringing expertise in gentleman's folder construction and refined action tuning. The Japanese manufacturing partnerships began when Fallkniven transitioned from German ATS34 steel to laminated VG-10 in 1998, requiring expertise in laminate forge welding and convex grinding techniques. Blade blanks receive heat treatment in Japan following proprietary protocols developed through University of Lulea testing in Sweden, validating laminate strength advantages.
Norrbotten Sweden Family Business Since 1984
Peter Hjortberger founded Fallkniven in Norrbotten, Sweden in 1984, developing the company from hunting and fishing experience in Sweden's northern regions. The family business began producing original designs in 1987 after gaining experience through customer feedback and manufacturer relationships. Fallkniven received Royal Warrant as Purveyor to His Majesty the King of Sweden in 1999, recognizing manufacturing quality and design standards. The S1 Forest Knife and A1 survival models expanded the lineup beyond the F1, offering larger blade lengths for bushcraft and hunting applications. Northern Lights series and Modern Bowie models demonstrate continued design development while maintaining laminated steel construction and convex grinding throughout the product range.