Helle manufactures fixed blade knives in Holmedal, Norway, using Scandinavian grind geometry and hand-finishing. Founded in 1932 by Steinar Helle, the company produces hunting, bushcraft, and fishing knives with full tang and hidden tang constructions. Helle's lineup includes triple-laminated steel options and single-layer 12C27, 14C28N, and Sleipner steel blades. Curly birch handles appear on most models, paired with stitched leather sheaths. All knives receive hand-sanding and hand-polishing, creating unique variations between pieces. The factory operates in Norway's fjord country and draws design inspiration from Scandinavian wilderness landscapes.
Triple-Laminated H3LS and H3LC Steel Construction
Helle's proprietary triple-laminated steels have hard core layers between tougher outer layers. H3LS uses S235 steel outer layers with a stainless core for corrosion resistance in wet environments. H3LC uses the same S235 outer layers with a 100Cr6 (52100) high carbon core for traditional carbon steel performance. The lamination process creates blades that combine keen edge-taking with durability that resists breakage. Core steel reaches 58-59 HRC hardness while outer layers protect against lateral stress. This method allows thinner blade profiles without brittleness, which is useful for filleting and detail work.
12C27 and 14C28N Sandvik Stainless Steel
Single-layer stainless options include 12C27 and 14C28N steels developed by Swedish company Alleima (formerly Sandvik). The 12C27 steel achieves 59-60 HRC hardness with uniform properties, making it suitable for firesteel use when ground with a 90-degree spine. Models like the Fossekallen, Eggen, and Gaupe use this steel for budget-friendly outdoor applications. 14C28N is a refinement with improved toughness and corrosion resistance, hardened to 60-62 HRC. The Nordlys, GT, and Temagami models feature 14C28N for bushcraft tasks that require edge retention and robustness. Both steels maintain stain resistance and accept keen edges through traditional sharpening.
Scandi Grind and Curly Birch Handles
Helle uses flat Scandinavian grinds with single bevel geometry and no secondary bevels. This style creates strong edges for carving, food preparation, and game processing. The flat bevel extends from the spine to the edge, making field sharpening with flat stones easier. Curly birch handles from Nordic forests provide natural grip texture and moisture resistance. The figured grain patterns vary between knives due to natural wood. Handle shapes fit Scandinavian grip techniques, with forward positions for detail work and rear grips for chopping. Leather sheaths have stitching and belt loops, with optional belt clips for quick attachment and removal without unbuckling.
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