Marttiini manufactures knives in Rovaniemi, Finland at the Arctic Circle. Founded by blacksmith Janne Marttiini in 1928, the company gained international recognition for flexible-blade fillet knives that became the most widely used fish knives in the world. Marttiini exported over 400,000 to America in 1966-1967, and Rapala has produced their branded models through Marttiini for over 50 years. The Classic series has been in production since the late 1960s, featuring curly birch handles and flexible stainless blades used in fishing camps and charter boats worldwide.
Classic and Superflex Fillet Series
Marttiini's Classic models feature progressively tapered, flexible full-tang blades from 4 to 7.5 inches. The stainless blades flex for precise cuts along fish bones while maintaining edge sharpness during long filleting sessions. Curly birch handles are sanded, polished, and varnished, with finger grooves and flared pommels to prevent slippage. Full-tang construction includes visible pommel nuts for blade security. The Superflex series offers even greater blade flexibility for smoother work. Leather sheaths have tooled Lappish artwork, plastic blade liners, and D-ring belt loops that swing freely. Martef-coated models reduce friction and protect against corrosion.
Lapp and Lynx Traditional Puukko Knives
Marttiini produces traditional Finnish puukko knives, including the Lapp series, made continuously since the 1940s with over two million pieces produced. Janne Marttiini designed his version of the traditional Lapp knife for general outdoor use, with flared pommels for a secure grip when wearing gloves. The Lynx series, developed in the 1930s, features an upturned blade point and remains one of Marttiini's most recognizable models. Both series use curly birch handles with traditional leather sheaths stamped with Lappish scenes. Models are available with stainless or carbon steel blades, bronze ferrules, and reindeer antler accents.
Curly Birch Handle Construction
Marttiini uses Finnish curly birch as the primary handle material across its product lines. The distinctive grain patterns provide aesthetic appeal and functional grip texture. Handles receive either natural finish, heat treatment, staining, or lacquering depending on the model. Traditional designs incorporate reindeer antler sections, bronze ferrules, and leather elements maintaining connection to Lappish craft traditions. Premium Salmon models feature heat-treated curly birch with bronze ferrules and waxed finishes, delivered in wooden gift boxes. All leather sheaths receive hand tooling with Nordic patterns and plastic liners for blade protection.
Hunting Knives and Outdoor Models
Marttiini manufactures hunting knives like the Condor series with robust blades for field dressing, the Tundra bushcraft line, and the Lumberjack model popular among outdoor enthusiasts. The company also produces folding knives, kitchen cutlery, and annual collector's editions. Marttiini knives are heat treated to 53-54 Rockwell hardness, favoring ease of sharpening over maximum edge retention to prevent chipping when striking bone during butchering. All knives include Marttiini's lifetime guarantee and feature the founder's signature etched on the blade.