Morakniv manufactures fixed blade knives in Östnor, Sweden, where production has continued since 1891. The company originated from two historic knife makers: Frosts Knife Factory, established in 1891, and KJ Eriksson Knife Factory, founded in 1912. These companies merged to form Morakniv AB in 2016. Every knife is made at their Östnor factory, combining over 130 years of Swedish craftsmanship with modern manufacturing. Morakniv holds a Royal Warrant of Appointment to the King of Sweden, a distinction recognizing high quality and Scandinavian design.
Sandvik 12C27 and 14C28N Stainless Steel
Morakniv uses Swedish stainless steel from Alleima (formerly Sandvik) in Sandviken, Sweden. Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel is used in most models, including the Companion, Bushcraft, and Kansbol series, and is hardened to 56-58 HRC for balanced edge retention and corrosion resistance. The steel contains optimized carbon and chromium for knife applications and uses 80-90% recycled Swedish steel. The newer Sandvik 14C28N steel is exclusive to the Garberg models, offering increased hardness without compromising structure. It is easier to resharpen while maintaining wear resistance. Both steels deliver long-lasting edges with minimal maintenance.
Carbon Steel and Laminated Blade Construction
Carbon steel models use German C100S steel from C.D. Wälzholz with 1% carbon, hardened to 58-60 HRC for sharpness and easy sharpening. Carbon steel takes a keener edge than stainless but needs maintenance in humid environments, developing a protective patina over time. Laminated carbon steel from Bonpertuis in France features a hard carbon core (100CR6 at 59 HRC) surrounded by softer outer steel (S235), creating tough blades resistant to lateral stress while maintaining sharp edges. The laminated structure absorbs impact and reduces crack risk, making these blades suitable for heavy use.
Scandinavian Grind Blade Geometry
Morakniv blades feature a Scandinavian grind, a single flat bevel extending from mid-blade to the cutting edge. This grind provides excellent control for carving and woodcraft and simplifies sharpening, as users lay the bevel flat against a stone. Most models include a small micro-bevel (0.05-0.5mm) at a 35-45 degree total angle for increased edge durability. Woodcarving models use "Scandi Grind Zero" with no micro-bevel for more aggressive cutting in detailed work. The Kansbol series uses a hybrid "profile grind" where the blade starts with traditional Scandi geometry near the handle and tapers along its width toward the tip, creating a knife that carves wood and slices efficiently for food preparation.
Popular Morakniv Models and Series
The MoThe Companion series is Morakniv's most recognized line, available in standard 2mm and Heavy Duty 3.2mm blade thicknesses with carbon and stainless steel options. The Garberg is Morakniv's first full-tang design with 14C28N stainless steel or carbon steel, built for demanding bushcraft tasks. The Kansbol offers partial tang construction with the unique profile grind, balancing carving and utility cutting. The Bushcraft series features 3.2mm thick blades with pronounced finger guards and integrated firesteel compatibility. The compact Eldris neck knife provides a short, stout blade for backup carry. Classic models include the Mora 2000, 510, and Basic series. All models have ergonomic polymer handles with TPE rubber grips and come with polymer sheaths, many with 90-degree spines compatible with ferro rod fire starting.