Like most outdoors oriented people, I am always on the lookout for a belt knife that will be able to be used in a variety of situations, a knife that would be useful for hikers, campers, military personnel, hunters etc. Generally, an all purpose blade.

I set out searching around on the net, to find a knife I have not seen before. I wanted something that wasn't just a trend design. I wanted a knife that could be used to hack through a tree limb and then be used around the camp kitchen. I wanted a knife that could be used to dress out game and then be used to fight with. Basically , a survival knife. What I found was two knives, the F1 and A1, from Fallkniven, a swedish knife company with a lot of experience.

The folks at Fallkniven were fantastic. I sent them an email, asking to do a review on their products, they sent back that they were on their way. I have been in correspondence with the folks there, and they have always responded very fast to my requests for information. Excellent customer service, and that says a lot in today's market. Now lets get to the knives.


The Model A1

The Model A1 is a large all-purpose knife designed for heavy duty usage. The blade is made of an extremely hard and tough steel ( VG10 ) which will withstand a considerable amount of stress. The knife features an ergonomically correct shaped handle that allows you to maintain you grip in cold and wet situations. The handle and blade combination make it comfortable to chop, and still maintain the ability to perform daily tasks as well, The full tang goes entirely through the handle, and gives you a striking surface on the butt end of the knife. The knife is also available in an all-black design. There are occasions when you wish to avoid shiny metal, and at times like that, the A1in black is a perfect choice. The surface coating is made of a super hardened Teflon coating which is more wear resistant than normal coatings and is 100% resistant to saltwater. These knives come with a sturdy Cordura belt sheath.




Total Length: 11 inches
Blade Length: 6.25 inches
Weight: 10.59 oz
Tang: Full Tang, Visible at the handle's end
Steel: VG10
Blade Hardness: 59 HRC
Handle: Kraton



The Model F1

In 1988, Fallkniven started to develop what would later become the new Swedish Air Force survival knife. The requirements were to combine strength and reliability with or low weight and convenient size, trying to get the best of both worlds. The end design is a modest, almost uninteresting appearance - free of any of the current trends - A damn fine all purpose knife. The F1is also made of extremely strong VG10 steel. It has a very safe, comfortable grip and a design that makes the knife useful for hunting, fishing and just about any everyday chore. When you really need it, it can take much more than you think. The Model F1 is a handy knife that fits all hands and is tremendously versatile. You also have the option of going with a black finish on this knife as well. You can choose from two kind of sheath - an open sheath, which hangs 2" lower on your belt or a pouch type, which features a full flap that safely houses the entire knife.


Total Length: 8 inches
Blade Length 3.7 inches
Weight: 4.92 oz
Tang: Almost full Tang
Steel: VG10
Blade Hardness: 59 HRC
Handle: Thermorun Elastomer


Fallkniven is setting a new standard with their products. Important factors such as technical design, ergonomics and economy are brought together within the models F1 and A1, and represent the foremost concept available today. The knives meet and surpass by far established standards for strength, personal security and value for money.

The making of a survival knife is a serious business, since a life might depend on its function. Fallkniven has spent more than ten years researching the design of the knives, which have been used within the Swedish National Defense since Fall 1995. The sub-arctic climate, has had a decisive influence of the final design of these truly very special knives - winter is certainly the bottle-neck for all kinds of survival.

Models F1 and A1 represent an entirely new philosophy with respect to knives for survival use. At the same time they combine the experience of generations of knife manufacturing with modern technology. The handy size, the well thought-out design, the incredibly tough steel are only a few of many details making these knives something you can rely on.

For more information, world wide distributors and pricing contact Fallkniven at www.fallkniven.se

Editors Note: Special Thanks to Peter Hjortberger of Fallkniven, a truly helpful individual.