Folding Knives

Historical folding knives have been found dating from the Roman times. Several finds from the Viking era also testify to the popularity in the early Middle Ages. The most famous are the finds of Viking folding knives from Birka, are dated to the 9th/10th century. While knives with a weapon character were more likely to be represented in the Germanic and Celtic culture, the Viking knives further developed into a multi-purpose knife.

The fields of application of historical folding knives

Our folding knives are not only decorative, but are also suitable for light cutting work. They are still used today in many outdoor activities, for example when cutting bark or cutting mushrooms. In the army camp on the medieval market you can do all the smaller work, for example chopping ingredients or cutting rope.   

A folding knife is particularly handy for carrying on the go. In the Middle Ages, clothes usually had no pockets, but instead they carried bags on the belt in which the folding knife could be stored.

Types of historical folding knives

Our replicas have handles made of wood, bone or horn. Some are rather simple, while others are decorated. You can also choose from various blade shapes such as Drop-Point or Sheepfoot. We also offer folding knives made of Damascus steel. Researchers date the earliest European finds of Damascus steel to the Iron Age, so Damascus steel folding knives are conceivable in the times of the Celts, Romans and Vikings. Most folding knives from the early Middle Ages or earlier have a swivel, therefore they are also called swivel knives. In this form, the thumb is pressed against the handle, so that the blade progression does not loosen and the historical folding knife remains open.