Fällkniven AB is a Sweden-based manufacturer of knives and knife-related gear and apparel. Fällkniven was founded in 1984 in Boden by Peter Hjortberger. The company started importing knives and, in 1987, began designing knives. In 2009 Eric Hjortberger, the founder's son, took over as president of Fällkniven AB.
Pronunciation
Fell-knee-ven, pressure on first AND second syllables, where "knee" is pronounced with an audible 'k' and "ven" pronounced as in "raven" without the 'ra'. Fällkniven means "the folding knife" in Swedish.
Products
Fällkniven is best known as a supplier of military and outdoor knives, supplying the Swedish military. The Fällkniven model F1 has been the official survival knife for pilots in the Swedish Air Force since 1995. Models F1 and S1 are approved for U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine air crews. Fällkniven also produces outdoors-, hunting- and kitchen knives such as the "Hunting Knife", the "Fällkniven H1".
Manufacturing
Fällkniven is a Swedish company, but most if not all of its production is done by subcontractors. Early F1 knives made of ATS34 steel were manufactured in Germany by Linder-Solingen. Production has been moved to Seki Japan since Fällkniven replaced ATS34 steel with VG-10 and 3G core laminates, in its products. Hattori manufactures all of their fixed blades, and Moki manufactures their folders.
F1 Series variants
First military order for 10000 units. First series for civilian market, 15000 made, all numbered. F1 3G, 25 year special edition. 1000 units numbered on the back.
A1 Series variants
Fällkniven A1Z
Classified into a military-grade build, it boasts an ergonomic design, technical touch, and economical fabrication, which represent the top blend available in the markettoday. It also encompasses the water-repelling ability, which is ideal for extreme cold conditions. From start the knife could be purchased with either a leather sheath or a cordura sheath.
S1 Series variants
Very early all VG10. From start the knife could be purchased with either a brown open leather dangler sheath or a cordura sheath similar to the A1.
Special editions
Previous Fällkniven offerings that have a serial number or are of limited edition. No longer available in stores.
In November 2000, the black versions of models F1 and S1 were tested and approved for use by air crews in the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy. They met the requirements for function, design, strength and reliability of the Naval Air Warfare Center.
