This Seaworthy Sailor’s Knife Is Forged From Century-Old Nautical Salvage

Much like any other popular and diverse product category, knives, multi-tools and everyday carry have particular tried-and-true materials that brands of all stripes gravitate toward … but century-old Cumarú wood is not typically found on that list.

That rare material, along with its unique shape and quality-driven construction, help Best Made’s seaworthy new Sailor’s Knife stand out from the pointy-ended crowd.

Best Made Co.

A pirate’s life knife for me

The Sailor’s Knife design dates back to 2003, when Robert Herder, the Solingen, Germany workshop that has made knives under the windmill mark since 1872, answered the call of the German Navy to build a tool that could keep up with life at sea.

Although elegantly simple on the surface, the Sailor’s Knife has plenty of lore in its backstory.

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The 5-inch drop-point fixed blade is made with German Stainless 1.4197 steel, a refinement of the well-regarded Niolox tool steel, which is alloyed with niobium to maintain a fine grit structure.

Best Made Co.

This particular practice helps protect the knife’s edge against chipping and wear, without going brittle.

It’s also naturally resistant to the ravages of salt water … making it even more appealing for the sailors amongst us.

Best Made Co.

The Sailor’s Knife’s blade isn’t the only aspect that is impervious to the deep blue sea’s more damaging qualities.

The 5-inch handle is made with an ultra-rare material that has literally sat at the bottom of the ocean for more than a hundred years: Cumarú wood (Brazilian Teak) salvaged from the bottom of the Panama Canal, where it had rested since 1913.

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Because of its century underwater, the wood is harder, more dense and more stable than it was on the surface.

For the modern Sailor’s Knife, that storied wood has been paired with brass rivets and an oversized lanyard hole, giving it a heritage look that complements the backstory.

The included sheath is made with cowhide and will mold to the knife over time and use.

Although the new release’s high price tag may seem high, its historical background and “made to be passed down” quality tend to make the $300-plus expense a little more palatable.

Availability and pricing

The Sailor’s Knife is available now on Best Made Co.’s website, retailing for $320 apiece.

Best Made Co

Best Made Co Sailor’s Knife

• $320 at Best Made Co

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