Marttiini: Blades born of tradition, sharpened by time

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Joel Forsman

What began in a small blacksmith’s workshop in Rovaniemi in 1928 has grown into a global story of resilience, innovation and beautiful, intricate design. Nearly a century later, Marttiini’s Nordic knives are a testament to design that truly stands the test of time.

In the very heart of Finnish Lapland, where the winter nights are long and the summer sun barely sets, a blacksmith named Johan Henrik “Janne” Marttiini set up a small workshop in Rovaniemi in 1928. His vision was simple yet ambitious: to create knives that were as beautiful as they were functional. Nearly a century later, Marttiini remains synonymous with meticulous craftsmanship, endurance and the rugged beauty of the North.

Lynx knife: the Ilves – the company’s very first design – is still in production, proving that the designs well and truly stand the test of time.

“Janne Marttiini had one goal: to make people happy. That’s still the guiding principle of everything we do,” says Martin Luht, product development and brand manager at Marttiini. “For us, making people happy means creating a sense of connection – between people, their craft and the stories they create. A Marttiini knife is often there when moments become memories, when traditions are passed on and life feels closest to nature. Our knives are a bridge between hand and heart,” he adds.

Marttiini: Blades born of tradition, sharpened by time

From the North of Finland to the world

The Marttiini story is also one of innovation and courage. In the 1950s, exporting was rare in Finland, but Janne’s son Toivo saw an opportunity, and Marttiini brought his filleting knives to the American market, where they soon became an essential tool for anglers.

Today, Marttiini’s products are used by fishermen in Alaska, hikers in the Alps, and knife collectors around the world. The company has evolved, too: its manufacturing now takes place in Pärnu, Estonia, alongside its parent company Rapala VMC’s lure production.

Marttiini: Blades born of tradition, sharpened by time

“Here in Pärnu, we’ve combined tradition with modern technology,” Luht explains. “We’re adding automation, experimenting with new materials, and building an in-house team of designers, engineers, and material scientists, to name a few. At the same time, some of our traditional knives are still made using the same methods as in Janne’s time.”

Marttiini: Blades born of tradition, sharpened by time

He adds that the company’s success is also rooted in strong team spirit and close collaboration. “There’s a real sense of synergy here. Everyone – from the office to the factory floor – works together towards a shared goal: building a better future for the Marttiini brand and its customers. Our product development team works hand in hand with manufacturing, and our customer support team rarely misses a reply. Teamwork really does make the dream work, and we hope that this positive energy reaches customers through every product we make.”

Marttiini: Blades born of tradition, sharpened by time

The puukko – the traditional Nordic knife – is at the heart of Marttiini’s craft. Recognisable by its sleek design, sturdy blade, and natural materials such as curly birch, leather, and reindeer antler, each knife is both a tool and a piece of cultural heritage.

“We’ve always worked with the same materials because we know them inside out. They’ve proven themselves for nearly 100 years. That said, we’re constantly researching new, modern materials. We want to stay rooted in tradition while also responding to what’s relevant today,” Luht says.

Marttiini: Blades born of tradition, sharpened by time

Sustainability is also a key focus for Marttiini’s future. The company is continuously optimising its production and exploring more sustainable materials and packaging solutions. “Since we create tools meant to be used in nature, it’s only natural that we also take responsibility for protecting that same environment.”

Quality remains a cornerstone for the company: every knife comes with a three-year product and material warranty, and Marttiini is developing new ways to help customers maintain its tools.

Marttiini: Blades born of tradition, sharpened by time

Designs that are still going strong, a century later

Among Marttiini’s wide range, a few stand out. The Ilves – the company’s very first model – is still in production, proving that the designs well and truly stand the test of time. The Classical Filleting Knife is a favourite among anglers, while one-of-a-kind handmade knives attract collectors worldwide.

Looking ahead, Marttiini will unveil its 2026 Annual Knife, Järvi, a filleting knife paying homage to the waters that inspired the brand’s legacy.

Marttiini will unveil its 2026 Annual Knife, Järvi, a filleting knife that pays homage to the waters that inspired the brand’s legacy.

Marttiini’s customers are as diverse as its knives: fishermen, hikers, hunters, scouts, collectors and nature enthusiasts. “Our knives are for anyone who loves being outdoors. They’re tools, but also companions on adventures,” Luht says.

Visitors to Finland can explore the brand at its two flagship stores in Rovaniemi, the birthplace of the company, or in Helsinki. For those further afield, Marttiini ships worldwide through its online store and retail partners, with products available everywhere from Nordic outdoor shops to Walmart in the United States.

As the company approaches its centenary, Marttiini continues to honour its founder’s philosophy of authenticity and commitment, while embracing modern design and global reach. “That balance between our heritage and innovation is what makes us unique,” Luht concludes.

Marttiini: Blades born of tradition, sharpened by time