Hultafors HVK GH Knife
Manufacturer: Hultafors, Sweden
Model: HVK GH
Blade material: SK5 high carbon steel
Blade length: 93mm
Blade Width: 2.5mm
Grind: Scandanavian
Handle material: High density PP plastic with Santoprene rubber grip
Overall weight: 80g
Overall Length: 208mm
Price: £5.34
Source: Tools direct
Shipped from: UK
Introduction
The Hultafors HVK GH is a budget swedish craft knife based on the traditional Puukko of finland.
These knives are the staple tools of Swedish craftsman ranging from wood carvers to electricians but recently have also been repurposed by the growing number of "Bush crafters" and "Preppers". Hultafors knives promise offer high quality at bargain prices and this model comes in at a very reasonable £5.34 which is a good start.
The knife blade is made from SK5 high carbon steel which is hardened to around 58-60 HRC, promising high strength and a long lasting edge.
Blade thickness is 2.5mm and length measures around 93mm. The knife isnt full tang, meaning it does not extend to the end of the handle. Rather this is more three quarter tang which is a good thing. The blade will stand less chance of breaking in the handle if excessive force is applied. Compared to some bargain knives (which have very short rat tail tangs) this adds a little extra piece of mind.
The spine of the blade is rough and rounded. Not finished with a flat edge. Nothing that cannot be remedied with a file after all, they are selling these at a low price so attention to the cutting edge is more important.
The handle is made from tough polypropylene plastic with a Santoprene vulcanised rubber covering which ensures a high performance grip.
Ergononically the handle is well shaped to fit most hands although would probably suit those with a shallower grip profile.
When it comes to criticisms then the only one would be the quality of the cutting edge. Its sharp and everything but cut at different widths on either side of the blade. Hard to explain really. It's not the end of the world but it's annoying when you are reminded of it.
Overall build quality is good for the money and as the price is so low they are pretty much disposable. Who cares if you lose it?
As a tool its offers a wide range of uses from peeling vegatables to the fine carving of wood. Probably not the type of knife for prying or using as a axe - its not heavy duty. A useful knife to have about for everything else though. Not bad at all.