Fällkniven Mod. F1

The F1 survival knife has been around for a while now (it’s been the official survival knife for pilots within the Swedish Air Force since 1995), and I’ve always been impressed with the no-nonsense look of the original laminated VG10 blade and black Thermorun moulded handle. However, this is the first chance that I’ve had to look at the ‘faux ivory’ Micarta version (a maroon Micarta handled version is also available). Unlike the standard F1, the Micarta version is completely handmade and as the name suggests it features ivory coloured Micarta grip scales sandwiching the tang and fixed with two polished steel pins (the Thermorun grip on the original model is moulded around the tang).

The ivory coloured grip really sets off the clean lines of the F1, yet it loses none of the technical design of the original. The appearance is enhanced even more by the nickel silver bolster with its single quillion cross guard. The ergonomically shaped handle is hand-filling and gives a good solid grip without the need for chequering or a textured finish. A lanyard ferrule pierces the base of the handle.

The drop point blade is 100mm (just under 4”) and is formed from heavy gauge 4.5mm laminated VG10 stainless steel, making it tough, hardwearing yet relatively easy to keep a razor sharp edge. This is a well made, versatile, tough and above all reliable tool – perfect for its purpose as a survival knife.

In practical terms the F1 will do just about any task that is asked of it for hunting or fishing, on a boat or around camp; with its full tang construction to the very base of the grip, this is one tough cookie despite its elegant facade.

The Micarta F1 comes complete with a smart, deep seating, black leather sheath with a press stud fastening safety cover. An extremely tough injection moulded Zytel scabbard is also available as an optional extra, but truthfully in my opinion this is more suited to the purely functional style of the original F1.

Some people may prefer the original and equally practical, Thermorun handled F1, especially those that like military looking survival knives. However, if you appreciate something that is handmade by a craftsman, and you prefer your knife to have classic good looks - as well as being able to do the job - then like me you may prefer the test knife with its ivory Micarta handles and polished fittings. The only downside is the price; the ivory Micarta version of the F1 on test (or the maroon Micarta model) will set you back £283.95, whereas the standard F1 would cost you around the £100 mark. Come on, you know you can find the extra somewhere…

PRICE: £283.95