Association « Suomen Puukkoseura Ry » annually elects the best Finnish cutlery.
Suomen Puukkoseura Ry is an association founded in 1995 with more than 1,200 members passionate about the traditional Finnish craftsmanship of the knife. The association aims to preserve and promote the rich tradition of Finnish knife, both nationally and internationally. It organises the « Puukkopäivät » May. Major event during which the best Finnish cutlery is dedicated.
Association events:
- Knife manufacturing competition: competitions where members can show their skills.
- Exhibitions of knives: presentations of different types of knives and manufacturing techniques.
- Sales: opportunities to buy knives and accessories related to the production of knives.
- Study trips: excursions to learn more about manufacturing techniques and the history of knives.
- Training: workshops and courses to help members improve their knife manufacturing skills.
- Puukkopäivät: the main event that takes place every year in May, celebrating the culture and crafts of the Finnish knife.
These events aim to promote interest in the production of knives and strengthen the community of enthusiasts.
About Puukkos
For more than 2,500 years, puukko is an integral part of life in Finland. He used to hide with his wearer, offering him security and comfort. He could save him from an ice clearing, free a horse from the overwhelming weight of a fallen load, build a shelter for the night or cut wood for a campfire. Even today, the puukko remains an essential tool for Finns and accompanies their wearer during hunting, fishing and hiking.
THE BEST FINLAND COSTS
Finnish National Knife Championships 2026 at the Finnish Wildlife and Hunting Museum in Riihimäki, from 26 May to 27 September 2026.
The winners from 2011 to the present
2011 Rauno Vainionpää
2012 Teuvo Sorvari
2013 Pekka Tuominen
2014 Erik Nylund
2015 Anssi Ruusuvuori
2016 Pasi Jaakonaho
2017 JT Pälikkö
2018 Eino Hell
2019 Risto Mikkonen
2020 Ilari Mehtonen
2021 Mauri Heikkinen
2022 Jukka Pekka Peltonen
2023 Eero Kovanen
2024 Eero Hanninen
2025 Jari Liukko
2026 …
Video Puukkopäivät
The main event that takes place each year in May, celebrating the culture and crafts of the Finnish knife.
Made in Finland
Knife days
Our flagship event is the annual knife party, held in May. During these two days, the official medals of the Finnish championship are awarded to the best cutlery in the country in different categories, and the Coutelier of the Year is designated.
We are also involved in organizing the Kauhava knife festival and the Hyvinkää event. Our members also take part in various events, such as hunting fairs and firearms. Some of them also won international cutlery competitions.
Other masters puukkoseppämestari Finnish
The title of puukkoseppämestari (Puukkos blacksmith master) is a highly selective Finnish official qualification. There are only about 15 people who hold him. The best known and respected are:
Major figures
Pasi Jaakonaho
He is one of the few contemporary artisans to engage so accurately in the traditional Sami gestures and a contemporary aesthetic. His engravings on reindeer wood are a living demonstration of the mastery of his art.
→ Read article: Pasi Jaakonaho, master blacksmith based in Inari
Jukka Hankala
One of the very first masters (title obtained in 2009). Very famous internationally. Specialist of traditional puukkos and folding knives. Elegant style, irreproachable finishes.
Pekka Tuominen
Another pioneer of the title of master (2009). Known for its clean, minimalist and perfectly proportionate lines. Often long waiting list (1 to 2 years). Completely artisanal work, including damas.
Arto Liukko
Master since 2009. Specialist in traditional Finnish puukkos and models « festive » (Ornamentalized). Works with his son Jari Liukko (also master since 2018). Company: Puukkopaja Liukko.
J.T. Pälikkö
Recognized master, artistic and technical style very advanced. Also makes more contemporary pieces and swords.
Markku Vilppola
Very respected master, excellent level of finish and design.
Mikko Haverinen
Master and trainer important. Has formed many blacksmiths.
Other current masters and great names
Mikko Inkeroinen – Master, very productive, excellent level.
Teuvo Sorvari – Specialist in rare Vöyrin puukko.
Mauri Heikkinen – Linked to the Tommi tradition
All « Vuoden puukkoseppä » (year forgeron) and/or hold the title of master.
How do I recognize them?
The real puukkoseppämestari have passed a demanding national exam (practical test + technical memory). It's not a marketing title. Many of them regularly exhibit at Fiskars and European fairs. Their parts are usually within a range of 400 to 2000 € Depending on the complexity.
Report on Finnish Knife Crafts
Crafts of the Finnish knife, including knives of type « puukko »has a long tradition and is known for its quality and functional design. These knives are often made by hand by artisans and are appreciated for their usefulness and aesthetics.
This art continues to evolve, adapting to new trends while preserving its rich heritage. Successful artisans are those who integrate sustainability, customization and innovation while remaining faithful to traditions.
Current market trends
1. Sustainable practices:
- Ecological materials: more and more artisans favour the use of sustainable and ecological materials, such as local wood and recycled steel.
- Local production: the trend towards local production is growing, with increasing demand for knives made in Finland.
2. Personalization:
Consumers are looking for custom knives, which encourages artisans to offer options for engraving and customizing materials.
3. Aesthetics and design:
Modern designs, combining tradition and innovation, are gaining popularity. Craftsmen integrate contemporary elements while respecting traditional styles.
4. Technology and crafts:
The use of modern manufacturing technologies, such as laser cutting for complex motifs, is increasing, while maintaining craftsmanship.
5. Online Market:
The online sale of handcrafted knives is growing, allowing artisans to reach a wider audience. Platforms like Etsy and sites specializing in crafts are booming.
6. Education and workshops:
Interest in learning knife manufacturing techniques is increasing, with many workshops and courses offered by experienced artisans.
Conclusion:
Thanks for reading this article, think about sharing it if you liked it. I really liked the short video of the Puukkopäivät Blade Show, even though it dates from 2023. Friendly atmosphere and especially an incredible concentration of puukkos and various knives! Typically, the kind of place I should leave my blue card at the entrance 😉
I have also proposed many links to Finnish cutlery. Some do not have a website, some have old sites, others are at the forefront. It is always interesting to see everyone's work, knowing that the age range of these enthusiasts ranges from 20 to 70 years.
I'm still surprised at one thing, it's the little participation of the Sami in this contest... There is hardly any puukko in engraved horn. Nothing about it. Duodji or Sami craft excellence. Despite national participation, the association's headquarters are located in southern Finland. This may explain this...
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Photo credits: the first illustration image was created by @Grok. The photos of the three galleries come from the site suomenpuukkoseura, all these puukkos participated in the contest. The other photos belong to me.
Warm regards,
Hallo Philippe. Yes, it is very interesting and attractive.
The reminder of French law is welcome. When I came back from Norway in 2023, I had two puukkos, each one for sons-in-law, and I confess that I was shaking my ass at airport police checkpoints! Anyway, they have them and I think they put them in a safe place (which I'll make sure of!)
See you soon on Nature Photography.
Jacques