Morakniv Classic Wood Splitting Knife (S) – Red Birch

The Experience

The Morakniv Classic Wood Splitting Knife (S) is a traditional two-handled woodworking knife built for splitting kindling, controlled carving, and drawknife-style material removal. Its short 4.53-inch blade sits between two barrel-shaped birch handles, giving the user balanced leverage and two-handed control without the length or bulk of a conventional drawknife.

The red-stained Scandinavian birch handles connect the tool to Morakniv’s Classic line, while the blunt-tipped 12C27 stainless steel blade keeps the emphasis on controlled splitting and carving rather than piercing. A fitted plastic sheath protects the edge during storage and transport.

Scientific Engineering

• Dual-Handle Construction: Two opposing handles allow controlled pulling, pushing, and downward splitting motions with both hands.
• 12C27 Swedish Stainless Steel: The blade uses Alleima stainless steel with more than 80% recycled content, combining corrosion resistance, edge retention, and relatively simple maintenance.
• Scandi Grind: The broad 22–24° Scandinavian bevel supports predictable wood removal and provides a clearly defined sharpening surface.
• Blunt-Tip Blade: The squared profile directs the tool toward carving, shaving, and splitting rather than stabbing or piercing.
• Full Rat-Tail Tang: The blade extends into both handles, creating a continuous structural connection across the tool.
• Stiff 2.5 mm Blade: The rigid blade resists flex during controlled kindling preparation and drawknife-style work.
• Shaped Birch Handles: Barrel-shaped grips and integrated finger guards support secure two-handed use during repetitive carving sessions.
• Protective Sheath: The included plastic sheath covers the sharpened working edge when the knife is stored or carried.

Boutique & Conservation Values

• Traditional Swedish Form: The red-stained birch handles preserve the recognizable styling of Morakniv’s heritage-focused Classic series.
• Two Tools in One: The knife functions as both a compact kindling splitter and a small drawknife for woodworking and craft projects.
• Made for Maintenance: The stainless blade can be resharpened repeatedly, supporting long-term use rather than replacement.
• Recycled Steel Content: Morakniv reports that the 12C27 blade contains more than 80% recycled material.
• Made in Mora: The knife is assembled and heat-treated at Morakniv’s factory in Mora, Sweden.

Steward’s Insight

This is not a conventional fixed-blade knife with an unusual second handle. It is a specialized woodworking tool designed to be controlled with both hands.

For kindling, position the edge across a small piece of wood and apply even downward pressure through both handles. For carving, use it like a compact drawknife to shave bark, flatten surfaces, reduce stock, or shape small wooden components. The short blade makes it especially useful where a full-size drawknife would feel excessive.

The handles are stained birch, so avoid prolonged moisture exposure and allow them to dry gradually if they become wet. Keep the blade clean and dry before returning it to the sheath.

This knife is ideal for: woodworkers and carvers | kindling preparation | drawknife-style carving | green woodworking | controlled two-handed material removal

Specifications

• Tool Type: Two-handled wood-splitting and carving knife
• Primary Use: Splitting kindling, carving, shaving wood, and drawknife-style craftsmanship
• Knife Length: 14.29 in. / 363 mm
• Overall Product Length: 14.29 in. / 363 mm
• Blade Length: 4.53 in. / 115 mm
• Blade Thickness: 0.10 in. / 2.5 mm
• Blade Steel: Swedish stainless steel
• Steel Alloy: 12C27
• Steel Manufacturer: Alleima, Sweden
• Recycled Steel Content: More than 80%
• Blade Treatment: Annealed and hardened
• Blade Hardness: 56.5 HRC
• Blade Grind: Scandi grind
• Grind Angle: 22–24° total
• Edge Angle: 37–39°
• Blade Flex: Stiff
• Tip Style: Blunt
• Tang Construction: Full rat-tail tang
• Handle Configuration: Dual handles
• Handle Material: Scandinavian birch
• Handle Finish: Red stain
• Finger Guards: Yes
• Sheath Included: Yes
• Sheath Material: Plastic
• Product Weight: 5.4 oz. / 153 g
• Country of Origin: Sweden
• Manufacturer: Morakniv
• Manufacturer Model: Classic Wood Splitting Knife (S)
• Approximate Shipping Weight: 0.75 lb.