+++ Introducing a new addition to our collection: Inspired by the mine – the Steiger pocket knife +++ The OTTER 'Bergman' - 'Knife of the Year 2025' in the folding knife category in MESSER magazine! +++ “Treasure chest” – Exceptional pocket knives – unique pieces in limited editions +++ WORK SALE – View and buy on site – Mon to Thu 9.00 to 15.30 + + +
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MERCATOR knives


The pocket knife classic for 150 years

Mercator_badge_1920x600px

MERCATOR knives


The pocket knife classic for 150 years

Mercator Knife: The Pocket Knife Classic

The Mercator knife is a legend among pocket knives and a true classic of Solingen knife design. It was designed in Solingen in 1867 at the knife and blade smithy Indiawerk Heinrich Kaufmann & Söhne, where it was hand-produced in large numbers for many years.

Handcrafted from High-Quality Materials

For over 150 years, the Mercator knife has been produced almost unchanged in Solingen, Germany. Since 1995, the Mercator brand has been part of OTTER-Messer, and the knives are still meticulously handcrafted in our factory today, maintaining the highest standards of quality. Thus, Mercator and OTTER-Messer are closely connected—not only through the Otter logo embossed on the knife handle.

Mercator or Kaiser Wilhelm Knife?

The Mercator knife is also known as the Kaiser Wilhelm knife. Although it was not originally designed as a military knife, Kaiser Wilhelm's soldiers quickly appreciated the qualities of the Mercator knife. It became an essential tool at the front. This is where the colloquial name "Kaiser Wilhelm Knife" originates. Many soldiers from both World Wars relied on this versatile pocket knife. However, it was never an official army equipment item.

From Germany to the World

After World War II, American soldiers brought the Kaiser Wilhelm knife to the USA. There, too, the pocket knife quickly gained popularity. However, it gained a rather notorious reputation: from a practical lifesaver and all-round knife in the 1960s and 1970s, the Mercator knife became the most commonly used weapon in the infamous Bronx neighborhood of New York City. Today, the Mercator knife is a reliable companion for travel and outdoor activities worldwide. It is also a favored tool in the household, DIY, and crafts, thanks to its robustness.

Functional, Reliable, Robust, and Indestructible

Then as now, the Mercator knife impresses with its characteristics. It is:

  • functional,
  • compactly slim,
  • reliable,
  • extremely robust, and
  • nearly indestructible.

The Classic Reimagined

Functional, robust pocket knives don’t have to sacrifice elegant, modern appeal. In addition to the traditional designs of the Mercator knife, our online shop offers new models that, for example, vary in color from the well-known classic while preserving the classic Mercator silhouette. With its tried-and-true slim handle and classic blade shape, the outdoor knife remains true to its historical line even in modern design.

Materials like brass, copper, and Damascus give the new Mercator knives a special charm. Now equipped with a stainless steel clip, the new Mercator from OTTER-Messer is even more functional and practical: whether on a belt, pocket, or backpack—thanks to the clip, your knife is always within reach. A must-have not just for outdoor enthusiasts!

The Mercator Multi

Based on old patterns and yellowed drawings, we have reissued the multifunctional pocket knife Mercator Multi. The handy multi-tool for your pocket is equipped with four tools:

  • locking knife blade for cutting and carving,
  • awl for loosening knots and piercing holes in leather and fabrics,
  • can opener, and
  • corkscrew.

Custom Laser Engraving

We can engrave your pocket knife with your name on request.

Sharpening Service

Our sharpeners will restore your knife with professional craftsmanship, including knives from other manufacturers and brands.

Pocket Knife Workshop

Do you want a truly individual pocket knife? In our pocket knife workshop, you can build your own knife. Sign up now!

Buy Pocket Knives

In our online shop, you will find numerous handcrafted pocket knives.

We ship to most countries in the world
Handcrafted quality from Solingen
Made in Germany
Hotline +49 (0) 212 337829