Helle Eggen Knife – First Impression
An Elegant Hunting Knife With Looks & Durability
I recently acquired a Helle Eggen knife after years of drooling over it’s beauty. After returning to Boulder, CO for a short visit this past January, a trip to the Fjallraven store was definitely in order. When I lived in Boulder I never had the extra funds to get one but always thought they looked amazing and seemed very durable, quality knives for the price. This year I purchased the Helle Eggen.
Helle is a knife maker that hails from Holmedal, Norway. As a producer of fine knives, Helle has been around since 1932. They seem and claim to be a maker of honest knives. Helle produces tools which are designed to stand the test of time by offering outstanding durability for specific uses in mind. On their webpage, Helle claims their knives are to look as good to the eye as they feel in the hand. I can say that my Eagan is no exception to this. It feels great right out of the box.
The Original Packaging
Helle Eggen Original Packaging
The Helle Eggen comes in an interesting packaging, a strong telescopic tube design which comes apart at one end to open. Pretty simple but as a former packaging rep, it is more interesting than the standard box or plastic bag some manufactures go with. As a bonus, this has the capability to be used as a storage container for the knife and sheath when they are not being used.
Unboxing The Blade
Helle Eggen Knife Contents
Upon first opening the cylindrical tube, I removed the knife and leather sheath but also found inside a cleaning cloth, user manual + warranty information. At this point, I couldn’t help myself from admiring the mirror-like blade and exquisite handle.
Eggen Knife Construction
Helle Eggen Knife & Cloth
Upon first glance, the Eggen looks to be well made, attractive and a very nicely assembled. Blade material on this knife is triple laminated stainless, with a drop point shape which is 3.1mm thick and 101mm in length. Philosophy behind the triple laminated design is focused on edge retention and corrosion resistance. The inner layer of this blade is what has the sharp point. This inner layer is able to be sharpened to a fine edge which is not as corrosion resistant as the outer layers. To protect the inner layer, there are two outer layers which are extremely corrosion resistant, but don’t hold an edge as well. The result here is an extremely functional blade that is purpose built for field use with minimal care until you get home to clean it.
Helle Eggen Curly Birch Handle
The curly birch wood Helle used to construct the handle is beyond beautiful. My example is close to the stock photo released by Helle and I am not disappointed at the difference. The shape is very nice, fits my hand well and it also incorporates a finger notch for added control and comfort.
Helle Eggen Curly Birch Handle
The Sheath Is Top Notch
What was great aside from the knife itself was the sheath which accompanied it. Made of top grain leather, the sheath fit the knife tightly and securely but had a very nice feel to the touch. It can be looped onto a belt for carrying but because of the finger notch is fit only for left side carry or cross draw for righties. Either way it is very nicely made and will last a long time with the proper care. Helle advises that periodical treatments of grease and/or wax will keep it supple and in good condition.
Helle Eggen Knife & Sheath
Time Will Tell With The Eggen
Overtime the knife’s durability will be tested and this will determine the overall utility of this tool. Helle has a great reputation for making knives that last and are very well constructed. This knife is a bit of a throwback in today’s world of wonder materials such as G-10 and modern Micarta but it is done very well. After a lot of use, I will release a follow up post outlining what my experience is with the Eggen and can’t wait to get this thing outside!
