The Mercator K55K is a traditional folding pocket-knife of historic origin, first produced in the iconic knife-making town of Solingen, Germany in 1867. Little has changed from the original design, yet despite being in production now for over 140 years, the K55K is surprisingly modern even by today's standards, exceeding the quality and design of many newer knives. Perfect as a working tool for stalkers and bushcrafters alike, it also makes an ideal gift for collectors of historic knives.
Here at Woodlore we are very excited to become a small part of the K55K's history, by way of being the only UK stockists of this legendary knife. In recognition of our belief in this product, we have added our own touch to the K55K by having an exclusive version produced just for us; this 'Woodlore model' features a custom handle in Reed Green, with the classic K55K logo engraved in black.
The K55K first gained popularity in the United States following World War II, when returning servicemen brought Mercator knives home from Germany. Since then, the K55K's reputation has grown and grown, with outdoorsmen all over the world discovering its compact size, light weight (only 76 g) and premium build quality. The locking blade is made from Stainless Steel, resulting in a knife that is built to last and easy to sharpen. Ray Mears recommends the RWS Quick Sharp as the perfect sharpener for the K55K.
After purchasing his first K55K, Ray Mears quickly discovered how well suited it was for use as a stalking knife. He went on to say that, when teamed with a small folding saw (such as the Flip 'N' Zip Saw), you have the perfect lightweight butchering set. Dan Hume, Woodlore's Head of Operations, has also been putting the K55K to the test, adding that it would make the perfect backup knife for many situations, thanks to its slim size and low weight; in Dan's words - "You’d barely notice that you were carrying it."
The knife's unique name originates from the company's founder, a Mr. Kauffmann. Mercator is the Latin translation of 'trader', which in turn is the English meaning of Kauffmann. The model name, K55K, comprises of the founder's initial, followed by the street number of the company's original address – Hochstrasse 55. The second 'K' is the initial of the German word for cat – katze - and the famous 'leaping cat' logo can be found engraved on the side of the handle. Indeed, for many years the knife was simply known as the 'Black Cat', or 'Jumping Cat' by American soldiers.
Details:
- Handle colour: Reed Green
- Exclusive to Woodlore
- Blade material: Stainless Steel
- Blade length: 9 cm
- Handle length: 11 cm
- Locks in open position
- Lock release lever
- 'Leaping Cat' and K55K logos engraved on handle
- Nail nick on blade
- Lanyard attachment
- Weight: 76 g
Price:
£20.00 (inc VAT)
1 Review of Mercator K55K Folding Knife - Reed Green
Average rating:
100%
0.3
If, like me, you’re on a limited budget this practical, affordable classic is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint. Impressively sharp already, a very few light stokes through the ceramic shears of my RWS Quick Sharp were all that was needed to achieve a razor’s edge. I expect to be carrying the K55K for years to come, whenever I venture out.
Thanks to Woodlore for another great product with the usual lightning fast delivery.
Mercator K55K Folding Knife - Reed Green reviewed by customer John Owen on 2nd November, 2011
To the best of our knowledge, all kit specifications are accurate, although these can vary at times. We aim to dispatch all orders by the next working day.
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