Pallarès Solsona Navaja Folding Knife

Navaja is a term used in Spain to describe folding knives, and this pocket-sized example is as nice as they come. Made of thoughtfully-shaped olive wood, each knife is punctuated with three brass pins, and because of natural variations in the wood, no two Navaja look identical.

Each Navaja features a hand-fashioned, petal-shaped carbon steel blade, leaf-ground to a satin finish. Like the kitchen knife, and culinary shears, this is a forever piece made by a third-generation knife smith in the small town of Solsona, Spain, not far from Barcelona. Each blade is hand-stamped.

You'll reach for it at picnics, on hikes, or at the park. Small enough to tuck in a purse, knapsack, or pocket, we've used ours for slathering homemade butter, chopping just-picked chives and tarragon, diving deep into a jar of fruit compote, and chipping away at a wedge of Manchego. The handle fits four fingers, for a natural, comfortable grip.

Care: Carbon steel is harder than stainless steel and will hold its edge longer before needing to be sharpened. That said, it requires a bit of care and attention. Always remember to keep your knife dry, as carbon steel will rust when it remains wet. It is also natural for carbon steel to develop a lovely patina over time. Run a towel over the knife between uses and store in a dry place.

Smooth olive wood handle + carbon steel blade
Size open: 7 1/8
Blade: 3 1/8 inches
Made in Solsona, Spain