Otter-Messer Mercator Copper Handle

The "Mercator" blades were first forged in 1867 by Heinrich Kaufmann & Sohne, Indiawerk. Their reliability made them popular with Kaiser Wilhelm's Army in WWI. Eventually they garnered acclaim from civilians as well. They are virtually indestructible and have been passed down from generation to generation.

Otter-Messer, who has been manufacturing blades in Solingen since 1840, revived the manufacture of the Mercator pocket knife in 1995 when Heinrich Kaufmann & Sohne, Indiawerk went bankrupt. This version of Mercator is slimmer and shorter than the 'Kat.' It doesn't lock, but the construction is so tight, you can work with confidence knowing the blade isn't going anywhere. Plus: copper.