With Roots in the Iron Age

The knife is one of humanity’s oldest tools. Archaeological finds show that people in Sweden were already making blades during the Iron Age for hunting, cooking, and everyday tasks. Dalarna offered the perfect conditions: access to iron, wood for handles, and water power to drive forges and grindstones. Over generations, these resources and skills created a lasting tradition of craftsmanship.

Östnor – the Village of Knives

During the 19th century, industrialization brought knife-making together in the villages of Östnor, Öna, and Färnäs. Pioneers like Finn-Anders Andersson, Bud-Carl Andersson, and Katrin-Jöns Persson established workshops that carried forward the local craft heritage, producing knives along with timber sleds and other tools.

In 1891, Frost-Erik Erson founded his factory in Östnor, marking the start of more large-scale knife production. A few years later, in 1912, Krång-Johan Eriksson and Lok-Anders Mattsson started their own knife factory. Over time, their businesses would become important parts of what later developed into today’s Morakniv.

The knives from Östnor quickly gained a following—first across Sweden through peddlers, and soon abroad as well. By the turn of the 20th century, tens of thousands of knives were produced every year, an impressive number for a small village in Dalarna. It was also during this period that the term “Morakniv” began to be used to describe knives originating from the region.

Read more about the history of Morakniv.

A Living Heritage

Despite fires, closures, and restructurings, knife production remains in Östnor. The history shows how natural resources, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit could build an entire industry in a small village. A knife from Mora is therefore more than just a tool – it is part of Dalarna’s cultural heritage. Each blade tells a story about the people who made it, the journeys it took through Sweden, and how a small community in Dalarna became known worldwide for its craftsmanship.