Antonini
Antonini is a family-owned knife manufacturer from Maniago, Italy — a town in the Pordenone province with a centuries-long tradition of producing knives, blades, and cutting tools dating back to the Middle Ages. Founded in 1925 and now in its third generation, A.E. Coltellerie srl continues to produce folding and fixed-blade knives by hand, combining Maniago's deep-rooted heritage with modern manufacturing methods. Every Antonini knife is hand-assembled, finished, and sharpened at the Maniago facility — ensuring individual quality control on every single piece.
Old Bear – A Collection Built on a Century of Tradition
Antonini's most iconic line is Old Bear — a series of folding pocket knives created to mark the company's 90th anniversary (1925–2015). Old Bear is defined by its clean, ergonomic profile, handles crafted from walnut, olive, or laminated wood, and a blade in AISI 420 steel hardened to HRC 54/56. The signature detail is a brass locking ring — a patented twist-lock mechanism that secures the blade in both the open and closed positions. Old Bear is available in sizes from S to XL (blade lengths 7–10 cm), with the premium edition featuring Japanese San Mai 67-layer VG10 damascus steel. The series draws collectors who value authentic Italian craftsmanship and timeless design.
Work and Rescue Knives – The SOS Line
Antonini goes well beyond the classics. The SOS (Search & Rescue) line comprises knives developed in collaboration with the Italian fire brigade, civil defense, and the Red Cross — purpose-built tools for cutting seatbelts, materials, and cables in emergency situations. SOS knives are equipped with a cable-cutting hook, a glass breaker, and a sharp cutting point — a full set of rescue tools in a single, compact knife. The work knife range includes agricultural knives with hook and sickle blades for pruning vines and branches, as well as knives designed for gardening, fishing, sailing, and construction. Antonini also produces knives for electricians and cable technicians.
Production – 300,000 Blades a Year
The Antonini facility in Maniago produces approximately 300,000 blades annually — an impressive output for a manufacturer with a significant level of hand labor involved. The regional Maniago mark and "Made in Italy" stamp on every knife stand behind the quality of materials and craftsmanship, backed by the company's lifetime warranty on workmanship. Antonini also releases limited collector editions, including Old Bear San Mai models featuring 67-layer VG10 damascus steel — issued in runs of 60 individually numbered blades.
Antonini – Italian Classics for Collectors and Everyday Users
Antonini knives are held in high regard by knife collectors, hunters, and enthusiasts of traditional blade culture. The Old Bear series is especially popular as a gift and as a daily EDC for those who appreciate natural materials and classic Italian craftsmanship. SOS and work knives find their way into the hands of rescue professionals and outdoor gear enthusiasts alike.
Antonini at Militaria.pl
In the Antonini category at Militaria.pl you'll find Old Bear folding pocket knives, SOS rescue knives, and utility and agricultural knives from this Italian manufacturer based in Maniago. Every knife is a genuine piece from a century-old workshop — durable, hand-finished, and covered by the manufacturer's lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship. Discover Italy's knife-making heritage with Antonini.
