Arno Bernard Knives

Since 2002, the Bernard family has been crafting knives in the South African province of Limpopo, captivating collectors and users worldwide. What began as a small workshop is now a manufactory that combines state-of-the-art CNC technology with uncompromising handcraftsmanship.

As the official European partner, we offer these knives directly from South Africa, including all unique and special models.

From fixed blades to folders: The story of a passion

Arno Bernard Sr. and his sons began their journey with handcrafted hunting knives. Fixed blades, which became known for their robustness and beauty. In 2015, the first CNC machine expanded the possibilities without sacrificing craftsmanship.

The 2020 pandemic became a turning point. The Bernards revamped their business model and focused on high-quality pocket knives at fair prices. The result: the Rinkhals (2020) and the iMamba (2022). Two pocket knives that immediately caused a stir in the industry.

iMamba – The modern pinball machine with a South African soul

The iMamba is the flagship of Arno Bernard's folding knives. A framelock flipper with ball bearings, its craftsmanship rivals that of significantly more expensive knives. The iMamba is also available as a non-flipper version (German version), where one-handed knives are subject to stricter laws.

Technical features:

• Böhler M390 steel (63 HRC) for high cutting edge retention and corrosion resistance
• Titanium frame with skeletonization, weight approx. 109 g
• Ceramic ball bearings for soft opening
• Drop-point blade with 3.15" (80 mm)
• Mirror-polished or stonewashed surface
• Handle scales made from South African natural materials: kudu bone, warthog ivory, mammoth, desert ironwood

Each iMamba is unique. No two handles are alike. You see the exact knife you will receive, with all its natural grain and characteristics.

In international forums, the iMamba is regularly compared to Chris Reeve knives. The tolerances are precise, the centering accurate, and the feel exceptional.

Rinkhals – Tradition meets innovation

The Rinkhals combines classic slipjoint design with modern manufacturing quality. This modern pocket knife classic does without a locking mechanism, but offers a well-designed safety feature.

Technical features:

• RWL-34 steel or Damasteel Rose, mirror polished
• Innovative slipjoint mechanism with "safety" at 90°. The spring relaxes when opening, allowing you to safely remove your fingers.
• Titanium construction (frame, clip, screws), weighs only 65 g
• 2.8" (71 mm) blade with nail nick and thumb serrations
• Hand-stitched leather sheath with matching bead on the lanyard
• Full-frame (3.7") with a compact blade

The Rinkhals is ideal for everyday use. Lightweight, elegant, and thoughtfully designed.

What distinguishes Arno Bernard

Vertical integration

Everything except the ceramic ball bearings is manufactured in South Africa. Screws, spacers, clips, bearing housings: every part is produced in our own workshop. This control over every production step ensures the highest quality and precision.

Each knife is unique.

Because natural handle materials are used, no two knives are identical. Each kudu bone has its own unique texture, each piece of warthog ivory its own individual coloring. You choose your specific knife, not just a model.

Hand-polished surfaces

Arno Bernard relies on mirror-polished blades, a finish that forgives no imperfections. Many manufacturers avoid it for precisely this reason. The Bernards seek out this challenge because it demonstrates that no shortcuts have been taken.

Fair pricing

Thanks to direct manufacturing and short distribution channels, you get excellent value for money for the quality delivered.

Materials with a history

The handle scales are sourced sustainably from South African forests. Every material is treated with respect.

• Kudu bone: Light, elegant, with natural grain.
• Warthog ivory: Cream to brown tones, highly dense
• Springbok horn: Dark, high-contrast appearance
• Giraffe bones (stabilized): Exceptional, rare, full of character
• Mammoth ivory: Thousands of years old, with a unique patina
• Desert Ironwood: Classic precious wood for timeless elegance

Each of these materials is selected, cut, and fitted to the knife by hand.

From the first cut to the final polish

An Arno Bernard knife goes through dozens of production steps. CNC machines create the rough shape, but the finishing touches are done by hand: every edge is broken by hand, every blade is individually ground and polished, and every handle is individually fitted.

The result is a knife with precise balance, a buttery-smooth folding mechanism and a convincing feel.

Your next knife

Whether you are looking for the modern precision of the iMamba or the timeless elegance of the Rinkhals: Here you will find South African knife craftsmanship that is made to last for generations.