Knifemakers with an edge

In a shed somewhere in Adelaide, two old high school friends decided to make a knife. But it wasn't just any knife—it was the beginning of something much bigger.

Ramon Elzinga and Shannon Dolman, both with decades of experience in their respective fields, founded Koi Knives in 2015. Their story is one of craftsmanship, innovation, and a shared passion for creation.

Forged in Steel

Shannon Dolman, the son of a blacksmith, has spent the last two decades mastering steel manufacturing. His expertise spans various forms of steel craftsmanship, but his true passion lies in knife making. Often found in his shed, sleeves rolled up and deeply immersed in his work, Shannon’s meticulous attention to detail has been a cornerstone of Koi Knives.

Ramon Elzinga, on the other hand, has dedicated the past 20 years to cooking and knives. A participant in the second season of MasterChef Australia in 2010, Ramon decided to channel his energy into creating exceptional cooking tools rather than dishes after his early exit from the competition. His obsession with perfection in culinary tools perfectly complements Shannon’s steelwork expertise.

The Evolution of Koi Knives

Koi Knives initially focused on kitchen knives, launching with two core ranges: The Big Red Kitchen and BBQ Collection, and the Koi range. The former fuses Japanese forged steel with classic Western-style blades, while the latter draws inspiration from traditional Japanese blade shapes. These collections set the foundation for Koi Knives’ reputation for quality and innovation.

The Big Red Kitchen and BBQ Collection

  • Japanese Forged Steel: Ensures sharpness and durability.
  • Western Style Blades: Designed for versatility in the kitchen.
  • Perfect for BBQ Enthusiasts: Ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping.

As the brand grew, so did its offerings. Koi Knives expanded into Champagne sabres, steak knives, and outdoor and camping knives. Each new product maintained the same high standards of craftsmanship and design that had become the brand’s hallmark.

The Aviary Collection

In 2022, after years of focusing primarily on kitchen knives, Koi Knives introduced their first Every Day Carry (EDC) Pocket Knife. The initial attempts were met with mixed results, but Ramon and Shannon’s determination led to the creation of the Aviary Collection, a series of pocket knives inspired by Australian native birds.

The inspiration struck when a prototype blade’s shape resembled a bird’s beak. This sparked an obsession with designing knives that mirrored the beauty and uniqueness of Australian birdlife. The Aviary Collection features knives named after native birds, each with a distinct design and handle material.

Aviary Collection Highlights

  • Magpie: White resin and wood handle.
  • Crow: Dark wood and black resin handle.
  • Kookaburra: Light maple and turquoise resin handle.
  • Galah: Bright pink handle.
  • Glossy Black Cockatoo: Black handle with a touch of red resin.

Each knife in the Aviary Collection is crafted for everyday use, designed to be as indispensable as a phone, keys, or wallet. These are not survival or tactical knives but practical, beautifully crafted tools for daily life.

The Showroom and Community

From their humble beginnings in a spring factory in Woodville North, Koi Knives has grown significantly. The team now operates from their showroom and workshop on Goodwood Road in Clarence Park. The showroom not only displays their full range of knives but also features works from local artists and creators, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

As Koi Knives continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: the dedication to crafting exceptional knives that blend functionality with artistry. With over 800 native birds in Australia, the Aviary Collection promises many more unique and beautiful designs in the future.

For those who appreciate the art of knife making and the beauty of well-crafted tools, a visit to the Koi Knives showroom is a must. Whether you are a professional chef, a home cook, or simply someone who values quality craftsmanship, Koi Knives offers something special for everyone.


330 Goodwood Rd, Clarence Park

koiknives.com

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We would like to acknowledge the Kaurna people as the custodians of the lands and waters of the Adelaide region.

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