When it comes to filleting and boning knives, precision and sharpness are the name of the game. As an avid angler and knife enthussiast, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various blades, but recently, I had the pleasure of putting Swibo Knives to the test. In this review, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on two of their offerings: the 20cm filleting knife and the shorter 15cm boning knife.
First impressions matter, and Swibo Knives certainly knows how to make a statement. Upon opening the package, I was immediately struck by the razor-sharp edge of both knives. It’s evident that Swibo takes pride in their craftsmanship, and these knives are no exception.
One standout feature that caught my attention right away was the included sheaths. These sheaths are not your run-of-the-mill blade covers; they are thoughtfully designed with a belt loop. As an angler, I can attest to the value of this feature. It’s incredibly handy on the boat, at the cleaning table, and when storing the knives away. You won’t have to worry about misplacing your knives or fumbling around and cutting yourself with them during crucial moments of your fishing trip.
Now, let’s dive into the real test: filleting. I used both the 20cm filleting knife and the 15cm boning knife to fillet some King George whiting, a delicate fish that requires finesse and precision. To my delight, both knives proved to be the perfect companions for this task.
The 20cm filleting knife, with its flexible blade and impeccable sharpness, glided effortlessly through the whiting, leaving behind clean fillets. Not a single precious ounce of flesh was wasted. Moreover, the knife exhibited excellent manoeuvrability, making it a breeze to navigate around the intricate rib cage of the fish.
The 15cm boning knife, though shorter, also demonstrated its mettle. It excelled in precisely removing bones and tackling tight spaces. Whether it was tackling the spine or working around the fish’s head, this knife proved its worth. It’s not limited to whiting either; I can see it being equally effective for filleting snapper and other small to medium-sized fish.
One of the key selling points of Swibo Knives is their high carbon stainless steel construction. These blades are not only sharp but also durable. They’re built to withstand the rigors of filleting and boning, and their Rockwell rating of 56-58 speaks volumes about their hardness and resilience.
The flexibility of the blade is another feature worth highlighting. It’s just right for the delicate art of filleting. You need a blade that can bend and curve to follow the contours of the fish while maintaining a sharp edge, and these knives deliver exactly that.
When it comes to the handles of Swibo Knives, they have certainly taken ergonomics into account. The design features a hilt that accommodates both thumb and finger placement, depending on your preferred grip style. However, it’s worth mentioning that there is room for improvement in the handle department, particularly in terms of grip.
When you’re out there cleaning fish, your hands are bound to get wet and slimy, which can make handling a knife a bit tricky. While the handles on Swibo Knives are functional, they could benefit from a different material or texture that provides a more secure grip. In this aspect, some other brands we’ve tested recently, such as Gieser and Morakniv, offer handles with superior grip properties.
It’s not a major issue that would deter me from using Swibo Knives, but it’s worth noting for those who prioritize a secure hold, especially when working with slippery fish.
For those concerned about maintenance, Swibo Knives has got you covered. They are dishwasher safe, which is a big plus for those who prefer the convenience of easy cleaning. However, I’d recommend hand-washing them to prolong their sharpness and longevity.
It’s also worth noting that these knives are made in Switzerland, a country renowned for its precision and craftsmanship. Swiss quality is synonymous with excellence, and these knives proudly uphold that reputation.
One final point that adds to the appeal of Swibo Knives is their lifetime warranty. It’s a testament to the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability and performance. It’s reassuring to know that you’re investing in knives that will stand the test of time.
In conclusion, Swibo Knives has truly impressed me with their 20cm filleting knife and 15cm boning knife. From their sharpness and flexibility to their thoughtful design and Swiss craftsmanship, these knives are a cut above the rest. Whether you’re an angler looking for the perfect tools to clean your catch or a culinary enthusiast in search of precision blades, Swibo Knives deserves a place in your kitchen or tackle box. With their high carbon stainless steel construction, dishwasher-safe convenience, and a lifetime warranty to boot, you can trust that Swibo Knives will be your reliable companions for years to come.
