The Open-Handle Alaskan Ulu Knife brings a centuries-old rocking blade into a Damascus build that stands apart from every other Ulu in the lineup. A large open cutout sits in the center of the blade, giving your hand a direct grip on the steel itself rather than a separate handle. That finger hole shifts your grip forward and closer to the cutting edge, which puts more control behind each rocking motion. Rose Damascus covers the blade in swirling circular patterns mixed with flowing wave lines, one of the more visually complex Damascus patterns available. The etching pulls deep contrast between each folded layer, making the grain shift across the blade with every change in light.

Dark rosewood frames the top of the blade on both sides of the open cutout. Two silver pins secure the wood to the full-tang steel beneath. The wood sits flush against the blade with no bolster, keeping the transition clean and simple. The knife ships with a brown leather sheath for safe storage between uses.

Open-Handle Alaskan Ulu Knife at JW Steel Crafts with a rose Damascus blade, open center finger hole, and natural rosewood top handle.

The History Behind This Blade

The Ulu traces back to Inuit culture, where it served as a primary tool for food preparation and hide work. Rose Damascus forging creates its circular swirl pattern by manipulating the steel billet in a specific rotation during the forging process. Rosewood handles have long been paired with fine cutlery for their grip and natural warmth. JW Steel Crafts forges this blade by hand, keeping the traditional Ulu rocking shape intact.

Blade Performance

Rose Damascus holds a sharp edge through repeated kitchen and fieldwork use. The curved cutting edge rocks cleanly across a board in one controlled motion. The open finger hole puts your grip closer to the blade for precise, detailed cuts. Full tang construction keeps the knife balanced during rocking and chopping tasks. As high-carbon steel, the blade benefits from a light oil after each use to prevent rust.

Handle Construction

Dark rosewood covers both sides of the open cutout at the top of the blade. Two silver pins run through the wood, locking it firmly to the full-tang steel below. No bolster interrupts the wood-to-blade transition, keeping the design clean. Rosewood resists moisture well and holds up under repeated kitchen handling. Full tang construction keeps the knife balanced and solid in hand during use.

Best Used For

This knife suits home cooks who want more grip control during chopping and mincing. The rocking motion handles herbs, vegetables, and pizza with ease in one smooth pass. The open finger hole makes it easier to use for those with arthritis or limited wrist mobility. Collectors value the rose Damascus pattern as much as the Ulu's practical function. As a gift, it suits home chefs, outdoor cooks, and Damascus knife collectors equally well.

Add this handcrafted Open-Handle Alaskan Ulu Knife to your cart today — the rose Damascus grain is unique to every blade.

Specifications Table

FAQs

What makes this Ulu knife different from a standard Ulu?
The open center cutout lets your finger grip the blade directly, putting more control behind every cut.

Is this blade hand-forged Damascus steel?
Yes, forged with a rose/raindrop Damascus pattern, with swirling circular grain unique to each blade.

What is the handle made from?
Natural rosewood secured with two silver pins on a full tang blade.

Does this knife include a sheath?
Yes, a brown leather sheath is included for safe storage.

Is a rocking Ulu knife good for people with wrist pain?
Yes, the rocking motion reduces wrist strain compared to a standard chopping knife.

Does Damascus steel need special care?
Yes, wipe dry and apply a light oil after use to prevent rust on the high-carbon steel.

Would this Ulu knife make a good gift?
Yes, it suits home chefs, outdoor cooks, and collectors who appreciate Damascus craftsmanship.