Custom Filleting Knife made to order

Custom knife service from Skol Knives www.skolknives.co.uk

A Custom Filleting Knife Crafted for Christmas – X50CrMoV15 Steel with English & Japanese Oak

There’s something special about creating a knife that’s destined to be gifted. This custom filleting knife was commissioned as a Christmas present, and from the first sparks on the grinder to the final polish on the handle, the entire build was focused on producing a tool that blends precision, beauty, and durability.

Precision Built with X50CrMoV15 Steel

For this project, I selected X50CrMoV15, a high-performance stainless steel widely trusted in professional kitchens. Known for its excellent corrosion resistance, fine edge retention, and toughness, it's the ideal steel for a filleting knife that will see regular use around fish, moisture, and seafood prep.

Corrosion-resistant for wet environments

Takes a razor-sharp edge for clean, controlled cuts

Easy to maintain, making it perfect for everyday users as well as enthusiasts


This fillet blade was ground with a long, flexible profile designed to glide effortlessly through fish, allowing smooth, precise fillets with minimal waste.

A Handle Made From Two Cultures of Craftsmanship

One of the standout features of this knife is its unique handle. The customer wanted something meaningful, beautiful, and tactile—so I paired two iconic hardwoods from opposite sides of the world:

English Oak

Strong, traditional, and steeped in British heritage. Its tight grain and warm natural tone provide exceptional durability and a classic outdoor aesthetic.

Japanese Oak (Kashi)

A wood prized for its stability and strength, often used in high-end tool handles in Japan. Its lighter tone contrasts beautifully with the English oak and adds an elegant visual balance.

Joined with brass and black fibre spacers, the handle is shaped for comfort, control, and long-term durability. The blend of these two oaks creates a symbolic fusion—heritage craftsmanship meeting refined Eastern influence.

Custom Kydex Sheath for Practical Performance

To complete the build, I crafted a custom-formed Kydex sheath, offering:

Secure blade retention

Multiple mounting and lashing options

Weatherproof, low-maintenance reliability


Perfect for fishing trips, camps, or keeping safely stored in a tackle bag.

A One-of-a-Kind Christmas Gift

This filleting knife isn’t just a tool—it’s a personal gift, handmade from scratch and built to last a lifetime. Every detail—from the steel choice to the handle materials—was selected to reflect the recipient’s passions and appreciation for quality craftsmanship.

If you’d like to commission your own custom knife, explore more of my work at Skol Knives or get in touch to discuss a build tailored specifically to you.

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