The most recognizable traditional Spanish navaja would have to be those from La Mancha, a region that includes Albacete and Toledo. Instantly recognizable, with distinct curves and unique palanquilla lock. I wanted to share some different Spanish knives, from outside Castile.
- Above is a slipjoint by Pallares in Solsona, Catalonia. Below is a friction folder by Lombardero in Taramundi, Asturias.
The Pallares is in a style the manufacturer calls "Comun" with a leaf shaped blade and inward angled handle. Most of these have simple translucent plastic handles, but this example is oak. The blade is carbon steel, and the slip joint has a nice halfstop and isn't too stiff.
Most Tarramundi style knives are friction folders, like this one. Generally, they have very long bolsters and box wood handles that widen toward the end. The wood in this example is painted with a traditional pattern, but they are often decoratively burned or carved. There are many small scale manufacturers producing these, and a wide variety of blade profiles, ranging from sheepsfoot to an opinel-like yatagan shape.
