Mercury Mushroom Knife with Brush and Ruler

Mercury Mushroom Knife with Brush and Ruler

A Loyal Companion and a Practical Tool

This folding foraging knife is designed for maximum efficiency and convenience. Its specially curved blade allows you to easily and cleanly cut a mushroom low to the ground without damaging the precious mycelium. Immediately after cutting, you can clean your prize of any dirt, pine needles, or debris using the sturdy bristles on the end of the handle. This means you bring home mushrooms that are already mostly clean. On the wooden handle, you'll find a ruler marked in centimetres to quickly measure your trophies.

Proper Foraging Etiquette:

Remember that you are a guest in the forest. Always slice the mushrooms; never pull them out by the root, as this destroys the mycelium. It's good practice to cover the spot with leaves or moss to prevent the mycelium from drying out. This knife makes it easy to forage responsibly.

From the History of Mushroom Knives

Mushroom hunting is a tradition with deep roots across Europe. In the past, people used any sharp knife they had on hand, often simple work knives or kitchen knives. Specialised mushroom knives as we know them today only began to appear in the 20th century. Their design was inspired by gardening or vintner's (wine-grower's) knives, which had a similarly curved blade ideal for precise, clean cuts. The addition of a brush, ruler, and a folding mechanism was a logical step to increase the comfort and safety of every forager.

An Interesting Fact: The Knife as a Badge of Passion

Owning a quality mushroom knife isn't just about practicality. For many enthusiastic foragers, it's a symbol of their passion and an almost ritualistic item that no basket should be without. This particular knife comes from Italy, another country with a strong mushroom tradition (everyone knows "funghi porcini"), which only underscores its authenticity and quality craftsmanship.

Care and Maintenance for a Long Life

To ensure your knife serves you for as long as possible and retains its beauty, give it a little care:

• Blade: After each use, wipe the blade dry, especially if it has been in contact with damp soil. You can occasionally treat it with a drop of knife oil or food-grade oil.
• Handle: The wooden handle will appreciate an occasional rub with linseed or mineral oil to prevent the wood from drying out and cracking.
• Brush: Keep the bristles clean. Remove any debris after use. If they become very dirty, you can gently wash them with lukewarm soapy water and allow them to dry thoroughly.

What to Avoid:

Never wash the knife in a dishwasher. The harsh detergents and high heat would permanently damage the wooden handle and could also dull the blade's edge. Also, do not use the knife for prying or as a screwdriver—it is a cutting tool and is not designed for other purposes.

Technical Specifications

• Blade Material: Stainless Steel
• Blade Length: 70 mm (7 cm / approx. 2.75 inches)
• Blade Shape: Curved (ideal for cutting mushrooms)
• Handle Material: Dark, varnished wood
• Features: Brush with sturdy bristles, ruler on the handle, chain with a carabiner clip
• Weight: approx. 120 g (approx. 4.2 oz)
• Manufacturer: Mercury, Italy