Confident designs brimming with passion, emotion, and meticulous attention to detail – Italian Alessandra de Santis is a passionate knife designer and the face of Hydra Design. The knife division evolved from Hydra Armaments, her husband's company, which manufactures firearm accessories such as flash hiders and muzzle brakes for sporting, tactical, and hunting applications. Her creations are characterized by a distinctive design that combines unique details with uncompromising functionality and high utility.
How did you first come into contact with the topic of knives?
Knives have always fascinated me. And for me, it was really no different than for many other knife enthusiasts before me: the passion was ignited in early childhood. Growing up in the countryside, I always saw knives as useful tools rather than collector's items. Later, I became more and more immersed in the subject and began my own path in the knife industry. Incidentally, I can still remember my first knife perfectly; it completely captivated me. It was a compact pocket knife with a back lock, which I received from my father after we moved abroad. We were in a knife shop, and I wanted a large knife. My father looked quite bewildered until the owner remarked that the knife I had chosen might be a bit too big for the young lady. Then he showed me the small pocket knife, which I still own and keep in my display case. Perhaps it's thanks to that shop owner that I still rarely use smaller knives (laughs).
Before you designed your own knives, you spent years testing and reviewing knives. What led to this change in perspective?
Exactly, since 2011 I've been collaborating with several knife magazines, critically examining industrial knives. I still work with Italy's leading knife magazine to this day. Their test results have been invaluable in giving me a comprehensive overview of the knife industry. Combined with my passion for knives and the drive to improve, it was only logical to take the next step and design my own knives.
You are a trained chemist with many years of experience as a knife journalist, possess extensive knowledge of historical blades, and are also a self-proclaimed Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) enthusiast. To what extent does this help you with your knife designs?
I think it's generally fair to say that one should be willing to think outside the box in all areas to broaden one's horizons. My studies helped me gain comprehensive knowledge of steel and other materials. My passion for historical knives allowed me to delve even deeper into their origins, while practicing Filipino martial arts gave me an even better understanding of how to handle tactical knives. I can wonderfully incorporate all of this into my designs.
How long have you been working as a knife designer?
It all started in 2015 when I designed my first fixed-blade knife. Since this was more of a pastime, the dream initially languished in a drawer before taking concrete form in 2018 and being revived under Hydra Armaments, my husband's label. As early as 2019, the first collaborations with international knife manufacturers followed. So, I hope my journey isn't over yet, as I feel honored when pioneering and long-established manufacturers like Böker approach me for select projects.
Will you tell us what inspires you?
The source of my ideas isn't so easy to pinpoint. I'm often inspired by my surroundings – a particular shape or texture that might be suitable for the next handle scale. Generally, though, I proceed with a specific goal in mind, harmonizing the form and function of the knife with its intended use.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I would actually say everything. But what pleases me most are the many positive messages from knife enthusiasts who have purchased one of my designs or expressed their enthusiasm for my work. It's simply a wonderful feeling to know that my products touch people all over the world and play an integral role in their daily lives. The knife world is made up of amazing people. I've already made new friends in many countries, and I keep in regular contact with some of them.
And your husband? Does he share your enthusiasm for knives?
Definitely! We share a passion for knives and firearms; it's what brought us together, in a way. Besides, he's a gunsmith. He's never had any prejudice against my affinity for knives. When we moved in together, though, it was complete chaos. Knives everywhere you looked. That's just how it is with two crazy knife collectors. But one thing's for sure: there's never any argument about either of us spending money on knives or firearms. Passion unites and fosters understanding.
What do you do in your free time to relax or unwind?
There's quite a lot. I enjoy shooting, especially with precision rifles at long range. I'm also fascinated by archery and crossbows, although I'm not particularly good at them. Another passion of mine is carp fishing. As a contrast to all these outdoor activities, I love video games; due to the pandemic, you've probably seen me in front of the console a bit more often lately.
Do you sometimes get fed up with knives?
That hasn't happened to me yet. I also don't think it will happen to me anytime soon. Knives have always been my passion, and I'm happy to be able to pursue it professionally. But I don't rule out the possibility that certain work-related dynamics might develop that could be frustrating. For example, if things don't go as planned or a collaboration proves difficult. But that's just part of the job.
What projects are you currently working on?
Several exciting designs are already in the starting blocks. Unfortunately, the pandemic and the associated material shortages have caused unforeseen delays. Nevertheless, eight of my designs are still scheduled to be released this year. Furthermore, new projects and additional collaborations are planned.
What other advice would you give our customers?
I would like to express my gratitude to all those who have always believed in me and supported me on my journey as a knife designer. I have already received so much wonderful feedback, which fills me with both pride and immense gratitude. I see my work as a calling, a passion I live and breathe, and which constantly motivates me to grow.