Veni, vidi, Rumici – I came, I saw, I designed. To feel the idea, to let the pen flow, to live the vision. Each of his designs bears a unique signature, characterized by adaptability, meticulousness, and graceful perfection. Tommaso Rumici (born 1983, Italy) is one of the most sought-after knife designers worldwide and has already completed commissions for the most renowned knife brands. His latest work: the powerful Böker 1969 Mach-1 Damascus . Although function and ergonomics are paramount, his painterly creations radiate an irresistible allure. Tommaso Rumici reveals below what a Clint Eastwood film has to do with it and what dream he still hopes to fulfill.
How did you first come into contact with the topic of knives?
Even as a child, I always carried a knife with me—whether hiking, exploring nature, or carving. I can still remember my first knife vividly: a classic Swiss Army Knife by Wenger with a wooden handle and slipjoint . In my town, there was a small cutlery shop called Coltelleria Scintilla. I went there regularly and began collecting knives. Over the years, I developed a deep friendship with the shop owners. As a teenager, I eagerly browsed the online forum of Italy's largest cutlery retailer, Coltelleria Collini, and attended more and more trade fairs. It wasn't long before I started putting my own designs on paper, which were certainly influenced by the industry's golden age towards the end of the 1990s.
When did you design your first knife?
In 2005, I designed a tactical knife with the intention of handcrafting it. I presented this proposal to my friends Rudy and Davide at Coltelleria Collini, who advised me to approach companies in Maniago, the Italian knife capital. I was awarded the contract by Viper, and the result was the Viper Fearless. My first commercial design on the market, and also Viper's first tactical military knife, which was immediately exhibited at Italy's most important arms fair. The success of this model was so overwhelming that Viper hired me for further projects, and even other brands expressed interest in my designs.
Is there someone you would describe as your mentor?
Not really. I owe my success to several people who supported me with advice and practical help. I also had the good fortune of meeting some of the most gifted knifemakers, who opened my eyes to entirely new perspectives on knife making. I must especially mention Moreno Franzin, a true genius, who was also responsible for the design of the Mercury Logan and collaborated with me on the Viper Free. Furthermore, I have learned a great deal from the companies I have worked with over the past 20 years.
What do you see as your greatest talent as a knife designer?
True to the motto of the legendary film character Gunny Highway, "Improvise, adapt, overcome!", I am able to improvise, adapt, and overcome potential obstacles. I achieve this by creating designs that are fundamentally different from one another and tailored to the requirements and production capabilities of each manufacturer. Combined with a clear style and an unmistakable design language, this results in a knife full of character. Every contour in my designs is meticulously planned and has its purpose. Another of my strengths is my keen sense of ergonomics. When I'm asked why someone should buy one of my knives, my answer is always the same: "Just hold it in your hand!"
Where do the ideas for your designs come from?
In principle, ergonomics and practicality are paramount in my designs. Only then do I consider the aesthetic refinements . Each project requires a different approach and fresh ideas. For knife "A," I develop the concept based on the manufacturer's specifications, while for knife "B," I carefully examine the manufacturer's portfolio to identify any gaps in their product range, or I even approach the manufacturers with my own independent designs. In the latter case, I'm not bound by their guidelines and can give free rein to my creativity. I always draw my designs by hand, drawing inspiration from forms in nature, technology, or art.
What do you like most about your job?
I think it's the variety. Every project is different, and I constantly have to reinvent myself. I'm always on the lookout for new technologies and can rely on a lively exchange with industry experts. I'm constantly discovering new materials, state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, knife types, and applications. The constant race for innovation makes projects possible today that were unthinkable just a few years ago. Furthermore, new challenges are my driving force, motivating me to always give a little bit more. After all, there are many good designers these days, as well as an increasingly demanding clientele. Designing a successful knife is anything but easy, but it's worth all the effort!
What does a typical workday look like for you?
No two days are the same for me, and fortunately, I don't fall into a typical work rut with the same tasks over and over again. On the contrary: some days I'm at the drawing board, others I'm working on orders from various manufacturers, and still others I'm conducting field tests or participating in training sessions with experts with whom I collaborate on the design of new knives. All of this keeps my mind fresh and gives me new inspiration for my designs. In addition, since 2009 I've worked as a tester and columnist for several firearms and knife magazines. Last but not least, I've recently contributed to several training programs for professional rescue workers, military and police officers, focusing on the effective use of knives, legal aspects, and dealing with armed assailants.
What projects are you currently working on?
I'm currently working on new pocket knives and fixed-blade knives. I've already found a manufacturer for some designs, while I'm still looking for others. But that's a perfectly normal process. At the end of 2023, I acquired a new CAD (Computer-Aided Design) program and am constantly delving deeper into the subject. I hope that the website update will finally be completed in 2024. Only a few of the 40 product lines I've designed throughout my career are currently featured there. At the moment, my complete portfolio can only be viewed on my Instagram profile.
Do you sometimes get fed up with knives?
Definitely not! My work with knives is so fulfilling and varied that boredom never even has a chance to set in. As an experienced user, a knife isn't just a design object to me, but the result of extensive research. There are still so many things I want to examine more closely, and experiments I'd love to conduct. Some of my innovative concepts haven't yet found a buyer or are still just drawings sitting in a drawer. Nevertheless, I do have a long-held dream I'd like to fulfill someday: to not only design knives, but also to manufacture them. I already have a workshop, but so far only wooden models, metal parts, or rough prototypes have come off the production line.
What's the best way for you to switch off in your free time?
Even though my free time is limited, I consciously make room for family, hobbies, and sports. I firmly believe that creative work needs this kind of balance to maintain a high quality of life. Currently, I keep fit by running, climbing, and doing gymnastics. Whenever time allows, I go hiking or travel with my girlfriend, Annabella. Navarre, our German Shepherd, is of course always with me. I read a lot and enjoy it, but sometimes I can't decide between literature and technical manuals.
Thank you for the interesting insights you have given us into your work.