Craftsmanship, Passion, and Tradition in the Heart of Amsterdam: Visiting Ricasso Knives
On Oude Hoogstraat, right in the heart of Amsterdam, Ricasso Knives serves as a sanctuary for blade enthusiasts, run by knife lovers for knife lovers. Although the shop officially opened its doors in December 2025, the story behind it runs much deeper. Owner Otto Duistermaat is continuing a proud legacy: Ricasso Knives is the direct continuation of the iconic shop The Old Man Knives and Tools, which was located on the exact same street. Having worked there for years, Otto brought not only his extensive expertise and full maintenance and sharpening service, but also a seamless transition of knife culture into his new venture.
Otto’s personal passion for sharp edges began with a fortunate find. As a child on vacation in Switzerland, he stumbled upon an old Victorinox Alox Soldier. However, the spark truly ignited in 2011 while he was searching for a quality fixed blade knife. Exploring the vast array of blade shapes, handle materials, and brand histories, he completely fell in love with the world of cutlery. What started as a search for one tool turned into a lifelong appreciation for design and craftsmanship.
This dedication naturally built a strong connection with the renowned Solingen manufacturer, Boker. Even during the era of The Old Man Knives and Tools, Boker was a mainstay on the shelves. When Otto founded his business in August 2025, that partnership carried forward without missing a beat. Describing the relationship between his shop and Boker, Otto sums it up simply: pure love. One of his favorite aspects of working together is placing orders with Boker rep Hajo Wilkes, followed by sharing dinner and catching up afterward. In Otto’s words, Hajo is truly one of a kind.
When asked to name his absolute favorite knife from the Boker lineup, Otto doesn't hesitate: it's the Boker BFF Packlite.
"It’s the one and only fixed blade I actually carry daily," Otto explains.
Proudly Made in Solingen, the BFF Packlite wins over enthusiasts with its clever construction. According to Otto, its greatest feature is its remarkably thin and lightweight profile. It delivers all the strength of a full-tang fixed blade without feeling bulky, yet remains large enough to handle real-world cutting tasks with ease. Customers at Ricasso Knives respond to it immediately. As a shiny, beautifully sculpted piece of solid steel, it’s the kind of item everyone simply wants to own—whether they intend to use it every day or add it to a growing collection.
Whether looking for expert advice, a professional sharpening service, or simply wanting to hold the Boker BFF Packlite in hand, a visit to Otto’s shop in Amsterdam is a must for any knife enthusiast!
Address:
Ricasso Knives
Oude Hoogstraat 35
1012 CD Amsterdam
Netherlands