A new collection of handcrafted kitchen knives, forged in the heart of rural Hampshire, is set to bring traditional British bladesmithing to a new generation of serious home cooks and quality-conscious consumers.
Created by cutler and bladesmith Alexander O’Neill, founder of Gorse Knives, the 2026 collection continues the maker’s commitment to crafting knives using premium Japanese steel and time-honoured techniques from his workshop in the South Downs National Park.
The collection includes designs such as a 25cm bread knife, 15cm nakiri and 25cm slicer with laurel wood handles, alongside the Yakisugi walnut magnetic knife rack and the Kennington, Oval and Methley collections.
Every Gorse knife is forged, ground, finished and assembled by hand, with each piece designed to be used daily and treasured for decades.
Alexander O’Neill said: “A good knife becomes deeply personal. It’s something that accompanies countless meals, celebrations and everyday rituals. My aim has always been to create tools that are beautiful, functional and made to last a lifetime.”
Originally trained as a silversmith before turning his attention to bladesmithing, O’Neill has developed a reputation for distinctive artisan kitchen knives.
Produced in limited quantities at the Hampshire forge, the 2026 collection reflects growing consumer interest in craftsmanship, provenance and products made slowly, skilfully and by hand.
