Midgards Messer

Midgards Messer

Published: September 18th, 2024

Midgards Messer logo

Midgards-Messer, which has rapidly grown to become a renowned name in the knife-making industry, was founded by Dirk Hofmeister in 2017. The company is based in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, and has quickly established itself as a leader in both the design and production of high-quality knives, with a unique emphasis on integrating modern technology with traditional craftsmanship.

Dirk Hofmeister's journey into the world of knives began at a young age. Growing up in Tabarz, Thuringian Forest, Hofmeister started collecting knives when he was just nine years old. This early passion eventually led to a significant collection, boasting around 1000 knives by the time he was 47. However, despite owning numerous knives, Hofmeister felt that none met his standards of perfection. This realization prompted him to sell his entire collection and start creating his own knives, which marked the beginning of Midgards-Messer.

The first knife that Hofmeister designed was the "Boker Plus URD," a knife with interchangeable handles that could be personalized using 3D printing. This innovation was a precursor to the company's unique knife-making approach, combining traditional handcrafting techniques with modern 3D printing technology. Midgards-Messer is noted for being the only company worldwide that utilizes 3D printing for the handles and sheaths of their knives, offering unparalleled customization options.

The knives produced by Midgards-Messer are characterized by their robust, angular designs and thick blades, drawing inspiration from Nordic mythology. Each knife bears a name from this rich cultural heritage, a concept inspired by Hofmeister's daughter, who was writing a novel about Norse mythology at the time. This thematic element not only adds a layer of storytelling to the knives but also sets them apart in the market.

Dirk Hofmeister

- Midgards-Messer was founded in 2017 by Dirk Hofmeister (pictured above)

- Midgards-Messer is based in Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Boker Plus URD

- Dirk Hofmeister's first design was the Boker Plus URD (pictured above)

- Midgard-Messer knife designs draw inspiration from Nordic mythology

In addition to their unique design philosophy, Midgards-Messer is dedicated to high functionality and outstanding quality. The company has developed over 220 models to date, each reflecting Hofmeister's deep understanding of what makes a knife effective. This knowledge is rooted in his extensive experience with knives and his background in security services, where he gained practical insights into the requirements of tactical knives​.

Midgards-Messer caters to a wide range of customers, including outdoor enthusiasts, collectors, and tactical professionals. The company employs a team of 12 people who support various aspects of the business, from production to customer service. In December 2022, Midgards-Messer expanded its reach by opening a branch in the USA, further solidifying its presence in the global market.

Midgards-Messer's success is attributed to its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer engagement. The company actively involves its community in the design process through platforms like Facebook, where fans can contribute ideas that sometimes make it into production. This open approach to design and development has helped Midgards-Messer build a loyal following and continuously improve its products​.

Midgards-Messer has carved a unique niche in the knife industry by seamlessly integrating traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Dirk Hofmeister's vision of creating highly functional, robust, and customizable knives has resonated with a diverse range of customers, from outdoor enthusiasts to tactical professionals and collectors. With a firm foundation in quality and innovation, Midgards-Messer continues to set new standards in knife making, embodying a blend of historical inspiration and modern ingenuity that appeals to knife enthusiasts worldwide​.

Written by Drew Clifton


What to Buy

The Midgards Messer Shield Sights folding knife is a masterpiece of precision engineering, designed for durability and superior performance. Its 3-inch CPM-D2 steel Tanto blade features a robust 0.19-inch thickness, ensuring exceptional edge retention and toughness. The titanium handle scales, tip-up pocket clip, and spring steel backspacer provide a lightweight yet sturdy construction. A unique locking pin can be screwed into the handle, transforming this tactical folder into a solid fixed blade. With an overall length of 6.69 inches, the Shield Sights is perfect for everyday carry, seamlessly blending premium materials with innovative design for optimal reliability and functionality.


The Midgards Messer Hugin boasts a satin-finished 3.94” N690 stainless steel Wharncliffe blade with a fuller, spine jimping, and a finger ring guard for a secure grip during cutting tasks. Its black Raven handle scales, crafted from milled aircraft aluminum, feature a 3D texture for an enhanced grip. With a full tang and a lanyard hole, this knife ensures durability and versatility. Measuring 8.07” overall and weighing 7.62 ounces, the Hugin includes a molded Kydex sheath with a belt clip for easy carry. This limited-edition knife combines aesthetic appeal, inspired by Norse mythology, with top-tier materials for reliable performance in any scenario.


The Midgards Messer Little Berserker is the epitome of quality and performance, designed for those who demand excellence in their everyday carry tools. This fixed blade knife features a 3.62" D2 tool steel clip point blade, offering outstanding durability and edge retention. The satin finish enhances its aesthetic appeal and adds protection against corrosion. The high-quality titanium handle, with a gray two-tone finish, provides strength and lightweight performance, while its ergonomic contours ensure a comfortable and secure grip. With an overall length of 8.66 inches and a weight of 6.35 ounces, the Little Berserker is a substantial yet manageable EDC option.


Expert Reviewed

T.C. Barnette

T.C. Barnette

T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.