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Puma
Published: April 16th, 2025
Puma was founded in 1769 by Johann Wilhelm Lauterjung in Solingen, Germany, a city with cutlery roots nearly as old as the city itself. In its early years, the company operated as a family business, producing general cutlery and tools for local markets. Like many Solingen-based manufacturers, Puma built its reputation through generations of quality-focused craftsmanship, gradually expanding its operations and clientele throughout Germany and Europe.
By the mid-20th century, under the leadership of Ernst Lauterjung, the company began refining its focus on outdoor, hunting, and sporting knives. In 1953, Puma launched a systematic development of knives in collaboration with professional hunters and forestry experts. This led to the creation of what would become one of the brand’s most iconic models, the Puma White Hunter, developed in 1956 for East African safaris undertaken by the German military. Its robust design, versatile blade, and exceptional durability helped set a new standard in hunting knife performance.
- Puma was founded in 1769 by Johann Wilhelm Lauterjung
- Puma was established in Solingen, Germany (pictured above)
Puma’s international breakthrough came in 1957, when the company partnered with Kurt Gutmann of the Gutmann Cutlery Company in New York, marking Puma’s official expansion into the United States. This strategic move significantly increased Puma’s visibility and prestige among American hunters, outdoorsmen, and collectors.
Throughout the late 1950s, 60s, and 70s, Puma knives were sold through prominent sporting goods stores and mail-order catalogs across the U.S. The brand quickly became a staple among hunters and knife enthusiasts for its hand-finished quality, Rockwell-tested blades, and the unique date-stamping system that allowed users to identify the year of production.
In the 21st century, Puma introduced two major sub-brands, Puma IP and Puma TEC, to adapt to a constantly evolving knife market and offer a broader range of products at various price points.
Launched in 2003, the Puma IP (International Production) line represented a major strategic move for the brand. Developed in collaboration with select Spanish manufacturers, these knives are produced outside of Germany but are designed, supervised, and quality-checked by Puma in Solingen. Puma IP knives emphasize durability and functionality while retaining many of the stylistic hallmarks of traditional Puma designs. This line allowed Puma to offer more cost-effective knives for general outdoor use while maintaining its reputation for quality.
The Puma TEC line debuted in 2008, aimed at the modern knife user interested in EDC (Everyday Carry), tactical tools, and multitools. Unlike the more traditional hunting styles Puma was known for, TEC knives feature modern silhouettes, one-handed opening mechanisms, ceramic and Damascus blades, and materials like G-10 and stainless steel. This collection is produced globally, often in Asia, under Puma’s strict quality control, and was developed to serve customers looking for functionality, modern looks, and value.
Today, Puma remains a respected force in the global knife industry, known for blending centuries-old craftsmanship with modern innovation. Its premium Solingen-made knives continue to uphold the brand’s legacy of quality, while the IP and TEC lines provide versatile options for a broader range of users—from hunters and collectors to tactical professionals and everyday carriers.
With over 250 years of knife-making experience behind it, Puma continues to embody the same values of precision, heritage, and adaptability. Whether in the hands of a seasoned outdoorsman or displayed in a collector’s case, each Puma knife reflects the rich legacy of Solingen cutlery and the lasting reputation of a brand that has earned the trust of generations.
What to Buy
The Puma SGB Hunter's Pal is a 7.9" full-tang fixed blade knife featuring a 4" satin-finished drop point blade made from durable 1.4116 stainless steel. The olive wood handle with mosaic pins offers a secure grip, enhanced by thumb jimping for control. Weighing just 4.6 oz., it’s ideal for hunting, fishing, or outdoor use. A premium brown leather sheath with a belt loop provides convenient carry. Precision-crafted in Solingen, Germany, this knife combines classic style with high-quality materials and construction, ensuring dependable performance and longevity for years of use in the field.
The Puma SGB Grand Trapper is a 7.4" traditional slip joint pocket knife featuring two satin-finished blades, a 3.3" clip point, and a 3.25" spey, crafted from durable 1.4116 stainless steel. Its polished Jacaranda wood handle is accented with nickel silver bolsters, a brass shield, brass pins, and liners for a refined, classic look. Weighing just 3.4 oz., this knife is perfect for everyday carry and makes an excellent gift for any knife enthusiast. Combining timeless style with practical function, the Grand Trapper offers dependable performance and elegant craftsmanship in a compact, easy-to-carry form.
The Puma SGB Buffalo Hunter is a 10" full-tang fixed blade knife with a 5.7" modified clip point blade made from 1.4116 stainless steel and finished in satin. The olive wood handle features a brass bolster and guard, brass pins, an antique medallion shield, and a lanyard hole for added utility. Weighing 7.7 oz., this knife offers a solid, balanced feel for hunting and outdoor tasks. It comes with a premium leather sheath with a belt loop for convenient carry. Built with quality materials and traditional craftsmanship, it's a reliable tool and a standout in any collection.
Written By
Drew Clifton
Drew is the lead writer for SMKW's Knives 101, crafting informative and engaging content for the world’s largest knife store. With expertise in knife history, design, and functionality, Drew delivers articles and product descriptions that educate and inspire knife enthusiasts at all levels.
Expert Reviewed
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.