The best all round Puukko? That's a bold claim. KPP knives are not high-priced customs, neither are they plastic handled Moras. They sit comfortably somewhere in the middle (but the upper of the middle).
KPP use Lauri blades like Wood Jewel or Ahti, but I would argue there are three main differences that set them apart: (1) the blade has been reprofiled to alter the rough Lauri factory edge. KPP has brought that rough grit scandi edge up to an almost mirror polish. He has added a relatively fine microbevel (possibly with a buffing wheel) that cuts paper effortlessly right out of the box; (2) the fit and finish is nicer. The handle on this is truly custom quality. Granted, this is the higher-priced, leather-stacked handle, not just wood, but it is flawlessly constructed; and (3) KPP sheaths are "top-shelf". Wood Jewel and Ahti have functional sheaths, but this one also has form. It is sleek, elegant and understated. I'm an amateur leather worker and am copying the design for future personal projects.
How does this compare to the long-standing Finnish brand: Jarvenpaa? From what I've learned Jarvenpaa is sort-of the Finnish equivalent of America's W.R. Case & Sons (long history, loyal collectors, striving to maintain quality despite demand). I also own the Jarvenpaa Utility knife (bought elsewhere). Except for the handles, these two knives are in the same class. Jarvenpaa grinds its own blades, instead of using Laurin blanks. However, when the two go head-to-head, KPP still takes the lead. My Jarvenpaa blade needs some work to thin the edge and reduce the size of the microbevel (which is more of a secondary bevel). The scandi edge on the Jarvenpaa isn't polished (which can be rectified with a little time if you care about such things) Also, between the two sheaths, the KPP slightly nudges i to the lead for fit, function and elegance. The tooled floral motif on the KPP is really classy. The dangler sheath is well thought-out. The color is great. I should note, Finns don't seem to care about a 90-degree spine. The spine to all of these knives has a rough, forged appearance. I don't strike my ferro rods with my knife anyway (the little strikers rods come with work better than a knife, and don't have a knife's price tag).
If you want the most affordable Puukko, you could just get a Wood Jewel and you'd be happy. But, if you're willing to pay about 1/3 more, I believe you're getting the next best thing to a custom by buying a KPP knife. You could also get a Jarvenpaa and be fairly close to custom too, but I don't feel that Jarvenpaa has an edge (no pun intended), by grinding its own blades, versus using Lauri. KPP takes a Lauri blade (already excellent) and refines it over and above the work done in the Jarvenpaa factory. Of course, both companies have different knife designs and styles, so, like me, you might get one or two from both manufacturers anyway. However, if you're on the fence, and just want that one allround Puukko without breaking the bank, KPP is your best choice.
