WHAT THE HECK IS AN ULU?
The Alaska ULU knife (pronounced oo-loo) has been used for centuries by Native people of the Arctic. ULUs were first shaped from slate – a stone that can often be found, in its natural shape, curve or tapered to a fine edge. It was this natural stone formation which inspired the unique ULU design. This design offered better control and versatility for all-round cutting tasks. Used to skin, fillet sew and eat, the ULU was and still is, their most popular cutting tool.
Natives decorated the bone and ivory handles of their ULUs with skilled carvings of animals and scenes of their everyday lives, and these ancient artifacts have become highly-valued Alaskana collector’s items. Many of them can be seen in museums throughout the state.
Today, the ULU has become a familiar sight in many modern kitchens, and its uses are as varied as the people who use it. The ULU performs every culinary chore with unparalleled ease and efficiency. From chopping nuts to slicing cheese and meats, the unique design of the ULU increased dexterity and leverage, making fine cuts simple and heavy chopping easier. The finely crafted ULU knife is sure to become one of your most valuable kitchen aids.
The ULUs’ versatility is not limited to the kitchen. Fisherman and hunters have also found the ULU to be their best cutting tool, as it excels at cleaning, filleting fish, and dressing game.