The Cable Knife turns 60 years: A look back at six decades of innovation history
A brilliant idea turns 60
The foundation was laid by JOKARI company founder and master electrician Josef Krampe, who developed and patented the JOKARI Knife in 1966. His invention revolutionized the previously tedious and often error-prone process of stripping cables. He thus changed the industry permanently: since then, the JOKARI Cable Knife has stood for precision, safety, and innovation in the electrical trade.
“The ingenious basic idea has proven itself millions of times over. Electricians all over the world work safely and efficiently with a cable knife every day. We would like to celebrate this anniversary in style and cordially invite everyone to celebrate with us,” says JOKARI Managing Director Frank J. Goebbels.
From Idea to Revolution: A Look at History
In the early 1960s, cable regulations changed fundamentally. The lead and sheet metal sheaths previously used in cable production were abolished because their application was physically demanding for electricians. Every second or third stripping process had to be repeated, resulting in significant material loss.
With the introduction of plastic-coated cables and wires, there was an urgent need for new tools. Master electrician Josef Krampe recognized this challenge and developed a Cable Knife that could strip plastic-coated wires quickly, safely, and precisely. The JOKARI Cable Knife was born!
Invention and patenting of the first Cable Knife
The first patented JOKARI Cable Knife was created in 1966. Its movable inner blade automatically adjusts to a longitudinal cut after a circular cut. This innovation greatly simplified the previously tedious process of stripping cables and has proven itself millions of times over.
The original basic model has been continuously developed ever since:
- New blade technologies such as the hook blade,
- Ergonomic two-component handles,
- Various frame sizes for handling a wider wire stripping range.
The core idea of our company founder lives on. The original JOKARI Cable Knife is now established worldwide. The JOKARI range now includes a wide variety of specialized cable knives for diverse requirements and applications.
