About Hydra Design
Alessandra De Santis
Italian freelance knife designer and founder of Hydra Design, specializing in tactical knives and EDC tools.
A knife enthusiast since her early years, she began collecting knives at the age of 14.
Her deep interest in the field led her to become a technical reviewer in 2011, publishing articles and in-depth reports on production knives across several Italian industry magazines.
Her expertise in blade steels and materials is grounded in a degree in Industrial Chemistry and a Master’s degree in Polymer Materials, providing a solid technical foundation for her design work.
In addition to her design activity, she practices Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) and holds formal qualifications related to the construction, repair, and sale of firearms, along with a collector’s license for knives and antique weapons.
After years of hands-on experience in testing and analyzing knives, she transitioned into knife design in 2018, starting with two limited edition fixed blades produced by Hydra Armaments.
Since 2019, she has been collaborating with international knife manufacturers, developing production-ready designs that combine functionality, ergonomics, and a distinctive visual identity.
My Latest Designs
WHAT THEY SAYTESTIMONIALS
“If you can recognize a knife only by its silhouette, it means that the designer has done a great job!.”
F.Cotti
“I have chosen every knife I own, the Hecate chose me...Once I got it in my hands I knew it was mine forever...My Hecate from @hydra_knifedesign is definitely at the top of my list!
@chris_license_to_defend
“The blade is really slicey, but imagine cutting for one hour without feeling any hot spots! The handle is an ergonomic materpiece designed by Alessandra De Santis.”
@tomlikesknives
Hydra Design is the knife design division of Hydra Project Company, specializing in modern tactical knives and EDC tools.
Founded by Alessandra De Santis, freelance knife designer, Hydra Design develops original knife concepts and collaborates with international knife manufacturers worldwide, creating production-ready designs that combine functionality, ergonomics, and distinctive aesthetics.
