The high-end integral folder gets a premium edition.
The James Brand has always been a design-led company, but their latest iteration of The Barnes pushes the pattern into a different tier of cutlery. While The Barnes has been defined by its integral construction, this newest version represents the most premium execution of that platform to date. As an integral design, the handle is CNC-machined from a single, solid billet of 6AL-4V titanium. By eliminating the traditional backspacer and scales in favor of a one-piece construction, the knife offers fewer moving parts, less maintenance, and a level of structural integrity that standard folders simply cannot match.
While the engineering is complex, the aesthetic remains strictly minimalist. The dark stonewashed titanium handle provides a clean, tactile grip that feels incredibly solid in the hand. This premium version of The Barnes steps away from standard stainless options to feature Damasteel DS93X Hakkapella. This material is a favorite among collectors for its striking pattern-welded look, but it is no safe queen; Damasteel is known for delivering world-class performance and durability that holds up to serious use.
The Barnes has long been known for a perfectly dialed-in detent and an action that feels like glass. This is thanks to the blade running on a stainless steel pivot supported by ceramic bearings. Deployment is handled via dual-sided thumb studs, making it accessible for a variety of opening styles and maintaining the symmetrical, clean lines the brand is known for.
The attention to detail extends to the carry system as well. The Barnes features a machined titanium pocket clip with a paint-filled Clovis detail and an integrated paracord lanyard. Despite its full-sized 3.5-inch drop point blade, the knife remains impressively light at just 4.6 ounces, making it an easy choice for a high-end daily carry.
Previous versions of The Barnes were already considered premium offerings at over $600, but this Damasteel integral version moves the needle significantly to $1,300. Designed in Portland, Ore., it represents the most technically advanced execution of their flagship folder—a style-conscious blend of high-end materials and architectural precision.
Barnes Titanium & Damasteel Specs Blade Steel: Damasteel DS93X Hakkapella Handle Material: One-piece Integral 6AL-4V Titanium Lock Style: Integral frame-lock with hardened steel lockface insert Blade Length: 3.5″ Overall Length: 7.8″ Weight: 4.6 oz MSRP: $1,300
If he were in his prime today, Jim’s EDCs would run the gamut.
Jim Bowie is known for more than a few things, among others the Sandbar Fight, the Battle of the Alamo and the knife called by his surname for nearly 200 years. A member of the BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall of Fame®, he was a businessman, soldier, pioneer and frontiersman, and a gentleman of means. While he gave his life at the Alamo 190 years ago this March 6, if he were as immortal as his namesake knife, what would be his EDC today?
BLADE® field editor Reuben Bolieu knows knives, the outdoors and bushcraft.
“If Jim Bowie were around today, he’d do as I’m sure he did back in his time—use the best materials on hand up to his standards,” Reuben observed. “I believe his everyday carry would reflect both tradition and modern utility. Two blades from Bear Forest Knives stand out: the GT-EDC and the Thunder. Each offers distinct advantages and together capture the essence of Bowie’s legacy.”
The GT-EDC belt knife is compact yet capable. At 8 inches overall with a 4-inch blade, it balances portability with cutting power. The eighth-inch thickness gives precise control and strength without excess weight, while 1095 carbon steel ensures durability in the field. A 90-degree spine adds fire-starting utility, and the full flat grind makes slicing efficient. Finished in a rock-tumbled acid wash, it carries a rugged look that matches its performance.
In ABS master smith Lin Rhea’s view, Jim Bowie would still be carrying a bowie knife, forged and differentially heat treated, with a few touches of class. A modern-styled knife with a hint of the Sandbar Fight like Lin’s Preacher (facing page) would fill Bowie’s bill. Kay Rhea made the sheath. (Jocelyn Frasier knife image)
The sheath is .080-inch-thick black Kydex, with a nylon cross-draw/scout belt loop. Though definitely not the typical way to carry a knife in Bowie’s days, in modern EDC terms it’s the Bowie spirit distilled into a pocket-sized package.
On the other hand, Bowie was known for carrying big steel. It was not just acceptable for him to carry a big knife, it was expected. That’s where the Thunder comes in. At 15 3/8 inches overall with a 10-inch blade, it commands respect the moment it clears leather. At 3/16-inch thick, the 52100 carbon steel blade is built for performance. The high-saber grind delivers power on every cut, while the 90-degree spine adds versatility. The rock-tumbled acid-wash finish speaks to hard use, not polish. Natural linen Micarta® scales lock into the hand, and the JRE Industries brown leather sheath completes the package.
The Thunder is more than a knife—it’s a frontier weapon, a tool and a statement. Bowie would carry it with pride, knowing size and steel would give him the edge on any foe.
Together, these knives show the evolution of Bowie’s legacy. The GT-EDC represents modern practicality—lightweight, efficient and discreet. The Thunder embodies the old-school bowie ethos—large, commanding and battle-ready.
“Bowie would carry something like one of the CAS knives,” purveyor/retired ABS master smith Dave Ellis said. “They’re perfectly executed with high-end materials and expert technique.” A Sobral Brothers/CAS bowie in mosaic damascus, S-guard, gold accents and stag handle applies. (Dave Ellis/Exquisiteknives.com image)
“If Jim Bowie lived today, I believe he’d carry both,” Bolieu stated. “The GT-EDC for daily utility, the Thunder for the moments when steel decides fate—both made in the USA. In either case, he’d have the edge on any foe.”
The Preacher
Few bladesmiths merge both historic and modern influences in their bowie knives as well as ABS master smith Lin Rhea. If anyone can predict how a contemporary Bowie would blend historic knife design with modern materials and flair, it’s Lin.
“I try to pay homage to the old craftsmen and their techniques,” Rhea observed of his bladesmithing approach. “That’s how I know how to do things: the old way.”
According to Lin, after the Sandbar Fight Bowie sought out James Black, who made the knife known as Bowie No. 1. Black lived in Washington, Arkansas, just down the road from where Rhea lives today.
With the pronounced clip-point blade, it’s easy to see the Bowie influence on the GT-EDC from Bear Forest Knives. Would a Bowie-inspired EDC be on Jim’s hip?
“I think for sure he’d go with some kind of S-guard bowie knife, with a sharpened clip and a stag handle. It would be both fancy and practical,” Lin opined. “Bowie went to James Black because his blades had a reputation for toughness as well as innovation, using silver in such a way as to render the handles waterproof.”
Compared to the knives of the time, the bowie was larger than usual and had a larger handle, too. Obviously, to Lin, Bowie would still be carrying a bowie knife, forged and differentially heat-treated, with a few touches of class. He’d still carry an innovative version of his old-faithful design. A modern-styled knife like Lin’s Preacher would fit the bill.
High End
Dave Ellis is a custom knife purveyor and a retired ABS master smith. He knows how to make a world-class knife and what it takes to buy and sell knives of the highest quality and price points.
“If we were just thinking about price points, Bowie could carry a Loveless Big Bear or a Bill Moran damascus ST-24,” Dave noted. “Both would be $60,000 to $80,000 in today’s dollars.” Vintage examples of those knives are so valuable because they were made by two iconic Cutlery Hall of Famers and are historic, nearly antique. Would Bowie carry such an expensive knife that’s several decades old? You be the judge.
Veteran EOD tech Rob Cude said Bowie would carry at least two knives. One might be like the knife Cude and Kit Carson designed that eventually became the Buck Knives Intrepid. The original design featured a special wedge-shaped tip, a sharpened spine area for cutting metal straps and an exposed tang for durability during hammering.
Dave and your intrepid reporter discussed jewel-encrusted daggers by Cutlery Hall-of-Famer Buster Warenski, engraved Warren Osborne autos and $100,000 Japanese katanas. We ultimately recognized that Bowie had a flair for the practical. While he may very well carry a knife that screams “I’m rich!” it would also have to do its basic job.
When it comes to the highest modern expressions of the bowie knife, the South Americans stand out. Whether by the Sobral Brothers/CAS Knives, ABS master smiths Dionatam Franco and Rodrigo Sfreddo or other top artisans, the merger of high quality and performance within the bowie genre is very evident.
“I’m thinking Bowie would carry something like one of the CAS knives,” Ellis said. “They’re perfectly executed with high-end materials and expert technique, and at a first glance are still immediately recognizable as bowie knives.”
Warfighter Knives
Serving his country with acts of valor as a first-class warfighter, veteran explosive ordnance demolition (EOD) tech Rob Cude spent his career in the shadows. Success in his job meant frustration for the bad guys and safety and silence for the good ones.
According to Rob Cude, something like the Spartan Ronin Shinto with a recurve blade, long edge and a bit of belly for utility jobs would be on Bowie’s hip. Blade steel and length: CPM MagnaCut stainless and 5 5/8 inches. Country of origin: USA. MSRP: $385-$420.
Rob’s background is in knife design for special forces, military and EOD. In the 1990s, he sought out Cutlery Hall-of-Fame maker Kit Carson to build exactly the knife that would suit his needs. The modern warfighter may jump out of a plane, swim from a boat or trek over land, none of which lend themselves to a wimpy knife.
In tandem with Kit, Rob designed the knife that would in 1998 become the Intrepid from Buck Knives. The original design featured a special wedge-shaped tip, a distinctive sharpened area on the spine for cutting metal straps, an exposed tang for durability during hammering, and a ceramic bead finish that was much more rust-resistant than a sandblasted one. Stainless 440C steel was the best game going at the time and had a suitable combination of hardness and toughness.
“If your knife edge rolls or the knife bends, you can fix it,” Rob advised, “but if it chips or breaks, you’re stuck.”
From Rob’s soldier perspective, Bowie would carry a gun and at least two knives. As technology has evolved, the tools of the soldier have evolved. Given how Bowie was responsible for the evolution of a knife style, it makes sense that his tastes would continue to evolve as well. A modern Bowie would carry one knife for work and another for self-defense.
“Something like the Spartan Ronin Shinto would be on Bowie’s hip,” Rob opined. “It has a recurve blade with a long cutting edge but also has a bit of belly that works well for utility tasks.
“Whether it’s cutting lines and straps or opening MREs, a fixed blade in the 5-to-6-inch range is on every modern fighter’s hip. He would also carry a backup knife for self-defense, and a pistol and rifle as well. Bowie was proficient in the tools of his time and that’s his real legacy. He’d carry that proficiency forward into the modern age, adapting to the tools of our time.”
In the end, of course, we’ll never know exactly what a modern Jim Bowie would carry if he could, but one thing’s for sure: you’d not want to meet him on a sandbar or battlefield to find out.
Remembering Mike “Whiskers” Allen, known for his innovative hidden bolster automatics and collaborations with Pro-Tech Knives.
Mike “Whiskers” Allen, affable award-winning custom knifemaker and knife designer, passed away on November 8 after a short illness.
Nicknamed for his full bushy beard, the Malakoff, Texas, cutler started making knives in 1984. He made folders mostly, specializing in automatics. He suffered a stroke in 2015 that affected his right side and eyesight, so he had to retire from knifemaking. He designed a full line of autos for Pro-Tech Knives, including the BR1.7 LTD “Whiskers” Design, which opens via a nifty hidden bolster release and debuted at BLADE Show 2025.
Whiskers also made miniatures as well as swords. He was known all over the country for his reasonably priced, one-of-a-kind knives. He was a member of The Knifemakers’ Guild and the Professional Knifemakers Association (PKA) and carried Knifemaker’s Emeritus status in the Guild. He also served as PKA president during his last few years of making knives. He won at least one custom knife judging award at the BLADE Show, which he and his wife Denise attended on a regular basis.
Remembering Others The Knife Industry Has Lost:
Betty Dowell, Driving Force Behind Knifemaker Ted Dowell, Passes
B. R. Hughes, Pioneering Writer And Bladesmithing Teacher, Passes Away
Custom knives came of age as collectables in the ’80s and ’90s.
Custom knives from the 1980s-1990s have become especially collectable, not just because of nostalgia but for specific reasons. To understand why, a trip down memory lane is in order.
The ’80s and ’90s encompass a unique intersection of custom knife history, innovation, craftsmanship and scarcity. In the 1970s, custom knifemaking was mostly hobby-based and regional. The two leading knifemaker organizations were The Knifemakers’ Guild and the American Bladesmith Society (ABS), established in 1970 and 1976, respectively. The latter, in fact, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The two organizations helped move knifemaking from a predominantly hobbyist pursuit into the business realm. Custom knifemaking had become a viable full-time option for some custom makers.
Willie Rigney was known for his fighters and daggers, with the latter usually incorporating engraving by Ron Skaggs.
The Guild and ABS matured in the 1980s, and knife shows had become a separate venue from the previous gun-and-knife-show format. During the ’80s and ’90s, makers started to intentionally design knives with aesthetics, handle ergonomics and originality in mind. The concept of a custom knife being collectable began in earnest. For many, knifemaking became an art form. Knives were being made that looked like they should be behind glass in a museum and were displayed on tables at knife shows for patrons to observe and handle.
Many of the founding members of the knifemaker organizations were in their prime production years, developing signature styles, techniques and ideas that would influence future generations of makers. Almost all the knives were designed and built entirely by makers standing before machines in their shops. Blades, frames and scales were not laser cut or CNC’d as many are today. Blades were ground freehand. Each knife was individually fit, finished and, in the case of folders, “tuned up.” The tolerances, grinds and finishes required extreme skill and precision by the maker. Most custom makers were personally involved with every aspect of making the knife that came out of the shop.
Tech Boom
It is a natural progression in manufacturing to adopt technology to increase precision and create items that previously could not be made affordably. Some custom makers have adopted this technology and can produce exceptional work with precision that a human cannot replicate. This is especially true among custom folder makers.
Bob Loveless trained W.C. “Bill” Davis, and it shows in W.C.’s version of the Loveless Wilderness Fighter.
This ever-evolving technology was a double-edged sword. The same technology has helped makers create the custom version of a knife, a semi-production version of the same knife, and, in some cases, to sell the design and program for collaboration with a factory. This has allowed even more makers to go full-time.
However, in the ’90s it caused confusion for some buyers. Dealers/purveyors would list the names of five or six well-known makers only to discover the knives were the factory collaborations. The utilization of the technology also allows the maker to produce more knives. Today you can attend knife shows and see tables with 20 or 30 custom knives on them. In the ’80s and ’90s, it was a rare sight to see makers with that many knives on their tables.
Unlike today, information was harder to come by. You had four main sources of information: print publications such as BLADE®, Knife World (today’s Knife Magazine), Knives Illustrated, Fighting Knives, Tactical Knives and, of course, the KNIVES annual. Other sources were dealers/purveyors, fellow collectors and knife shows. It was the shows that provided the most information. You were able to see and handle the knives, compare knives in person and, equally important, talk with makers. Back then, it was face-to-face communication that really helped me to understand what I was buying and why.
Turning Point
Interframes dominated the custom folder world in the late ’80s, and Jack Busfield was among the pre-eminent makers of the style.
In the ’80s, the fixed-blade market was primarily hunting knives and presentation knives. The go-to stainless blade steels included 440C and the new steel, ATS-34. Their high chromium content allowed for an exceptional mirror finish. Coupled with premium wood, Sambar stag and elephant ivory, the fighters, bowies and daggers became works of art that, as a new buyer, I could not afford. As the ’80s ended, the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) treaty made elephant ivory no longer a desired handle material. Elephant ivory was replaced with the mammoth, mastodon and ancient walrus (the latter my favorite) ivories.
It was in the ’80s and ’90s that custom knives experienced a rapid rise in collectability, and several makers in particular benefited. Rod Chappel was one. His knives often bordered on fantasy. His huge stainless-steel guards and pommels, along with his deep double-hollow grinds, became popular with many makers. Schuyler Lovestrand was another maker whose work never disappointed. He too utilized the deep hollow grinds, while his fit and finish, especially on his sub-hilt fighters, was among the best ever!
Like Rod Chappel, Schuyler Lovestrand was a fan of deep hollow blade grinds.
It was also during this time that many of the knife patterns and styles that were to become iconic were developed or refined. The design influence of BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-of-Fame® member Bob Loveless was becoming more common. Loveless trained W.C. “Bill” Davis and it shows in W.C.’s version of the Wilderness Fighter. Corbert Sigman was another maker who worked with Loveless designs. His version of the Loveless chute knife is clean and accurate.
Art knives featuring engraving, gold inlay and, on occasion, gemstones were popular among both fixed blades and folders, as was the case with many of the interframe folders from Jack Busfield. Interframes dominated the custom folder world in the late ’80s. Willie Rigney was known for his fighters and daggers, with the latter usually incorporating engraving by Ron Skaggs.
Meanwhile, the bladesmiths were refining the forging processes and developing new damascus patterns. Perhaps in the ’90s, the knife style that had the most significant influence was the tactical folder, different versions of which were turned out by many makers.
They’re Out There
Like many of you, I was fortunate to be involved in custom knives during the time in question. When many of today’s knifemaking legends were in their prime, they attended shows with knives on their tables for sale. Imagine being at a show and buying a knife from Rod Chappel or Cutlery Hall-of-Famers Bob Loveless, Bill Moran, Jimmy Lile, George Herron, Buster Warenski or Kit Carson. This writer was fortunate enough to do that. Back then, custom knives escaped the social media hype cycle. There were no bubble prices brought on by speculative flipping. Many of the knives were historically foundational, mechanically innovative and truly handmade.
Rod Chappel’s huge stainless-steel guards and pommels, along with his deep double-hollow grinds, became popular with many makers.
Unfortunately, too many of the makers from the “magical decades” have passed away or have retired. Fortunately, they left a legacy that is waiting for you to explore and learn about, and knives to obtain. These treasures are out there—enjoy the hunt!
Integral Boot Dagger Specs Maker: Willie Rigney Blade Length: 4.75” Blade Steel: 440C stainless Blade Finish: Mirror polish Handle Material: Ancient walrus ivory Engraving: Ron Skaggs Overall Length: 8.75” Author’s comments: “Willie was an incredibly talented knifemaker with limited output.”
Wilderness Fighter Specs Maker: W.C. “Bill” Davis Blade Length: 6” Blade Steel: 440C stainless Blade Finish: Mirror polish Handle Material: Black Micarta® Guard Material: Stainless steel Overall Length: 11” Author’s comments: “Bill was one of the best at reproducing the Loveless style, as well as making one of the more affordable versions of this type of knife. Great guy, great maker.”
Interframe Folder Specs Maker: Jack Busfield Blade Length: 2.5” Blade Steel: 440C stainless Blade Finish: Mirror polish Frame Material: Stainless steel Scales: Jade Closed Length: 3.5” Author’s comments: “This impressive folder features engraving and gold inlay by Dan Wilkerson. The knife was initially offered by the-then-premier dealer of interframe folders, Barrett-Smythe.”
F-2 Sub-Hilt Fighter Specs Maker: Schuyler Lovestrand Blade Length: 8.5” Blade Steel: ATS-34 stainless Blade Finish: Mirror polish Handle Material: Sambar stag Guard Material: Stainless steel Overall Length: 13.5” Author’s comments: “Schuyler made some of the finest custom knives ever. Clean, crisp lines, the epitome of fit, finish and flow.”
Hunting Leopard Bowie Specs Maker: Rod Chappel Blade Length: 10” Blade Steel: 440C stainless Blade Finish: Mirror polish Handle Material: Walrus ivory Guard Material: Stainless steel Overall Length: 15” Author’s comments: “This is Rod’s signature style and one of my favorite knives.”
We gather up a bevvy of top stateside-manufactured automatic knives, certain to give you an edge on fast deployment.
Automatics long have been a popular knife category for the tactical/serve-and-save professions, as well as the military. In recent years, they have shifted from tactical only to include EDC, too. Autos continue to be like other tactical and EDC lines in that they also leverage the advantage of hi-tech materials for blades and handles, thus creating stronger and harder-working knives that anyone can use.
Bear Ops KATAKT
The part serrated blade of the Bear Ops KATAKT II offers cutting versatility and the option to use the serrations for parting tougher materials like cardboard or rope.
The tactical division of Bear & Son Cutlery, Bear Ops, offers the KATAKT series of tactical/EDC knives with the latest in blade and handle materials. At 4.5 inches closed, the KATAKT II sports a 3.25-inch blade of Bohler M390 high-performance blade steel. M390 provides the ultimate in edge-holding power, is designed to go the distance and eliminates frequent sharpening. Simply put, it is one of the best high-performance blade steels going.
The drop point blade shape is very utility-friendly and able to handle multiple cutting tasks, large and small. It comes in both plain and partly serrated edge formats. The review sample has the latter, giving the best of both worlds in one blade, including the ability to tackle tough cutting jobs—though with the serrations, rope especially. The belly provides an ample amount of plain edge for finer cutting. A swedge gives an edgy look that isn’t threatening at all. A notched thumb rest enables thumb placement where downward pressure can be applied to power the blade through tougher cutting tasks. The black blade coat is low-glare.
Anodized black, the aluminum handle incorporates multiple features for a comfortable, safe using experience. A large finger recess at the pivot helps secure your grip on the handle and index it as well. The chamfer along the grip side bevels the handle material back some so you can wrap your fingers around it easily without hotspots forming.
The version of the crossbar lock Bear Ops calls the Slide Lock serves as both the blade lock and firing mechanism of the KATAKT II. To fire the blade, pull back on either side of the lockbar. As the author opined, this truly is an ambidextrous automatic.
A deep carry, fold-over steel pocket clip carries the closed knife blade tip up and is reversible to accommodate southpaws—simply back out two T6 Torx screws and reposition the clip on the other side. A filler tab covers the machined recess for the clip, providing a more streamlined overall appearance. The copper-colored pivot rings and backspacer inject a subtle contrast of color on the otherwise all-black knife.
The blade is secured using the Slide Lock mechanism, Bear’s version of the crosslock. It’s ambidextrous, easy and safe, removing the fingers from the radial path of the closing blade to eliminate accidental nicks. The lock is very strong and can withstand a high degree of abuse. To unlock the knife, pull one of the exposed lockbar ends back to move the lockbar away, allowing the blade to rotate closed.
With most autos, blade deployment is initiated by simply pressing a button. From the closed position, the KATAKT II uses the Slide Lock as both the blade lock and release. To open the knife, pull back on the exposed lockbar with your thumb until the blade fires.
Medford Knife & Tool’s Smooth Criminal
Thanks to its ergonomic handle and drop point blade, the Medford Smooth Criminal is a compact auto very easy to carry and use. Tasks like wire stripping that require extra control are a snap.
At just 4 inches closed, Medford Knife & Tool’s Smooth Criminal is a compact powerhouse auto. Don’t expect anything less than a heavy-duty folder with this one. An anodized aluminum handle, CPM S35VN stainless blade and a titanium pocket clip round out the overall package that’s easy to carry yet works as hard as the day is long.
The drop point blade is a good general-use one that offers a belly for slicing tasks and a decent point for puncturing and scoring. The 3-inch blade is an ideal length for EDC purposes—short enough to carry comfortably and not get in the way but long enough to tackle most reasonable cutting tasks. The polished finish looks great and helps keep the blade cleaner and rust-free by not allowing much to stick to it, nor liquids to bead on it. S35VN has proven itself time and again as one of the ultimate steels for high-end knives. It’s a bit tougher than S30V though not nearly as hard to resharpen. It is a top user and will go the distance for edge holding. All my experiences with this blade steel have been nothing but very positive.
The ergonomic grip is a lightweight yet tough aluminum alloy available in a range of hard anodized colors, though you cannot go wrong with standard black anodizing, which looks striking with the tumbled (stonewashed) blade. The black and silver look is just timeless; it’s used a lot with motorcycles and vehicles for a reason.
The lock release/firing button of the Medford Knife & Tool Smooth Criminal is domed and sports holes reminiscent of a car hubcap. It’s a nice styling addition to an area most manufacturers ignore.
The handle sports a few features that enhance user comfort and safety, such as the finger recess to help index your grip. Stepped chamfering provides a comfortable place for your fingers to wrap around. A utilitarian lanyard hold is incorporated into the handle spacer. A titanium pocket clip carries the knife tip up.
The blade is actuated by a typical push button, tapered/plug locking system, which secures it in both the closed and open positions. The button sports decorative holes that resemble a car hubcap, a nice visual touch and a great alternative to a plain button.
Action-wise, the Smooth Criminal is also a smooth operator. The blade rides on a pair of caged bearings that promote silky smooth rotation. You can feel that when you fire the blade and it rotates out with precision and locks securely. Performance-wise, the knife is perfect for folks who need a good, solid, tough working folder without the bulk and length of a larger model. As a result, the Smooth Criminal rides comfortably in a pocket. The entire knife gets in and out of tasks easily. MSRP: $375.
Heretic Knives Wraith
The V.4 features improvements to the blade and handle that make the knife sleeker and better ergonomically than previous Wraiths. It’s an efficient cutting tool for tactical or general use.
The Wraith is the flagship side-opening automatic from Heretic Knives. It’s a large tactical folder with a bold design and advanced ergonomics. In 2025, Heretic unveiled the Wraith V.4, a highly updated version of its signature folder that incorporates quite a few changes that could result in this model being the cornerstone of the company’s tactical knife line.
The blade is available in a choice of bowie or tanto shapes, the latter reviewed here. Steel has been upgraded to CPM MagnaCut stainless to offer the best in edge holding and corrosion resistance. The blade has a recessed cavity machined into the flats, done purely for aesthetics. The tanto shape is ideal for maximum penetration as the tip shears simultaneously as it pierces. It’s an optical illusion, but the blade seems too tall for the handle. However, when you close it, the blade nestles inside the handle just so. As an added touch, the thumb rest portion of the spine sports notches for sure grip traction.
The handle is hard-anodized T6 6061 aluminum alloy. It’s also thinner than the previous Wraith version and thus carries better in the pocket. The handle edges are chamfered nicely to allow the knife to sit in your grip with high comfort. Two inlays per side of rubber tape enhance purchase. The firing/lock button is round as opposed to rectangular as with the older Wraith model.
The Heretic Wraith V.4 comes standard with a steel pocket clip that works very well. For $49 extra, you can upgrade to a milled titanium clip with a carbide ball.
A steel pocket clip carries the knife tip up and is reversible for ambidextrous use. A milled titanium clip with a silicon carbide ball is $49 extra. It looks very upscale and is great at keeping the closed knife in your pocket. The carbide ball provides the right amount of tension and slides nicely when removing the knife from or returning it to your pocket.
While the V.4 is sleeker and more refined than previous Wraiths, it still packs a punch as a large, using folder. The tanto’s straight edge is a great slicer and cuts through most anything you need to with no struggle. The 3.7-inch blade affords enough real estate to facilitate this. The angled tip is great for more precise cuts as well as light-duty scraping.
The handle is quite comfortable with no hotspots and provides excellent blade control at all times. The rubber grip tape inlays are inset enough to be out of the way, so as to not affect removing or inserting the knife into a pocket. The knife sits low in the pocket but with some handle sticking out for purchase. The V.4 is extremely well-made and looks spectacular with the all-black finish. Very stealthy! MSRP: $300.
Chavez Knives/Pro-Tech Redencion
According to the author, the modified tanto blade of the Pro-Tech/Chaves Knives Redencion 229 has a top that isn’t styled like typical tantos. The secondary edge has a bit of belly that makes it a more efficient cutter by accentuating penetration power.
The Redencion 229 auto is a collaboration between Pro-Tech and Ramon Chavez of Chaves Knives. Based on the Chaves Knives Redencion folder, the 229 brings an exciting automatic to the market that incorporates Pro-Tech’s manufacturing excellence and strong spring action with Chaves’ bold styling highlights.
The 3.3-inch modified tanto blade is S35VN. A swedge enhances penetration power, along with multiple large traction notches on the spine to provide a comfortable place to rest the thumb when placing downward pressure to the blade. Available in stonewash or DLC finishes, the blade is stout as it is sharp. The test sample is a dark stonewash, which contrasts nicely with the handle anodized a beautiful battle-worn purple.
The grip is T6 6061 aluminum alloy available in multiple anodized colors. It is treated to appear as though the knife has seen considerable pocket time and use by wearing away the anodizing at the very edges. It looks worn-in even when brand new! While the design itself is rather boxy, the chamfered handle edges make the knife comfortable to hold—no hotspots in-hand, no nothing.
Function and durability are built into the skull pocket clip of the Pro-Tech/Chaves Knives 229. The skull is a trademark of the Chaves Knives brand, and the design and titanium material beef up the clip, making it more difficult to spring out of shape if it accidentally catches on something.
The auto carries tip up via a distinctive Chaves pocket clip design in the shape of a skull. All Chaves folders have the clip design, sort of a trademark of the brand. While the skull clip may be too much for some, it is more than just for appearance. Its width means more of the tough titanium material is used, which prevents it from being bent out in case you snag it on something. Also, screws attach the clip to the handle from the inside. This means no visible clip screws. Very trick! Few folder clips on the market attach in such a way. On the downside, the clip isn’t reversible and thus not southpaw-friendly.
At 4.5 inches closed, the Redencion 229 makes a great working folder. Out of the box, it’s sharp and ready to cut. Hit the button and the blade rockets out with authority, as all Pro-Tech autos do. The straight-line primary edge tackles general tasks nicely, and the secondary edge at top is great for scoring work or cuts requiring extra control. The secondary edge has a bit of a belly, something most tantos are without. This helps accentuate penetration power. S35VN steel holds an edge really well, so you need not resharpen frequently. The knife cuts with abandon and is easy to carry. What’s not to like? MSRP: $300 and up, depending on options.
Bear Edge unveils a trio of American-made EDC options at SHOT Show.
Now that the dust has settled on SHOT Show 2026, we’re taking a closer look at the new releases from Bear Edge. The Alabama-based maker unveiled a trio of everyday carry folders that lean into modern ergonomics and practical materials without breaking the bank. As a brand under the Bear & Son Cutlery umbrella, Bear Edge continues to leverage decades of American manufacturing expertise to produce knives that are as reliable as they are accessible.
The Light Gray Aluminum Folder
If you’re looking for a sleek, no-nonsense worker, Model 71140 is the pick of the litter. Built entirely in their Alabama factory, this 4-inch folder features a modified drop point blade made from 440 stainless steel. What catches the eye is the red spacer with integrated jimping—it adds a nice pop of color and serves as a functional lanyard attachment point. The aluminum handle keeps the weight balanced, and the dual deployment (thumb studs or flipper) makes it a versatile companion for any task.
The Dark Gray Assisted Opener
For those who prefer a more tactical, “stealth” aesthetic, Bear Edge introduced Model 71141. This is a narrow, modern profile featuring a 3 5/8-inch drop point blade with a black finish. The assisted opening is snappy, and the textured grooves on the gray aluminum handle provide a noticeably secure grip. It’s a narrow carry that fits comfortably in the pocket, especially with the reversible tip-up clip.
The Tan G10 Tanto
Demanding jobs usually require a bit more “meat” on the bone, and Model 71139 delivers. This full-sized folder swaps out aluminum for Tan G10 scales, providing a high-strength, lightweight handle that won’t slip. The business end is a modified tanto blade with a black finish, optimized for piercing and heavy-duty slicing. Like its siblings, it features a rapid-deployment flipper and a deep-carry pocket clip that’s sturdy enough for a duty belt.
Final Cut
Bear Edge continues to prove that “American-made” and “affordable” don’t have to be mutually exclusive. These SHOT Show debuts show Bear Edge is cutting into the modern EDC movement, providing users a tool that looks good on the desk but performs even better in the field.
One of the last living links to knifemaking’s golden era is gone.
The knife community lost one of its last members from the golden era of knifemaking with the passing of George Miller “Tim” Britton, who died after a short illness on December 9. He was 85.
A veteran (1959-65) of the United States Marine Corps and known as North Carolina’s first professional knifemaker, Tim began fashioning knives in 1971. Early on he specialized in small personal and fancy boot-type knives and assorted fixed blades and wound up his career making all manner of classic slip joints.
He appeared in early ’70s issues of The American Blade and later in BLADE®. He learned about knives and how to make them from Jim Mustin of Cajun Knives and BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-of-Fame® members Frank Centofante and Blackie Collins. Other influencers were Tim’s knifemaking contemporaries such as Cutlery Hall-of-Famers Ted Dowell, Jimmy Lile and Bob Loveless and well-known makers Rod Chappel and Bob Dozier. Tim was an admirer of Chappel’s handles and those of Bill Luckett, too.
Britton’s career spanned the early days of O1, 440C and D2 for blade steels to today’s CPM grades.
Tim specialized in classic slip joints, this one in BG42 stainless steel, Fiji fire pearl and 24k-gold inlay. Closed length: 3.25 inches. (Eric Eggly/PointSeven knife image)
“I started with O1 in 1972 and Blackie Collins talked me into 440C,” he once told BLADE. “Peer pressure … Ted Dowell, Frank Centofante, Jimmy Lile and Bob Dozier had settled on D2. [Today’s steel] leaves them all in the dust.”
No matter the steel, its proper heat treatment and also edge geometry, not to mention comfortable handles, were of critical importance to Tim.
“Buying a knife from a reputable maker should be simple,” he once observed. “My questions would be steel type, Rockwell hardness and what kinds of tools the maker has in his shop. I’m a dinosaur.”
A colorful character known for speaking his mind, he spent time as a member of The Knifemakers’ Guild and the ABS.
“Forging is a macho trip,” he once stated. “I fancy myself a smithy in times past.”
He understood well the importance of effective marketing, regularly running one-third page color ads in BLADE, and he demanded the most in return from them. He also loved the BLADE Show and was a regular exhibitor along with Deb, his wife of 26 years.
Rest easy, Marine, and semper fi.
Remembering Others The Knife Industry Has Lost:
Betty Dowell, Driving Force Behind Knifemaker Ted Dowell, Passes
B. R. Hughes, Pioneering Writer And Bladesmithing Teacher, Passes Away
