Even though it hasn't, it feels like it's been a long time since I got a new knife.
This folding kwaiken was made by Russian smith and artist, Sergey Bobkov. His knife products are produced under the name "Cold Flame". There is a laser engraving on the inside liner - "Bobkov Prototype".
Measuring 9" in overall length, it's a full size folder whose utility is matched by its aesthetic beauty.
Painstakingly finished carbon fiber comprises the handle scales and backspacer. The fit & finish as we say is simply superb. In fact, it's bordering on the level of an "art piece" that would be displayed instead of carried.
The blade steel is GOST X12, a Russian analog of AISI D3. It too is finished flawlessly. Difficult to pick up in photos, it has a tempering pattern that almost resembles Damasteel.
The titanium liners are polished to match the blade. Again, top tier materials crafted to an equally outstanding finish. A very rare and unique feature for this type of knife, it has a lockbar insert made of steel to ensure disengagement is extra smooth and not sticky.
Running on bearings enclosed in bronze cages, the action is as smooth as the carbon fiber scales. Closing the knife is addictive, as the blade drops effortlessly and with a hydraulic like feel. Some collectors refer to the action as "guillotine dropping".
Exquisite piece!
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