L28 Flipper with Tulip Zirconium (Ceramic IKBS)

Product Description for L28 Flipper with Tulip Zirconium (Ceramic IKBS)

Maker: André E. Thorburn (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 99766
*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***
Blade length: 3.40 in.
Cutting edge length: 3.25 in.
Total length: 7.70 in.
Blade height (at heel): 0.90 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.11 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.10 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.04 in.
Item weight: 3.60 oz.
Shipment weight: 5.2 oz.
Blade: Differentially finished premium RWL-34 PM stainless steel
Handle: Zirconium with differential tulip engraving by Marietjie Thorburn
Sheath: Cordura pouch
Description: South African knifemaker André Thorburn creates an exceptional folder. This is the first of its kind! It is a spectacular slim profiled folder. At just 3.6oz, it is easy to keep close at hand.
The blade is perfectly centered and has silky-smooth action. When combined with the IKBS ball bearing system, the action is exceptional! The Ikoma Korth Bearing System (IKBS) was originally designed to fit balisong knives and uses ball bearings to create exceptional action with no blade play. This special folder is made with ceramic ball bearings. Generally IKBS bearings are made either from tool steel or from stainless steel. Stainless steel can wear away, resulting in uneven action over time. Tool steel bearings can oxidize making the action rough. Ceramic bearings are the best of all worlds -- extremely hard and wear resistant, they are also inert and will not oxidize. Andre is a master of the IKBS and this folder is as smooth as a knife gets!
The clip point blade is formed from premium RWL-34 stainless steel. It is hollow ground for an easy to maintain edge. RWL 34 is a powder metallurgy cutlery steel manufactured by ERASTEEL in Söderfors, Sweden. Because it is made from rapidly solidified powders, the microstructure of the steel is much more uniform. This gives the steel much higher strength and resistance to chipping.
The scales are formed from domed zirconium. The interior of the zirconium has been machined out, allowing the knife to be light and dexterous yet extremely strong. Zirconium is a transitional metal that is primarily mined in South Africa and Australia. It is highly resistant to corrosion and scuffing. The surface of the zirconium was meticulously textured and engraved by Marietjie Thorburn. She created a dramatic, multi-colored tulip design. Jimping on the thumb ramp provides a comfortable, secure grip. The gently rounded handle feels sturdy and fills out the hand perfectly. Titanium liners are differentially anodized and surround the full titanium backbar.
Exceptional work throughout!


Availability: Not currently available