L28 Front Flipper with Warthog Tusk and Zirconium (Ceramic IKBS) - CTS-XHP

Product Description for L28 Front Flipper with Warthog Tusk and Zirconium (Ceramic IKBS) - CTS-XHP

Maker: André E. Thorburn (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 101425
*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***
Blade length: 3.25 in.
Cutting edge length: 3.10 in.
Total length: 7.60 in.
Blade height (at heel): 0.86 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.11 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.10 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.03 in.
Item weight: 3.60 oz.
Shipment weight: 5.2 oz.
Blade: Differentially finished premium CTS-XHP stainless steel, hardened to 61 Hrc
Bolster: Engraved and differentially finished zirconium
Handle: Warthog tusk
Sheath: Cordura pouch
Style: Ceramic IKBS front flipper with locking liner
Description: South African knifemaker André Thorburn creates an exceptional folder. The blade is perfectly centered with silky-smooth action. The front flipper opening is tremendously easy to use for quick deployment. When combined with the IKBS ball bearing system, the action is exceptional! The knife can be opened using the index finger or thumb. 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. Thorburn is a master of the IKBS pivot and the action on this flipper is as smooth as a knife gets!
The blade is formed from Carpenter's CTS-XHP stainless steel. This US made steel is a new air hardening, high carbon, high chromium, corrosion resistant alloy. This steel will have exceptional edge holding! The blade is hollow ground for an easy to maintain edge.
The scales are formed from warthog tusk. Regrettably, Thorburn makes very few knives using natural materials and this is a rare, dramatic example. Jimping on the thumb ramp provides a comfortable, secure grip. The gently rounded handle feels sturdy and fills the hand perfectly. This combination nicely complements the differentially finished and engraved zirconium bolsters. The bolsters have an elegant iridescence that is captivating. Zirconium is a transitional metal that is primarily mined in South Africa and Australia. It is highly resistant to corrosion and scuffing. The handle is completed with blue anodized and fileworked titanium liners. The 3D machined titanium pocket clip with ceramic retention ball is mounted for right-handed, tip-up carry.
Exceptional fit and finish throughout!
BladeGallery.com is proud to be the exclusive distributor and recommended repair shop in the United States for André Thorburn's knives!


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