Ball Release Front Flipper with Whitelip Mother of Pearl and Engraved Zirconium

Product Description for Ball Release Front Flipper with Whitelip Mother of Pearl and Engraved Zirconium

Maker: Des Horn (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 101980
** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind **
Blade length: 2.80 in.
Cutting edge length: 2.75 in.
Total length: 6.40 in.
Blade height (at heel): 0.67 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.10 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.09 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.04 in.
Item weight: 3.20 oz.
Shipment weight: 2.8 oz.
Blade: Stainless damascus forged by Damasteel, cryogenically quenched and double tempered
Bolster: Zirconium inlaid with 24k gold and engraved by Julien Marchal
Handle: Presentation grade whitelip mother of pearl
Sheath: Ostrich leather pouch
Style: Ball release front flipper
Description: Des Horn makes knives that have an intrinsic harmony. This elegant gent's flipper shows Horn's work at its best. Des Horn is one of the fathers of the South African knife industry. His influence can be clearly seen in other South African's work, but also extends into knives made around the world. Whether put to a daily carry folder or an art knife, his attention to detail and skill is legendary. Des had the honor of being named one of the 25 greatest living knifemakers in the world in the Spring of 2021.
The blade on this Ball Release Gent's Front Flipper is stainless damascus forged by Damasteel in Sweden. The high contrast steel is both dramatic and extremely high performing. The indent and release balls are silicon nitride (Hrc 93!). Des' craftsmanship means that this locking mechanism works smoothly and comfortably. The front flipper opener is easy to use -- it is designed for easy single handed opening and closing. The blade is perfectly centered.
Whitelip mother of pearl handle scales are set against zirconium bolsters. These, in turn, are meticulously engraved and inlaid with 24k gold by Belgium-born artist Julien Marchal. Julien studied engraving and gun making at Léon Mignon Liège in Belgium and now lives in South Africa. Zirconium is a transitional metal that is primarily mined in South Africa and Australia. It is highly resistant to corrosion and scuffing. The mother of pearl scales and engraved zirconium complement each other well and create a beautiful presentation.
The knife is accompanied by a blue ostrich leather pouch that can be carried in the pocket.
Exceptional fit and finish throughout!


Availability: Not currently available