L36S Flipper with Blue/Silver Carbon Fiber, Engraved Zirconium, and Damascus (Ceramic IKBS)

Product Description for L36S Flipper with Blue/Silver Carbon Fiber, Engraved Zirconium, and Damascus (Ceramic IKBS)

Maker: André E. Thorburn (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 102560
*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***
Blade length: 3.20 in.
Cutting edge length: 3.20 in.
Total length: 7.25 in.
Blade height (at heel): 0.88 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.11 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.10 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.06 in.
Item weight: 3.60 oz.
Shipment weight: 5 oz.
Blade: Stainless damascus forged by Damasteel
Bolster: Engraved and differentially anodized zirconium
Handle: Blue/silver carbon fiber set on anodized titanium liners
Sheath: Cordura pouch
Style: Ceramic IKBS flipper style folding liner lock
Description: South African knifemaker André Thorburn creates an exceptional folder. The blade is perfectly centered with silky smooth drop shut action. The flipper opening is tremendously easy to use for quick deployment. 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. Thorburn is a master of the IKBS pivot and the action on this flipper is as smooth as a knife gets!
The clip point blade is formed from stainless damascus forged by Damasteel. This high performing stainless damascus is created using powder metallurgical steel manufacturing to provide excellent edge retention and unmatched beauty. The high contrast pattern is revealed in the grinds. The flats are mirror polished, nearly hiding the pattern. The blade is hollow ground for an easy to maintain edge.
Blue/silver carbon fiber handle scales are nicely domed and polished. Jimping on the thumb ramp provides a comfortable, secure grip. The gently rounded handle feels sturdy and fills out the hand perfectly. Zirconium bolsters are meticulously engraved by Marietjie Thorburn. These unique bolsters show detailed flowers and leaves set on a stippled black background. The engraving is particularly dramatic and highlighted with differential anodizing. The titanium backbar keeps the knife light and fast. The 3D machined titanium pocket clip with ceramic retention ball is mounted for right-handed, tip-up carry.
Exceptional work throughout on a very rare folder!
BladeGallery.com is proud to be the exclusive distributor and recommended repair shop in the United States for André Thorburn's knives!


Availability: Not currently available