L28 Flipper with Carbon Fiber, Damascus, and Engraved Zirconium (Ceramic IKBS)

Product Description for L28 Flipper with Carbon Fiber, Damascus, and Engraved Zirconium (Ceramic IKBS)

Maker: André E. Thorburn (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 97560
*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***
Blade length: 3.30 in.
Cutting edge length: 3.20 in.
Total length: 7.60 in.
Blade height (at heel): 0.90 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.11 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.11 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.06 in.
Item weight: 3.40 oz.
Shipment weight: 5.0 oz.
Blade: Stainless damascus forged by Damasteel
Bolster: Zirconium engraved by Julien Marchal
Handle: Carbon fiber
Sheath: Cordura pouch
Description: South African knifemaker André Thorburn creates an exceptional folder. 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 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. The captivating, high contrast pattern is revealed in the grinds. The flats are mirror polished, nearly hiding the pattern. The high performance blade is hollow ground for an easy to maintain edge.
The scales are formed from carbon fiber. Jimping on the thumb ramp provides a comfortable, secure grip. The gently rounded handle feels sturdy and fills out the hand perfectly.
Heat colored zirconium bolsters are deeply engraved by Julien Marchal. Belgium-born artist Julien Marchal 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 oxidation and scuffing. These bolsters have a iridescent flash that is extremely enticing. The combination of the detailed engraving and the dark toned bolsters is absolutely beautiful. Titanium liners sit against red fiber spacers and have been fileworked and differentially anodized with light blue flats and purple inside the bevels. The machined titanium pocket clip holds a ceramic retention ball. It is mounted for right handed, tip-up carry.
Exceptional work 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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