L51 Flipper with Carbon Fiber (Ceramic IKBS)

Product Description for L51 Flipper with Carbon Fiber (Ceramic IKBS)

Maker: André E. Thorburn (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 98812
Blade length: 3.75 in.
Cutting edge length: 3.50 in.
Total length: 8.75 in.
Blade height (at heel): 1.10 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.13 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.12 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.07 in.
Item weight: 5.20 oz.
Shipment weight: 6.2 oz.
Blade: Differentially finished CTS-XHP stainless steel, hardened to 59 Hrc
Handle: 3D machined carbon fiber
Sheath: Fleece lined Cordura pouch
Style: IKBS Flipper with locking liner
Description: South African knifemaker André Thorburn creates an exceptional folder. The blade is perfectly centered and with silky smooth action -- easily opened with one hand using the discreet and ambidextrous flipper toggle. It uses the IKBS (Ikoma Korth Bearing System) pivot system. This mechanism, which was originally designed to fit balisong knives, 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 pivot and this knife 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 3D carved black carbon fiber. The domed carving provides a comfortable, secure grip. Jimping on the thumb ramp aids grip. The flipper doubles as a front guard that keeps the hand from sliding forward onto the blade. The gently rounded handle feels sturdy and fills out the hand perfectly. The handle is completed with blue anodized titanium liners that elegantly contrast against black carbon fiber scales. The titanium liners are hand fileworked. The ultra-light titanium pocket clip with ceramic retention ball is mounted for tip-up carry.
Exceptional fit throughout.


Availability: Not currently available