- a technical monster
Firstly a remark. The following text is fairly detailed and thus long. I, therefore, recommend that the ones so inclined pours a good cup of tea or coffee before reading. Now that you are duly warned, I will introduce Lionsteel ROK to you. The reason why the review is more elaborate than usual is simply that there is much to explore, present and discuss.
Italians are known for their good design but here they also chose to complement it by adding as much technology as possible. It becomes obvious already while unpacking this beauty. If you put your mobile close to the box it tells you all you need to know about your new knife including maintenance. Provided that you have an NFC-app installed, of course. It feels a bit strange but very modern.
Italians are known for their good design but here they also chose to complement it by adding as much technology as possible. It becomes obvious already while unpacking this beauty. If you put your mobile close to the box it tells you all you need to know about your new knife including maintenance. Provided that you have an NFC-app installed, of course. It feels a bit strange but very modern.
Lionsteel ROK A OS
ROK is the brainchild of Molletta and behind that nickname, you find a gentleman by the name of Michele Pensato. A man with solid experience in the field of designing knives. He is very productive and is responsible for several other well-known Lionsteel products such as the TRE, KUR, SR-series and not least the fixed-blade M-series.
This time he and Lionsteel have provided a knife that offers features hidden behind names and acronyms such as NFC chip, SOLID-technology, Rotoblock, and H.WAYL. Add top-notch materials topped with M390 blade and ceramic ball bearings and you got an interesting knife.
This time he and Lionsteel have provided a knife that offers features hidden behind names and acronyms such as NFC chip, SOLID-technology, Rotoblock, and H.WAYL. Add top-notch materials topped with M390 blade and ceramic ball bearings and you got an interesting knife.
A rather elegant beast designed by Molletta
Twitter version: Lionsteel ROK, form and function in harmony
Blade
The blade on the ROK is probably the least hi-tech part. But the blade is well made in top quality material. However, the shape is a relatively uncomplicated drop point which is not too far from a clip point. It has been elevated by adding a swedge that in a quite unique way does not extend all the way to the tip. Also, Lionsteel has chosen to place their logo and other text here. It's unusual but nicely and tastefully done and not something I've seen on a knife before. The blade finish is a satin that is worth highlighting. Smooth and well-executed where they chose to leave a fairly coarse pattern that can be discerned at certain angles. The blade has then been polished to an attractive semi-gloss surface.
A luxurious detail is how well the spine is rounded. At the base of the blade, you find some notches for indexing and possible some more traction.
A luxurious detail is how well the spine is rounded. At the base of the blade, you find some notches for indexing and possible some more traction.
A relatively traditional blade made out of M390-steel from Böhler/Uddeholm
The steel is the exceptionally good M390 from Böhler/Uddeholm with a stated hardness of 59-60 HRC. I have no way to control it and I don't think it's necessary either.* Of this steel, you get a lot. Perhaps a bit too much even. The length of the blade is not exaggerated by 83 mm but it has been compensated with a massively thick blade stock of 4,5 mm. It's more than a millimeter thicker than I think this knife needs from a performance standpoint.
But I have a nagging suspicion that there is a logical explanation behind that choice. As mentioned, the handle is an integral, that is milled out of one piece of metal. That increases weight compared to liner based handles that are easier to lighten. That in combination with the clip-technology which increases the overall width means that the handle needs to be balanced with something. Had ROK been fitted with a thin hollow grind blade instead, the knife would have become back heavy, especially in the ti-version. That is not the case now.
But I have a nagging suspicion that there is a logical explanation behind that choice. As mentioned, the handle is an integral, that is milled out of one piece of metal. That increases weight compared to liner based handles that are easier to lighten. That in combination with the clip-technology which increases the overall width means that the handle needs to be balanced with something. Had ROK been fitted with a thin hollow grind blade instead, the knife would have become back heavy, especially in the ti-version. That is not the case now.
The factory edge is really sharp but there is a lot of steel behind the edge
The blade has a high flat grind to about 3/4 of the blade height. The factory edge on this specific knife was really good. Sharp enough to shave hair with ease without any efforts on my behalf. It was also nicely done, even and centered. As per usual with knives from Lionsteel, it is a bit thicker behind the edge than I find necessary. Sure, you obtain a durable edge but it does not optimize the properties in M390.
What we have in front of us is thus a very robust blade. This also applies to the tip that penetrates very well. The thickness of the tip also means that you are not afraid to bend a little and use some force when, for instance, unbind the blade from hard pieces of wood.
The blade stock is thick and the tip very sturdy
ROK is more at home when it comes to heavier tasks than small fiddly ones. Or rather, there are no problems as long as you just need a sharp edge. So cutting strings and cords, removing clothing labels, peel an apple, cutting tape and opening packages are of course easy. But for cuts where you use the entire blade and slice all the way through things, the blade is too thick as I suspected. This, as an example, applies to kitchen duty. Sure you can cut an onion and a carrot but this knife is surely not made for it and the result is so-so. But the blade is saved by the high grind.
But dealing with materials such as wood, rope, fabrics, and carpets this knife is actually really good. The edge angle makes it easy to control when cutting and carving wood.
The sturdy edge and strong tip also inspire confidence when putting some power behind the cuts. It is also facilitated by the next point, the design of the handle.
What we have in front of us is thus a very robust blade. This also applies to the tip that penetrates very well. The thickness of the tip also means that you are not afraid to bend a little and use some force when, for instance, unbind the blade from hard pieces of wood.
The blade stock is thick and the tip very sturdy
ROK is more at home when it comes to heavier tasks than small fiddly ones. Or rather, there are no problems as long as you just need a sharp edge. So cutting strings and cords, removing clothing labels, peel an apple, cutting tape and opening packages are of course easy. But for cuts where you use the entire blade and slice all the way through things, the blade is too thick as I suspected. This, as an example, applies to kitchen duty. Sure you can cut an onion and a carrot but this knife is surely not made for it and the result is so-so. But the blade is saved by the high grind.
But dealing with materials such as wood, rope, fabrics, and carpets this knife is actually really good. The edge angle makes it easy to control when cutting and carving wood.
The sturdy edge and strong tip also inspire confidence when putting some power behind the cuts. It is also facilitated by the next point, the design of the handle.
Handle
There is much to be said about this knife handle. First and foremost that it is really comfortable. Both to just grab and hold and to work with. It is simply put very ergonomic. There is no such thing as "hotspots". Nothing that can chafe or cause discomfort. The reason why is, of course, mainly found in the design. But there is also technology that aids in the quest for the perfect handle.
Handle material is aluminum and the shape simple yet comfortable
The first and most obvious detail is that this handle completely lacks joints. This is what is referred to as an "integral" handle. That is, it's made out of a single piece of metal. Lionsteel calls their version of the method for SOLID. In this particular model of a knife, the starting point is one piece of aluminum. ROK is also available in a titanium version but to be honest I see no advantages whatsoever with that material in this case. Above all, it's heavier than aluminum, which changes the balance of the knife. That is one of the drawbacks of this method. It is harder than usual to weight relieve the handle by milling the insides which in turn makes them more massive and thus heavier.**
This design approach also includes a couple of problems that must be solved. One of them is what to do with the stop pin for the blade. Other well-known manufacturers of integral-knives such as custom knifemaker P. Rassenti and Spyderco's interpretations of his work simply make a hole in the handle, press-fit the pin in the area where it usually is found and then polish the surface. The problem is, however, that this detail can be visible at some angles.
But not on this knife. So where did they hide the steel bar? Well, it can be found under the asymmetrical female side of the pivot-screw. That is not just there for good looks. It is an interesting solution, that as far as I know, is unique to this knife.
This design approach also includes a couple of problems that must be solved. One of them is what to do with the stop pin for the blade. Other well-known manufacturers of integral-knives such as custom knifemaker P. Rassenti and Spyderco's interpretations of his work simply make a hole in the handle, press-fit the pin in the area where it usually is found and then polish the surface. The problem is, however, that this detail can be visible at some angles.
But not on this knife. So where did they hide the steel bar? Well, it can be found under the asymmetrical female side of the pivot-screw. That is not just there for good looks. It is an interesting solution, that as far as I know, is unique to this knife.
The handle is milled out of one solid piece of metal and hence lacks joints and a frame
As material in this version, a high-quality aluminum alloy has been chosen instead of titanium. To further reduce weight, they have chosen to leave the back of the handle semi-open. It required more machining time during manufacture, but I think it is worth the effort as the reduced weight makes the knife well balanced. Here you find the balance point just behind the pivot screw which is excellent. The total weight is felt when in hand, but the distribution of it makes the knife feel quick and easy to maneuver.
ROK is available in a couple of different colors. In addition to orange, red and black are also offered. You can also choose between blackened or satin blades depending on your preferences.
The handle has got a fairly advanced surface treatment with no less than three different milling patterns. They both look great and adds a little traction. That is needed since aluminum without any grooves or coating can be slippery. The grip on the ROK is decent even with slightly wet and cold hands. I heard someone that said it was so slippery that he frequently dropped the knife just by trying to pull it out of the pocket. Let put it this way, it is no more slippery than the average titanium handled knife on the market.
ROK is available in a couple of different colors. In addition to orange, red and black are also offered. You can also choose between blackened or satin blades depending on your preferences.
The handle has got a fairly advanced surface treatment with no less than three different milling patterns. They both look great and adds a little traction. That is needed since aluminum without any grooves or coating can be slippery. The grip on the ROK is decent even with slightly wet and cold hands. I heard someone that said it was so slippery that he frequently dropped the knife just by trying to pull it out of the pocket. Let put it this way, it is no more slippery than the average titanium handled knife on the market.
The handle shape works in all grips and during prolonged use
Another thing that makes this knife comfortable to hold is that the handle is rather wide. It measures 13 mm across the back. One interesting question is whether this is solely a design choice by Molletta or if there is something more to it?
That's because there is one thing that really contributes to the ergonomics of this knife and that is how the clip is shaped and works. It depends on a piece of technology that requires some space. That probably excludes really thin handles.
Then Lionsteel didn't fall in the same trap as Spyderco did with their integral the Nirvana. That makes the sides, especially the bottom part thin. That detail really spoiled that knife for me. At ROK, the edges are instead much thicker and well rounded which makes them way more comfortable.
That's because there is one thing that really contributes to the ergonomics of this knife and that is how the clip is shaped and works. It depends on a piece of technology that requires some space. That probably excludes really thin handles.
Then Lionsteel didn't fall in the same trap as Spyderco did with their integral the Nirvana. That makes the sides, especially the bottom part thin. That detail really spoiled that knife for me. At ROK, the edges are instead much thicker and well rounded which makes them way more comfortable.
Opening and Lock
The flipper tab on this knife is rather large and pride where it sits. I must admit I'm not totally in love with how it looks. But the neat thing is that if you don't like the shape of it or the phenomenon with a little angry woodpecker in your pocket, you can simply lose it. ROK has a detachable flipper tab! A technology Lionsteel introduced on their TRE (Three Rapid Exchange) model where you can switch between flipper tab, thumb disc or two-hand opening depending on preferences.
At ROK, however, there is no thumb opening option. Besides the absence of a one-hand opening system makes the knife legal in more places, read Germany, it also brings another advantage. If you feel like being extremely practical, the knife is actually a better cutting tool without the flipper tab. Such features are often in the way when working with knives in general. And then, of course, it gives the knife cleaner looking lines without a piece of metal sticking out. For you to succeed with the surgery, a small tool is included.
Are there any downsides? You do end up with a two-handed knife that isn't that easy to open. A certain technique is required since the detent is adapted for flipping action. Not much of the blade is visible and the part that is chamfered and polished which makes for a poor grip. The trick is to grab as far out as possible to get better leverage. With some hand-strength and practice, it works, but it's not the world's best two-handed knife.
At ROK, however, there is no thumb opening option. Besides the absence of a one-hand opening system makes the knife legal in more places, read Germany, it also brings another advantage. If you feel like being extremely practical, the knife is actually a better cutting tool without the flipper tab. Such features are often in the way when working with knives in general. And then, of course, it gives the knife cleaner looking lines without a piece of metal sticking out. For you to succeed with the surgery, a small tool is included.
Are there any downsides? You do end up with a two-handed knife that isn't that easy to open. A certain technique is required since the detent is adapted for flipping action. Not much of the blade is visible and the part that is chamfered and polished which makes for a poor grip. The trick is to grab as far out as possible to get better leverage. With some hand-strength and practice, it works, but it's not the world's best two-handed knife.
The flipper tab is detachable
Without the flipper tab the knife, in my eyes, looks more elegant. It is also slightly more practical but hard to open
Without the flipper tab the knife, in my eyes, looks more elegant. It is also slightly more practical but hard to open
How is ROK to open otherwise? I want to emphasize that it is not a knife for those who primarily use their knife as a yoyo or stress balls. The "fidget factor" is low. Despite ball bearings that is. Physics works against this knife. It is, to be honest, a bit lethargic. The reason is not hard to figure out.
The flipper tab is not the best in terms of placement, but the biggest culprit in this context is the fairly thick and heavy blade. There is simply a lot of mass to accelerate. Neither is the shape of the flipper tab optimal. Despite well-beveled corners and edges, it's a bit square-ish.
The flipper tab is not the best in terms of placement, but the biggest culprit in this context is the fairly thick and heavy blade. There is simply a lot of mass to accelerate. Neither is the shape of the flipper tab optimal. Despite well-beveled corners and edges, it's a bit square-ish.
ROK is equipped with something as unusual as an aluminum frame lock. That, of course, demands the usual additions that also can be found in titanium frame locks such as lock bar reinforcement and overtravel stop. The latter is extra important as this is an integral handle. Should you bend the lock bar too far outwards, it is not easily corrected with this type of construction.
Here, hower, it is impossible to bend something too far since there is a disc stopping that from happening. At a quick glance, it looks a bit like those found on Strider knives but this is something completely different and another example of technology developed by Lionsteel. It is a combined over-travel stop and a secondary lock called Rotoblock. I'm not a supporter of this kind of add-ons in general but if you are going to put extra locks in your knife this is one of the best. It's reasonably easy to activate and release and it keeps the locking bar in a firm grip. The main advantage, as I see it, is that unlike several other designs, Rotoblock cannot be activated by mistake. If you don't want to use it, you don't have to.
The frame lock itself is very strong. There is no risk for failure even under stress. As long as you use your knife like an actual knife, I might add. The function is excellent and there is no movement in the blade at all. The knife feels as sturdy as it looks.
But the lock has an Achilles heel. It's quite hard to release. The lock bar is stiff and offers some resistance. It is therefore fortunate that it is rounded and that the opposite side of the handle is recessed to facilitate access. But that is the second reason why this is not a "fidget-knife".
Besides, ROK has no ramp for the detent ball, which makes this a two-stage rocket. First, you must overcome the force from the lock bar to release the blade and then the detent to be able to close it. Maybe this could be considered a safety aspect. But it definitely ruins what little was left of the action being "fidget-friendly".
I suspect that the reason for putting the detent-ball that far back on the blade has to do with the placement of the stop pin. But the knife has after a while of usage and some new oil become so smooth that it can easily be shaken closed after that the detent ball let go of its grip.
Here, hower, it is impossible to bend something too far since there is a disc stopping that from happening. At a quick glance, it looks a bit like those found on Strider knives but this is something completely different and another example of technology developed by Lionsteel. It is a combined over-travel stop and a secondary lock called Rotoblock. I'm not a supporter of this kind of add-ons in general but if you are going to put extra locks in your knife this is one of the best. It's reasonably easy to activate and release and it keeps the locking bar in a firm grip. The main advantage, as I see it, is that unlike several other designs, Rotoblock cannot be activated by mistake. If you don't want to use it, you don't have to.
The frame lock itself is very strong. There is no risk for failure even under stress. As long as you use your knife like an actual knife, I might add. The function is excellent and there is no movement in the blade at all. The knife feels as sturdy as it looks.
But the lock has an Achilles heel. It's quite hard to release. The lock bar is stiff and offers some resistance. It is therefore fortunate that it is rounded and that the opposite side of the handle is recessed to facilitate access. But that is the second reason why this is not a "fidget-knife".
Besides, ROK has no ramp for the detent ball, which makes this a two-stage rocket. First, you must overcome the force from the lock bar to release the blade and then the detent to be able to close it. Maybe this could be considered a safety aspect. But it definitely ruins what little was left of the action being "fidget-friendly".
I suspect that the reason for putting the detent-ball that far back on the blade has to do with the placement of the stop pin. But the knife has after a while of usage and some new oil become so smooth that it can easily be shaken closed after that the detent ball let go of its grip.
To Carry
This knife is very "carry-friendly" with its well-rounded edges and corners and smooth surface. For a knife offering a blade length of just a bit over eight centimeters, the knife is rather hefty, weighing in at 126 grams. But as a total weight for a pocket knife, that isn't too much. Less sympathetic in the pocket is the flipper tab as mentioned earlier. It is both visible and can be felt so it's not a favorite of mine.
H.WAYL the big party trick for this knife, a retractable clip
But this knife has a party trick up its sleeve. So far it is unique to the ROK. The technology called H.WAYL which is a disappearing clip! In short, it means that the clip is fully inserted into the side of the handle when not in use. It is spring-loaded and when the grey button on the opposite side is pressed, the clip appears.
The big question is though how well this pioneering piece of art, works as a knife clip. Quite well, actually. However, the solution is not problem-free. It demands a little more attention or rather re-schooling when it comes to usage. From a purely operational point of view, I put a little bit of the handle into the pocket and then use a pinch grip to push the button and deploy the clip. It is then easy attachable to most fabrics no matter how thick.
The spring tension is sufficient to hold the knife in place most of the time but not if, for example, pants are turned upside down or the like. It does not have the same strength as a good spring clip and because of how smooth the handle is the knife can be dropped during such maneuvers I have noted.
And this is how it looks opened. The material is thin enough to be flex
Pulling the knife is easy and no, you don't risk dropping it easily as been claimed. No more than other knives with metal handles should be added. It is not coarse G10 and the handle of the ROK is a little bit slippery.
The big selling point of the clip is that is supposed to be unnoticed not in use. The only thing I can say is that it really works as intended. In the folded position, it doesn't exist and thus that discussion ends. From an ergonomic point of view, a clip cannot be better than H.WAYL.
The big selling point of the clip is that is supposed to be unnoticed not in use. The only thing I can say is that it really works as intended. In the folded position, it doesn't exist and thus that discussion ends. From an ergonomic point of view, a clip cannot be better than H.WAYL.
To Conclude
The first impression of this knife was that it feels much more solid than expected. Both weight and above all thickness surprised me. The second impression was that it is very well built. The finish on both the handle and the blade are extremely good and the ROK exudes a feeling of quality when held. Only then I started to discover all the technology. Except for the one found in the box that is. It was obvious right from the beginning.
The technology found in ROK can be divided into a couple of categories. The first is more basic and is about well-chosen materials:
The technology found in ROK can be divided into a couple of categories. The first is more basic and is about well-chosen materials:
- aluminum alloy of the highest quality
- a premium powder steel in the form of M390 from Böhler/Uddeholm
- ceramic ball bearings
- integral handle
- asymmetrical pivot with hidden stop pin
- aluminum frame lock
- NFC chip in the box
- Rotoblock
- removable flipper
- H.WAYL, retractable clip
The more technical side of the ROK, H.WAYL, Rotoblock, and asymmetrical pivot
The big question, however, is whether all these technology aids to make ROK a better knife? I would probably argue that it does with some reservations. The NFC-chip as an example is a fun little novelty but most add a sense of luxury than anything practical. The same goes for integral handles. I'm aware that some sing their praises for the increased strength as well as the simplicity in terms of the number of components. But I claim that the strength is more of a theoretical kind and that simplicity goes out the window when combined with all other technology. By the way, that goes even if you stop by adding ball bearings to your integral knife.
The flipper tab and ball bearings make for a knife that is easy to open even if it's not the fastest on the market. The possibility to remove the tab increases legality in some areas and makes the knife more practical. The asymmetrical head on the backside of the pivot screw prevents the pivot from rotating freely and also hides the location of the stop pin. That is, as far as I know, unique to this knife. The lock works without remarks and steel insert on the lock bar and overtravel stop increases the life span of the knife. Rotoblock adds extra safety for the ones who want it. H.WAYL does exactly what is promised but contributes to the knife being somewhat more fiddly.
But ultimately it is the design that makes a good knife and in this regard, the ROK is almost brilliant. First, I think that the proportions are harmonious and that the knife, therefore, is good looking. But that is of course very subjective. The handle is very comfortable and ergonomic and in this area, Molletta succeeded. The same goes for the really good blade shape. Possibly the handle could do with a tad sharper and more distinct patterns to increase the friction just a little.
And then it was the elephant in the room and that is the overly thick blade stock. It actually makes the knife less capable! Sure, it looks nice, especially with that well-rounded spine but it's not very practical. The only thing that motivates that thick blade as far as I am concerned, is the balance. And yes, the knife is well balanced and truth be told that is often more important than weight.
I'm also curious about how H.WAYL stands in the long run. After all, there is a small spring in the clip mechanism. The durability in that spring and what happens if the mechanism gets really dirty remains to be seen. But so far there have been no problems.
The flipper tab and ball bearings make for a knife that is easy to open even if it's not the fastest on the market. The possibility to remove the tab increases legality in some areas and makes the knife more practical. The asymmetrical head on the backside of the pivot screw prevents the pivot from rotating freely and also hides the location of the stop pin. That is, as far as I know, unique to this knife. The lock works without remarks and steel insert on the lock bar and overtravel stop increases the life span of the knife. Rotoblock adds extra safety for the ones who want it. H.WAYL does exactly what is promised but contributes to the knife being somewhat more fiddly.
But ultimately it is the design that makes a good knife and in this regard, the ROK is almost brilliant. First, I think that the proportions are harmonious and that the knife, therefore, is good looking. But that is of course very subjective. The handle is very comfortable and ergonomic and in this area, Molletta succeeded. The same goes for the really good blade shape. Possibly the handle could do with a tad sharper and more distinct patterns to increase the friction just a little.
And then it was the elephant in the room and that is the overly thick blade stock. It actually makes the knife less capable! Sure, it looks nice, especially with that well-rounded spine but it's not very practical. The only thing that motivates that thick blade as far as I am concerned, is the balance. And yes, the knife is well balanced and truth be told that is often more important than weight.
I'm also curious about how H.WAYL stands in the long run. After all, there is a small spring in the clip mechanism. The durability in that spring and what happens if the mechanism gets really dirty remains to be seen. But so far there have been no problems.
And the ROK's more practical side, a solid combination of a good blade and a comfortable handle
And then it was the color on this particular version. I like it a lot! It's not a valid argument for a good knife, but still. If you are more conservative you choose black instead. In any case, you get an attractive knife that should appeal to those who like technological innovations and progress. Here you get most of them in a single package.
And how much do you have to pay for this beauty then? The aluminum-version costs about 250€ in Europe and around 220$ in the US as I write this. For that, you get a lot of both in materials and technology in a good looking package. If you want the titanium-version it costs a bit more and then some if you add Damascus blade to the mix (around (350 and 470$). Considering that, this version is not cheap, but priceworthy. I'm not totally convinced about the titanium version for this reason.
And how much do you have to pay for this beauty then? The aluminum-version costs about 250€ in Europe and around 220$ in the US as I write this. For that, you get a lot of both in materials and technology in a good looking package. If you want the titanium-version it costs a bit more and then some if you add Damascus blade to the mix (around (350 and 470$). Considering that, this version is not cheap, but priceworthy. I'm not totally convinced about the titanium version for this reason.
If you like hi-tech and Molletta's design language this is the knife for you! It also happens to be a very solid knife that is a joy to work with and have an excellent build quality.
Specification:
Length, Overall: 7.8" (198 mm)
Length, Folded: mm
Weight: 4.44 oz (126g)
Blade Length: 3,27 (83 mm)
Blade Thickness: 0,18" (4,5 mm)
Blade Material: M390, HRC 59-60
Handle: Aluminum, Integral
Lock: Frame lock
Produced by: Lionsteel, made in Italy
* This comment is caused by discussions in mainly social media about the hardness in mass-produced knives. Among others, some of Lionsteel's products have been mentioned.
** In this specific case the titanium-version weighs 28 grams more and increases the price with around 130$.
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