Friday EDC No. CLII "Nebula"

The weeks fly by, laying themselves down to die where weeks eventually drift into oblivion. We are now in the midst of autumn, and more things are dying—the leaves, and the desire to go outside.

It is pitch black when I leave home, and soon it will be just as dark when I return. This means entire days can pass without seeing any real daylight—especially when a drizzle falls from gray skies, as it has for a few days this week. Those of you living at similar latitudes know exactly what I mean. I am addressing my international audience here, as those in northern Sweden would hardly be impressed. But for the rest of you: I live at 56°52′ N. Follow that latitude across to North America and see where you end up.

One can only hope that a few of those enchanted sunny days will return. In the meantime, it is all about survival.

Fredags-EDC "Nebula"

In my pocket today is a relatively new release from QSP—a knife I introduced the other day. It’s called the Nebula. It is hardly an understated knife. On the upside, however, it certainly isn't pitch-black or designed to look like a commando knife. A mirror-polished blade and frame, paired with abalone handle scales, create—shall we say—a different kind of look.

"Bling" is another word for it. Sometimes, that’s just what’s needed to brighten things up. I don't really need much more than that today, though; I’m heading to school, where there are more than enough knives to go around.

/ J - the survivalist

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - QSP Nebula

A Nebula is a collection of gas and dust in space, and that is what this knife from QSP is named after. I assume the name refers to its appearance—specifically the high-polish details and the blade, which give the whole piece a shimmering quality.

This is especially true for the versions featuring multicolored handles, such as this one or the mother-of-pearl variant. The "space cloud" theme is arguably even more apparent in versions made from blue "shredded carbon fiber," resin with copper or brass accents, and stabilized multicolored wood; each shimmers in its own unique way. Then there is the version with orange bone scales. Hmm? That one really stands out from the rest of the lineup.

However, the fact that they launched multiple versions right out of the gate suggests that QSP has real confidence in this model. I think I agree with them—provided, of course, that you have a taste for a bit of "bling," since the Nebula isn't exactly subtle, so to speak.

QSP Nebula

This version features abalone handle scales—a type of seashell, for those who don't know. Over the top lies a protective layer that I assume is some form of resin; in any case, it is transparent.

Otherwise, most surfaces are high-polish—including the frame, the lock bar, the small back spacer, and the mirror-finished 14C28N blade. The blade runs on ceramic bearings and operates incredibly smoothly; the polishing of the frame likely contributes to this.

As for the rest, the blade is a distinct clip point, measuring 74 mm in length and 3 mm in thickness. It features a flat grind extending about two-thirds of the way up the blade. Its appearance is enhanced by a substantial swedge, though that detail almost gets lost amidst all the shimmering.

The handle has a classic cigar shape, with a lanyard hole located at its rounded end—a feature that may well come in handy, given that the best way to carry this knife is in a leather sheath (available as an optional accessory), as the Nebula lacks a pocket clip.

The Nebula fits comfortably in the hand, secured by a generous index-finger cutout; here, it is the shape that provides the grip rather than the materials. The total length is 176 mm, and it weighs around 115 g—in other words, a fairly unobtrusive knife in terms of size.

If the handle is shiny, that’s nothing compared to the blade!

It is also worth noting that the knife can be opened in several ways, as the blade features both thumb studs and a flipper tab.

The knife secures using what the website calls a "liner lock," though given its appearance and function, it is more accurately described as a "bolster lock"—which is, in turn, a variant of a frame lock. My initial impression is that the mechanism works excellently; there is absolutely no blade play.

A defining characteristic of the entire knife is the sense that it is exceptionally well-made. The fit between materials, the grind, the polishing, and the rounded edges all contribute to this impression. Then there are details that further elevate the overall look—such as the inlay of what appears to be turquoise (or another blue stone) in the pivot head on the presentation side. Additionally, the adjustable pivot screw features an anodized collar.

All in all, this knife is something of a piece of jewelry, yet it conceals a solid little EDC knife beneath that polished surface. A flat-ground clip-point blade in 14C28N steel paired with a simple handle rarely disappoints—especially not when the quality is this high.

A full review will follow in due course.

QSP Knives

/ J - diving for abalone

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Civivi Neurohaptic

"Big and substantial" might not be the first words that come to mind when thinking of Civivi  , yet they do occasionally release models that fall into the XL category. Perhaps not when compared to a certain "Cold Steel" brand, but certainly when measured against most others. I already own the Sentinel Strike, for instance—a fairly substantial piece—though it can't quite match the Buster FG, which is a true beast regardless of what it’s compared to. After all, we’re talking about a length of 245 mm and a weight of 175 g.

Today’s knife, the Neurohaptic, isn't quite *that* substantial, though it still ranks among the largest Civivi models I own.

A substantial knife from Civivi

In terms of actual dimensions, this translates to a total length of 225 mm and a weight of 122 g. The latter figure is particularly appealing, considering the blade measures a full 95 mm in length. It is a clip-point blade with a completely straight clip, giving it a distinctive, almost dagger-like appearance. Additionally, the blade features a substantial fuller, though this is not particularly visible on this black-coated version. The blade is 3 mm thick and made of Nitro-V steel; it features a flat grind with a 20 mm grind height.

The handle is 124 mm long—excluding the protruding lanyard loop—with a maximum height of 26 mm and a thickness of 13 mm. Combine these dimensions with the very straight handle profile, and you get a simple yet highly comfortable grip that suits all hand sizes—or so I believe—as well as every conceivable type of grip.

It is made of G10 and is available in a few different colors.

Civivi Neurohaptic

The Neurohaptic opens via a flipper tab, and in typical Civivi fashion, the action is tuned to perfection. This applies to both the opening mechanism and the button lock.

As usual, the blade rides on ceramic bearings—a standard feature rather than the exception in Civivi’s lineup these days.

All in all, this is a fairly large, lightweight, and very smooth-operating knife. It is a great choice for anyone wanting something substantial without carrying a boat anchor in their pocket. It is well worth a closer look, which is exactly what I intend to do.

Civivi Knives

/ J - browsing the Civivi catalog

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - QSP Coyote

It felt like time to feature some new knives from QSP here on the blog. In fact, these are the first ones of the year!

Most of the folding knives released by this brand are named after birds, but here they’ve broken with that tradition and named the model Coyote.

This knife is currently available in four different versions featuring handle materials that are both new to QSP’s catalog and quite rare in general. One of the options is Micarta—but not just any Micarta; it’s a "glow-in-the-dark" variant, something I’ve never seen with that base material before. That same feature is more common with G10, and that version is available as well.

If you’d rather not have a knife that looks slightly radioactive, a great alternative is the version with silver foil G10—or, in this case, copper foil G10. You can also choose the blade finish: black or satin.

That said, I’ve noticed that the collar around the pivot screw actually glows in the dark on this knife. So, you do get a bit of that radioactive look after all.

A knife with a handle material that is new to me: copper foil G10.

I chose this material for a change of pace. I own a knife with Silver G10 from another brand, so it is clearly a material that is currently popular—or perhaps even trendy. Maybe because it is relatively new?

Speaking of new features, this knife has a "button lock," or rather a button operated liner lock, which isn't the most common locking mechanism in QSP’s lineup. In fact, this is the first model I’m aware of that uses this design. However, it quickly becomes apparent that they have extensive experience in manufacturing with tight tolerances. The lock functions flawlessly—at least initially.

Furthermore, the blade action is exceptionally smooth. The ceramic ball bearings account for some of this, but not all of it; QSP has clearly succeeded in fine-tuning the lock resistance to an excellent level.

The knife measures 190 mm when open and 108 mm when closed. The handle is 13 mm thick, and the knife weighs 105 g.

The blade accounts for 82 mm of the total length. It is 3 mm thick, with a maximum height of 28 mm. It features a distinctive clip point profile and is made of Nitro-V steel—hardened to 59–61 HRC (at the higher end of that range for coated blades, and slightly lower for uncoated ones). The grind is a high flat grind with a substantial swedge, giving the blade a curved appearance—an effect further emphasized by the recurve.

The blade also features something I am not always fond of: a prominent forward finger choil. Such cutouts have both pros and cons, and in my opinion, the downsides outweigh the benefits.

 

QSP Coyote

My immediate impression is that the combination of shape and size makes the knife very comfortable to hold, regardless of the grip I use. It remains to be seen whether it is truly ergonomic—that is, whether it feels good to use while actually working with the knife.

The blade is very easy to deploy using the dual thumb studs; these also deserve praise for being well-placed and free of awkward shapes—they simply work well. As mentioned earlier, the lock is excellent, and the package is rounded off with a standard QSP-style pocket clip. It is nothing extravagant, but it is highly functional. Incidentally, this clip and the lock mechanism make the knife fully ambidextrous.

All in all, this is a knife that is simultaneously innovative and more traditional for QSP. The lock, handle material, and—to some extent—blade shape stand out coming from this manufacturer. Incidentally, copper-foil G10 isn't exactly common elsewhere yet, either.

In other words, it’s a new kind of knife for me, but also for QSP. A Coyote that howls at a pretty high pitch—and seems to have the substance to back it up.

QSP Knives

/ J - listening to a wolf song

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Civivi Over Yonder

It is well known by now that Civivi is a generally competent company that knows what it is doing. They are going from strength to strength regarding precision in every stage of manufacturing. The edges are sharp, whereas the edges and corners of the handle are not. The locks are smooth and easy to operate, and the knives often snap open with impressive speed. Overall, the technical aspects tend to be of a very high standard.

The criticism sometimes leveled at Civivi operates on a different level—namely, that new models are released too frequently. Sure, I understand part of that criticism, but you aren't obliged to buy them all, and there is no denying that it increases the chances of finding a favorite that suits you perfectly. However, for that to happen, the design still needs to be appealing or stand out in some way; otherwise, there is a risk of it getting lost in the crowd. In this particular configuration, this model managed to stand out enough to make me take a second look. Then, of course, there is another factor at play—one that regular readers of the blog can probably guess.

Civivi Over Yonder

As mentioned, the model is called "Over Yonder," and the reason I had high expectations is, of course, that I own—and have previously reviewed—its little brother, the "Yonder." Naturally, both knives were designed by Zac Whitmore, though in this instance, it might look a bit like simply printing out the original sketch and stretching it! Jokes aside, however, scaling existing models up or down isn't that simple. Finger grooves might no longer fit, a clip that didn't cause hotspots suddenly does, and so on—certain factors have to be taken into account.

The Over Yonder measures just over nineteen centimeters—specifically 191.2 mm, according to the website. I usually round off figures, but this means, roughly speaking, that it is a little over two centimeters longer than the original. The question I aim to answer is whether that extra bit makes a difference. The blade length has increased to 85 mm, yet the thickness remains an exemplary 2.2 mm. That is thin for a modern folding knife. Combine that with the thin grinds Civivi typically employs these days, and it is clear that this knife will cut exceptionally well. The blade steel is a capable budget option: the widely used 14C28N. For those unfamiliar with my writing, I should mention that this is one of my favorite steels among the more basic varieties. The blade features a flat grind and a satin finish, with a shape best described as a Spey Point. It is also worth noting that the blade is approximately three centimeters tall, which creates a well-balanced look.

The handle is the standout feature of this particular model. As is typical with Civivi, there are other options available, but I wanted something a bit more "flashy," so I was drawn to this material—G10 combined with aluminum foil. The effect is reminiscent of the shimmer found in genuine abalone or mother-of-pearl. Above all, it wasn't black. There’s nothing wrong with black, of course, but I already own quite a few knives like that.

On the new Over Yonder, the handle measures 106 mm in length, 11.6 mm in thickness, and a maximum of 25 mm in height. The differences compared to the smaller model aren't huge, but they transform it from a small EDC knife into one that leans more towards the medium-sized category. The result is a knife that sits better in the hand and feels more suited to slightly heavier tasks. At the same time, given its profile and thin blade, it isn't a heavy-duty workhorse; the weight reflects this too, coming in at just 87 g.

Over Yonder is what I believe will be another hit for Civivi

The blade deploys via thumb studs, and the locking mechanism is Civivi’s version of a cross-bar lock. The action—whether deploying the blade, the feel of the lockup, or the experience of closing it—maintains the brand's customary top-tier quality. If you have never tried a knife from this company, this is a great place to start. However, I am getting ahead of myself; I will save the final verdict for the full review. That said, much of the tactile experience comes down to well-designed and well-positioned ambidextrous thumb studs, combined with a lock that has just the right tension—its omega springs are finely tuned to provide a satisfying snap upon opening. It is also worth noting that the blade rides on ceramic ball bearings and that, naturally, alternative opening methods are available for those who prefer them. These include a "flick" with the index finger and, notably, disengaging the lock bar, which also secures the blade in the closed position.

There is no doubt that this is a highly capable knife, well-suited to a wide range of tasks. Then there is the design. I like it because the proportions feel harmonious; it has a look that is both practical and stylish, while the handle material adds a little something extra.

For me, this knife was a "no-brainer"—it was an easy decision to go for it. That was largely because I liked the original model but felt it was a bit too small. We’ll see if I still feel the same way later on.

Civivi Knives

/ J - convinced

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Civivi Incindie

It has been a while since I showcased something new from Civivi; I believe the last one was the Buster FG back in November of last year. Keeping up with their rapid production pace is impossible—the sheer number of new models is simply too great. However, here on the blog, I will be presenting a small but hopefully interesting selection of relatively new folding knives.

First up is this model, called the Incindie. What drew me to this particular knife was the combination of flair and function. The blade shape looks practical, and the handle appears comfortable. The fact that it features a Damascus blade paired with a light-colored handle was the icing on the cake; it was those contrasts that won me over.

For those who don't care for that level of extravagance, the knife is also available in all-black or with a green handle paired with either a black or stone-washed blade. The materials remain the same.

When you buy a Civivi, it comes with a pouch, a cleaning cloth, and a few other odds and ends.

Starting with one of the decorative elements, the Incindie features a spear-point blade made primarily of 14C28N steel. Its shape gives the blade a feel akin to a dagger. A prominent fuller runs along the length of the blade. A detail easily overlooked on this dark version is that the blade also features a false edge.

However, the most striking aspect is neither the shape nor the steel itself, but rather the fact that it is a laminated blade incorporating layers of 93-layer Damascus steel. Civivi has further enhanced this effect by pairing a dark blade finish with high-polish Damascus, creating a truly striking contrast.

The blade length is just over 88 mm, and the height is 35 mm; this gives you an idea that it is not exactly a small knife. The blade thickness is a relatively modest 3 mm. What might not be apparent from the photos is that the blade features a hollow grind. This results in a very fine, thin edge, even though the grind itself does not extend particularly high up the blade.

Civivi Incindie

The handle complements the blade through a combination of dark and light tones. The material used is G10, specifically in a color known as "ivory," and the result turned out exactly as I had hoped. I can also reveal right away that the handle is comfortable. It measures 114 mm in length, 13 mm in thickness, and has a maximum height of 26 mm. This results in a knife with a total length of 202 mm and a weight of 108 g.

The knife opens via a flipper tab, and—as is the case with most Civivi folding knives—the blade runs on ball bearings and is tuned to perfection. It features a "button lock," a locking mechanism that has recently gained significant popularity across many brands. Generally, these locks perform excellently and provide a secure lockup while remaining very easy to operate. However, I have actually encountered instances where they failed; after all, there are many small parts that must work in unison, and the tolerances are tight. This is precisely the area where Civivi excels; their fit and finish are second to none.

Overall, the Incindie feels just as solid as any other Civivi knife in that regard. There are no sharp edges or corners, and both the locking mechanism and the opening action work perfectly. Furthermore, the factory edge is excellent. Now, the main thing left to see is whether that praise holds up after some use.

How good does the Damascus blade look after some heavy cutting? Does the handle retain that creamy hue after use? Does the lock still function after being operated hundreds of times? As always, there are plenty of questions, and I’ll return with answers to most of them in a review!

Civivi Knives

/ J - fell for the look

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Joker Becada

The other day I presented a very imposing knife from Joker in the form of the Bowie 7.87". One of its most distinctive features, besides the elegant lines, was the handle in very fine deer antler. That and the fact that a Bowie knife is certainly very all-round but has its limitations due to its size made me look for a complement.

The choice fell on another knife from Joker. This knife was also available with the same material in the handle and certainly has a different but equally elegant blade shape. In addition, it works as an excellent complement with its smaller format. The model is Becada.

Joker Becada

In true Joker spirit, there are several handle materials to choose from. If you want to continue the nature theme, there are horns from buffalo or bovine, and, in this case, deer stag.

If you want something less animalistic, there are also variants with wooden handles, and then you can choose olive wood or walnut.

But in this case, the choice was easy, even though I thought that the other variants were also nice to look at.

Becada has an elegant leaf-shaped drop point blade made of 14C28N and is available here with antler handles.

Becada is a small and agile folding knife that measures 175 mm in total. Of that, the blade is 80 mm. It is as thin as 2.3 mm, which together with a full flat grind and 14C28N steel should provide an excellent basis for cutting well. It can also be said that the elegant leaf-shaped blade is really attractive.

The handle is built around a steel frame that is 2.5 mm thick. On the outside, as mentioned, there are slabs of horn that are traditionally riveted in place. In other words, it is not a knife that you take apart. Especially not as it is a back lock. The lock bar in the back has also been given a pattern to complement the look. 

The total weight is 85 g, so it is a light knife, in other words. Becada lacks a clip, so it is best carried loose in a pocket or, as I intend to do, in a leather sheath with a clip.

The classic look paired with a solid feel based on the lack of play in the blade, good fit in the lock bar, and well-polished stag in the handle means that I am very much looking forward to carrying and using this knife. A report will come when it is done!

 

Joker

/ J - goes natural

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Vosteed Raccoon

Then it was time to introduce one of those brands I referred to in my last post. A manufacturer that I have been eyeing for a long time and have been interested in, but for some reason do not have a knife from. Then it was just a question of which model would serve as an introduction.

But then something spoke to me. How many knives do you know that have doodles as a design element on their handle? The first one I came across is this one, and it comes from Vosteed.

One of their most successful models is this knife called Raccoon. For that reason, it can be added that it comes in extremely many variants, but this pattern is one of the latest additions.

This is a special edition called "Doodle Monster," where playfulness is the focus of the design.

The designer behind the model is Yue Dong, and here he has created what I think is a really classic model. There is nothing revolutionary about it, but it does offer something unusual, and above all, everything is very well made. This applies to both design and execution, as can be seen quickly.

Incidentally, this also applies to the packaging. It is not normally something I pay enormous attention to, but in this case it is consistently executed and thus follows the theme, which makes the whole thing a little more fun.

 

The pattern from the knife handle is reflected on the box

The Raccoon in Doodle Monster design, of course, offers the same dimensions as its cousins. This means a knife that measures 193 mm in total, with a G10 handle and an aluminum backspacer. It is also anodized in the same bright green color that is found on the thumb studs and which is also a part of the pattern on the handle.

The brand name is also cleverly hidden in the doodling. An unusually intelligent way to do it.

The length of the knife when folded is 111 mm, and the thickness is 12 mm, which gives a weight of around 113 g.

Vosteed Raccoon

The blade is a drop point with a length of about 83 mm and a thickness of 3 mm. The material is 14C28N, and it is basically completely flat ground. The finish is stone-washed, and the factory edge is really good; I can immediately tell.

My first impression is that it is a brilliant knife. It is comfortable to hold, and not least, it is exceptionally soft to handle. The blade runs on ball bearings, but the lock also contributes to the smooth feeling. It is a bit special as it is a "top liner lock," which is, however, released with the help of a button. A very effective and user-friendly lock.

After testing a few quick cuts in a few different materials and carrying it for a few hours, I can already say that I like this knife. But that's getting a little ahead of myself. A review will follow as soon as I've had time to carry and use it for real.

But in any case, it's a breath of fresh air among everything that is supposed to be black, "tactical," and look murderous. The Vosteed Raccon in doodle version looks the most playful, and I appreciate that.

Vosteed Knives

/ J - affirms his playful side

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

Review SRM Twin

  

-  A real light heavyweight

Who doesn't love a dagger? Or at least the elegant aesthetics that come with that blade shape. It's something that SRM has taken note of in this model called Twin. A knife that is characterised by the slender symmetrical shape, which is the epitome of the knife type.

However, this is not a large fixed-blade knife, but a small knife intended for EDC use, a pure pocket knife, quite simply.

SRM 251 Twin

The SRM 251MB Twin is currently available in four versions. The blade steel is the same regardless of which one you choose, but the handle material and, therefore, the appearance differ. To choose from, there is G10 available in either a white or multi-coloured appearance, or as seen here, with a carbon fibre surface. The alternative is otherwise a brown Micarta. Depending on the chosen handle, the blade is either covered with a grey or black coating or sandblasted.

Twin, a very elegant and symmetrical knife

Short version: SRM Twin, A small, lightweight pocket knife for those who appreciate symmetry and hidden opening methods!

Blade

This entire knife is built around symmetry, and this is reflected in both the handle and the blade. Consequently, a dagger blade is found here. However, it is only sharpened on one side. But since the entire blade disappears into the handle when the knife is closed, you could theoretically double-sharpen the knife.

The length of the blade is 76 mm, and the width is at most 22 mm. But the shape means that immediately after the ricasso, it begins to taper towards the tip. Then the blade is made even lighter and possibly stronger by having a fuller that runs along the middle of the blade.

The thickness of the stock is 2.5 mm, and it tapers via a secondary edge of 9 mm to a thickness of a measly 0.2 mm behind the edge. The factory edge was also very sharp, it can be said. These two details are how to make a blade of this type a decent cutter. 

The dagger blade is single-edged with a grey surface and a fuller along the middle.

The steel used is Böhler N690. A well-known steel with properties that tend towards the middle when it comes to "budget steel". I put it in parentheses as it is certainly debatable what it is and what it means. Especially if it is contrasted with perhaps more important properties such as blade and edge geometry, hardening and heat treatment.

But it is stainless steel that is excellent for small folding knives. Here, the stainless properties have been reinforced by a surface layer of titanium. Perhaps more for appearance than anything else. 

The marking on this blade is worth a comment. There is a lot of information on the blade, but it is so cleverly hidden that it is barely distinguishable. On the presentation side, you can find SRM's logo, but in a small format and a colour scheme that makes it barely visible. Then they have hidden everything from the serial number, model designation and steel type on the other side in a size that requires a magnifying glass to read. It is found in the blade notch and on the ricasso.

The steel used is N690

Once put into use, the Twin is an excellent pocket knife. It cuts really well, and the blade is, as I said, not too thick, and the edge is sharp. Excellent for EDC use, in other words. But what is the crazy person saying, you might be wondering? A small dagger blade can't be very useful, right? In fact, it is if you use the knife for what small pocket knives have always been used for: small tasks. I wouldn't force this knife into a role it wasn't intended for. It's hardly an outdoor knife or hunting knife, so butchering moose or building a shelter outdoors is, of course, not its strength. 

On the other hand, the Twin is an excellent knife for opening things, the small, quick cuts needed to get into boxes and packaging, removing tape, cutting nylon straps, etc. Then, it is also good for precision work, especially with that tip. So if you've got some debris in your hand that needs to be removed, this is as close to a scalpel as you get.

Handle

Cigar, that's all I have to say about the handle. Or maybe not really everything. But the handle on the Twin has a typical cigar shape. Completely symmetrical, which reflects the blade with a narrower front end and a narrower back end. Both ends are also strongly rounded, which not only gives a softer impression, but also feels that way in the hand.

The handle is both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to hold

The construction consists of two halves of steel that make up the frame itself. The side panels are recessed into them. The knife is held together by only two screws. A screw at the back of the handle and the pivot screw itself, which is adjustable. Or, well, it would be if it weren't soaked in threadlocking. I have to admit, it won. I came very close to tearing the threads when I tried.

In this version, the frame has the same grey colour as the blade. This makes me suspect that the same titanium coating was used for both, but I'm not entirely sure on that point.

The two halves of the handle are visible, which suggests an integral construction, even if it's not

This version features sides made of a G10 laminate with a carbon fibre surface. The surface is not only well polished but also elegantly curved. There is not a single flat surface on this knife. It not only looks luxurious, it feels so too. It is obvious that some effort has been put into the design. Sometimes simplicity is a virtue.

Det finns en anledning till att den här formen var vanlig på äldre knivtyper, den fungerar i alla grepp!

In fact, the Twin works great in every grip you can think of. This applies regardless of whether you prefer a more powerful hammer grip or one more intended for finesse. But the same approach when it comes to the area of ​​use returns here. Twin is a small and neat pocket knife with the limitations that this entails. If you have large hands and want something solid to hold, this is not the knife for you. Similarly, the knife lacks finger protection, so I also do not recommend that you stab with the knife.

The length of the handle is 102 mm, and the thickness is 12 mm. The advantage of a hidden flipper and this overall shape, however, is that every millimetre of the handle can be used; nothing is wasted.

Opening and Lock

SRM rightly makes a point of equipping the Twin with what they call an "invisible flipper". It's true. Unless you have the knife in your hand or read the description of it, it's hard to tell that this is a front flipper knife. One that works damn well, too.

The entire base of the blade is equipped with jimpings that provide excellent grip for a finger that is pulled over the front of the blade. You don't have to aim or pre-tension your finger, as is sometimes the case with other types of flipper tabs. Just pull your finger, and the blade flashes out.

Twin offers one of the most discreet flipper features I've encountered

In addition to good grip and geometry, the process is aided by a light blade and ceramic ball bearings. The Twin is both easy and quick to open.

And as with all knives with this type of lock, it can, of course, be used to open the knife. Simply pull the locking bolt back, and the blade will swing freely and can be flicked both in and out. The fact is that you have to consciously reduce the speed on the way in, otherwise the blade will bounce back out.

The lock called "Ambi lock" is SRM's extremely well-executed interpretation of a cross-bar lock.

SRM calls their version of the Crossbar Lock the Ambi Lock. It's a technique they've mastered from the start, and the Twin is no exception. The lock is reliable, as it always locks and holds the blade in place with authority. There's no movement in the blade that you can feel.

However, I'm not entirely thrilled with the fact that the pivot screw is so tight that if I needed to adjust the blade, it's currently impossible. 

To Carry

Sometimes I write "it doesn't get much better than this" when it comes to certain aspects of knives. That's something that definitely applies to how the Twin is to carry. The external attributes are there with a length of almost exactly one decimeter. To that should be added, however, that it is a very rounded decimeter. The ends are softly shaped, and the sides are arched.

This means that the maximum thickness of the handle is only found in the middle. At the edges, the handle is only 9 mm thick. Then it is even better with a modest weight of only 70 grams.

Furthermore, the surface of the handle is very soft and does not contribute to any friction that can irritate either a hand on the way down to the pocket or tear the fabric.

But even more notable is the absence of anything that protrudes. As you can see, there is nothing that can be in the way. Then the package is completed with a well-functioning clip.

I like this variant of a wire clip

Twin has a black wire clip that matches the appearance of the knife well. The fact that SRM chose this type gives a lighter and airier impression than a more massive clip would have made, so it is a choice I think is correct. The function of the clip is very good. The spring works, and the ramp that is there comes over most fabric edges. Especially since the material underneath does not provide any friction to speak of. This makes Twin easy to pull and put away. And since it weighs as little as it does, it is basically completely unnoticeable where it is located.

The only disadvantage is that the clip cannot be moved to the left side. But after trying to carry the knife on the left side, it can be concluded that since the model itself is completely symmetrical, you can just pull the knife, twist it in your hand and open it with your left hand as well. No major problems, therefore.

Another advantage of the clip is that it does not interfere when cutting with the knife. On the contrary, it helps when opening and closing the knife, as you can rest your fingers against it for a better grip.

To Conclude

It can be said straight away that, in my opinion, this is one of the best-looking knives SRM has put together. Twin not only has that very dagger-like appearance, but it is also very well made. All quality markers can be checked off. The blade is centred, the factory edge is sharp and symmetrical, the opening is soft and nimble and so on. But what stands out the most is probably the details in the seemingly very simple handle.

It's about things like how they chose to keep the colour scheme consistent with the frame, blade and screws. How the marking is tasteful and discreet, but not least about how they rounded and bevelled all edges. The entire knife is as soft to hold as it looks in the picture.

Twin, a slim little dagger for your pocket that is surprisingly practical

The fact that it is comfortable to grip is followed by the fact that it is pleasant to work with. The knife is well-balanced, which reinforces that it is light. The blade is surprisingly practical given the frames I mentioned earlier. As you can see, it is not a survival knife. But for all sorts of smaller tasks, it is excellent.

SRM Twin is a real jewel in your pocket

The SRM Twin is therefore a pretty good knife for those who like this type of aesthetic but who at the same time want something that, despite its sleek appearance and neat format, is quite practical.

In addition, the Twin is not expensive; currently, the recommended price on the website is $79.95, which is about the same amount in Europe, albeit in Euros.

SRM Knives

Specifications:

Length Overall: 178 mm

Length Folded: 102 mm

Weight: 70 g (weighed by me, stated 70 g)

Blade Length: 76 mm

Blade Thickness: 2,5 mm

Blade Steel: Böhler N690

Handle : G10/carbon fiber

Lock: Ambi Lock/ Cross Bar Lock

Produced by: SRM, made in China

/ J - looking for twins

#knivesandbikes #aliaspostmortem #knivigtvarre 

Review QSP Jumping Jack

  

-  the result of a successful collaboration

The modern grandfather knife, or something like that, is what I called this knife when it was presented here on the blog the other day. I'm, of course, referring to this slip joint from the now very established brand QSP.

The model has been named Jumping Jack, and here I intend to give a description of it so you can decide whether it is something for you or not.

QSP Jumping Jack

Jumping Jack is a lot of things at the same time, and you have to start by deciding whether you like slip joints or not, as the knife lacks a lock in the true sense. In addition, it is a so-called "modern traditional" which means that it is not exactly the same as, say, an old Case from the fifties. The appearance is certainly found here, but the materials and manufacturing technology are modern. Specifically, this means that the construction is screwed instead of riveted, as an example.

If some of you think you recognise the design language from elsewhere, I can attest that you are right. This is a collaboration between QSP and Spencer Marquardt, who is usually involved with Finch Knives.

Jumping Jack, a really nice slip joint

Short version: QSP Jumping Jack, a "modern traditional" and an essence of what such a knife can be. The design language is classic, but the performance is modern

Blade

The blade shape is a bit special. A combination of older times and Finch Knives, because the blade is wider towards the front than towards the base. Otherwise, this is a hybrid but where everything breathes a classic Spey blade. Something that was traditionally used to castrate animals. Hence, the steep tip, you simply don't want to poke holes in the wrong place. But the history is older, and the blade shape is good for precise cuts, and therefore it was also used in fly fishing contexts. Hence the name, it is named after the river Spey in Scotland.

Jumping Jack has a 70mm long Spey blade made of 14C28N

So far, it's classic, but some details are more modern. It's about things like the finish, a nice shiny satin, but mainly about the material. Here, stainless steel is used in the form of Sandvik 14C28N. A Swedish steel that was developed together with Kershaw Knives to be a better version of 12C28N.

As a steel, it is very all-round and one of my favourites when it comes to so-called mid-range steels. It has balanced properties and can handle most things. However, it is not extreme, so it does not hold its sharpness as well as a "super steel". It is also not as shock-resistant as the best in its class. But none of those properties is necessary in a small pocket knife. So here it is, an excellent choice.

The total length of the blade is 70 mm, and the thickness is 3 mm. The height of the blade varies between 19 mm and 16 mm.

The blade is, as it should be, completely flat-ground. It starts with a stock thickness of three millimetres that tapers down to a thickness of 0.4-0.5 mm behind the edge. The greater thickness is measured towards the tip.

The marking is discreet, and the Finch logo is found on the back of the blade

Speaking of tips, this one is unusually strong. Partly because the blade is very tall precisely in front, over the "hump". It is also first here that the blade starts to taper. This means that the tip works great for many small tasks, including puncturing thinner plastic and tape, etc.

But then this was a slip joint, so you shouldn't do stupid things like try to stab the blade into something; the risk of hurting yourself is then considerable. If you use the tip with a little discernment, it works great, though. Maybe it is a little too wide for my taste, as I like them to, among other things, pick metal chips out of fingers and hands. Yes, that is a common task for my pocket knives; I am a knife thrower after all. 

The blade, however, is otherwise extremely practical. That is the advantage of old blade types; they are tried and tested. This blade does not seem to have much of a curve, but the one that is there allows you to perform draw cuts against cutting boards, for example.

The straight edge works great for cutting anything that fits. By that I mean that it is a fairly small knife. The total edge length is around 63 mm. But if you stick to that, most things will be cut effectively. Especially since the knife is unusually sturdy for a slip joint.

Handle

Jumping Jack has a classically designed handle. Without a doubt, a nod to older times. It has a small "waist" at the front, which then widens to become a little rounder at the back. A curvy thing this. Incidentally, this also applies to the slightly arched sides.

The sides are both glued and screwed in place with two small T6. The frame and bolsters themselves are held in place by the adjustable pivot screw and a screw in the rear bolster. The size of the pivot screw is a notch up with a T8a. The fact that it is adjustable is significant for a modern traditional. An older knife would, of course, have been riveted. 

The handle is curvy with a steel bolster, frame and back spring

The material of the sides in this case is black and white resin plastic. Stylish but perhaps not the most exclusive. At the same time, it feels like a flirtation with the Cellidor plastic of the fifties. But if you want more exclusive sides, Jumping Jack is available in wood, blued bone and not least abalone. You know that green pearlescent material that comes from a special species of mussel.

The finish is excellent, making the frame and back spring feel like one piece.

Despite being small, this knife is built around a steel frame of a full two millimetres. The bolsters and the back spring are in the same material; this is a solid construction. You can tell by the feel when you hold the knife.

That brings us to grips. The length of the handle is 90 mm, and all of it is available surface for the fingers. The thickness amounts to 12 mm, and the height is a maximum of 21 mm. But with the rounded ends, it still becomes a three-finger knife for me, a good one, but not all fingers can fit.

A good grip, but it is a small knife, and of course, it gives a smaller handle

Not quite, anyway. In a hammer grip, it is close, but only half the little finger is supported and only if half the index finger is found in front of the handle. The three-finger grip becomes even clearer if the knife is held in a sabre grip. But then the thumb and index finger fall naturally into place in the depressions that form the "waist" of the handle. The rounded back end without protruding clips and the like is also comfortable against the inside of the handle. Overall, however, this is a very good and flexible handle given its size.

Walk and Talk

Instead of discussing "opening methods and locks" as I usually do, this is instead about concepts like walk and talk and stay and play. They are significantly more tied to this type of knife.

Accordingly, this knife is, of course, opened with two hands. For this purpose, there are double-sided nail grooves, which incidentally make the knife completely ambidextrous, but as a nail-biter, I am extremely grateful that it does not have to be used.

The knife opens with two hands and has nail notches to help. Jumping Jack also has a solid halfway stop

On the contrary, it is relatively easy to access the blade as about 7 mm of it protrudes and can be gripped in a pinch. I would rate the resistance itself as a seven, maybe an eight on a ten-point scale. The spring provides good resistance both on the way in and out, and the blade falls into place with a satisfying sound that gives some comfort to those who lack their lock. On the way in, there is a classic ninety-degree blade stop. A safety feature that means the blade on the way in does not cut off a fingertip as easily.

The action is unusually smooth for a slip joint. They certainly haven't gone so far as to have ball bearings, but unlike pure friction against the frame that was common in the past, the Jumping Jack has bronze friction bearings, which explains that detail.

Once out, the blade is solid. There is not a hint of lateral movement. In fact, the knife feels unusually sturdy for being this small. Should any slight play occur, you can always tighten the pivot screw.

There is no up and down movement either. As long as the spring holds the blade in place, that is. It is a slip joint after all. But on the other hand, if you put a lot of pressure on a blade in the wrong direction on a knife of this size, you have still done something wrong.

To Carry

Jumping Jack is a true pocket knife. No question about it. When folded, it measures 89 mm, and all ends are well-rounded and therefore soft. The only thing that could be perceived as sharp is the protruding tang.

A sheath can be purchased for the knife, but here we use one with a magnetic clip from another manufacturer

When the soft shape is then complemented by a nice weight of 90 g, there is not much negative to say about how the knife behaves in a pocket. It simply lies at the bottom. Preferably across if the size of the pocket allows. That is both an advantage and a disadvantage. But to remedy some of the historical problems that arose in connection with this behaviour and which resulted in questions like "how on earth can a knife disappear in a pocket?", the clip was invented. You will not find anything like that here.

That was the disadvantage; the advantage of clipless knives is that they are always more comfortable to work with.*

As you can see, the knife fits perfectly in this sheath

If you don't want to carry the knife loose in a pocket or bag, it's a good idea to buy the leather sheath that QSP has so aptly developed for this purpose. It also protects the knife's hilt from chafing if you also store other things like keys in the same pocket. This is especially true if you choose more exclusive materials like abalone, but even this resin variant can be scratched.

Now I didn't invest in a sheath because I have a couple lying around from another brand that I know are also great for this knife. 

To Conclude

For those who like the "modern traditionals" category, the Jumping Jack is not only a good example but also a really good choice. The look is there; what you think of it is, of course, personal, but the knife doesn't really look like everyone else. I see that as a big plus in a knife world where originality is sometimes in short supply. But here Mr Marquardt has managed to distil a classic model, but with a modern twist that at least appealed to my eye.

QSP has the nice habit of including a card that tells you the dimensions of the actual model in the box.

Then QSP has added a dose of what their name actually stands for. Written out, the acronym stands for Quality, Service, Price. I can't comment on the service in this specific case, even though it is generally very good. However, I can say something about the other two parts.

There are some classic quality markers for slip joints that can also be used to assess a modern interpretation of one. The first one, which applies to all knives, is, of course, how the transition between the different materials is made. This is especially true when you have designs that include bolsters. Here we also have double bolsters.

The work is really well done on this knife. It really exudes quality.

Jumping Jack, as elegant as an espresso

Another marker is how much, if any, light shines through the handle if the knife is held up to a light source. It is very difficult to get the spine spring completely tight to the frame. This is especially true of older handmade knives. With modern levels of tolerances, it is easier. On the Jumping Jack, nothing shines through. This, of course, gives the highest rating. Add to that the spring and frame are completely smooth in relation to each other, both with the blade in the extended and retracted position. It is very well made. Especially like the spring in the middle position, the ninety-degree stop, also here at the same height as the frame. A finesse that is only found on very fine slip joints. 

Then you have the usual folding knife pitfalls to avoid. These include areas such as how the factory edge is made, whether the blade is centred when the knife is closed, whether there is play in the blade when the knife is open, and so on.

QSP has succeeded on all counts with the Jumping Jack, and it is not hard to see why other brands are starting to use QSP as an OEM manufacturer. This is a damn well-made knife.

The QSP Jumping Jack is a truly classic pocket knife, easy to always carry with you.

So if you appreciate the design language and like QSP as a brand, Jumping Jack is a more than viable alternative. Especially if we mix in the last letter in the name and talk about the price. The recommended price on the website is 75$ and when it reaches European stores, the price is from 99€.

For the invested pennies, you get a real quality knife with a timeless design and well-chosen materials. It is highly recommended!

QSP Knives

Specifications:

Length Overall: 159 mm

Length Folded 89 mm

Weight: 90 g

Blade Length: 70 mm

Blade Thickness: 3 mm

Blade Steel: 14C28N

Handle Material: Black and white Resin

Lock: None, Slip joint

Produced by: QSP, made in China

/ J - lockless

* Except knives with completely hidden clips like Lionsteel's ROK, which has a retractable clip.

#knivesandbikes #aliaspostmortem #knivigtvarre