In 2017, we partnered with renowned knife maker David M. Rydbom of Kingdom Armory to create the Unagi, a limited edition framelock folding knife that brought our streamlined design language into the world of high end everyday carry. The Unagi paired a minimalist profile with an overbuilt construction designed for years of hard use.

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The Unagi featured a broad three inch CPM154 stainless steel blade set into a lightweight frame made from 6AL-4V Grade 5 titanium. Its simple mechanical construction used phosphor bronze washers and a carbidized titanium lock face, while the blade, frame, and pocket clip received a uniform stonewashed finish. The design took inspiration from traditional Japanese utility knives such as the Higonokami, translating their simplicity into a distinctly modern form.

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Production brought together several of the country’s most respected knife makers. The components were produced by Chad Nichols and his team at Nichols Damascus in Blue Springs, Mississippi, with Les George of George Knives assisting with engraving and assembly. Each knife then went to Rydbom for final fitting, tuning, and sharpening before receiving a final inspection at Mission Workshop in California.

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Limited to just 200 pieces, the Unagi represented an uncommon intersection of industrial design, traditional knife making, and our approach to functional equipment.