Artisan Cutlery Centauri Titanium Front Flipper Knife

Designed by Ray Laconico, the Artisan Centauri is cut from a different cloth. Unlike a traditional flipper tab, it features a flipper that’s built into the spine of the blade, which opens by rolling a thumb over the jimped tang (similar to how you’d ignite a lighter). The benefits of this construction? A streamlined design, free of hotspots, that opens with an addictive finger roll. Made with a titanium frame, the Centauri holds up under stress. It’ll also hold up in your collector’s case, especially if you opt for one of the Damascus versions. If you prefer a workhorse blade, there’s an S35VN steel model available, too. For ease of carry, all models include a titanium clip and tip the scales at just 3.7 ounces.

Ever since seeing the movie First Blood when he was a kid, California–based knifemaker Ray Laconico was fascinated by blades. As he grew older, Ray started collecting them, until his hobby got out of control—to a point where he needed to try his hand at making one. That opportunity came under the guidance of Bob Engnath, who sold Ray blade blanks and parts to experiment with. Once he got the hang of things, there was no turning back. Since officially taking up knifemaking in the ‘90s, Laconico has become known for a simple, clean, and functional style that shows through in each of his designs. He currently operates out of his garage workshop in Visalia, California.