Drop + Quiet Carry The iQ Knife

Quiet Carry has made a name for itself creating sleek, minimalist tools—and the iQ embodies everything the brand stands for. In fact, calling it “sleek” is an understatement. At just 6.7 inches long, 0.35 inches wide, and 2.2 ounces, this flipper is perhaps the most portable we’ve ever made. Instead of the traditional 6AL4V titanium handle, our version has a distinctive knurling pattern you won’t find anywhere else. The knurling adds a little traction where you need it, but the back side is smooth so it won’t snag in your pocket. The blade is a standout, too. Crafted from ELMAX, a “super steel” known for its incredible edge retention wear resistance, the blade excels at everyday cutting tasks. Thanks to the ceramic bearings and subtle flipper tab, deploying The iQ is easy. Carrying it is just as simple, courtesy of the deep-carry titanium clip.

ELMAX is an advanced powdered metallurgy steel with extreme corrosion resistance, high compressive strength, and superior edge retention. Produced by Bohler-Uddenholm, it’s characterized as a "high chromium-vanadium-molybdenum-alloyed steel”—and it’s this unique composition that’s earned ELMAX the title of “super steel” among knife enthusiasts. Although ELMAX has many properties of stainless steel, it’s also hailed for its qualities of carbon steel, namely its ability to take a good edge and relative ease of sharpening. Overall, it’s one of the most advanced materials used in the knife industry today.

Formed in Costa Mesa, California in 2014, Quiet Carry has steadily risen from a little-known knife brand to one of the most sought-after on the market. For head designer Bryce Alexander, EDC tools are all about simplicity. This minimalist mentality is evident in just about every Quiet Carry design—from their smooth, contoured silhouettes to their no-frills branding and packaging. What’s also apparent in all of the company’s tools are premium materials, including community-loved 6AL4V titanium and ELMAX steel, like you’ll find on The iQ.