Kizer Ki405 Ophid S35VN / G-10 Liner Lock Knife

Like an armored reptile, the Kizer Ophid features black and red G-10 scales with a zigzagging pattern for grip. The blade is done in drop-point fashion with a wide belly for slicing and a sharp tip for piercing. It’s also made from one of the best blade steels on the market in CPM S35VN, which delivers excellent edge retention and resistance to corrosion. Press on the flipper tab and the blade will rotate open with ease. When it locks in place—thanks to the liner lock—it makes a satisfying click sound. A gray pocket clip offers right-handed tip-up carry when you’re on the move.

Developed by Crucible Industries (one of the leading manufacturers of specialty steels for the cutlery industry) and Chris Reeve (arguably the most famous knifemaker in the world), S35VN is perhaps the most balanced blade steel ever created in terms of all-around performance. It’s made through a process of powdered metallurgy known as CPM, which results in near perfect consistency in the distribution of carbides. Compared to conventional melting practices, the CPM process produces a steel characterized by superior dimensional stability, grindability, and toughness.