Massdrop x Dew Hara Kabuto Button Lock Folder

Based on knifemaker Dew Hara’s custom design (which regularly fetches upwards of $1,000), this production version is steeped in Japanese tradition and built with modern materials. It gets its name from helmets worn by ancient Japanese soldiers. Traditionally, Kabutos (Japanese for “helmet”) were made with a series of overlapping metal panels for protection. Here, you’ll see that overlapping construction evoked in the handle. Made from stepped G-10, the handle offers a sure grip in slippery circumstances. But perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the folder is the button lock mechanism, which secures the blade when the knife is both open and closed. As soon as you press the button, it releases the blade. Simply flick your wrist back and forth to open and close it, and then release the button to lock it again. Also available are rosewood and carbon fiber versions if you want even more of a statement piece.

Measuring 8.3 inches overall, the Kabuto isn’t small by any stretch. However, thanks to the titanium liners, it’s relatively lightweight and easy to control in tight spaces. The 3.5-inch blade, made from premium S35VN stainless steel, takes a great edge and is highly resistant to corrosion. Shaped with a drop-point, it can just as easily slice and peel as it can pierce and push through material. When open, the choil at the top of the handle makes a nice resting place for an index finger. While mostly decorative, the thumbstuds can be used to complete the blade’s rotation if it doesn't swing fully open or closed. Use the lengthy, skeletonized steel pocket clip for right-handed tip-up carry.

When you’re surrounded by the best knifemakers in the world, in one of the most iconic cutlery cities in the world, you’re bound to get pretty good at making knives. That’s the story with Dew Hara. Son of legendary master knifemaker Koji Hara, Dew grew up in Seki City: the cutlery hub of Japan since the mid-13th century. After training under his father (who has more than 30 years’ experience himself) and finishing a 4-year apprenticeship under custom knifemaker Anthony Marfione, Dew started making his own knives. Though he’s still relatively new to the knifemaking scene, Dew’s work stands on its own—and his talents were on full display this year when the bold Raikiri won Most Innovative Knife at SHOT Show 2018.

Developed by Crucible Industries (one of the leading manufacturers of specialty steels for the cutlery industry) and Chris Reeve (pioneer of the integral frame lock, featured on the Gent), S35VN is perhaps the most balanced blade steel ever created in terms of all-around performance. It’s made through a process known as Crucible Powdered Metallurgy, 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.