Drop + Ferrum Forge Mordax Button Lock Folder

The original Mordax was one of Ferrum Forge’s most popular designs. Usually the custom knife shop only makes limited batches of each knife—but thanks to our strong partnership and the Massdrop community’s demonstrated interest in their work, we’re bringing the Mordax back, this time with a few key changes to make it even better. The original Mordax was made from titanium; here, we chose super lightweight aluminum scales to make it even more pocket friendly. For the blade, we stuck with what worked: premium CPM-20CV stainless steel with exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. Perhaps the biggest change? The button lock. Now, the flipper can be opened and closed with a press on the button and a simple flick of the wrist. And because we know knife nuts come in all types, we’ve got the Mordax in 10 different styles.

Measuring 8.25 inches long, the Mordax is our largest project yet with the San Diego–based Williamson brothers of Ferrum Forge. Despite its size, the knife weighs less than 4 ounces thanks to the aluminum scales. That lean construction makes it easy to control in tight spaces—not to mention there’s a finger choil for choking up if the job requires it. The 3.6-inch drop-point blade is as versatile as they come, whether you need to slice through cardboard, cut twine, or prepare food. Fitted with a deep-carry stainless steel pocket clip, the knife keeps a low profile.

CPM-20CV can withstand wear under the most demanding circumstances. Developed by Crucible Industries (one of the leading manufacturers of specialty steels for the cutlery industry), 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. Nearly identical in chemical makeup to M390 and CTS-204P stainless steel, CPM-20CV is known for its impressive ability to hold an edge and high resistance to corrosion.

Based in Artesia, California, Pro-Tech Knives is a family-run operation that’s been in business since 1999. Boasting a wide range of tactical, collector, and military-proven knives, the company stands behind a '100 percent made in the USA' policy. Using state-of-the-art equipment—including 3-axis CNC machines and EDM wire-cutting machines—Pro-Tech is able to achieve a fit and finish that rivals handmade custom knives. Need proof? They've taken home Blade Show’s award for “Best Investor/Collector Knife” the last six years running.

The dynamic duo of Elliot and Chris Williamson, better known as Ferrum Forge, has proved an outstanding partner since our first collaboration in mid 2017. Together we’ve successfully launched seven projects and put more than 10,000 knives in the hands of the Massdrop community. Founded in 2009, Ferrum Forge started from humble beginnings in Elliot Williamson’s Southern California garage. Using pieces of steel like old files and leaf springs, Elliot gradually taught himself the art of knifemaking. As his skills grew, so too did demand for his work. Luckily, Elliot’s brother Chris joined the team in 2012 to help expand Ferrum Forge to what it is today: a small operation dedicated to designing and producing custom knives through a rigorous process of development, machining, iteration, and quality control.

“This is a really, really nice piece. Ergonomically, it’s kind of on point. The action on it is just spectacular, and even the blade grind is pretty nice. It’s not the thinnest thing ever behind the edge, but you know what, for this kind of a utility cutter, it’s good to go.” - Nick Shabazz, YouTuber

“I think it’s very much worth the price. Overall, I really do like the knife. This just makes an awesome EDC.” - cutlerylover, YouTuber

“It’s been a pleasure to carry. My favorite thing about this is the action—this is what Pro-Tech is known for.” - Slicey Dicey, YouTuber