The “holy grail”—it’s the elusive, be-all and end-all item at the top of your wishlist that’s just outside the realm of obtainable. As EDCers, we’ve all got that one knife we aspire to own. And more often than not, it’s custom made, bordering on “if money wasn’t an option” territory.
You’ve seen every picture of that knife on Instagram pining for it, you’ve read every review, and you’ve even re-calculated your budget over and over again. And after all that, you still can’t see yourself dropping two grand on a knife.
But don’t worry, there is hope. More and more custom knife makers are teaming up with manufacturers you know and trust to bring their designs much more within reach in the form of collaboration production knives.
We’ve rounded up our favorite (relatively) affordable grails from 2016 in this guide. With any of these picks, you’re getting as close to all the design, functionality, and looks of a custom, on a blade you can use without worrying about its cost.
(More) Affordable Designer Knives
Kizer Gemini designed by Ray Laconico
Ray Laconico produces small batch and custom knives known for their clean design aesthetic and super smooth flipper deployment. The Gemini framelock is the pairing between Laconico and Kizer knives. Kizer produces some of the highest quality blades out of China, using materials imported from the US and Japan and finished by hand. The Gemini is the perfect size for EDC, with its S35VN blade measuring in at 3.125”. Its smooth titanium handles get the bead blasted treatment for a low-profile look, accented throughout with blue anodized hardware on the pivot and pocket clip.
Zero Tolerance 0804 designed by Todd Rexford
The ZT 0804 is based on Todd Rexford’s custom knife called the “Gamma.” This EDC-ready blade features carbon fiber and titanium scales, a custom machined titanium clip, a flipper opening mechanism, and corrosion-resistant DLC coating throughout. It’s on the larger side, but the materials keep it light and easy to carry.
CRKT Amicus designed by Jesper Vox
The Amicus is Jesper Voxnaes’ newest collaboration with knife manufacturer CRKT. The Amicus applies Voxnaes’s signature ‘simpler is better’ design language in nearly every aspect of the knife. Ergonomic stainless steel handles, a beefy 3.4” 8Cr13Mov blade, and several carry options (a two-way clip and lanyard hole) round out a great production knife from one of the industry’s top designers.
Kershaw Pico designed by Les George
Les George has over two decades of knife making under his belt, after a long career as an Unexploded Ordinance Technician. If anyone can make a bomb-proof knife, it’s him. The Pico is sized right, uses good materials, and fits both your carry and your budget. Its 2.9” drop point blade fits most tasks, and its compact length lends itself to everyday carry (not to mention most legal length restrictions). Made from hardy 8Cr13MoV steel, the blade comes with a double finish — satin on the flat edges, and stonewashed on the grind. Pair that with the polished, oversized pivot and the Pico brings a cool gray aesthetic to any EDC.
Kershaw CQC-9K designed by Ernest Emerson
If you’ve been looking for a larger knife to EDC, few pack in as many features as the CQC-9K by Kershaw and Emerson. This all-black blade features Emerson’s “wave” opening system. The small hook on the blade catches on your pocket as you pull the knife out, opening the blade up in the process. On the handle there’s a G10 scale on one side for grip and a sturdy steel frame lock on the other. Not too shabby for right around forty bucks.
Spyderco Nirvana designed by Peter Rassenti
Yes, the Nirvana by Spyderco comes with a hefty price tag, but it’s only 1/3 of what the custom knife would cost you. This sleek, streamlined folder oozes precision design throughout. The frame lock body is machined from a single piece of titanium with a unique “broken glass” finish. The S90V blade measures in at 3.74” and features Spyderco’s trademark round hole opener—a part of Rassenti’s original design.
Zero Tolerance 0220 designed by Jens Anso
The 0220 is the first creation from Jens Anso and Zero Tolerance. The knife boasts a sleek design with features throughout you’d usually see only on a custom knife. Its blade shape is especially unique—a drop point with a slight recurve that’s great for cutting cord and rope. Zero Tolerance’s KVT bearing system also makes an appearance, ensuring fast and smooth flipper action. It’s finished off with a decorative pivot and an anodized aluminum backspacer for added flair.
Kershaw Shield designed by Rick Hinderer
The latest collaboration between Rick Hinderer and Kershaw is the Shield. Inspiration comes from Rick’s custom knife, the “Eklipse.” The Shield focuses in on excellent ergonomics. Deep finger contours on the stainless steel handles and a deep finger choil on the blade keep your hand from slipping during use. This sturdy EDC makes a capable daily carry with a price tag to match.
What’s your grail knife? Do they have a production collaboration option that’s worth checking out? Let us know in the comments section below.
