However, the look is only one part of the equation. While the styling is undeniably steeped in historical samurai influence, it doesn’t end there. Balance, another important tenet of classic Japanese design and philosophy, also inspired the knife’s construction.

Kingsford Knives KwaiKing trio closed on wood
These knives have a front flipper to keep their minimalist silhouettes while offering speedy deployment.
Kingsford Knives

Minimalist design, maximalist craftsmanship

The knife’s titanium handle scales’ styling is highly minimalist. Each side boasts a sleek, flat primary facet and a pair of machined, angular facets that keep the look clean while adding a bit of grip. On the non-presentation side, the pocket clip is equally sleek and flat.

While it does have hardware at the pivot and tail, its only other blemish — if you can even call it that — is the knife’s button lock. That button, by the way, actuates an incredibly strong, reliable compression lock — similar to the one once patented by Spyderco. It’s one of the most robust mechanisms in EDC.

The handle flows beautifully into the knife’s 3.54-inch M390 super steel blade. Like the handle, it has a gentle curve that offers a long cutting belly with tons of utility.