Watching a company steeped in tradition break new ground is always fascinating. Case has long been known for its classic slip joints, but in 2021, they shook things up with the release of the Kinzua, Marilla, and Westline—modern designs that marked a turning point for the brand. While the launch had its learning moments, it proved Case could evolve while staying true to its roots.

W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company

The Tenable Model 6 is a budget-friendly rendition of its premium counterpart from Kansept, a knife beloved by the community for its performance and versatility. While the original Model 6 was a solid performer, I felt it had a few minor flaws that held it back from perfection. With this version, Tenable has addressed those concerns while introducing thoughtful upgrades that make it even more appealing.

For those unfamiliar with the Model 6, it was designed by Nick Swan, a retired law enforcement officer who knows the value of a reliable, functional knife. His philosophy is simple: a knife should be a tool, not a trophy. That practicality is evident in the Model 6, which blends utility and self-defense into one cohesive design.

The Rafe L is a stout and capable folding knife with an aggressive design that doesn’t compromise on performance. Designed by Adam of 4T5 Design, this knife embodies his passion for sleek yet functional blades, bringing a touch of his own style to the EDC world.

 

Vosteed has been on a roll—not just lately, but since the very beginning. The company set out to make a name for itself, and the community has taken notice. Yue, the mastermind behind Vosteed, took his passion for knives and the knowledge he gained working for Kizer to create something truly special. While many of their designs are Yue’s own, the company also collaborates with other designers. The sheer imagination Yue brings is remarkable and, in my opinion, the key to Vosteed’s success.

Extrema Ratio, based in Prato, Italy, has built its reputation on designing robust knives for military and law enforcement professionals. With a no-nonsense approach to design, their knives prioritize functionality over trends. The BF1 is a perfect example of this ethos—a compact tactical blade that seamlessly blends durability and utility into a well-rounded tool for daily use.

The Pepperwool Merino MM is a compact everyday carry (EDC) knife that blends thoughtful design with practical functionality. Designed by Beren McKay, a veteran knife designer with over 15 years of experience, the Merino MM embodies his knack for crafting tools that are both innovative and dependable.

Background on Beren McKay and Pepperwool

Beren McKay spent over a decade designing knives, multitools, and other gear at SOG, where he became known as a creative force behind many of their standout products. In 2017, he spearheaded SOG’s move toward higher-quality offerings, a shift that resonated deeply with the knife community. When SOG was sold to GSM, McKay saw an opportunity to build something truly his own. Thus, Pepperwool was born—a brand that combines "pepper" (representing innovation) and "wool" (symbolizing reliability).