Jonathan Sibley’s background is as diverse as it is impressive. After honing his artistic skills in design, sculpture, jewelry-making, and more, he transitioned into knifemaking, blending all those talents. He now runs Djinn Knives and his storefront shop The Blade Bar in Ben Wheeler, Texas, where he crafts hand-forged knives by day and works on production designs by night. As a finalist on Forged in Fire, season 5, episode 10, Jonathan has proven his skill in knifemaking and continues to push creative boundaries with designs like the Echis.

There are a few versions of the Echis, but to really understand its essence, I opted for the milled titanium version. The design, inspired by the saw-scaled viper, feels alive in your hand. While the pattern doesn’t mimic scales, it reminds me more of the intricate trails beetles leave under tree bark—organic, natural, and unique. This adds warmth and depth to the titanium, making it feel less industrial and more like a piece of art that nature had a hand in.

The design flows beautifully, with organic lines that complement its comfort in the hand. The large finger groove for your index finger provides excellent control, and the chamfered edges ensure there’s no discomfort. Every aspect feels intentional, and the ergonomic handle is something you'll appreciate during extended use.

One detail I admire is how the milled pattern carries over to the pocket clip, integrating it into the overall aesthetic. It's not just an afterthought but a cohesive part of the knife’s design. The clip itself is perfectly executed—good tension, well-shaped, and fully functional.

For deployment, the Echis offers three options: a front flipper, rear flipper, and thumb hole. The thumb hole allows for both a deliberate slow roll and a satisfying flick. The rear flipper, while functional, could be improved with a bit more upward angle to avoid partial deployments. However, the front flipper stands out. Instead of the usual protrusion, it features a textured wheel that blends into the handle’s design, offering a more integrated feel. Using this flipper requires some finesse—more of a thumb roll than a flick—but with practice, it becomes second nature.

The Echis isn’t just a visual piece; it performs. The drop point blade is versatile, especially suited for daily cutting tasks like food prep or breaking down boxes. Its slightly curved profile enhances slicing efficiency, and the flat grind makes it a cut effortlessly. While the tip may not be as aggressive as other designs, it handles piercing tasks with ease. Kansept chose CPM S35VN steel for the blade, a proven performer that strikes a good balance between edge retention, toughness, and ease of sharpening. It's not the newest steel on the market, but it’s a workhorse material.

In summary, the Echis is a beautiful blend of artistic flair and practical utility. Jonathan Sibley’s design demonstrates his attention to both form and function, making this knife a standout in Kansept’s lineup. It’s been an enjoyable carry over the past few weeks, and it's one I'll find myself reaching for time and time again.

Specifications:

Overall Length: 7.94'' (201.65mm)
Blade Length: 3.45'' (87.63mm)
Blade Thickness: 0.118" (3mm)
Blade Material: CPM S35VN
Blade Style: Drop Point
Blade Grind: Flat Grind
Handle Material: Milled Titanium
Weight: 4.28oz (121.3g)