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.

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).

The Olitans G056 feels like the company’s way of saying, “We heard you, and we’re stepping things up.” It builds on the T024, which I was pretty impressed with at the time, but with some smart upgrades that address the shortcomings of its predecessor. From the improved blade steel to the ambidextrous cross-bar lock and G10 handle, Olitans has taken what worked, refined what didn’t, and delivered a tool that feels more accessible and versatile. Let’s take a closer look at how the G056 stands out.