Displaying items by tag: PsyOp

I didn’t get the opportunity to review the original PsyOp when it first came out — mainly because it was flying off the shelves faster than I could get my hands on one. You know a knife is doing something right when it can’t stay in stock. The original PsyOp featured titanium handles, but this newer version leans into a more budget-friendly approach with Micarta scales. Personally, I’m not mad about that at all. I might be a titanium junkie like a lot of guys in the EDC world, but I’ve really come to appreciate the warmth and natural feel of Micarta. It's a material that just feels right in the hand — less cold, less clinical, and more inviting for daily use.

A psychological operation (PSYOP) is a military strategy that uses targeted messaging to influence the emotions, motives, and behavior of a target audience. This can include enemy forces, neutral populations, or even allied groups. PSYOP campaigns can employ a variety of tactics, such as spreading disinformation, using propaganda, or broadcasting messages of persuasion. The ultimate goal of a PSYOP campaign is to achieve a military objective without the use of direct force. What does all that have to do with pocketknives? The PsyOp is a new design from Geoff Blauvelt in collaboration with Vosteed knives.

Geoff, from Schwenksville, Pennsylvania, has a rich background in fine arts, which he skillfully integrates into his knife designs. In 2011, he founded Tuffknives on YouTube, beginning as a knife reviewer and later transitioning into knife modding. His journey in knifemaking took a significant turn when he met John Gray, who mentored him in the craft and helped him start his own company. This company now produces and sells custom folders, leveraging the following Blauvelt had built from his YouTube days and his extensive experience modding production knives. He is known for his preference for a hands-on approach to knifemaking, using minimal machinery to maintain a more handmade, open style in his creations.