A CALCULATED MOVE: STAINLESS STEELS AT BLADETRICKS

Choosing a steel for a blade is not an exercise in romanticism. It's a calculated, cold decision based on one simple question: will it perform as required?

For me, that question generally begins with toughness. A blade that cannot withstand real-world use is a liability. After a long, cautious, and practical selection process, the answer led to the first of a few new materials now being used for some of my blades: 14C28N Sandvik and AEB-L steel.

While we still love traditional carbon alloys and their merits, they demand a certain reverence and constant care to avoid the rust which is their inevitable destiny. The singular advantage of a good stainless steel is its indifference to such concerns. It provides a level of corrosion resistance that frees the user from the constant worry of maintenance. This fundamental practicality is why we have made the decision to begin using it.

In an industry obsessed with the latest "supersteel," Bladetricks has remained loyal to its principles of offering affordable and practical tools. These two steels, while distinct, are nearly identical in their shared purpose and impressive performance. They are not a flamboyant choice but a pragmatic one.

 

Two Steels for the Same Purpose

There's a common, and often expensive, misunderstanding that every blade requires a mythical, flawless alloy. The truth is, a truly great steel is a well-balanced one, and both 14C28N and AEB-L epitomize this. Their value lies in a toughness that is both deliberate and professional. They possess an excellent ability to take and hold a very fine edge, a crucial property for any tool meant for serious cutting, but they do so without becoming brittle.

Because of this practical parity, I'll likely be using them indifferently across some of my new models. A customer can be assured that a blade made from either material is a tool built on the same foundation of unwavering toughness.

 

The Slight Differences

While they perform to the same standard in practice, it's worth noting the minor differences between the two. In a purely technical sense, 14C28N ishould be slightly tougher. This makes it marginally more resilient against stress and hard impacts. It also should be more stainless, which can be an advantage for those who require a tool for use in wet or humid environments.

These aren't dramatic, life-altering differences, but subtle details that speak to the specific engineering behind each alloy. The choice wasn't about aesthetics or trends, but about function, a core tenet of the Bladetricks philosophy. What we prioritize is a sensible balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance, along with availability, affordability, and ease of work for the maker. These steels simply work, and work well, and this dedication to performance is how I consistently try to offer a better product and experience to my customers.

 

For centuries, the kiridashi has been a staple of Japanese craftsmanship: a small, chisel-ground utility blade designed for precision cutting. Traditionally used by artisans, woodworkers, and even schoolchildren for everyday tasks, this unassuming tool has stood the test of time due to its efficiency and simplicity.

In 2011, I crafted my own take on the kiridashi, keeping its essence intact while making it rugged enough for modern use.

 Now, I’ve revisited that design with a minimalist approach, refining it down to the essentials. The Bladetricks Mini Kiri is compact, versatile, and built for those who appreciate sharp, functional tools without unnecessary bulk.

What Makes the Kiridashi Unique?

Unlike Western-style knives, the kiridashi typically features a single-bevel chisel grind, allowing for exceptionally fine cuts and controlled precision. This makes it an ideal tool for everything from opening packages to detailed crafting work.

Why a Minimalist Kiridashi?

I’ve stripped the design down to its core: no embellishments, no excess weight, just a sharp, practical blade that fits seamlessly into your everyday carry setup. The included Kydex sheath allows for multiple carry options, whether in your pocket, on your keychain, or as a neck knife.

A Blade for Everyday Life

Whether you need a precise cutting tool for work, a discreet EDC option, or simply appreciate the history of well-made blades, the Mini Kiridashi delivers. Handmade in my workshop, this limited batch won’t last long.

A Modern Take on a Timeless Blade:

The kiridashi has been around for centuries, and while tools evolve, the need for a reliable, sharp cutting instrument remains the same. My minimalist Mini Kiri (dashi) is my way of honoring that tradition while making it accessible for today’s users.

Available now in limited quantities. Get yours before they’re gone.

                                      

(All my knives can be customized to tailor customer's needs)

THE EVOLUTION OF THE F1 KNIFE

In 2015, I designed the first F1 Integral Persian Fighter, a full-sized tactical knife inspired by the Persian blade profile, known for its curved, sweeping edge and piercing tip:

This design blended traditional efficiency with modern combat applications, offering both deep penetration and precise slicing capabilities in a single, fluid motion.

Since then, the F1 has evolved. In 2017, I introduced a karambit-style version with a ringed handle for increased retention and control:

 

In 2022, I experimented with compound grinds, refining the balance between edge strength and cutting performance:

 

That same year, I developed the progressive chisel grind, which further optimized tip durability and razor-sharp slicing power:

 

Now, the Bladetricks Mini F1 takes the design in a new direction—smaller, lighter, and more discreet:

By removing the ring (back to its origins) and adopting a three-finger grip, this version is built for ease of carry without sacrificing control. The progressive chisel ground blade ensures maximum cutting efficiency, while the hand-sculpted black G10 handle provides a secure grip in all conditions:

 

My Bladetricks F1 knives series continues to evolve adapting to real-world needs while staying true to its Persian-inspired tactical roots.

This latest Mini F1K version is now available on my online store.

 

(All my knives can be customized to tailor customer's needs)

THE LEGACY OF WAR MACES AND THEIR EVOLUTION

Throughout history, the mace has stood as a symbol of raw power and devastating efficiency. Unlike bladed weapons that relied on sharpness, precision, and technique, the mace was the ultimate equalizer— designed to crush, smash, and destroy. Its straightforward design, usually consisting of a sturdy handle and a solid metal head, allowed it to overcome challenges that other weapons could not. From breaching armor to delivering incapacitating strikes, the mace was a favorite weapon of warriors who valued brute force over finesse.

The Historical Role of War Maces:

The origins of the mace date back to prehistoric times when early humans used simple clubs as tools and weapons. Over centuries, these rudimentary tools evolved into sophisticated implements of war. By the Middle Ages, maces became a staple in the arsenals of knights and foot soldiers. Their ability to crush through plate armor made them particularly effective on the battlefield, where swords often failed against well-armored opponents.
War maces varied in size, weight, and design across cultures. From the elegant flanged maces of Europe to the fearsome spiked war hammers of the Middle East and Asia, these weapons adapted to meet the needs of their users. However, despite their differences, all maces shared the same fundamental purpose: delivering devastating impact with minimal effort.

 

The Modern Revival of the Mace:

In today’s world, the need for traditional war maces has diminished, but their principles remain highly relevant. Modern tools like the Bladetricks Gen 4 Mini Crack Mace carry forward the essence of these historical weapons, adapted for contemporary use in urban survival, self-defense, and emergency preparedness.
Compact, lightweight, and easy to carry, today’s tactical maces prioritize portability and practicality without sacrificing the destructive power of their predecessors. They are designed for close-quarters combat, where speed, control, and impact are crucial. Unlike historical maces, which required maintenance to stay combat-ready, modern versions like the Mini Crack Mace boast rugged, maintenance-free designs that ensure reliability under any conditions.

Meet the Bladetricks Gen 4 Mini Crack Mace:

The Bladetricks Gen 4 Mini Crack Mace bridges the gap between the historical legacy of war maces and the demands of modern EDC tools. This compact powerhouse combines the raw impact of a war hammer with the portability of a tomahawk, making it a versatile addition to your bugout bag, self-defense kit, or urban survival setup.

With an improved ergonomic handle, the Gen 4 offers superior control, traction, and balance, ensuring you can deliver precise, devastating strikes in any situation. Its antique finish not only enhances durability but also gives the tool a discreet, battle-worn aesthetic.

 

Whether you’re preparing for emergencies, enhancing your self-defense arsenal, or simply appreciating the craftsmanship of a modern-day mace, the Bladetricks Gen 4 Mini Crack Mace is ready to deliver.

(All my knives and tools can be customized to tailor customer's needs)

A DISCREET PUSH DAGGER YOU CAN RELY ON

As a knife maker, my goal has always been to create tools that balance strength, precision, and discretion. One of the latest pieces to leave my workbench is the Bladetricks Custom Micro Pocket Gladius, a push dagger designed for those who need a powerful self-defense tool that’s also easy to carry and conceal. If you’re looking for an everyday carry (EDC) push dagger that delivers in both performance and portability, this is the one:

The Micro Pocket Gladius may be the smallest version of my Mini Pocket Gladius, but don’t let its compact size fool you. This push dagger is equipped with a double-edged blade made from 8670 steel, a high-performance material known for its toughness and edge retention. This makes the blade incredibly effective in close-quarters situations, delivering the penetrating power needed in high-stress situations.

One of the things I focused on with the design is its compact profile. With an overall length of just 110 mm and a 31 mm cutting edge, it fits easily into your pocket or gear without adding bulk. This is especially important for those who value discreet carry, whether for EDC, personal protection, or tactical use. The Kydex sheath adds another layer of convenience, keeping the dagger secure and instantly accessible.

The handle is hand-sculpted from Black G10, which provides a solid grip and ensures control in intense situations and in all conditions. This ergonomic handle allows for versatile grip positions, making it easy to use in emergency or self-defense scenarios.

What makes the Bladetricks Micro Pocket Gladius stand out isn’t just its design, but the meticulous craftsmanship behind it. Every piece I make is hand-built with attention to detail and quality, and this push dagger is no different. It’s a tool you can trust, crafted to withstand the demands of everyday carry and intense situations alike.

With its compact size, aggressive blade, and tactical versatility,  the Bladetricks Custom Micro Pocket Gladius push dagger is perfect for those who need a reliable self-defense tool on hand. Don’t miss out!

More info?

(All my knives can be customized to tailor customer's needs)