Herman Knives produces titanium framelock folders designed by Polish knifemaker Bartosz Herman. Each knife features Grade 5 titanium construction, hand-built ceramic ball bearing pivot systems, and MagnaCut or M390 blade steels. Models include the Ishtar, Slim, Bee, Mantis, and Dragonfly, each serialized with unique numbering. Titanium components receive surface treatments such as stonewash, hammered textures, and entropic finishes. Herman also produces the Epika pen series in matching titanium finishes. Limited production runs sell out quickly. Each knife represents individual craftsmanship from Herman's Polish workshop.
CPM MagnaCut Blade Steel at 62 HRC
Herman knives primarily use CPM MagnaCut powder metallurgy stainless steel hardened to 62 HRC. Blade thickness ranges from 3.2mm to 3.5mm depending on model size, providing structural rigidity for EDC use. MagnaCut delivers corrosion resistance by reducing chromium carbide formation and maintains toughness through vanadium and niobium carbides. Stonewash finishes appear on most models, creating matte surfaces that resist visible scratching. Some knives feature M390 steel as an alternative, offering high wear resistance through increased vanadium carbide content. Both steels keep keen edges for daily cutting tasks and resist staining in humid environments.
Ceramic Ball Bearing Pivot Systems
Herman constructs ceramic ball bearing pivot systems by hand for each knife. The bearing assemblies include hardened stainless steel washers that support the ceramic balls during blade rotation. Ceramic detent balls provide consistent blade retention across the opening arc. This configuration reduces friction compared to bronze or phosphor bronze washer systems, allowing smooth one-hand deployment. Custom TORX T20 pivots secure the blade assembly, with titanium adjustment tools included. The pivot design allows disassembly for cleaning and maintenance using only the provided tool.
Grade 5 Titanium Framelock Construction
Handle construction uses Grade 5 titanium (Ti-6Al-4V) for frames, backspacers, pocket clips, and framelock bars. The titanium framelock features tungsten carbide inserts on the lock face where it contacts the blade tang, preventing titanium-to-steel galling during repeated lock cycles. Tungsten carbide alloy stop pins resist peening from blade impact. Backspacers receive hammered, entropic, or satin finishes depending on configuration. Some models use fat carbon or timascus inlays for decorative contrast. Pocket clips mount for tip-down carry. Each knife includes a dedicated soft pouch.