Real Steel Knives, established in 2013, collaborates with international designers to create EDC folders, tactical knives, and bushcraft blades. The brand works with Jakub Wieczorkiewicz (Poltergeist Works), Ostap Hel, Ivan D. Braginets, Carson Huang, Austin Fox, Maciej Torbe, and Ulrich Hennicke. Real Steel specializes in integral spine construction, crossbar locks, frame locks, and button lock mechanisms, using blade steels such as S35VN, 14C28N, Böhler N690, D2, and Nitro-V across their tactical and everyday carry lines.
Integral Folded Spine Construction and Titanium Frame Locks
Real Steel pioneered the folded integral spine structure, where a single sheet of metal is folded to form the knife handle instead of using traditional double-plate construction with separate liners and backspacers. This technique reduces part count, increases structural strength, and decreases weight while maintaining smooth mechanical action. Models like the Sacra, Perix, and Sylph use this construction with Micarta or G10 scales. The integral spine design allows crossbar lock integration on compact folders, creating secure lockup with minimal internal components. Double-folded handles with carbon fiber reinforcement show advanced machining and deliver tactical-grade durability in lightweight EDC packages.
Crossbar Lock and Button Lock Folding Knives
Real Steel produces crossbar lock folders, including models by Jakub Wieczorkiewicz (Poltergeist Works), that combine the locking mechanism with integral handle construction. The crossbar lock provides bidirectional blade security by using a steel bar that spans the blade tang when deployed, preventing both forward and rearward movement. Button lock models use replaceable steel inserts in the lock bar position with symmetrical design and dual detent balls, doubling service life through reversible wear patterns. The Evolution series features both button-activated locking and traditional frame lock operation, allowing users to disengage the lock by button press or manual lockbar manipulation. These locking systems undergo rigorous stress testing to ensure reliability in the field.
S35VN, 14C28N, and Böhler N690 Blade Steels
Real Steel folding knives use premium blade steels chosen for edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. CPM S35VN offers superior wear resistance and toughness through powder metallurgy, making it suitable for hard-use tactical folders and fixed blades. Sandvik 14C28N provides balanced performance with good edge retention and excellent corrosion resistance, often used for bushcraft models and EDC knives for outdoor use. Böhler N690 stainless steel contains 1.07% carbon and 17% chromium, delivering strong edge-holding and stain resistance in humid environments. D2 tool steel appears in budget models, providing exceptional hardness and wear resistance but requiring more maintenance than stainless options. Nitro-V steel uses nitrogen alloying for corrosion protection and improved toughness over traditional stainless steels.
Adjustable Tension System for Slip Joint Knives
The ATS (Adjustable Tension System) lets users customize spring tension on Real Steel slip joint folders through an eccentric spacer sleeve at the handle's center. Rotating the central screw with a wrench cycles through three tension settings: low, medium, and high. The tension sequence follows the pattern 0-1-2-3-2-1-0, with each position matching specific back spring pressure against the blade tang. This system removes the need for spring replacement or bending to achieve desired opening and closing resistance. Traditional slip joint construction with modern adjustability makes these folders suitable for users who prefer non-locking carry knives with customizable deployment force for different tasks and legal requirements.
G10 and Micarta Handle Scales with Interchangeable Design
Real Steel offers interchangeable handle scales on select models like the RB-5 Barlow, letting users swap materials and colors without affecting internal construction. The system uses a single screw on one side for scale attachment and removal, enabling tool-free customization in the field. Available materials include G10 in multiple colors, titanium for reduced weight, and copper for added mass and patina. G10 composite also serves as functional back spring components in models like the LUX series, where color integration matches handles and reduces weight compared to steel springs. A steel insert at the blade contact point maintains spring longevity with composite material. Micarta scales provide natural texture and moisture resistance for outdoor use and a comfortable grip in wet conditions.
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