After the successful launch of its Limited Edition TI Click Pen, RZE continues to expand into the realm of functional, everyday carry gear with the upcoming launch of its own microblade, The HexEdge MB. On February 1st, the brand will most certainly take Kickstarter by storm, as they have with each new watch release over the last few years. RZE has made a name for itself in the enthusiast world by consistently designing affordable, adventure-ready titanium tool watches. Now, with the aid of industry experts, the watchmaker intends to do the same with pocket knives.
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At only 2.5 inches closed, and weighing less than 2 oz, The HexEdge MB is an ergonomic delight that fits in the palm of your hand. But don’t let its size fool you, the cutting edge is ready for all manner of everyday adventures. The blade is forged in D2 tool-grade steel–a material which has been used in knifemaking since the early 60s. Among non-powder steels, it is considered to have a long-lasting edge retention and offers a Rockwell hardness of 55-62 HRC. As an inexpensive alternative to stainless steel, D2 is tough with good wear and rust resistance. It does not abrade, nor does it scratch easily because of its high carbon content.
The high chromium content in D2 means that it will patina with time; however, this will provide your knife with its own character, and you will not not have to sharpen the blade as often. In addition to the inherent qualities of the steel, RZE have opted to add a titanium coating to the HexEdge MB. Titanium coatings, like titanium nitride, are thin, ultra hard ceramics which lower the friction and make the blade more resistant to wear.
However, the first thing that will catch your eye with the HexEdge is its futuristic aesthetic. Assuming a familiar design language found in the brand’s watches, the microblade is replete with sharp angles and geometric patterning. Its handle is fashioned from G-10 scales, which is a glass fibre composite popular among knifemakers, but also gunsmiths. G-10 is non-conductive, extremely durable, and comes in many colours. Up close, you can see the woven texturing in the material.
The HexEdge MB features a clip point blade, which is commonly seen in hunting knives and used for dressing animals. This also makes it a solid companion for self defence. However, in general, everyday use, the fine point makes it an excellent precision tool and allows for a great deal of control. The blade deploys simply with a front flip butterfly mechanism, operable by a quick flick of the thumb.
Beyond its capabilities as a knife, the HexEdge MB has further built-in functionality, making it a compact multi-tool. The back end, for instance, has a wedge-shaped pry bar. If you use it for nothing else, it makes for an excellent bottle opener on Fridays after work.
The HexEdge MB is designed to slide unobtrusively into the fifth pocket of your jeans, or hook securely over a belt with its reversible clip. It can just as easily be fastened to a lanyard or a key ring, using the opening just beneath the pry bar. If you already own RZE’s popular Blackomb Pouch, you can toss it there too.
Specs
| Blade Length | 1.67″ (42.5mm) |
| Closed Length | 2.44″ (61.6mm) |
| Opened Length | 4.09″ (104.5mm) |
| Thickness | 0.5″ (13mm) |
| Weight | 1.94oz (55g) |
| Handle Material | G-10 Scales |
| Blade Steel | D2 Tool-Grade Steel /w Titanium Coating |
| Blade Shape | Clip Point |
| Clip | Reversible Belt Clip |
| MEchanism | Front Flip /w Liner Lock |
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As with their watches, which are “assembled for adventure,” the folks at RZE have done an excellent job in designing an affordable, attractive blade that would make an excellent addition to your your EDC toolbox. The use of D2 steel has not only the benefit of controlling costs, but also of presenting a tough and durable product that will last a lifetime. So sure of it are the knifemakers at RZE that the HexEdge MB will be sold with a lifetime guarantee.
The HexEdge MB is so small and lightweight you’ll want to take it with you everywhere. And you’ll be waiting for any one of those myriad moments when someone invariably asks, “Does anyone have a knife?” You’ll probably even make up excuses just to pull it out.
The HexEdge MB will retail for $32 USD. For more information, sign up on the brand website for launch updates.
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About the author
Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.
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