SOG Kiku XR LTE Blackout Graphite XHP Micarta XR Lock Flipper 12-27-04-57

Designed by Japanese custom knife maker Kiku Matsuda, the SOG Kiku XR combines Matsuda’s visually appealing aesthetic with a robust and purpose built construction and premium materials for a winning design. Compact for carry, the Kiku XR LTE comes with ridged carbon fiber liners reducing the weight for easier daily carry. The knife retains the bombproof ambidextrous XR lock and CTS-XHP compound ground, harpoon recurve blade for optimal cutting performance. This Blackout version has black linen Micarta handle scales and a Graphite TiNi coated blade.

Brand new, direct from SOG Knives.

Blade: At nearly 4 mm thick, the CTS-XHP is robust for heavy use with a compound grind that delivers good slicing performance via the hollow saber grind at the rear with a saber ground harpoon tip for added strength for piercing. The forward edge is great for detail work and cutting on flat surfaces while the recurve pulls material in for added efficiency. A matte gray Graphite TiNi coating enhances corrosion resistance and allows for discreet use. The blade rides on a ball bearing pivot for smooth operation and decisive ambidextrous deployment via the thumbhole, XR lock or flipper tab. Jimping on the spine enhances traction for added control during use.

Handle: Ultralight, high performance carbon fiber liners form a semi open back construction with a partial back spacer for added rigidity and protection of the blade when closed. Sculpted in Matsuda’s iconic style, the linen Micarta handle scales are handsome and rugged, providing exceptional traction for a secure grip even when wet. Able to withstand up to 1,500 pounds of force, the ambidextrous XR lock is reliable, intuitive and easy to operate. An exposed portion at the pommel is machined with a hole for lanyard attachment.

Carries via a reversible, tip-up only, stainless steel deep carry pocket clip.

CTS-XHP: An ultra-high-carbon ‘stainless’ steel that was developed to combine the corrosion resistance of 440C and wear resistance of D2. With good wear resistance and the ability to attain a high hardness, CTS XHP has edge retention somewhere between S30V and ZDP 189. An excellent choice for any knife that is going to see a lot of use.