This is an eye-popping prototype of the new Zero Tolerance Knives model 0454, designed by Dmitry Sinkevich, which took home the distinction of Best Overall Knife at Blade Show 2013!  I think you can see why.

That three-piece composite blade is made of CPM D2 at the cutting edge and spine with a core of Sandvik 14C28N.  My photos do not do this knife justice.  Seriously.  The D2 is blackened and the 14C28N has a contrasting tumbled finish.  The juxtaposition of textures, colors, and shapes on this 4.1″ blade is breathtaking.

Machined carbon fiber handles contain a sub-frame lock with a titanium lockbar and a stainless steel lockbar insert for strength.  I can attest that this knife flips open with smooth precision on its KVT bearings–ZT rep Jim McNair nearly had to wrest the knife from my hands to let others examine it.

The 0454 is sculpted all the way around.  It has a beautiful titanium pocket clip and interestingly checkered titanium backspacer.  An oversized pivot pin wears machine grooved polished hubs.  Every surface of the knife is pleasing to the eye.

When I handled this prototype knife in the ZT booth, I had no idea it would come away with Best Overall Knife, since there were so many excellent designs at the show.  Having learned of its accolade, I was not surprised.  This Made in the USA semi-custom will be priced at $499.00 for a lucky few.

by Wilson