Portland outfit The James Brand has been crafting refined, minimalist EDC tools since 2012, firmly establishing themselves as the go-to for design-conscious urban carry. Their original Folsom – a straightforward liner lock released in 2018 – perfectly embodied this ethos with clean lines and city-friendly dimensions that struck a chord with the everyday carry crowd. But what happens when a brand known for sleek simplicity decides to get dirty? Say hello the the Folsom Pro.
From Urban Streets To Uncharted Trails
The newly released Folsom Pro isn’t just an upgraded Folsom – it’s a complete reimagining built for those moments when the trail disappears and things get serious. Part of TJB’s aptly named “Uncharted Collection,” this beefed-up EDC folder maintains the unmistakable James Brand DNA while becoming something entirely new. We’ve seen countless “Pro” variants across the gear world that amount to little more than marketing fluff, but this one genuinely earns its designation through thoughtful engineering.
When Rust Is Not An Option
Let’s talk about what makes this knife truly special – that blade steel. The 3.2-inch drop point is crafted from LC200N, a specialized nitrogen-based stainless originally developed for aerospace applications where failure isn’t tolerated. What does this mean for your adventures? Near-perfect corrosion resistance that laughs at saltwater, fish guts, and whatever else you throw at it. The same steel extends to the liners, creating a cohesive system that remains functional when lesser knives would seize up or corrode.
The G10 scales feature TJB’s proprietary “Current” milled pattern – a texture that maintains sure grip when conditions turn nasty. Those who’ve ever tried manipulating a slick knife with wet hands (or while wearing gloves) will immediately appreciate this thoughtful detail. Every piece of hardware – from the ambidextrous thumb hole to the deep-carry pocket clip – is crafted from 6AL-4V titanium, eliminating any potential weak points in the system.
The Details That Matter
The Folsom Pro’s action rides on sealed ceramic ball bearings, creating a deployment that’s both buttery smooth and impressively resistant to the elements that typically gum up pivot systems. That signature machined thumb hole offers multiple deployment options depending on your preference, while seamless jimping provides just enough texture without becoming overly aggressive.
In true TJB fashion, the brand has done a stellar job maintaining its distinct, minimal design language while creating something thoroughly purpose-built for the wild.
Tidal Blue Makes A Splash
True to form, The James Brand has introduced a stunning new colorway with this release. The Tidal Blue variant – an oceanic hue that perfectly complements the knife’s adventure-ready ethos – adorns the G10 scales with striking effect (though a more traditional black option is also available for the less adventurous). This signature color extends throughout the Uncharted Collection, appearing on refreshed versions of TJB’s Redstone, Carter, and standard Folsom knives, as well as their Hardin carabiner and Alder lanyard. The cohesive aesthetic gives the entire collection a visual identity that’s distinctly maritime – fitting for tools designed to withstand salty, wet conditions.
A Collection For The Adventurous
The Folsom Pro arrives alongside the Humboldt – TJB’s first-ever fillet knife – as part of their new Uncharted Collection. This release marks the brand’s most committed push into genuine outdoor tools, broadening their horizons beyond urban EDC. While the Humboldt deserves its own spotlight, the pairing suggests TJB isn’t just dipping a toe into adventure gear, they’re diving in headfirst with a color palette to match.
Spec Sheet
Blade Length: 3.2″ (8.1 cm)
Blade Steel: LC200N stainless
Overall Length: 7.8″ open, 4.6″ closed
Handle Material: Machined G10 scales
Lock Type: Ambidextrous liner lock
Weight: 4.1 oz (116 g)
Pivot: Sealed ceramic ball bearings
Clip: Deep-carry 6AL-4V titanium
Hardware: 6AL-4V titanium throughout
Colors: Tidal Blue or Black G10
Price: $279
Pricing & Availability
The James Brand Folsom Pro is available now directly through their website for $279. The Humboldt fillet knife runs $179, with other pieces in the Uncharted Collection ranging from $29-$169.
Recap
The James Brand The Folsom Pro
The James Brand takes its beloved Folsom into extreme territory with the Pro variant, delivering rustproof LC200N steel, all-titanium hardware, and grip-optimized scales in a striking new Tidal Blue colorway engineered specifically for when adventure turns serious.
