When designing a new garment or piece of gear, it never hurts to call on the experts that actually utilize this kit in the field for assistance with researching and developing novel items. So when The James Brand recently set out to deliver an outdoor-focused folding knife, the Portland-based gear purveyor turned to Savannah Cummins, tapping the Cincinnati-born professional climber, adventure photographer, and Denali speed record support crew member to help bring the new model to fruition.
Dubbed “The Redstone,” TJB’s latest knife is constructed around a one-piece die-stamped alloy frame adorned in two-piece grooved polypropylene scales on both sides. Referred to by TJB as an “island design,” this configuration lets the user’s trigger finger rest between the two polypropylene “islands” in order to maximize grip, despite the knife’s compact size. Pieced together using stainless steel and black-oxide hardware, the handle has been paired with a partially-serrated 2.5″ drop point blade with a jimped spine that’s crafted from Sandvik 12C27 steel, deployed via a thumb hole, and smoothly guided via Phosphor bronze washers. The chassis also features TJB’s Slide-Lock — the same locking mechanism used on the brand’s Carter knife. Measuring 6.2″ when open, The Redstone — which is an ambidextrous model — also sports a tip-up, deep-carry pocket clip made from formed wire.
Available in four color options, The James Brand Redstone Knife is priced at $89. In addition to being sold with an included color-matched (or contrasting paracord), the Redstone also comes in a special gift box that’s made from recycled materials.
