Sometimes all it takes is a fresh angle of a classic design to make all the difference. Delaware-based gear brand Titaner has been spending two decades rethinking the EDC space with titanium-based products that seek to evolve their respective categories.
The firm’s latest project takes on the age-old knife-based multi-tool by blurring the line between utility blade and pocket folder. It’s currently funding on Kickstarter now.
Built Around the Blade
What separates the Shrike from typical keychain tools is its universal scalpel blade compatibility. Rather than locking you into proprietary replacements, Titaner designed the tool to accept standard surgical blades (sizes 23-26), which means you can swap in whichever new blade you’d like. This also allows you to continue using the tool for years instead of simply tossing it in the trash when it gets dull.
The company’s “zero-wear” blade housing deserves attention too. Through precise angle calibration, the cutting edge never contacts metal components when closed, which should theoretically extend blade life considerably. When you do need to swap, there’s a dedicated 120-degree position in the opening mechanism specifically for safe blade changes so you won’t incidentally stab yourself.
Three-Stage Safety System
Titaner’s background in precision titanium work shows up in the Shrike’s three-stage opening system. Initial resistance at 20º prevents accidental deployment, while 120º is the position for changing the blade. The final 180-degree position locks the blade into place for stability when you apply pressure during cutting.
The brand’s also offering a left-handed version, which is somewhat rare in this category. It’s a fully mirrored design rather than a mere ambidextrous orientation that other pocket knives might have.
Beyond the Blade
Strip away the blade and you’ve still got a TSA-compliant multi-tool that functions as a flathead driver, pry bar, bottle opener, and nail file. There’s also a sturdy integrated carabiner clip in the rear and an optional tritium vial slot for low-light visibility.
The GR5 titanium construction brings expected benefits like corrosion resistance, strength-to-weight ratio, and an all-around more premium feel. This thing weighs just 0.38, which is barely more than a house key. Titaner’s offering both a stonewashed finish and an obsidian black DLC coating for early backers, with the latter being a diamond-like carbon treatment bonded at the atomic level rather than painted on the surface.
Spec Sheet
Model: Titaner Shrike 5-in-1 Multi-Tool
Material: GR5 Titanium (TC4/Ti-6Al-4V)
Blade Compatibility: Standard scalpel blades (sizes 23-26)
Functions: Scalpel blade, flathead driver, pry bar, bottle/can opener, nail file
Length: 5.2″ (with blade), 3.2″ (closed)
Weight: 0.381 oz
Features: Zero-wear blade housing, three-stage locking system, integrated carabiner, tritium slot
Finish Options: Stonewashed, Black DLC
Configuration: Right-handed or left-handed versions
Pricing & Availability
The Titaner Shrike is currently funding on Kickstarter with early-bird pricing starting at $46. The campaign has already exceeded its funding goal, with an estimated delivery timeline following the close of the campaign. Both finish options and left-handed configurations are available through the backer survey.
Recap
Titaner Shrike Multi-Tool
Delaware-based Titaner just dropped the Shrike, a titanium keychain multi-tool that ditches proprietary blades for cheap, universal scalpel replacements you can grab anywhere. It’s got a three-stage safety system, works as a driver/pry bar/bottle opener when blade-free for TSA compliance, and weighs barely more than a house key at 0.38 ounces.
