Three Rivers Mfg. TRM-LTC Nomad Titanium Slip Joint

The Nomad is the result of a collaboration between Halpern Titanium—which has nearly 20 years' experience in the knife industry—and Three Rivers Manufacturing. They joined together to create US-made production knives that far exceed the quality of those made in traditional factories. Equally suited for slicing and piercing, the 2.1-inch blade is made from CPM-154 stainless steel, which is easier to sharpen and tougher than its popular relative, 154CM. The handle features G-10 scales with the texture of fine-grit sandpaper; however, you can upgrade to carbon fiber for something more ornate.

Aside from its many uses, the Nomad’s most notable feature is its unique spring system, which is similar to traditional slip-joint pocket knives, except it doesn't use a backspring. The resulting action is a smooth yet authoritative motion to the open position without locking. As for the guts of the knife, the stonewashed 6AL4V titanium liners match the finish on the blade and the pocket clip, creating a uniform look. A finger choil pairs with jimping on the handle for grip.