When Luft Concepts (Ryan Rimmer and Jake Wright) set out to design the QTRO, they aimed to merge the best of two worlds: the piercing precision of a hawksbill and the controlled slicing of a Wharncliffe. The result is a knife that looks unlike anything else in my collection—and performs even better. I've been carrying all three variants—the K1118VA1, K1118VA2, and K1118VA3—and each offers a distinct take on this already exceptional platform. With Elmax or Damascus steel, a smooth crossbar lock, and ambidextrous design, the QTRO is a full-sized EDC knife built to work hard and look stunning.
The Shared Genius: A Blade That Does It All
Every QTRO shares the same brilliant geometry. The 3.59-inch blade combines a hawksbill's curved tip for precise piercing with a Wharncliffe's straight edge for controlled slicing. The flat grind makes it an exceptional cutter—through cardboard, rope, or food prep. The crossbar lock is ambidextrous and rock-solid, and the thumb hole deployment is silky smooth. The milled titanium pocket clip is reversible and beautifully machined. At 129 grams, it's substantial but not heavy. The differences in materials elevate each version into a unique category.
K1118VA1 (Stonewashed Elmax / Copper Carbon Fiber): The Warm Industrialist
The K1118VA1 pairs a stonewashed Elmax blade with a beadblasted titanium handle featuring copper carbon fiber inlays. The copper-toned carbon fiber is warm and eye-catching, with a woven pattern that shifts in the light. Elmax is a premium powder metallurgy steel with exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. This version feels both industrial and refined—a tool that's ready for hard use but looks like art. At $224.89, it's a superb choice for anyone wanting top-tier steel with a unique aesthetic.
K1118VA2 (Damascus Blade / Lightning Strike Titanium): The One-of-a-Kind Art Piece
The K1118VA2 is the showstopper. It features a stunning Damascus blade with a flowing, water-like pattern—no two are exactly alike. The handle is stonewashed titanium with an inlay of Lightning Strike titanium, a high-voltage anodized finish that creates chaotic, electric-blue patterns. This is a knife that demands to be admired. At $214.89, it's actually slightly less expensive than the Elmax models, offering incredible value for a true collector's piece. If you appreciate unique materials and patterns, the VA2 is unmatched.
K1118VA3 (Stonewashed Elmax / Shred Carbon Fiber): The Modern Tactical
The K1118VA3 is the most understated—and perhaps most versatile—of the trio. It combines a stonewashed Elmax blade with a beadblasted titanium handle and shred carbon fiber inlays. The shredded carbon fiber pattern is chaotic and textured, offering excellent grip and a modern, tactical look. The black and grey color scheme is stealthy and professional. At $224.89, it's the same price as the VA1, but with a completely different vibe. This is for the user who wants premium materials in a low-visibility, high-performance package.
Which QTRO Fits Your EDC?
All three share Luft Concepts' brilliant hybrid design and flawless execution. The K1118VA1 offers warmth and industrial elegance. The K1118VA2 is a unique art piece with Damascus and Lightning Strike. And the K1118VA3 provides modern tactical style with shred carbon fiber. Whichever you choose, you're getting a knife that pushes boundaries—both in design and materials—from a design duo that truly understands what makes EDC gear great.
