The Tenable Tipper series, designed by Scott Stills of Edgy Bladeworks, is a celebration of bold, unconventional design and everyday practicality. This line of liner lock folding knives is built around a distinctive modified cleaver blade, offering users a tool that is as fun and fidget-friendly as it is capable. With five distinct variants—the Tenable Tipper B1079A1, B1079A2, B1079A3, B1079A4, and B1079A5—this series offers a wide range of blade finishes and handle materials, all built upon a shared foundation of outstanding cutting performance and ergonomic comfort. This article explores the brand's support for custom makers, the designer's inspiring journey, and the unique characteristics of each model.
Brand Introduction: Tenable's Platform for Custom Creativity
Tenable, as a brand, has positioned itself as a bridge between the world of custom knife making and production manufacturing. By collaborating with talented artisans like Scott Stills of Edgy Bladeworks, Tenable brings unique, enthusiast-driven designs to a wider audience. The Tipper series is a perfect example of this philosophy, translating a beloved custom piece into a high-quality production knife. Utilizing materials like Nitro-V steel, Damascus, Micarta, and PEI, Tenable ensures that the spirit and performance of Scott's original design are preserved, making it accessible to collectors and everyday users alike.
Designer Profile: The Passion of Scott Stills and Edgy Bladeworks
The creative force behind the Tipper is Scott Stills, a custom knife maker based in Asheville, North Carolina, operating under the name Edgy Bladeworks. Scott's journey is one of pure passion: an eight-year knife collector who taught himself the craft, starting with fixed blades before achieving his goal of creating folders. His company name reflects his appreciation for bold, unconventional art and a darker sense of humor. For Scott, knifemaking is his true calling, and the Tipper—a design he personally carried daily for over a year—is a direct expression of his vision: a knife that is comfortable, fun, and guaranteed to put a smile on anyone's face.
Core Design Philosophy: Bold, Practical, and Fidget-Friendly
The Tenable Tipper is defined by its modified cleaver blade, a shape that is both visually striking and remarkably practical. Its wide belly and strong tip excel at slicing tasks, from splitting a cupcake to whittling, while the flat grind ensures efficient cutting. Beyond its utility, the Tipper is engineered for tactile enjoyment. The ergonomic handle, combined with a thumb stud and finger choil, allows for smooth, fidget-friendly one-handed deployment. The secure liner lock provides safety during use, making it a knife that invites interaction and delivers a joyful user experience throughout the day.
Unified Specifications: The Tipper Foundation
Across all five models, the Tipper shares a robust set of core specifications, guaranteeing a consistent and capable user experience. Each knife features a blade with a modified cleaver profile and a flat grind. The overall length is 7.9 inches (200.9mm) with a blade length of 3.39 inches (86mm) and a blade thickness of 3.0mm. All models weigh a balanced 3.96 ounces (112.3g) and utilize a sturdy liner lock mechanism with a thumb stud for deployment. This shared platform ensures that the choice between models is purely a matter of aesthetic and textural preference.
Model Focus: Tenable Tipper B1079A1
The Tenable Tipper B1079A1 presents a striking and modern aesthetic. It features a rose gold coated Nitro-V blade paired with a classic black Micarta handle. The warm, luxurious rose gold finish on the blade provides a bold contrast against the textured, dark Micarta, creating a sophisticated and eye-catching look. This model is perfect for users who want their EDC knife to be a standout piece that blends high performance with distinctive style.
Model Focus: Tenable Tipper B1079A2
The Tenable Tipper B1079A2 offers a bold and vibrant personality. It combines a rugged blackwashed Nitro-V blade with a striking purple Micarta handle. The dark, worn-in look of the blackwash blade contrasts beautifully with the rich, deep purple of the Micarta, creating a tool that is both tactical and expressive. This model will appeal to individuals who appreciate a pop of creative color in their everyday carry.
Model Focus: Tenable Tipper B1079A3
The Tenable Tipper B1079A3 is the classic, understated choice in the series. It features a clean stonewashed Nitro-V blade paired with a warm and traditional brown Micarta handle. The stonewashed finish provides a durable, matte look that hides wear well, while the brown Micarta offers a comfortable, natural grip that develops character over time. This combination is perfect for purists who appreciate a timeless, vintage-inspired aesthetic.
Model Focus: Tenable Tipper B1079A4
The Tenable Tipper B1079A4 introduces a fresh and modern look with its stonewashed Nitro-V blade and crisp white G10 handle. The clean, bright white G10 provides a stark, contemporary contrast to the dark blade, creating a visually sharp and distinctive tool. This model is ideal for users who want a knife that stands out with a clean, modern, and minimalist appearance.
Model Focus: Tenable Tipper B1079A5
The Tenable Tipper B1079A5 is the premium, artisanal showpiece of the series. It features a stunning Water Ripple Damascus blade, whose unique, flowing pattern ensures no two knives are exactly alike. This is paired with a handle made from amber PEI (Polyetherimide), a high-strength polymer with a beautiful, translucent honey-like appearance. The combination of the patterned Damascus steel and the warm, glowing amber handle creates a knife of exceptional beauty, perfect for collectors and those who appreciate the finest materials and craftsmanship.
In conclusion, the Tenable Tipper series, through the B1079A1, B1079A2, B1079A3, B1079A4, and B1079A5, offers a versatile and joyfully functional folding knife platform. Scott Stills' passion-driven design, focused on comfort, fidget-friendliness, and bold aesthetics, is perfectly realized by Tenable's commitment to quality materials. Whether you are drawn to the modern flair of rose gold, the creative vibe of purple Micarta, the timeless appeal of stonewashed and brown, the clean look of white G10, or the unparalleled artistry of Damascus and amber PEI, the Tipper series provides a dependable and delightful tool that is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
