Nick Rogers of Nitch Designs set out to create a knife that enthusiasts would actually want to carry—one with premium materials, thoughtful geometry, and an accessible price. With the Kansept Egress series, he absolutely succeeded. I've been testing four variants—the K1033A1, K1033A2, K1033B2, and K1033C2—and I'm consistently impressed by how this knife performs. The core is a CPM-S35VN blade (a premium stainless steel) paired with a slim, ergonomic handle and a reliable liner lock. The differences in blade finish, handle material, and blade shape create four distinct personalities.
The Shared Foundation: S35VN Excellence and Ergonomic Design
Every Egress shares a winning formula. The CPM-S35VN blade steel offers excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. The blade is 3.47 inches long with a flat grind, making it a superb slicer. The handle, regardless of material, is slim and comfortable, weighing 115 grams. The liner lock is sturdy and easy to engage. This is a knife designed for all-day carry and real-world cutting tasks. The choice of version comes down to aesthetics and feel.
K1033A1 (Satin Blade / Brown Micarta): The Classic Workhorse
The K1033A1 is the most traditional-looking Egress. It features a satin-finished CPM-S35VN blade and brown micarta handles. The satin finish is clean and classic, reflecting light beautifully. The micarta is warm, grippy, and will develop a rich patina with use. The blade shape here is a reverse tanto, offering a strong tip for piercing and a long belly for slicing. This is the purist's choice—a timeless, reliable tool that looks better as it ages.
K1033A2 (Black Stonewashed Blade / Brown Micarta): The Tactical Traditionalist
The K1033A2 pairs the same brown micarta handle with a black stonewashed CPM-S35VN blade. The stonewashed finish is rugged, low-reflectivity, and excellent at hiding scratches. It gives the knife a more tactical, modern look while retaining the classic warmth of the micarta. The blade is also a reverse tanto. If you want the organic feel of micarta but prefer a blade that looks tougher and requires less maintenance, the A2 is a fantastic choice.
K1033B2 (Black Stonewashed Blade / Shred Carbon Fiber): The Premium Modernist
The K1033B2 steps up in both materials and price. It features a black stonewashed blade (here a Wharncliffe shape, offering a straight edge for maximum control) and stunning shred carbon fiber handles. The shredded carbon fiber pattern is chaotic and mesmerizing, with depth and texture that standard weave can't match. It's lightweight, stiff, and incredibly premium. At $155, it's the most expensive Egress, but the carbon fiber and Wharncliffe blade justify the cost. This is for the collector who appreciates high-end materials.
K1033C2 (Black Stonewashed Blade / Jade G10): The Bold Individualist
The K1033C2 is the most visually striking of the bunch. It combines a black stonewashed Wharncliffe blade with a vibrant jade G10 handle. The jade G10 is translucent and eye-catching, offering a bold pop of color. G10 is durable and provides excellent texture. This version is fun, modern, and impossible to ignore. At $114, it's also an incredible value. If you want your EDC to express personality and stand out, the C2 is your pick.
Which Egress Matches Your Style?
All four share Nick Rogers' excellent design and premium CPM-S35VN steel. The K1033A1 is the timeless classic. The K1033A2 blends tradition with tactical toughness. The K1033B2 is a premium modernist masterpiece. And the K1033C2 is a bold, fun expression of personality. Whichever you choose, you're getting a knife that performs far above its price point, designed by someone who truly understands what makes a great EDC blade.
