There's a certain honesty to a knife designed in the mountains. Aurelien (AP Knives) envisioned the SIF as a "sturdy, simple, yet elegant" tool for his adventures—and it shows. I've been carrying three variants—the K1100V1, K1100V3, and K1100V4 (the V2 is currently under wraps)—and each shares the same thoughtful platform. A 3.76-inch drop point blade in either CPM-S35VN or Damascus steel, an ambidextrous crossbar lock with adjustable tension, and a choice between textured titanium or sleek carbon fiber handles. This isn't just a knife; it's a customizable companion.
The Shared Genius: Built for the Trail, Ready for the City
Every SIF shares Aurelien's core design. The flat-ground drop point blade is a versatile slicer, perfect for everything from food prep to rope cutting. The crossbar lock is a standout—you can adjust the spring tension to your preference, from a snappy click to a smoother pull. The integrated titanium pocket clip is sculpted to disappear in hand. At 148 grams, it feels substantial but never heavy. The thumb studs are perfectly placed for ambidextrous deployment. The differences in materials are where the SIF's personality takes shape.
K1100V1 (Satin S35VN / Orange Peel Titanium with Dimples): The Tactile Original
The K1100V1 is the version that started it all. It features a satin-finished CPM-S35VN blade paired with a titanium handle that has a unique orange peel finish and subtle dimples. The texture is fantastic—grippy without being aggressive, and it hides fingerprints well. The satin blade is classic and easy to maintain. At $189.89, this is the purist's choice: a no-nonsense, premium EDC knife that feels as good as it looks. If you want the original SIF experience, this is it.
K1100V3 (Blackwash S35VN / Blackwash Titanium with Dimples): The Stealth Operator
The K1100V3 takes the same handle design—titanium with dimples—but gives it a full blackwash treatment. The blade is also blackwashed CPM-S35VN. The result is a completely non-reflective, rugged-looking tool that hides wear and scratches exceptionally well. This is the SIF for those who prefer their gear low-visibility and hard-use ready. It's the same price as the V1, but with a completely different, tactical vibe.
K1100V4 (Damascus Blade / Shred Carbon Fiber): The Lightweight Artist
The K1100V4 is a different beast entirely. It pairs a stunning Damascus blade with a shred carbon fiber handle. The Damascus pattern is unique to each knife, flowing like water. The carbon fiber is incredibly light and has a chaotic, textured pattern that catches light beautifully. At $199.89, it's slightly more expensive, but the materials justify it. This version feels more like a collector's piece—lighter, more artistic, and utterly unique. It's the SIF for those who want mountain reliability with gallery-worthy looks.
Which SIF Suits Your Adventure?
All three share Aurelien's excellent design and the innovative adjustable crossbar lock. The K1100V1 is the classic, textured original. The K1100V3 is the stealthy, all-black workhorse. And the K1100V4 is a lightweight Damascus showpiece. Whichever you choose, you're getting a knife born from mountain adventures and crafted with genuine passion—a tool that's ready for whatever trail you throw at it.
