Custom Morpho flipper from the SICAC 2019 Paris knife show
The Morpho custom is a creation of two Kyiv-based knifemakers — Oleksii Nesterenko and Evgeny Khokhlov.
The flipper was crafted specifically for the anniversary Paris exhibition, as evidenced by the "SICAC 30" inscription inside the handle. The knife brought its creator good fortune — Oleksii Nesterenko took home the show's Best Design award.
Before you is a butterfly knife — but not a balisong. The model takes its name from the Morpho butterfly, which captivates with its azure wings. The black-and-blue handle evokes the butterfly's wing coloration, while the effortless flip recalls its flight. The custom's exquisite decoration and premium materials position the Morpho as a contender for the finest dress knife — yet the elite European steel and the functional drop-point blade shape are ready for serious loads worthy of a robust tactical EDC.
A light touch on the tiny flipper tab and the blade flutters out of the handle. This flight is given its swiftness by the legendary Brazilian IKBS ball-bearing pivot system. Once open, the blade is secured by the titanium liner lock spring, protecting the owner's fingers from accidental closure.
The blade material is M390. This Swedish steel not only holds an edge for an exceptionally long time — it's also impervious to water and resistant to most acids and alkalis. Alongside its high corrosion resistance, M390 blades offer remarkable strength. Another advantage of this Scandinavian steel is its suitability for mirror polishing, which you can see on the false edge — while the grinds are adorned with a delicate longitudinal hand-rubbed satin finish.
Excellent cutting control is provided by the ergonomic handle shape and the thumb jimping on the spine. Additional grip security comes from the textured carbon fiber surface. But that's not the material's only virtue. Carbon fiber plays the leading role in the knife's decoration — its layered structure is skillfully highlighted in the relief of the scales. The ultramarine layers are echoed by the azure of the anodized hardware and frame. The shimmer of the bolster and clip responds with a brighter, more vivid chromatic chord. The metallic pattern is the work of a rare, costly composite — a fusion of timascus and zirconium.
The backspacer is also crafted from carbon fiber and features a minimalist ornament.
The lightweight Morpho is barely noticeable in the pocket — the clip secures the custom beautifully to clothing and doubles as a stylish accessory.
The knife comes with a sleek black leather pouch and a certificate signed by Oleksii Nesterenko.
The Morpho custom flutters like a butterfly and stings like a bee.
