Hi Nick, thank you for the honest review. I'm really glad that you like the Metamorph design :) About the flipping process I just can't imagine how almost all of you guys are using your thumbs to open those type of knives... Maybe Im weird, but the only comfortable way of frontflipping for me is using my index finger. Works with every front flipper and detent strenght or handle shape doesnt matter at all while flipping. All my frontflippers are designed for index finger opening, take a look here please: ua-cam.com/video/8cQej_UINF8/v-deo.html However many people use their thumbs so I guess I will have to design something more suitable for this technique also :)
Appreciate the explanation. I occasionally deploy my Metamorph this way, but find it less reliable than with my thumb and sometimes painful. Fortunately, the Metamorph is a fantastic design in use. It carries beautifully and slices exceedingly well. Despite having problems similar to Nick in the deployment reliability department, I have zero intention of selling mine.
@@DanAndreiVladut Thank you Dan, I've watched it carefully. Interesting thoughts and opinions. If you have any questions about this or my other collab feel free to ask, I'm always happy to help :)
sorry to be so offtopic but does anybody know a tool to log back into an Instagram account? I stupidly forgot the account password. I would love any tips you can give me.
At first I was having the same problem reliably flipping it open but after a few days I figured the perfect grip for me personally and it flips 100% now.
Now that I've watched. Yes. I have long fingers and I find the G5 to be one of the easiest front flippers, I've handled. It's no Smoke, but it's really good. And I love the drop-shuttiness.
I have a v1 of this beauty and this handle grooving has to be super useful (as v1 doesn't have it). After flipping with this knife for a few moments you will learn how to flip it with not only a thumb but also any other fingers or even open it how people open their pm2 by hard waving their hands holding the knife (carefully with that one). This knife is an absolite gem for the sub 60$ knife! Love it!
I love my metamorph. And I feel comparing a 60 dollar knife to a 200+ dollar knife isn't fair. But I can say as a Male with medium to large hands I have no problem.
Thanks for reviewing this, Nick. It's nice to know my experience is the same as yours and that there are better, more reliable front flippers on the market!
Hi Nick, speaking for myself I really like this knive. I do have a lager sized hand and somewhat longer thumbs in comparison to others, and I have to say that this knive fits my hand perfectly and the action is reasonably easy to engage. Hope this is somewhay usefull to you!
I have this knife coming in on Monday, I do worry because I have little hands like Nick does, but we shall see how I like it! Thanks for the stellar review Nick.
the one that I got had excessive lock stick when I got it. I broke mine out and bent the lockbar back just a bit and relieved that. I have found that when I concentrate on the whole "front flipper" move, I do tend to miss it about 25% of the time. And you are totally right about not being able to complete the flipping motion because of the shape of the front of the knife. However, I do find that if I'm just absentmindedly flipping it, I am much more reliable in completing the opening. It's probably just muscle memory taking over, but if I'm not "trying" to flip it and just flip it, it works much more reliably.
I love the full disclosures. Not only does it keep the reviewer honest it keeps the companies honest. Did you know the Spyderco Shaman is actually a front flipper too? Found out by accident.
Nick, I love the metamorph, one of the nicest actions I’ve ever handled and it flips beautifully for me. I will agree that the top could use a little shaving, but it doesn’t bother me to much. I have no issues flipping after I got a feel for the knife but I do have quite large hands. I hope this helped
I spent this entire review openning and closeing mine and didn't miss a flip. You're right, it was a bit tricky to learn but I found that to be part of its charm. It's also fun to hand to people who ask for a knife and watch them try to figure out how to open it =p
"if you go up a little further you can get the Boos Blades Smoke." If by "a little" you mean triple the price. But good review and keep doing the disclosure.
The Knife Center exclusive version of this, with the G10 seems to negate the slippery issues; I use a three finger on the inside, thumb on outside pinch grip while using index finger for leverage which /launches/ the blade out beautifully. I also sometimes use my thumb to slide the blade out, and then use it to rotate it the rest of the way out like a thumb stud. Loving mine and the styling just makes it better.
I had to change the way I flip with the Metamorph. Instead of pulling my thumb laterally across the tab, I push it away from me. Works like a charm, and the ridge in the path becomes a non issue. Still super slick though.
I have the same issue with the flipper. Mine is one of the very last ones from the first batch (without the cool texturing). As it broke in, I've noticed that inertia carries the blade all the way open more and more often, but still not every single time. I have had more luck using my index finger in the Birdshot "reach around" method. That said, I'm about to sell mine. Unreliable deployment means it doesn't get much pocket time.
Hey Nick, I got one of these from Indiana Knives a couple weeks ago. I can flip it pretty easily with my thumb, but the detent on mine is rock solid too, so maybe that's a difference? Also, i can use the right side of my index finger, took some getting used to as this is my first front flipper, but it's quick and snappy. I'll echo your concern about it being able to rotate into the palm if you do it wrong though, otherwise I really like it.
FWIW - I have the previous version and it’s the only front flipper I’ve used. After a couple days of learning to do it, I find the flipping action pretty easy... but I have XL hands so that may play a role.
Nick,. Loved the review, but I gotta say, what you thought was ugly I thought was beautiful. This was the first front flipper in my collection that I've been able to flip, and the action on my knife was perfect out of the box. I think it must be more of a hand thing. I wish I had seen Ostap's video of the index finger flip because I'm having a hard time picturing that.
I picked up one of these in the lime green scales. I have small girl hands but once I got the hang of it I can reliably flip it, it just always feels weird. Maybe that is because it is a bit slippery as you mentioned. What I’m super curious about is why mine does not have a deep carry clip.
I got one of the MK I versions and while its not the easiest action, i find it fun to mess around with. I had to send it back to Blade HQ due to the lanyard pin at the back being loose and rattled around. That was annoying, but im looking forward to replacing it once my return is processed.
Nice to see this one reviewed one of my favs. I tend to disagree on your take on the bang-for-buck aspect however. Compared to one of your favs the spyderco delica this knifes on bearings,? Equal blade steel, way nicer action. For under 60usd imo hard to beat. (I should clarify the delica is 20 buck more and considered a good value)
I agree it’s rather slippery to handle. As someone with larger hands it’s not too difficult to deploy the blade as far as how my thumb reaches but I’ve noticed a similar issues of the blade’s spine bouncing off the palm of my hand. I do really like the knife though, it cuts well, has a smooth action, and rides nicely in the pocket.
@@OstapHelDesigns That makes sense, but I am definitely not an index finger-user for front flippers. I use my thumb, so the Metamorph actually hurts. On the other hand, I'd love to see an index-flipper that I could deploy comfortably. Thanks for your response.
Heey nick. Didnt the andre de villers you took apart a long time ago also have needle bearings? Absolutly agread with the review and as always well done
Hey Nick, I've got the earlier version with smooth flat scales. It's absolutely a slippery bugger. No argument there. That slickness while possibly being a problem in the hand let's it slide easily in and out of the pocket, and disappear when in there. I've got small hands my wrist is 6.5, and my ring finger is 6.25, and I don't have any problem flipping it out reliably, but it's less reliable without a little wrist action. I'm sure you're correct that would be improved by slanting the scales the other direction like the boos smoke. I'll probably still go ahead and buy the version you're covering here though, cause as much as I'd love a boos smoke, I can't justify spending 4 times as much for one, (assuming I could even find one which isn't super likely. Thanks as always for your reviews. 🙂
I have one of these and have no trouble flipping it, but I have large hands (XL gloves). Also you might have gotten a bad one with that weak detent, I've had two and both had nice reliable detents, stronger than the Smokes I've handled. I've started opening it with my index finger like the designer posted above, but don't find that as easy to do as using my thumb.
I have previous version ( without handle texturing, and dc pocket clip) and i had a lot of issue fliping it for first few days, but later i become better and better, and developed another styles of flipping for example with index finger, or 4th finger, i thing detent is little bit too soft bot i enjoy flipping it, its nice fidget and awesome thing too practise your skills.
Nick, I have this knife in the same color and I have large hands. I have the same issues that you've highlighted in this video. This was my first front flipper, but I found, like you did, that the knife is a bit too slippery and the flipper tab/scale design can prevent consistent opening. I'm sure that, with practice, it may be less of an issue. I do like this knife and I was hoping that I'd love it, but it's just not as easy to deploy as I would like.
I just purchased one of these and have to agree, if the bump on top of the scales didn't protrude as much or the jimping on the backbone of the blade had sharper serrations it would highly improve the flipping action.
I just wanted to let you know that I have been having all the same problems in terms of opening and hand position as you have described. While I wouldn’t say I have big hands I would say they are a little bigger than average and the rolling into the hand, and difficultly getting good purchase is just as bad for me. This is actually the first knife I have dropped while trying to open that I can remember! If and when I carry this it is a secondary knife because it disappears next to my pen in my pocket, so it costs me no real amount of space, but I wouldn’t recommend it for all the negative reasons you mentioned in your video. I would echo another comment I saw and say that this is the only front flipper I can open with my index finger, so I would encourage anyone who has a metamorph to practice that technique as it can be quite effective. Finally, I would say that one of the best things about this knife is that by practicing with the Metamorph, I have made opening my HEADesigns Hunter infinitely easier. I really wish someone would Goldilocks a front flipper between these two. More substantial grip like the Hunter, but longer and with a liner lock like the metamorph.
I love my 'Boos Blades Smoke'. Wish I had bought two. Sorry but had to fast-forward to see if this was a 'Gem'. Might still get one anyway. The front-flipper thing is cool.
I like those slim little units. (Gentleman's knife?) If they shortened that down a little bit that would be swell. How much blade do we really need? I know my answer only a couple of inches. I'd like to see more of these lower profile pieces pushed out on the cheap.
This is just a beautiful knife and it is well made for just $60! The steel may not be everyone’s first choice but I think it’s a fine steel that is going to work well for most anybody! And the blue is just an amazing blue
Thanks for sharing !! Its definitely not the easiest to flip.. as you know i have the first version that does not have the texturing. Even more slippery.... i don't know. Its still a goid knife...
I love mine except the finish wasnt exactly as polished as others. The edge bevel grind was very uneven (literally had a step in the grind) and had to fix it myself with my sharpening system. other than that, I love the action. I would buy again if the finish was better. compared to a $35 bestech, they need to pay more attention to their finishing. I got the MKII btw.
Great video. I really don't understand where the thumbs down come from. I'm really interested in front flippers, but haven't gotten my hands on a decent one yet. Hopefully some time soon! Cheers!
Always enjoy your reviews Nick. However am I the only one who thinks of using a front flipper as an Emerson opener? Granted not as effective but not unable to preform...
I have the mk1, mk2, and the smoke. I bet I have even smaller LBHs than Nick. My mk1 has a stronger detent than my mk2. I can index flick the 2, but not the 1. I can really easily shake open the 2, but not the 1. The smoke I can index flick, but not shake open. I can't smoothly slow roll either metamorph due to the clearance issue at the top. I have to go over the hump and catch the end of the flipper on the other side. Because of the slickness on the metamorph I hold it deeper in my palm with the side of the knife pressed I to the part of my palm directly below my thumb. The smoke I can securely hold curled in my fingers. The metamorphs are more prone to missflick if I don't get enough momentum in the initial push, but with practice it's not that bad. My mk1 flips a little more reliably than my mk2. The smoke is super easy to reliably flip all the time without too much effort.
I own this same knife and like it. I own about 13 front flippers and this one is the best value. I prefer to roll my blades open so flipping it open isn't an issue. It's a great slicer with its slender blade. I just got the BHQ exclusive with M390 steel and shredded carbon fiber scales. It's almost 3 times the price of the blue aluminum one and it is still on the lower end price for a front flipper. Either one is a good Gentleman's folder and great backup steak knife. I always have one of these In my pocket if I'm going to a restaurant.
Definitely an lbh issue IMO. Of course I have xxl hands with somewhat long fingers and mine flipped reliably 100% of the time from the first time I opened it. I don't carry it much as I tend to prefer larger meatier knives, but it's a nice slim design to carry for dressier occasions.
my hand must be too big for this knife to flip. It's almost impossible for me to flip as it would require me to pull my thumb behind my hand. i like the knife, it's just a 2 stop process to open with one hand for me.
Once you say "Coupled" you only get to add one thing. After you've coupled your sixth or seventh thing in it's no longer "coupling" and moved more into the realm of the gangbang.
@nick For your consideration - real steel are making S5 metamorph which comes both with front flipper and regular. And it comes as a titanium framelock with a CPM S35-VN blade ;) But on the downside price of it is around 200USD :/
I have purchased the regular flip titanium frame lock s35vn metamorph which is basically the same knife and I absolutely love it!!!!!!. It’s over double the price but worth ever penny. It is so slim and a joy to carry!! I can’t recommend it enough!!!
I'm happy you mentioned how slick it is cause I cannot stand a knife that I have to stick my whole knuckles into my tight pockets to pull my knife out so that is a plus right away. Same goes with my phone, I want it to slide out with 2 fingers lightly grabbing it, no fight then my rabbit ears come out along with that Sally's phone number I swooped up at closing, yikes, good thing that didn't come out, the real steel, give me all your numbers lady and be quick about it this is the bromane, flotane bulletane for da kokane-mane
I can reliably flip G5. Compared to Smoke (I also have), G5 is more reliable. reasons for me: G5 flipper tab is straight while smoke is curved, I can reliably use both of them with the thumb. I can also flip G5 reliably with the index finger, but I cannot reliably flip Smoke using the index finger. BTW G5 have a titanium version called S5 with S35VN, it may not be that slippery
Good average metal (Sandvik same as Ruike 801) Beautifull design (front flippers are not for everyone) Love the color. Very grippy for a gentleman knife (this is not beat knife) Boos Blades smoke is 169 U$S the cheaper one. Metamorph G5 is only 55 US$ CRKT CEO is 39 and Crossbones is 62 and has AUS 8 (personally I prefeer the Sandvik closer to D2 and better than VG10 , AUS/8 and 8crMov13) So it is a good design, Good steel and Good price.
Is there any aluminum handle with a good grip? I haven’t held one. I love a great front flipper - the Boos Smoke and Burger EXK are some of my favorite knives - but designing an effective front flipper mechanism must not be easy. I don’t know whether you’ll call it a front flipper, but I hope the new Ikuchi will exhibit a lot of the winning aspects of the Smoke.
Unfortunately I am front flipper challenged. I have a boos smoke tm and for the life of me, I just can't get the flipping action down. Maybe the part of my brain that controls front flipping is underdeveloped. To put it bluntly, when I'm front flipping it's spaz city.
Nick I have that exact knife, color and all. I continually have trouble flipping it. I wear size 'L' gloves. Talk to Frankie and Bird. Bird has also commented on the detent and difficulty flipping this blade. For myself I'd say I end up adding wrist action at least 80% of the time. Don't get me wrong y'all. I still like the knife for size and weight and cutting. Not so much for the flipping.
I like full disclosure personally. I agree it isn't the best value, although for front flippers I think it is. And a little bit further to the boos smoke? Don't get me wrong but triple the cost is not a little bit. I've never really had an issue with the slipage you mention but I have had the knife turn in my hand once or twice but I have bigger and fatter hands. I also don't really have an issue with loading enough force on it to get it the full flip but might be a case by case thing.
Oh its definitely a design issue nick. Im on the other end of the scale (huge hands) and i can tell you, its just tough to manipulate and flip. That said, i got it for the exact reason you mentioned: its a "budget" front flipper, i got to try out the concept before putting too much into it. It did its job, and now ive got a Smoke!
Thread locker is a double edge sword not to be punning, but if a manufacturer puts too little thread locker on then the knife will loosen over very short time of use and 90% of knife buyers that don’t have tools to maintain them will be stuck with a wobbly waste of money, on the other hand if they put too much loctite or red loctite then the small percentage of knife collectors/owners that disassemble their knives to maintain them will be at risk of shearing off a screw and causing major brain surgery to fix. If I were a manufacturer I would tend to put more loctite as 99% of customers won’t mind versus appeasing the knife collectors which may cause 50% of customers to complain their knives are loose and wobbly or a screw fell out. I got a kershaw axiom and put loctite on it myself and it still came unscrewed after 20-30 flips. Some knives are prone to loosening.
I think if nick stuck with it another week, it wouldn't be an issue. Been carrying mine for 4 months and I love it, no problem flipping once you get used to it
Sorry nothing on this review is accurate. This knife opens like magic, design is awesome. The blade can pierce like a rapier sword. The screws on the clip seems big here and that was my concern but they are not and you will have no problems. The knife is light. The colour appears as light blue in sunlight but violet under arificial light Bought this one the intense blue and now I'm loking forward for the NAVY blue. By the way Boos blade smoke is horrible that frame lock and the clip look so ugly IMO (and i 220 U$S) , You get that I will keep my Metamorph.
Hi Nick, thank you for the honest review. I'm really glad that you like the Metamorph design :) About the flipping process I just can't imagine how almost all of you guys are using your thumbs to open those type of knives... Maybe Im weird, but the only comfortable way of frontflipping for me is using my index finger. Works with every front flipper and detent strenght or handle shape doesnt matter at all while flipping. All my frontflippers are designed for index finger opening, take a look here please:
ua-cam.com/video/8cQej_UINF8/v-deo.html
However many people use their thumbs so I guess I will have to design something more suitable for this technique also :)
Appreciate the explanation. I occasionally deploy my Metamorph this way, but find it less reliable than with my thumb and sometimes painful.
Fortunately, the Metamorph is a fantastic design in use. It carries beautifully and slices exceedingly well. Despite having problems similar to Nick in the deployment reliability department, I have zero intention of selling mine.
how? i simply cant open it with my indexfinger..
Ostap, this was my response to Nick's review. I would love to know if I got closer to your intentions.
ua-cam.com/video/GE6EzHCplh8/v-deo.html
@@DanAndreiVladut Thank you Dan, I've watched it carefully. Interesting thoughts and opinions. If you have any questions about this or my other collab feel free to ask, I'm always happy to help :)
sorry to be so offtopic but does anybody know a tool to log back into an Instagram account?
I stupidly forgot the account password. I would love any tips you can give me.
I appreciate the full disclosure. Please never stop doing it like so many other reviewers.
Fully agree. His disclosure is one of the many reasons he is one of the best reviewers, if not the best.
Full disclosure is most definitely appreciated and needed! No matter how long it takes it is worth it in the end.
At first I was having the same problem reliably flipping it open but after a few days I figured the perfect grip for me personally and it flips 100% now.
Now that I've watched. Yes. I have long fingers and I find the G5 to be one of the easiest front flippers, I've handled. It's no Smoke, but it's really good. And I love the drop-shuttiness.
Been waiting for this review 👏
I will go out on a limb and say that I love this knife before I watch this.
Slicey Dicey i do too and haven’t even handled one lol
I have a v1 of this beauty and this handle grooving has to be super useful (as v1 doesn't have it). After flipping with this knife for a few moments you will learn how to flip it with not only a thumb but also any other fingers or even open it how people open their pm2 by hard waving their hands holding the knife (carefully with that one).
This knife is an absolite gem for the sub 60$ knife! Love it!
hey nick, slicey; Why am i having difficulty finding NOC knife reviews ? Am curious about the MT04
@@avihsnis I personally don't review much stuff sold on Alie Express and DH Gate and what not.
I love my metamorph. And I feel comparing a 60 dollar knife to a 200+ dollar knife isn't fair. But I can say as a Male with medium to large hands I have no problem.
Thanks for reviewing this, Nick. It's nice to know my experience is the same as yours and that there are better, more reliable front flippers on the market!
Hi Nick, speaking for myself I really like this knive. I do have a lager sized hand and somewhat longer thumbs in comparison to others, and I have to say that this knive fits my hand perfectly and the action is reasonably easy to engage. Hope this is somewhay usefull to you!
I have this knife coming in on Monday, I do worry because I have little hands like Nick does, but we shall see how I like it! Thanks for the stellar review Nick.
2:46 Steakknife THANK YOU for saying this. And I agree that budget friendly front Flippers is the category is too small, we need more of those.
Thanks for the review, I was thinking on buying this, but the flipping issue is a turn over. Keep up the good work!
the one that I got had excessive lock stick when I got it. I broke mine out and bent the lockbar back just a bit and relieved that. I have found that when I concentrate on the whole "front flipper" move, I do tend to miss it about 25% of the time. And you are totally right about not being able to complete the flipping motion because of the shape of the front of the knife. However, I do find that if I'm just absentmindedly flipping it, I am much more reliable in completing the opening. It's probably just muscle memory taking over, but if I'm not "trying" to flip it and just flip it, it works much more reliably.
I love the full disclosures. Not only does it keep the reviewer honest it keeps the companies honest. Did you know the Spyderco Shaman is actually a front flipper too? Found out by accident.
I really appreciate the full the disclosure, even if it takes a little time
slippery aluminum? so, you're saying that Real Steel should get their hands on some Protech chalky aluminum? ;)
Nick, I love the metamorph, one of the nicest actions I’ve ever handled and it flips beautifully for me. I will agree that the top could use a little shaving, but it doesn’t bother me to much. I have no issues flipping after I got a feel for the knife but I do have quite large hands. I hope this helped
Totally agree with the major gripe of the front flipper. Send it to Thorburn for a fix then a 2.0 re- release?
I spent this entire review openning and closeing mine and didn't miss a flip. You're right, it was a bit tricky to learn but I found that to be part of its charm. It's also fun to hand to people who ask for a knife and watch them try to figure out how to open it =p
"if you go up a little further you can get the Boos Blades Smoke." If by "a little" you mean triple the price.
But good review and keep doing the disclosure.
Thats nick for you!
The Knife Center exclusive version of this, with the G10 seems to negate the slippery issues; I use a three finger on the inside, thumb on outside pinch grip while using index finger for leverage which /launches/ the blade out beautifully. I also sometimes use my thumb to slide the blade out, and then use it to rotate it the rest of the way out like a thumb stud. Loving mine and the styling just makes it better.
I had to change the way I flip with the Metamorph. Instead of pulling my thumb laterally across the tab, I push it away from me. Works like a charm, and the ridge in the path becomes a non issue. Still super slick though.
Totally agree with you on he manipulation. I have found that it works better for me if I use my index finger. Using the thumb is awkward.
I have the same issue with the flipper. Mine is one of the very last ones from the first batch (without the cool texturing). As it broke in, I've noticed that inertia carries the blade all the way open more and more often, but still not every single time. I have had more luck using my index finger in the Birdshot "reach around" method. That said, I'm about to sell mine. Unreliable deployment means it doesn't get much pocket time.
Hey Nick, I got one of these from Indiana Knives a couple weeks ago. I can flip it pretty easily with my thumb, but the detent on mine is rock solid too, so maybe that's a difference? Also, i can use the right side of my index finger, took some getting used to as this is my first front flipper, but it's quick and snappy.
I'll echo your concern about it being able to rotate into the palm if you do it wrong though, otherwise I really like it.
FWIW - I have the previous version and it’s the only front flipper I’ve used. After a couple days of learning to do it, I find the flipping action pretty easy... but I have XL hands so that may play a role.
Nick,. Loved the review, but I gotta say, what you thought was ugly I thought was beautiful. This was the first front flipper in my collection that I've been able to flip, and the action on my knife was perfect out of the box. I think it must be more of a hand thing. I wish I had seen Ostap's video of the index finger flip because I'm having a hard time picturing that.
I picked up one of these in the lime green scales. I have small girl hands but once I got the hang of it I can reliably flip it, it just always feels weird. Maybe that is because it is a bit slippery as you mentioned. What I’m super curious about is why mine does not have a deep carry clip.
I got one of the MK I versions and while its not the easiest action, i find it fun to mess around with. I had to send it back to Blade HQ due to the lanyard pin at the back being loose and rattled around. That was annoying, but im looking forward to replacing it once my return is processed.
Nice to see this one reviewed one of my favs.
I tend to disagree on your take on the bang-for-buck aspect however. Compared to one of your favs the spyderco delica this knifes on bearings,? Equal blade steel, way nicer action. For under 60usd imo hard to beat. (I should clarify the delica is 20 buck more and considered a good value)
I agree it’s rather slippery to handle. As someone with larger hands it’s not too difficult to deploy the blade as far as how my thumb reaches but I’ve noticed a similar issues of the blade’s spine bouncing off the palm of my hand. I do really like the knife though, it cuts well, has a smooth action, and rides nicely in the pocket.
Nice point about the area at the top where the tab disappears. Good physiographic observation.
Take a look at my comment please, Ive tried to explain why its designed like this :)
@@OstapHelDesigns That makes sense, but I am definitely not an index finger-user for front flippers. I use my thumb, so the Metamorph actually hurts. On the other hand, I'd love to see an index-flipper that I could deploy comfortably. Thanks for your response.
Heey nick. Didnt the andre de villers you took apart a long time ago also have needle bearings? Absolutly agread with the review and as always well done
Hey Nick, I've got the earlier version with smooth flat scales. It's absolutely a slippery bugger. No argument there. That slickness while possibly being a problem in the hand let's it slide easily in and out of the pocket, and disappear when in there. I've got small hands my wrist is 6.5, and my ring finger is 6.25, and I don't have any problem flipping it out reliably, but it's less reliable without a little wrist action. I'm sure you're correct that would be improved by slanting the scales the other direction like the boos smoke. I'll probably still go ahead and buy the version you're covering here though, cause as much as I'd love a boos smoke, I can't justify spending 4 times as much for one, (assuming I could even find one which isn't super likely. Thanks as always for your reviews. 🙂
Great video, I really enjoyed watching. Thank you for uploading.
SurvivalAustria
10:48 - Nick nearly learns to use his index finger on a front flipper. Alas he does not and I am sad.
Great review, Nick!
I have one of these and have no trouble flipping it, but I have large hands (XL gloves). Also you might have gotten a bad one with that weak detent, I've had two and both had nice reliable detents, stronger than the Smokes I've handled. I've started opening it with my index finger like the designer posted above, but don't find that as easy to do as using my thumb.
I have previous version ( without handle texturing, and dc pocket clip) and i had a lot of issue fliping it for first few days, but later i become better and better, and developed another styles of flipping for example with index finger, or 4th finger, i thing detent is little bit too soft bot i enjoy flipping it, its nice fidget and awesome thing too practise your skills.
Nick, I have this knife in the same color and I have large hands. I have the same issues that you've highlighted in this video. This was my first front flipper, but I found, like you did, that the knife is a bit too slippery and the flipper tab/scale design can prevent consistent opening. I'm sure that, with practice, it may be less of an issue. I do like this knife and I was hoping that I'd love it, but it's just not as easy to deploy as I would like.
I really like the thin design.
I just purchased one of these and have to agree, if the bump on top of the scales didn't protrude as much or the jimping on the backbone of the blade had sharper serrations it would highly improve the flipping action.
I just wanted to let you know that I have been having all the same problems in terms of opening and hand position as you have described. While I wouldn’t say I have big hands I would say they are a little bigger than average and the rolling into the hand, and difficultly getting good purchase is just as bad for me. This is actually the first knife I have dropped while trying to open that I can remember! If and when I carry this it is a secondary knife because it disappears next to my pen in my pocket, so it costs me no real amount of space, but I wouldn’t recommend it for all the negative reasons you mentioned in your video. I would echo another comment I saw and say that this is the only front flipper I can open with my index finger, so I would encourage anyone who has a metamorph to practice that technique as it can be quite effective. Finally, I would say that one of the best things about this knife is that by practicing with the Metamorph, I have made opening my HEADesigns Hunter infinitely easier. I really wish someone would Goldilocks a front flipper between these two. More substantial grip like the Hunter, but longer and with a liner lock like the metamorph.
The ones for sale on KC look like they have they have removed the sharp point that is obstructing the flipper path.
I love my 'Boos Blades Smoke'. Wish I had bought two. Sorry but had to fast-forward to see if this was a 'Gem'. Might still get one anyway. The front-flipper thing is cool.
I like those slim little units. (Gentleman's knife?) If they shortened that down a little bit that would be swell. How much blade do we really need? I know my answer only a couple of inches.
I'd like to see more of these lower profile pieces pushed out on the cheap.
pendulousphallus yes agreed on all points
Is this the navy blue or the intense blue?
This is just a beautiful knife and it is well made for just $60! The steel may not be everyone’s first choice but I think it’s a fine steel that is going to work well for most anybody! And the blue is just an amazing blue
Thanks for sharing !! Its definitely not the easiest to flip.. as you know i have the first version that does not have the texturing. Even more slippery.... i don't know. Its still a goid knife...
I love mine except the finish wasnt exactly as polished as others. The edge bevel grind was very uneven (literally had a step in the grind) and had to fix it myself with my sharpening system. other than that, I love the action. I would buy again if the finish was better. compared to a $35 bestech, they need to pay more attention to their finishing. I got the MKII btw.
Great video. I really don't understand where the thumbs down come from. I'm really interested in front flippers, but haven't gotten my hands on a decent one yet. Hopefully some time soon! Cheers!
This is a nice little front flipper , a bit pricey though. I wish they had a regular back flipper option , I would buy it in a minute .
Always enjoy your reviews Nick. However am I the only one who thinks of using a front flipper as an Emerson opener? Granted not as effective but not unable to preform...
I have the mk1, mk2, and the smoke. I bet I have even smaller LBHs than Nick.
My mk1 has a stronger detent than my mk2. I can index flick the 2, but not the 1. I can really easily shake open the 2, but not the 1. The smoke I can index flick, but not shake open.
I can't smoothly slow roll either metamorph due to the clearance issue at the top. I have to go over the hump and catch the end of the flipper on the other side.
Because of the slickness on the metamorph I hold it deeper in my palm with the side of the knife pressed I to the part of my palm directly below my thumb. The smoke I can securely hold curled in my fingers.
The metamorphs are more prone to missflick if I don't get enough momentum in the initial push, but with practice it's not that bad. My mk1 flips a little more reliably than my mk2. The smoke is super easy to reliably flip all the time without too much effort.
I own this same knife and like it. I own about 13 front flippers and this one is the best value. I prefer to roll my blades open so flipping it open isn't an issue. It's a great slicer with its slender blade. I just got the BHQ exclusive with M390 steel and shredded carbon fiber scales. It's almost 3 times the price of the blue aluminum one and it is still on the lower end price for a front flipper. Either one is a good Gentleman's folder and great backup steak knife. I always have one of these In my pocket if I'm going to a restaurant.
You should get some Kevin John Knives on the channel. I’ve heard good things. And I know they do the machining for ckf
Really awesome knife,
@@kiwifarmsdotnet
yes my instagram profile name is
( oc_omegashadow_spyderco )!!!
Hi nick. What camera do you use to film these videos?
An iPhone XS, at the moment.
I love it (theoretically). Given I have M-L B Hands, I'm going for it!
Hey Nick, I've found that you can use your index finger to reliably flick the G5.
What's the other knife called? The frontflipper?
The other frontflipper he showed was the Boos Blades Smoke.
Definitely an lbh issue IMO. Of course I have xxl hands with somewhat long fingers and mine flipped reliably 100% of the time from the first time I opened it. I don't carry it much as I tend to prefer larger meatier knives, but it's a nice slim design to carry for dressier occasions.
my hand must be too big for this knife to flip.
It's almost impossible for me to flip as it would require me to pull my thumb behind my hand.
i like the knife, it's just a 2 stop process to open with one hand for me.
Nick. Ruike has a budgey front flipper. Give that a try
Nice knife
"It thins very well" hahahaha
@4:07 you say 12C28N but its actually 14C28N which in my experience is quite a bit better.
I use my index finger for to flip. I have a bad thumb.
Once you say "Coupled" you only get to add one thing. After you've coupled your sixth or seventh thing in it's no longer "coupling" and moved more into the realm of the gangbang.
Coupling is hooking together. Train cars are all coupled together. I guess you could say running a train in place of gangbang
The gangbang was funnier
Daisychaining? 😁
@nick
For your consideration - real steel are making S5 metamorph which comes both with front flipper and regular. And it comes as a titanium framelock with a CPM S35-VN blade ;)
But on the downside price of it is around 200USD :/
I have purchased the regular flip titanium frame lock s35vn metamorph which is basically the same knife and I absolutely love it!!!!!!. It’s over double the price but worth ever penny. It is so slim and a joy to carry!! I can’t recommend it enough!!!
That looks like a nicer CRKT Swindle
I own a Swindle. Except for reliability of action, this is better in every way.
I'm happy you mentioned how slick it is cause I cannot stand a knife that I have to stick my whole knuckles into my tight pockets to pull my knife out so that is a plus right away. Same goes with my phone, I want it to slide out with 2 fingers lightly grabbing it, no fight then my rabbit ears come out along with that Sally's phone number I swooped up at closing, yikes, good thing that didn't come out, the real steel, give me all your numbers lady and be quick about it this is the bromane, flotane bulletane for da kokane-mane
I can reliably flip G5. Compared to Smoke (I also have), G5 is more reliable. reasons for me: G5 flipper tab is straight while smoke is curved, I can reliably use both of them with the thumb. I can also flip G5 reliably with the index finger, but I cannot reliably flip Smoke using the index finger. BTW G5 have a titanium version called S5 with S35VN, it may not be that slippery
Yeah I agree should be 40$ or so. Could be tricky with wet or greasy hands.
Good average metal (Sandvik same as Ruike 801) Beautifull design (front flippers are not for everyone) Love the color. Very grippy for a gentleman knife (this is not beat knife) Boos Blades smoke is 169 U$S the cheaper one. Metamorph G5 is only 55 US$ CRKT CEO is 39 and Crossbones is 62 and has AUS 8 (personally I prefeer the Sandvik closer to D2 and better than VG10 , AUS/8 and 8crMov13)
So it is a good design, Good steel and Good price.
The disclosure shows your integrity
Is there any aluminum handle with a good grip? I haven’t held one.
I love a great front flipper - the Boos Smoke and Burger EXK are some of my favorite knives - but designing an effective front flipper mechanism must not be easy.
I don’t know whether you’ll call it a front flipper, but I hope the new Ikuchi will exhibit a lot of the winning aspects of the Smoke.
Benchmades 940 isn't too bad in my experience
Unfortunately I am front flipper challenged. I have a boos smoke tm and for the life of me, I just can't get the flipping action down. Maybe the part of my brain that controls front flipping is underdeveloped. To put it bluntly, when I'm front flipping it's spaz city.
A shame. How much did you spend on it?
@@HaesslichG $220.
@@abc456f I can't find one for love or money where I am, so I'd say you're lucky. I make do with the Feist.
Nick I have that exact knife, color and all. I continually have trouble flipping it. I wear size 'L' gloves. Talk to Frankie and Bird. Bird has also commented on the detent and difficulty flipping this blade. For myself I'd say I end up adding wrist action at least 80% of the time. Don't get me wrong y'all. I still like the knife for size and weight and cutting. Not so much for the flipping.
Oh yes. Tab length is probably a factor also...for sure!
Nick I have the G5 Metamorph and I have trouble deploying the blade out and the blade strikes the palm of my hand makes it very frustrating to open.
Im a simple man, I see front flipper and I click,
Just sent this blade back. Way too slippery in hand! I should have listened! Thank Nick!
The Indiana Knives G10 handle exclusive is much grippier if that's your main issue
I want...
Hey Nick Shabazz, nice vid but how much is the knife? You skipped over the actual price.
He said 60 bucks @ 9 min.
I like full disclosure personally.
I agree it isn't the best value, although for front flippers I think it is. And a little bit further to the boos smoke? Don't get me wrong but triple the cost is not a little bit.
I've never really had an issue with the slipage you mention but I have had the knife turn in my hand once or twice but I have bigger and fatter hands. I also don't really have an issue with loading enough force on it to get it the full flip but might be a case by case thing.
I have definitely cut myself with mine. And it is definitely because of the tricky flip.
Oh its definitely a design issue nick. Im on the other end of the scale (huge hands) and i can tell you, its just tough to manipulate and flip. That said, i got it for the exact reason you mentioned: its a "budget" front flipper, i got to try out the concept before putting too much into it. It did its job, and now ive got a Smoke!
Okay well I guess I'm spending $60.
I like 14C28N and have bigger hands. Hmmm....
Thread locker is a double edge sword not to be punning, but if a manufacturer puts too little thread locker on then the knife will loosen over very short time of use and 90% of knife buyers that don’t have tools to maintain them will be stuck with a wobbly waste of money, on the other hand if they put too much loctite or red loctite then the small percentage of knife collectors/owners that disassemble their knives to maintain them will be at risk of shearing off a screw and causing major brain surgery to fix. If I were a manufacturer I would tend to put more loctite as 99% of customers won’t mind versus appeasing the knife collectors which may cause 50% of customers to complain their knives are loose and wobbly or a screw fell out. I got a kershaw axiom and put loctite on it myself and it still came unscrewed after 20-30 flips. Some knives are prone to loosening.
Hazin blue loctite serves both customers.
Do you still buy knives with your money ? ;)
I come here for punishment. Thanx, Nick!
They should make a g10 version
A little bird told me.. : )
See below - Indiana knives have one in G10!
I was in until you got to the flipper issues. I Think this may just be another Chinese knife like so many others that has flooded the market.
I think if nick stuck with it another week, it wouldn't be an issue. Been carrying mine for 4 months and I love it, no problem flipping once you get used to it
I’m function over form. 😞
Sorry nothing on this review is accurate. This knife opens like magic, design is awesome. The blade can pierce like a rapier sword.
The screws on the clip seems big here and that was my concern but they are not and you will have no problems. The knife is light.
The colour appears as light blue in sunlight but violet under arificial light Bought this one the intense blue and now I'm loking forward for the NAVY blue.
By the way Boos blade smoke is horrible that frame lock and the clip look so ugly IMO (and i 220 U$S) , You get that I will keep my Metamorph.
Nick "LBH" Shabazz
I believe a knife is a tool, so form should always follow function!
Pity it's made in China.
If there was a USA made version I would buy in a heart beat