If you haven’t checked out the Vosteed Ankylo with the Vanchor lock, you may want to. I had the chance to handle it in 154CM, and my first thoughts were, “What the heck is a Vanchor lock?” I was also surprised at how well-built the knife felt. It is robust and durable, and had that “built like a tank” feel.
The knife is constructed from aluminum, which feels strong and robust in hand. It features a frag or checkered mill pattern that provides an excellent grip. The blade is made from CPM 154CM steel, known for being slicey, holding an edge well, and being easily sharpenable. It measures 3.18” in length, with an overall knife length of 7.75” and a blade stock thickness of .134”. The blade showcases a well-executed flat grind and features a notably nice sheepsfoot or reverse tanto style.
The handle offers a full grip (I wear an X to XL glove) without causing hot spots from the clip. It also allows for a secure grip while front-flipping. Though I’m not typically great at front-flipping, I found it quite easy with this knife, [as demonstrated in the action video.](https://imgur.com/a/wCTrWay)
One of the most interesting features of this knife is Vosteed’s Vanchor lock. It’s essentially a button lock, but with a twist: the pivot itself serves as the button you push to engage the lock. Additionally, it functions as a sort of liner lock. This design is quite unique! In essence, the button lock acts as the pivot, and pushing it engages the liner on the inside. How it all comes together and works so seamlessly is a bit of a mystery; perhaps it’s magic, a spell, or just exceptional design and engineering; but it works very securely.
Vosteed is known for producing exceptionally sharp knives, and this one is no exception because it can easily nick you if you’re not careful and will effortlessly shave hair off your arm. The 154CM steel takes on a great shape, is easy to pinch grip, and features a well-designed sharpening choil that could also double as a finger choil in a pinch. However, I wouldn’t rely on it as a finger choil for heavy use where slippage might be a concern. The blade cut through everything I threw at it; envelopes, packaging, tape, and cardboard; without showing any signs of dulling. Additionally, based on my experience with 154CM, a solid stropping usually restores its edge effectively.
This knife has a lot going for it. It offers what seems like an infinite number of deployment methods: it can be easily reverse flicked, and the reverse flick tab is effortless and discreet as a rear flipper. The front flip is smooth (even I can do it), and it can also be opened with the thumb, index, or pointer finger with ease. Many knives attempt this “multiple deployment” approach, but this one stands out as the best I’ve experienced. It excels in all methods and falls shut with a simple push of the pivot or button.
If I could change anything, it might be the weight and overall size. It feels quite heavy-duty, which some might appreciate, while others may prefer something lighter. The weight is 4.76 oz, so offering scales in micarta or other materials (if feasible with the lock style) in the future could potentially lighten it up a bit.
Overall, I’m quite satisfied with this knife and would recommend it to those seeking a well-built, strong, durable, and fidget-friendly knife. Vosteed has created a knife that not only delivers a robust lock but also satisfies the fidget itch. The 154CM version is priced at $129.00 USD, while the ELMAX version is available for $169.00 USD. Given the quality and features, I think this knife is a worthy addition to any collection. It certainly lives up to its name, “Ankylo,” which denotes power, strength, and rigidity.
by CreepyPoet500
