Let customers speak for us
So, I own the Caliber, Slim, and now this Sub Caliber Phantom variation. Of the three, this knife size/action is the easy favorite. But this review needs to be for the Phantom version specifically, not just what I like about the Sub Caliber.
So, I don't know if "bolster lock" is the proper terminology, but basically, this is a frame lock with a thin layer of carbon fiber on the outside making it technically a liner lock with a super skinny liner and a super thick frame-thick lockbar. Then add the button to that. It defies normal terminology.
You get the benefit of both sides of the knife being the "show side". One downside of frame locks is that when the blade is deployed, the handle shrinks a bit because part of the handle IS the lockbar and so the ergos shift inward toward the front. This does not happen since the thin carbon fiber scale is on the outside. So you get the benefit of a liner lock with the strength of a frame lock.
Now onto the carbon fiber itself. It's thin. But even if you gorilla hands the knife, that won't be an issue. You would have to go out of your way with the intent to break the carbon fiber before it would be affected. The patterns shift in the light in a really satisfying way that can't be captured on a still photo.
I like the knife. Just wish it was deliveried with UPS or FedEx. USPS is terrible. I am willing to oay for the shipping, if I can track it and receive in a timely manner.
Superb knife. Great detent. Love the weight and grip/milling. Nice acoustics, too. INDIEGOGO I had to change something I would add a rear flipper tab for increased fidgetability. Would definitely recommend.
I love this knife. It's equal parts art object and tool. I love the Smoke color DLC! I wish we had more DLC like this in other colors besides black. Aside from the tasteful color, the DLC finish is not your typical matte DLC. No chaulky feel here. The milled dimble pattern titanium is so cool and unique in this space, and the texture is amazing to the touch.
The action is smooth and snappy, and the blade, which is a thin stock, cuts and slices with ease and stays sharp thanks to the properly heat-treated Magnacut.
The Sub-Caliber is a fantastically thought out piece of design. It feels great in hand, and all of the opening methods feel natural to perform with smooth operation. A nice touch is the ability to disengage the frame lock with the button or traditionally, with the micarta scale overlay on the frame side ensuring no pressure gets put on the frame, which can hinder the opening by making the detent harsher. A truly great knife, constructed and finished wonderfully as well.
The sub-caliber is simply the greatest knife I’ve handled. Phenomenal quality and materials, insane action out of the box, maximum fidgetablility, and it’s just darn pretty. You can tell Golden Designworks thinks about every detail.
I came to the party late. I found out about this knife on the internet and was immediately stricken by the innovative design and the level of craftsmanship. I wanted to buy one of these desperately. I reached out to the company and had a fantastic interactive conversation with a person that turned out to be the owner! He was gracious enough to find a new old stock example of the first batch Caliber knife. I immediately paid the invoice and had the knife in hand days later. The pictures don't do this justice! I have a lot of high end knives and this is easily my favorite. The fit and finish, the innovative locking design, the texture, the sounds, the myriad of deployment options all of which work superbly... I cannot wait for there next creation! I will be first in line this time!
The knife is just perfect. Craftsmanship, ballbearing, blade, clip. The package go to me (Europe) very quick (thanks for sending it with proper description for Customs!).
The Slim is perfect size for my hands. The machining work is top notch. I have the Standard, Nugget and now Slim. Soon to add the Sub Caliber to my collection, hopefully. I cant wait to see whats in store for the future of Golden Designworks.
Smoothest action I’ve experienced… wow. Knife is absolutely beautiful and is unlike anything ive ever felt. Ordered thursday night and came monday.
Amazing action
Great cutting performance
My new daily carry EDC knife!
I love the GDW Nugget, It is one of my favorite EDC knives. It finds it way into my pocket a lot. If you do another run, please do a version with a blade hole instead of studs. I had it modded this way & it improves the knife in many ways.
Only good things to say about this knife. Had no need to take apart and tune it. Out of the box the Sub Caliber had a perfect detent, perfect action, and perfect function. No need to lube or anything. Great experience! When I asked for extra screws, I was sent more with the knife at cost (8 bucks). Great knife and great customer service.
SUB-CALIBER BATCH 2
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Simply. Exceptional.
At Golden Designworks, every detail is intentional. I believe in simplicity, precision, and attainability, while delivering clean, refined, and highly functional tools built for everyday carry.
My mission is to create innovative, high-quality EDC products that seamlessly balance form and function. No excess, no over complication, just exceptional design, crafted for real-world use.
Simple. Quality. Uncompromised.
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