The Artisan Cutlery Andromeda is the brand's newest collaboration with designer Ray Laconico, the mind behind some of Artisan's most celebrated minimal folders. It pairs Laconico's signature organic, flowing lines with one of the most modern locking systems in the catalog: an inset button lock. The Andromeda is one of Artisan's first models to feature this lock type, which makes it a genuine milestone in the lineup.
Button lock and thumb stud deployment on the Andromeda
The family launches in three tiers: an S35VN titanium flagship, M390 limited editions with fat carbon inlays, and an AR-RPM9 G10 version that keeps the same geometry at a more approachable price.
Button Lock and Dual Deployment
Instead of a flipper tab or frame lock, the Andromeda uses an inset button lock set into the handle. You can open it two ways: roll your thumb over the dual thumb studs, or press the button and flick your wrist. Closing is just as quick — press the button and the blade drops shut with a light flick of the wrist.
- Dual-sided thumb studs for easy opening from either hand
- Inset button lock — one of Artisan's first models with this system
- Ceramic ball bearing pivot keeps the action smooth and free
- Reversible pocket clip on the S35VN and AR-RPM9 versions
Andromeda Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Blade length | 3.42 in (87 mm) |
| Blade thickness | 0.106 in (2.7 mm) |
| Blade steel | S35VN, M390, or AR-RPM9 by version |
| Hardness | HRC 60-62 (S35VN / M390), HRC 59-61 (AR-RPM9) |
| Blade style | Drop point, flat ground |
| Overall length | 7.9 in (201 mm) |
| Closed length | 4.49 in (114 mm) |
| Handle | Titanium, titanium with fat carbon inlay, or G10 by version |
| Pivot | Ceramic ball bearing |
| Lock type | Button lock |
| Weight (M390 fat carbon LE) | 95 g / 3.35 oz |
The M390 Limited Editions
The 1856G-FCG and 1856G-FCMV limited editions pair an M390 blade at HRC 60-62 with a gray titanium handle and fat carbon inlay. Fat carbon's layered, flowing weave makes every handle one of a kind — exactly the detail collectors look for in Artisan limited drops. If you want to see the flagship configuration, the Andromeda M390 fat carbon limited edition is the top of the range.
Who Is the Andromeda For?
The Andromeda is a slim pocket knife with the soul of a gentleman's folder. The narrow profile disappears into a pocket, the S35VN and M390 blades are favorites of high-end knifemakers, and the button lock is genuinely satisfying to use. It suits office carry, dress carry, and anyone who wants modern mechanics in an understated package. Titanium handles keep weight down, while the AR-RPM9 G10 version brings the same geometry into a budget-friendly bracket.
As with any button-lock or thumb-stud folder, the Andromeda pairs well with the rest of the Artisan Cutlery folding knife collection if you want to build out a full rotation.
Final Thoughts
The Andromeda is a milestone model for Artisan Cutlery: a Ray Laconico design, a modern button lock, and three steel tiers that let almost any budget join the family. If you have been waiting for a button-lock folder from Artisan, this is the one.
Explore the full Artisan Cutlery catalog for premium EDC folders built for reliable everyday carry.
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