The Artisan Cutlery Blowback (ATZ-1822GD) is a landmark model for the brand: it is the first Artisan design to use the company's own Recoil-Lock mechanism, an ambidextrous crossbar-style lock that also helps launch the blade open. With a Damascus clip point blade, a milled titanium handle, and a silhouette loosely inspired by Andre De Villiers bowie designs, the Blowback is a full-size knife equally at home in tactical use, camp chores, and everyday carry.
The Blowback is the first Artisan Cutlery model to use the ambidextrous Recoil-Lock.
Design: Bowie-Inspired Silhouette
The Blowback's aesthetic recalls a classic bowie profile, with an ample belly and a sharp tip that make it a strong choice for breaking down game or heavy cutting chores. The milled titanium handle is ergonomically shaped and substantial, giving the knife a secure, confidence-inspiring grip. It is a full-size knife, so it occupies a different niche than compact pocket folders.
Blade and Steel
The 3.72-inch (94.67 mm) clip point blade is made from Damascus steel with an acid etch finish that reveals the pattern-welded layers. Hardness is rated HRC 59-61 with a flat grind and a blade thickness of 0.15 inch (3.8 mm). The ample belly slices efficiently, and the sharp clip point handles piercing work well, making the Blowback a versatile hunting, camp, and utility blade.
The Recoil-Lock Mechanism
The Blowback's signature feature is its Recoil-Lock, Artisan Cutlery's own take on the crossbar lock family. Similar in function to AXIS-style or cage ball locks, the Recoil-Lock is fully ambidextrous: you pull the bar back from either side to disengage the lock and close the blade. It also assists deployment, launching the blade out so the knife can be wrist-flicked open with no resistance. Lockup is secure, and the mechanism is intuitive even for newcomers to crossbar-style locks.
Action and Carry
The ceramic ball bearing pivot delivers ultra-smooth action, and the weight of the blade does most of the work during deployment. The titanium pocket clip carries the knife securely, and the closed length of 4.76 inches (120.99 mm) keeps it manageable for a full-size folder. Overall length is 8.49 inches (215.66 mm).
Artisan Cutlery Blowback Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Blade Steel | Damascus (Acid Etch) |
| Blade Length | 3.72 in (94.67 mm) |
| Blade Thickness | 0.15 in (3.8 mm) |
| Blade Hardness | HRC 59-61 |
| Blade Style | Clip Point, Flat Grind |
| Overall Length | 8.49 in (215.66 mm) |
| Closed Length | 4.76 in (120.99 mm) |
| Handle Material | Milled Titanium |
| Pivot | Ceramic Ball Bearing |
| Lock Type | Recoil-Lock (Ambidextrous Crossbar) |
Who Is the Blowback For?
The Blowback appeals to users who want a full-size, heavy-duty folder with an ambidextrous lock, a striking Damascus blade, and a design that stands apart from typical drop point EDC knives. If you want a knife that can handle camp chores and heavy cutting while also turning heads in the collection, the Blowback earns its name: it launches the blade out with authority.
Find the Blowback and more in the Artisan Cutlery folding knife collection, built for reliable everyday carry.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.