The Artisan Cutlery Simoon is a budget-priced folder that packs the brand's Recoil Lock V2 mechanism into a lightweight G10 handle. At $49.99 with a 3.47-inch AR-RPM9 bowie blade, it is one of the most affordable ways to try Artisan's distinctive crossbar-style lock without stepping up to premium steel and titanium.
The Recoil Lock V2 crossbar-style mechanism is the Simoon's standout feature at its price point.
Recoil Lock V2: A Strong Crossbar-Style Lock
The Recoil Lock V2 is Artisan's crossbar-style locking mechanism. A spring-loaded bar rides behind the blade and engages a notch in the tang, and you pull the bar toward you to release. Unlike a liner or frame lock, the crossbar design keeps your fingers out of the blade path during closing and works naturally with either hand. The Simoon brings this mechanism into the sub-$50 tier, which is rare.
Blade: AR-RPM9 Bowie
The blade is 3.47 inches of AR-RPM9, Artisan's budget powder-metallurgy steel, heat treated to HRC 59-61. AR-RPM9 is designed as a high-performance, low-cost alternative to D2 with better corrosion resistance, and it holds a useful working edge. The bowie profile gives a pronounced clip point with strong tip control. Finish options include stone wash and black PVD coating.
- Blade length: 3.47 in / 88 mm
- Blade thickness: 0.13 in / 3.2 mm
- Blade steel: AR-RPM9, HRC 59-61
- Blade style: bowie, flat grind, stone wash or black PVD
Handle and Ergonomics
The G10 handle is textured and grippy, with a steel pocket clip and a ceramic ball bearing pivot. Overall length is 7.99 inches, closed length is 4.53 inches, and the whole knife weighs just 94g (3.32 oz), so it disappears into a pocket. Available in Blue with a stone-washed blade and Black or Green with black PVD coating, all at $49.99.
Specifications at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Blade length | 3.47 in / 88 mm |
| Overall length | 7.99 in / 203 mm |
| Closed length | 4.53 in / 115 mm |
| Blade steel | AR-RPM9, HRC 59-61 |
| Handle material | G10 |
| Lock type | Recoil Lock V2 |
| Pivot | Ceramic ball bearing |
| Weight | 3.32 oz / 94 g |
| Price | $49.99 |
Who Is the Simoon For?
The Simoon is for anyone who wants a crossbar lock without spending $150 or more: a first folder, a beater knife for the shop, or a gift. It is also a great introduction to powder-metallurgy steels like AR-RPM9, which get their structure from powder metallurgy rather than traditional casting. See the full Artisan Cutlery folding knife collection for the rest of the lineup.
Verdict
At $49.99, the Artisan Cutlery Simoon delivers a genuinely modern locking mechanism, a useful bowie blade in AR-RPM9, and a light G10 build. It is hard to beat on value, and it proves that the Recoil Lock does not have to be a premium-only feature.
Find your ideal everyday carry configuration — explore the Artisan Cutlery folding knife collection for premium EDC folders built for reliable everyday carry.
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