Building the Gambit: King’s Gambit
Designed by Ray Laconico • Built for the Long Game
What Is The Gambit?
The Gambit is Artisan Cutlery’s winning play—a sleek, elegant tool designed by the legendary Ray Laconico. We have been holding onto this design, perfecting it, and waiting for the perfect opportunity to put our pieces into play.
For the first time in Artisan Cutlery history, the Gambit features interchangeable inlays, allowing you to quickly swap pieces to match your personal style.
Coupled with the versatility of this Ray Laconico design, the Gambit focuses on ease of use and a comfortable grip, making a strong play to be your new everyday carry (EDC).
Specifications
| Blade Length | 3.5" (89 mm) |
| Blade Thickness | 0.13" (3.2 mm) |
| Blade Finish | Mirror Polish |
| Blade Grind | Flat |
| Blade Material | S90V |
| Blade Hardness | HRC 60-62 |
| Blade Style | Drop Point |
| Handle Material | Titanium Damascus |
| Clip Material | Titanium Damascus |
| Pivot Assembly | Ceramic Ball Bearing |
| Lock Type | Frame Lock |
| Overall Length | 8" (203 mm) |
| Closed Length | 4.49" (114 mm) |
| Weight | 99g / 3.49 oz |
Laying The Pieces (Key Features)
- Premium Steel All versions feature premium S90V steel (HRC 60-62) for exceptional edge retention and durability.
- Blade Styles Flat ground Drop-Point with a variety of finishes including Sand Polish, Black PVD Coating, and Mirror Polish.
- Smooth Action Runs on a ceramic ball bearing pivot assembly paired with a reliable, sturdy Frame Lock.
Design Philosophy
“If you could only have one knife, what would it be?”
The Gambit answers this question. It strikes a different chord than Laconico’s recent work, favoring a linear shape and a slightly wider blade. It feels small in the pocket but deceptively large when deployed—a mid-sized knife that works like a full-sized tool.






