The EDC World’s Best-Kept Secret Brand Does a Minimalist Knife Unlike Any Other

An Italian knifemaker known for crafting high-end knives for other brands proves yet again it doesn’t need any outside help.

Lionsteel N1 knife closeup on gray background

By Sean Tirman

Published February 21, 2025

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We highlighted an under-the-radar Italian knifemaker called Lionsteel a couple of weeks ago. The brand is known for making some truly exceptional EDC knives, although it often does it for other brands (like Spyderco and CRKT).

Well, the brand has proven once and for all that it doesn’t need the input of any outside sources to excel. The Lionsteel N1 (also styled as N.One) is one of the most magnificent minimalist knives ever made, and that’s not an exaggeration.

Lionsteel N1 Knives on corrugated steel — As you can see, the knife has no visible external hardware.

The most minimalist

A stout-looking frame lock flipper (although it’s actually a respectable 6.38 inches), this knife does something I’m not sure I’ve ever seen before. It’s so beautifully subtle that you might not realize it at first.

The Lionsteel N1 has no visible external screws on its handle. In fact, if you detach the removable flipper, it has no visible hardware whatsoever. Even the pocket clip is hardware-free, externally speaking.

Very few knives have achieved such a feat. Others include the Remette RT, Poikilo Blade Prism and Rikeknife Cybertrix. However, I don’t think it would be going too far to call this Lionsteel offering the most beautiful of the bunch (even if it’s a close race).

Lionsteel N1 knife on leather — It might not look like it because of its bulldog thickness, but this knife measures 6.38 inches in length.

Hitting all the high notes

The N1 is much more than just a design showcase. It also has the materials and mechanisms to back it up.

The drop point blade, for instance, is crafted from fan-favorite MagnaCut super steel. While that blade sports a removable flipper, it also has a fuller for those who prefer a more traditional form of deployment. That’s especially handy if you want an even sleeker overall exterior.

The blade is mated to a full-titanium handle, which, as mentioned, comes with an integrated frame lock and a matching pocket clip.

Although this knife requires a hefty investment, it’s pretty difficult to argue against the overall value proposition of its materials, craftsmanship and design.

Three Lionsteel N1 knives closed on industrial surface — The Lionsteel N1 is available in blue, gray and bronze colorways.

Pricing and availability

All three versions of the Lionsteel N1 — blue, gray and bronze — are available on Blade HQ for $500 apiece. Yes, the price is eye-watering, but the chance to own such a fantastic EDC achievement is an enticing prospect all the same.