A Fan-Favorite EDC Knife Returns with a Clever Security Upgrade to an Iconic Lock

Just over a decade since its initial run, this curvy folder returns with a redesign marked by some noteworthy updates.

Published April 22, 2025

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Updated April 22, 2025

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Back in 2013, Real Steel launched a Carson Huang-designed knife called the Exorcist. Blending Huang’s signature style with exceptional ergonomics, the knife became an immediate hit. Just a few years later, the brand stopped producing it.

Now, nearly a decade later, that knife has returned. But this isn’t a mere re-release; it’s a modern redesign complete with some noteworthy updates to its materials, styling and mechanisms.

Real Steel Exorcist knife — Originally launched in 2013, the Real Steel Exorcist finally makes its long-awaited return.

Nine distinct configurations

Real Steel’s relaunch of the Exorcist EDC knife is ambitious. Its available configurations include nine distinct models across two different handle styles (including a pair of exclusives).

Despite the wide variety of options, they all share several features in common. For instance, all are equipped with S35VN modified sheepsfoot blades that pair unique style cues — a harpoon-style ramp and angular spine — with a long, versatile cutting edge.

They also share the same sealed ball-bearing pivot, wide pocket clip and frame lock with an additional CASSL device (more on that later). Their biggest difference is in their titanium handle scales.

Specifically, the knives are offered with two different styles of inlays: single-piece and three-piece. They’re also available in Micarta and carbon fiber options.

Ultimately (even considering the material swaps), the one(s) you choose will come down to your personal style preferences.

Real Steel Exorcist knife lock side — We heard you like knife locks, so we put a lock on your knife lock so you can lock your lock while you lock your knife.

A lock for your lock

While much has changed about the Real Steel Exorcist, one of its most intriguing features has returned. Called the CASSL (short for Carson Automatic Slide Safety Lock), this device makes the knife even more secure and safe in use.

It consists of a small, spring-loaded slider mechanism attached to the knife’s frame lock. When the knife is deployed, the small slider bar slips between the lock and the knife’s handle scale.

This little slider becomes a lock for the lock, keeping the frame lock from accidentally disengaging during hard-use cutting tasks. To disengage the lock, the user simply has to slide the slider back down and then move the frame lock back into its disengaged position.

This clever, unique device provides plenty of additional safety and security for anyone who appreciates it. Plus, it manages to do so with minimal impediment to the knife’s normal functionality.

Real Steel Exorcist knives on canvas — Along with its material options, the Exorcist is offered with two distinct inlay styles.

Pricing and availability

All nine of Real Steel’s Exorcist reissued EDC knives are now available for preorder on the brand’s site. Pricing ranges from $257 (down from $285) for the standard versions to $270 (down from $300) for the purple and green exclusives.