As 2025 wraps up, Bestech Knives is ending the year on a high note with a fresh design from Grzegorz Grabarski, the guy better known in the knife world as Kombou. This new folder, called the Noctar, brings together a sharp look and solid, everyday performance without breaking the bank—it's aimed right at that under-$100 spot in their lineup. For guys who appreciate a reliable blade that can handle whatever the day throws at them, whether it's slicing through rope on a job site or opening packages at home, the Noctar seems like it's built to fit right in.
Grabarski's story with Bestech goes back a ways. It all started in 2019 when the company first reached out to him for a collaboration. Since then, he's become a regular part of their team, cranking out designs that stand out in a crowded market. He's one of those designers who rose up alongside the newer knife makers that have popped up over the last ten years or so. What sets his work apart is how it covers all sorts of uses and sizes, but always sticks to a straightforward, modern vibe. There's no looking back to old-school styles here—everything feels fresh and forward-thinking, like it's made for today's world.
Image credit: Bestech Knives
Take a closer look at the Noctar, and you'll see why it's turning heads. At first glance from photos, it might seem like a smaller pocket knife, something with a blade under three inches. But don't let that fool you— this thing packs a 3.71-inch cutting edge, giving it plenty of length to work with. The drop point shape is a classic for good reason: it offers a mix of straight sections for precise cuts and curved parts for smoother slicing through tougher materials. It's the kind of blade that doesn't just sit in your pocket; it steps up for both the little tasks, like trimming a loose thread or peeling an apple during lunch, and the bigger ones, such as breaking down cardboard boxes or even light outdoor chores on a weekend hike.
Under the hood, the Noctar is made from 14C28N steel, which is known for holding an edge well without being too hard to sharpen when you need to touch it up. Opening it is simple and straightforward—just use the thumb oval cutout on the blade. No fancy flips or assisted mechanisms here; it's all about getting the job done reliably every time. Once open, the blade locks securely, ready for whatever cutting comes next.
The handle is where the Noctar really shines in terms of comfort and options. It's crafted from G-10, a tough material that's lightweight and grippy, even if your hands are sweaty or dirty from a long day. The contours are shaped just right to fit in your palm without any sharp edges digging in, making it easy to hold for extended use. Bestech offers it in a bunch of color choices, including that eye-catching minty green, along with different blade finishes to match your style. Whether you prefer a satin look for everyday carry or something more rugged, there's a combo that works. And at around five ounces, it's not going to weigh down your pocket or belt—light enough to forget it's there until you need it.
Image credit: Bestech Knives
What makes the Noctar even more practical is its full ambidextrous setup. The pocket clip can be switched to either side, so it doesn't matter if you're left-handed or right-handed; it adapts to you. Pair that with the crossbar lock, which keeps everything secure but releases smoothly, and you've got a knife that's truly user-friendly from any angle. It's these little details that turn a basic folder into something you can count on day in and day out, whether you're fixing things around the house, out on a fishing trip, or just handling random tasks at work.
Bestech has built a reputation for delivering quality at prices that don't sting, and the Noctar fits right into that mold. It's not trying to be flashy or over-the-top; instead, it's focused on being a workhorse with a bit of style thrown in. For anyone who's been through their share of knives that promise the world but fall short, this one feels like a breath of fresh air. It's big enough to tackle real jobs but compact enough to carry without hassle, striking that balance that's hard to find in budget options.
As we head into 2026, knives like the Noctar remind us why guys keep coming back to brands like Bestech—they get what matters: durability, ease of use, and value. If you're in the market for an upgrade to your everyday carry without spending a fortune, keep an eye out; the Noctar should hit shelves soon. It might just become the blade you reach for first, no matter what the task.
