Time flies when you're talking about pocket knives that stick around year after year. Real Steel's Griffin line has been out there for a full decade now, and that's saying something in a world where new models pop up every season. What started as a solid everyday carry option has gone through several updates, but the latest one, called the Griffin Ultimatum, feels like the company is drawing a line in the sand. This version takes the classic design and pushes it into premium territory, making you wonder if it's the final word on what the Griffin can be.
Image credit: Real Steel
At its core, the Griffin Ultimatum stays true to what made the original popular: it's a mid-sized folder that's just right for daily use. The blade measures 3.54 inches long with a drop point shape that's flat ground for clean cuts. It's versatile enough to handle everything from opening packages to tougher jobs like breaking down cardboard or prepping food on a fishing trip. The proportions are spot on – not too big to feel clumsy in hand, but substantial enough to tackle real work without folding under pressure.
The designer behind this, Carson Huang, has worked on several Real Steel knives over the years. For the Griffin series, he came up with a unique opening hole that's shaped kind of like a thumb – not a perfect oval or triangle, but something that works smoothly whether you're right-handed, left-handed, or switch between them. It allows for quick, one-handed deployment without any hassle, which is a big plus when your other hand is busy holding whatever you're cutting.
Image credit: Real Steel
What really sets the Ultimatum apart from earlier Griffins is the blade material. Most of the current models in the line use 14C28N steel, which is reliable and holds up well for the price, but it's not in the same league as the top-tier stuff. Here, Real Steel went with Vanax Superclean, a powder metallurgy stainless steel that's hardened to around 60-61 HRC. This isn't your everyday blade steel; it's the kind of material that competes with heavy hitters like Elmax or M390 when it comes to staying sharp longer and resisting rust even in harsh conditions.
Vanax Superclean gets its edge from a special makeup that swaps out a lot of the carbon for nitrogen. That change gives it outstanding corrosion resistance – think saltwater exposure or humid environments where lesser steels would start pitting quickly. At the same time, it keeps excellent wear resistance, so the edge doesn't dull as fast during extended use. Guys who spend time outdoors, whether hunting, camping, or working around the shop, will appreciate how it holds up without constant touch-ups. It's tough enough to take some abuse but still sharpens without too much fight when the time comes.
Image credit: Real Steel
The handles are milled titanium, giving the knife a clean, high-end look with fewer visible screws on the front side compared to older versions. That minimalist approach reduces distractions and makes the grip feel more seamless. There's enhanced texturing worked into the scales for better traction, even if your hands are wet or wearing gloves. Real Steel also added a sculpted, CNC-machined titanium pocket clip that's ambidextrous and carries deep for low-profile everyday pocket time.
Locking duties are handled by the line's familiar button lock, complete with a secondary safety toggle. This setup has proven reliable across the Griffin family – it's strong, easy to operate one-handed, and the extra safety prevents accidental openings in your pocket. The action rides on bearings for that smooth flick open and close that knife enthusiasts chase.
Image credit: Real Steel
Overall length comes in at 8.15 inches when open, with a blade thickness of about 0.13 inches and a total weight right around 3.81 ounces. It's light enough not to drag down your pocket but has enough heft to feel substantial in hand. The stonewash satin finish on the blade and handles keeps things looking sharp without showing every little scratch from real-world carry.
Real Steel has been building knives long enough now to know what works for folks who rely on their tools day in and day out. The Griffin started as an accessible option that punched above its weight, and over ten years, it's seen iterations with different materials and tweaks to ergonomics. This Ultimatum model brings together the best of those lessons with premium upgrades that address what dedicated users have asked for: better steel for longevity, refined handling for comfort during long sessions, and build quality that stands up to hard use.
For anyone who's carried a Griffin before, picking up the Ultimatum feels like coming full circle. It's the same dependable design at heart, but dressed up with materials and details that make it ready for whatever comes next. Dealers are starting to stock them now, and if you've been waiting for a high-end take on this classic platform, this might be the one that finally seals the deal. In a hobby full of flash-in-the-pan releases, it's refreshing to see a company commit to evolving a proven winner rather than starting over every time. Whether this truly is the ultimatum for the Griffin line or just another strong chapter, one thing's clear: Real Steel isn't done making knives that earn their keep.
