February 2020 marked a significant moment for me. On the 5th, Mark Roe of Roe Custom Knives conveyed he was interested in collaborating. I was floored, I had long been a fan of Mark’s work; his attention to detail is unparalleled and each of his knives is built with years of experience. Without hesitation, I leapt at the opportunity to work with a maker I hold in such high regard.
Our first collaboration and my first custom knife design, the Mockingbird, was born out of the longstanding history of “Tactical Knife” designs, made in the United States of America. Tactical knives have unique considerations; form following function. From blade shape and grind, ergonomics all the way to the core construction – is all considered for reliability, strength, and utility. While many knives may be used in a tactical environment, in the world of custom knives this concept is taken to the extreme, with a large focus on premium materials, reliability, micrometer precision, and even a sense of beauty.
Unknown to many, the Mockingbird is a courageous defender of its nest, willing to challenge cats and even humans to protect their home. This character fully inspired this everyday carry tactical knife. A fierce, mid-size knife, the Mockingbird was designed using many aspects of the bird as a guide.
Their beak inspired the saber ground blade; capable at piercing and penetrating, digging, much like the bird does for its prey. Their wings feature a distinctive visual break, this lead to the scales being designed in three parts – a front and rear bolster with a contrasting scale in the middle, creating a truly beautiful and elegant aesthetic. Its versatile voice also lead to the exploration of different opening methods, of which there are three; thumb stud, thumb disk or an officially licensed Spyderco Hole deployment option. The character of the Mockingbird is one of versatility, adaptability, and survivability; a perfect pairing for a tactical knife concept.
I am beyond excited to bring this inspired design to the public. Working with Mark has been an absolute joy and an honor. When I began this endeavor I never thought I’d have the opportunity to work with such an amazing maker but now that I have, I am overjoyed at the thought of you experiencing what has been an amazing collaboration!
• 3 Versions – Thumb Stud, Thumb Disk, and Spyderco Hole Deployment
• Triple bolster design
• Titanium liner lock
• Skiff Made ball bearings
• Blade Grind: Saber
• Blade Length: 85 mm / 3.35 in
• Blade Thickness: 3.429 mm / 0.135 in
• Handle Thickness: 14.145 mm / 0.56 in
• Overall Length: 205 mm / 8 in