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History Of: The Reate Exo Series
Published: January 3rd, 2025
Reate Knives has earned its reputation as a leader in the premium knife industry through an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship. Among its most notable achievements is the groundbreaking EXO series, a collection of gravity knives that redefines precision and functionality. The EXO series offers a unique range of options tailored to enthusiasts and collectors, with each model embodying a perfect balance of form and function. Below, we delve into the evolution of the series and explore what makes each knife exceptional.
EXO
Specs
Released: 2021
Blade Shapes: Drop Point, Tanto, Dagger
Blade Length: 3.7in
Blade Materials: CPM-3V, Elmax
Handle Material: 6AL4V Titanium with Micarta inlays
Released in 2021, the EXO was the first in the series and introduced the knife world to an entirely new approach to gravity knife engineering. Its innovative design featured a free-floating blade mechanism in a pivoting frame that relied on smooth gravity-assisted deployment, a hallmark that has come to define the Exo series. Crafted with premium materials, the EXO boasts a solid titanium handle, high-performance blade steels like CPM 3V and Elmax, and impeccable fit and finish.
The EXO was available in three blade shapes: Drop Point, Tanto, and Dagger. The blade measured 3.7 inches in length, providing a versatile cutting edge suitable for a variety of tasks. The handle was constructed from 6AL4V titanium with various Micarta inlays, ensuring both durability and aesthetic appeal. Its pivoting frame and reverse position slide lock added to the knife's innovative functionality.
The EXO was not just a knife; it was a statement. It quickly became a must-have for knife enthusiasts and collectors due to its striking aesthetics and the tactile satisfaction of its gravity-based deployment. Its release marked a pivotal moment for Reate, demonstrating the brand’s ability to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
EXO-M
Specs
Released: 2022
Blade Shapes: Drop Point, Tanto, Dagger
Blade Length: 2.95in
Blade Materials: Elmax
Handle Materials: 6AL4V Titanium with Micarta inlays, 6AL4V Titanium with G-10 inlays
Released in 2022, the EXO-M was a mid-sized variant that retained the EXO’s core design principles while offering a more compact and portable profile. The EXO-M was designed for those who loved the functionality of the original EXO but wanted a knife that was easier to carry daily.
The EXO-M featured three blade shapes: Drop Point, Tanto, and Dagger, each crafted from premium Elmax steel. Its blade measured 2.95 inches, making it ideal for everyday carry. The handle options included 6AL4V titanium with various Micarta inlays or 6AL4V titanium with Damascus-patterned G-10 inlays, providing versatility in both appearance and grip. Like its predecessor, the EXO-M utilized a pivoting frame and reverse position slide lock, ensuring smooth operation and secure locking.
With slightly reduced dimensions and enhanced ergonomics, the EXO-M appealed to a broader audience. It still featured the same high-grade materials and precision construction, ensuring that it maintained the performance and quality for which the series was known.
EXO-K
Specs
Released: 2023
Blade Shapes: Hawkbill
Blade Length: 3.07in
Blade Materials: N690
Handle Material: Aluminum
The EXO-K, introduced in 2023, is a standout in the Exo series as a gravity-powered karambit knife. By pressing the button and flicking your wrist, the blade and frame pivot smoothly, deploying the hawkbill blade into its locked open position. To close the knife, press the button again and reverse the motion.
Designed with versatility in mind, the EXO-K features a reversible pocket clip, allowing users to carry it in their preferred orientation. Additionally, its signature finger ring, a staple of the karambit style, is removable for those who prefer a simpler grip. Operating this eye-catching knife requires practice, but Reate includes a trainer knife to ensure you can safely master the technique. Once proficient, you’ll find the EXO-K perfect for daily cutting tasks, fidgeting, and self-defense.
The EXO-K is equipped with a 3.07-inch hawkbill blade crafted from premium N690 steel, ensuring excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. Its lightweight aluminum handle offers durability and an ergonomic grip, making it a functional and stylish addition to the EXO lineup.
Mini EXO
Specs
Released: 2023
Blade Shapes: Drop Point, Tanto, Dagger
Blade Length: 2.5in
Blade Materials: CPM-3V
Handle Material: 6AL4V Titanium with Micarta inlays
Also released in 2023, the EXO Mini catered to those who wanted the EXO experience in an ultra-compact package. Ideal for everyday carry (EDC), the EXO Mini combined the signature gravity mechanism with a smaller, lightweight frame. The EXO Mini offered three blade shapes: Drop Point, Tanto, and Dagger, all crafted from durable CPM-3V steel. Its blade length measured 2.5 inches, making it an excellent choice for those seeking portability without sacrificing capability.
The handle of the EXO Mini was constructed from 6AL4V titanium with various Micarta inlays, ensuring a sturdy yet lightweight design. Despite its reduced size, the knife retained all the premium features and craftsmanship of its larger counterparts, making it an instant hit with urban EDC enthusiasts.
The compact design of the EXO Mini makes it perfect for discreet carry and quick access. Whether used for precise cuts or as a conversation piece, this knife exemplifies Reate's ability to deliver high-performance tools in a small, stylish package.
EXO-U
Specs
Released: 2024
Blade: Replaceable utility razor
Blade Length: 2.4in
Blade Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Aluminum
The latest addition to the series, the EXO-U, debuted in 2024 and brought a new level of versatility to the EXO lineup. Designed as a utilitarian powerhouse, the EXO-U features a replaceable utility razor blade, making it ideal for tasks that demand precision and practicality.
The replaceable utility razor blade measures 2.4 inches and is made from stainless steel for long-lasting durability. Its handle, crafted from lightweight, patterned aluminum, ensured ease of use and portability. The EXO-U emphasized user-friendly operation, with an updated gravity mechanism that offered even smoother deployment and a secure locking system. Its design reflected Reate’s dedication to meeting the diverse needs of modern knife users while preserving the innovation and quality that defined the EXO series.
With its compact size and replaceable blade, the EXO-U is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable tool for everyday tasks. Whether you need a quick cutting solution at work or a dependable companion for outdoor projects, this knife’s practical design and precision make it a standout option in the gravity knife market.
Each model offers a distinct take on the gravity knife concept, catering to different preferences and applications. From the groundbreaking EXO to the versatile EXO-U, the series has continued to evolve, setting new standards for what a gravity knife can be. As Reate continues to innovate, the EXO series remains a shining example of how traditional knife-making artistry can be fused with cutting-edge engineering. Whether you’re a collector, an EDC enthusiast, or a tactical user, the EXO series has something exceptional to offer.
Written by Drew Clifton
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.