North Mountain Blade x Lee Williams Collab The Zen Framelock TI Teal Tanto ZDP-189 NMB2414AZDA

The North Mountain Blade x Lee Williams Zen Framelock is a precision-built folding knife that brings together elite materials, advanced engineering, and refined design. This collaboration pairs North Mountain Blade’s production capability with the vision of renowned custom maker Lee Williams, delivering a knife that captures the feel of a high-end custom piece in a streamlined, practical format. Every detail reflects a focus on performance, clean lines, and mechanical innovation.

At the core of the Zen is a 3.2-inch Japanese tanto blade crafted from ZDP-189 San Mai steel. This powder metallurgy steel is pushed to an impressive hardness of 65–67 HRC, giving it exceptional edge retention that outperforms many premium steels in its class. The San Mai construction surrounds the ultra-hard core with tougher outer layers, providing added durability without sacrificing cutting performance. The hand-rubbed satin finish highlights the blade’s grind lines, emphasizing both its craftsmanship and its cutting precision.

The standout feature of this knife is the patented Kickstop mechanism designed by Lee Williams. This hidden flipper system offers fast, decisive deployment, but once the blade is open, the tab disappears into the handle. The result is a clean, uninterrupted profile that eliminates protrusions and enhances both aesthetics and usability. Combined with a ceramic ball-bearing pivot, the action is smooth, controlled, and consistent, delivering a fast open and a satisfying drop-shut close.

The handle is constructed from TC4 titanium, offering strength, durability, and a lightweight feel that supports everyday carry. CNC-machined for precision, the teal titanium handle adds a bold, modern look while maintaining a clean, professional edge. The frame lock mechanism is reinforced with a steel insert, ensuring secure lockup and long-term reliability. Titanium hardware, including the 3D-machined pocket clip and backspacer, completes the build with a cohesive and durable structure.

A hidden lanyard loop is integrated into the backspacer, allowing for optional carry customization without disrupting the knife’s clean lines. With an overall length of 7.5 inches, the Zen strikes a balance between compact carry and capable performance, making it well-suited for daily use while maintaining a refined presence.

The North Mountain Blade x Lee Williams Zen Framelock stands out as a thoughtfully engineered folder that combines advanced materials, innovative design, and precision construction, delivering a knife that performs at a high level while maintaining a clean, modern profile.

A high-end collaboration that brings custom-level design in a stunning color to your everyday carry, available at SMKW.