North Mountain Blade x Lee Williams Collaboration The Zen Framelock TI NMB2414AZDD

The North Mountain Blade x Lee Williams Collaboration Zen Framelock is a precision-built folding knife that brings together advanced materials, innovative engineering, and a clean, minimalist design. This collaboration pairs North Mountain Blade’s production expertise with the vision of renowned custom knifemaker Lee Williams, delivering a knife that captures the feel and performance of a high-end custom piece while remaining practical for everyday carry. Every detail reflects a focus on efficiency, durability, and refined execution.

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, providing exceptional edge retention that outperforms many well-known premium steels. The San Mai construction reinforces the ultra-hard core with tougher outer layers, offering a balance of cutting performance and durability. The hand-rubbed satin finish highlights the blade’s grind lines, giving it a clean, precise look that matches its performance capabilities.

A defining feature of this knife is the patented Kickstop mechanism designed by Lee Williams. This hidden flipper system delivers fast, decisive deployment, and once the blade is open, the tab disappears into the handle. The result is a streamlined, uninterrupted profile that enhances both usability and aesthetics. Paired with a ceramic ball-bearing pivot system, the action is smooth and consistent, providing a fast open and a controlled, drop-shut close.

The handle is constructed from TC4 titanium, offering strength and durability in a lightweight package suited for daily carry. CNC machining ensures a precise ergonomic fit, providing a secure and comfortable grip during use. The frame lock mechanism is reinforced with a steel insert, delivering solid lockup and long-term reliability. Titanium hardware, including the pocket clip and backspacer, completes the build with a cohesive, high-quality structure.

A hidden lanyard loop is integrated into the backspacer, offering additional carry options without disrupting the knife’s clean lines. With an overall length of 7.5 inches and a blade thickness of 3.0 mm, the Zen strikes a strong balance between compact size and capable performance.

The North Mountain Blade x Lee Williams Zen Framelock stands out as a thoughtfully engineered folder that combines elite steel, innovative mechanics, and precision construction, making it a dependable choice for those who value performance and clean design in their everyday carry.

A collaboration design that brings custom-level engineering to your pocket, available at SMKW.