Everyday Carry (EDC) fans are usually attracted to extremes—gear that’s either super functional and minimalist or simply rugged and overbuilt. Right in between those opposites, there’s a sweet spot where design matches practicality; where tools feel more like natural extensions of the user instead of awkward additions. The WESN Ridgeback Microblade situates itself firmly in that middle ground, a knife that does not shout for attention but quietly gains it through thoughtful details and strong construction. It’s small enough to stay unnoticed in a pocket, yet capable enough to impress when you put it to work.
Here’s the deal: compact knives often slip into one of two categories—purely utilitarian or somewhat decorative. The Ridgeback, however, dodges that pitfall. It achieves a look grounded in the wilderness with materials and quality that support real, daily use. It’s a knife for those who appreciate understated craftsmanship and understand that sometimes the tiniest tools are the ones you grab for the most. The Ridgeback isn’t just a product—it reflects WESN’s knack for creating gear that feels right, no matter where life takes ya.
Designer: WESN
Made with materials that show off its duality, the knife brings together a beautiful hammered titanium front handle with a smooth titanium back scale. This mix symbolizes the raw textures of nature and the polished surfaces of city life, crafting a visual contrast that’s hard to resist. At 3.75 inches when open and a mere 2.25 inches when closed, its small design encourages you to carry it wherever without a second thought. A bright yellow thumb stud and a matching lanyard bead pop against the subdued titanium hues, a detail that feels both deliberate and functional, ensuring the knife stands out in low-light settings.
Even with its size, the Ridgeback packs a punch in terms of cutting. The 1.5-inch blade is crafted from M390 steel, a top-shelf material renowned for its durability and ability to hold an edge. This steel can handle tough jobs, whether you’re facing minor outdoor challenges or unwrapping pesky packages. The precise machining is complemented by a frame-lock mechanism, a feature that ensures the blade stays firmly in place when in use.
Unlike most microblades, the Ridgeback emphasizes grip and handling. Its ergonomic shape feels unexpectedly comfy, and the textured front surface gives you security, even when things get a little slippery. That index finger cutout holds onto your finger tightly, so the blade doesn’t slip from your hold.
WESN aims to make the Ridgeback feel as exclusive as it appears, with only 500 units being created. Some might say that creating a hammered titanium handle is no small feat, but it’s WESN after all. The limited-edition run isn’t a decision based on practicality; it’s simply because this knife is more of a work of art rather than a mass-market EDC tool. For collectors, the knife gives a rare chance to own something special, while EDC enthusiasts will surely appreciate the detailed craftsmanship and premium feel.
With a price of $150, the Ridgeback Microblade falls neatly into the premium category, but for an all-metal knife with a titanium handle, it’s a fair deal. Available from WESN’s website, it’s likely to vanish fast from shelves, especially with its appeal to both collectors and those after a unique yet functional EDC blade.
A great knife don’t need to announce itself, and the Ridgeback embodies this belief. Compact, dependable, and beautifully crafted, it feels just as at home slicing through an apple as it does resting in a display case. But with only 500 in existence, you might want to jump on this little wonder before it’s gone.
