Massdrop Ferrum Forge Review
After six months of daily carry, the Massdrop (now Drop) x Ferrum Forge stands out as one of the most remarkable values in the $100 price range. At around $80-100, it delivers the design sensibilities of Ferrum Forge, the manufacturing precision of WE Knife Co., and materials that punch well above its price point. For anyone seeking a refined EDC blade that won’t break the bank, the Gent deserves serious consideration. I’ve carried this knife through countless office days, weekend projects, and social occasions.
What continually impresses me is how it manages to feel both premium and practical. The S35VN blade, titanium liners, and G10 scales would be impressive at twice the price, but the real story is how well these materials come together in daily use. While some “gentleman’s folders” sacrifice function for form, the Gent maintains true cutting capability while keeping a discrete profile. Through months of testing, it’s proven itself as capable of breaking down boxes in the morning as it is appropriate for dinner in the evening.
Massdrop Ferrum Forge Review: History
Released in 2017, the Gent represented a unique collaboration between Massdrop (Drop), Ferrum Forge, and WE Knife Co. Designed by the Ferrum Forge brothers, manufactured by WE Knife Co., and distributed through Massdrop’s group-buy platform, it brought premium design and materials to a price point typically dominated by budget steels and basic construction.
The knife went through several small refinements in early production, with improvements to the detent strength and clip tension. Later versions (like mine) benefit from these tweaks, though even early examples show excellent fit and finish. The success of this model led to several other collaborations between these companies, though many consider the Gent the standout of the series.
Technical Specifications
Blade Length: 3 inches Overall Length: 7 inches Closed Length: 4 inches Weight: 2.4 ounces Blade Steel: S35VN Handle: G10 over titanium liners Lock: Liner lock Made by WE Knife Co. Price Range: $80-100 Pivot: Caged ceramic bearings
Massdrop Ferrum Forge Review: Real-World Experience
The Gent arrived with a smooth but controlled action that only improved with use. During the first week, the detent softened slightly from its initial stiffness, settling into a perfect balance between secure closure and easy deployment. The liner lock, initially a bit sticky, broke in beautifully after about 200 openings. In daily carry, the Gent’s slim profile and light weight make it practically disappear in the pocket. The deep carry clip holds securely while allowing easy retrieval, though I did need to slightly bend it out for optimal tension.
At business meetings, its discrete appearance and refined aesthetics draw appreciative nods rather than concerned looks. I’ve used this knife for everything from opening mail to food prep. The thin blade geometry slices exceptionally well, while the S35VN steel maintains its edge through weeks of regular use. During a weekend camping trip, it handled light food prep and whittling tasks with ease, though I wouldn’t recommend it for heavy outdoor use – that’s simply not its intended purpose.
What’s particularly impressive is how the Gent transitions between environments. One day, I used it to break down cardboard boxes in the morning, cleaned it up for a client lunch meeting, and then used it to open packages in the afternoon. This versatility, combined with its non-threatening appearance, makes it an ideal EDC for urban environments.
Massdrop Ferrum Forge Review: Performance Details
The S35VN blade holds an edge remarkably well. Through three months of regular use, I only needed to strop occasionally to maintain sharpness. When I finally did sharpen it, the steel responded well to a standard sharpening system, taking a keen edge without difficulty. The bearing pivot remains smooth and free of play, though it did require one cleaning after some pocket lint accumulation.
The liner lock engages securely with no stick, rock, or play. After thousands of deployments, lockup remains at about 40% with no signs of wear. Handle comfort surprised me during extended use. Despite its slim profile, the subtle contouring prevents hotspots during longer cutting sessions. The G10 provides excellent grip without being abrasive, while the titanium liners add rigidity without excess weight.
One limitation worth noting is the blade stock thickness. While excellent for slicing, it’s not ideal for heavy-duty tasks. During testing, I found myself reaching for a beefier knife when dealing with tougher materials. However, this aligns with its gentleman’s folder design intent.
Massdrop Ferrum Forge Review: Long-Term Assessment
After six months of regular carry and use, the Gent shows minimal signs of wear. The stonewashed blade finish hides scratches well, while the black G10 maintains its texture. The ceramic bearings continue to provide smooth action without developing play, and all screws remain tight with occasional checking. The clip has developed some wear on its black coating, revealing the underlying titanium – a common issue with coated clips.
The edge geometry has held up well through multiple sharpenings, maintaining its excellent slicing ability. The liner lock shows no signs of wear or changes in engagement. Most impressively, the knife’s precision feel hasn’t diminished. The detent remains crisp, the centering perfect, and the action as smooth as day one. This speaks volumes about WE Knife Co.’s manufacturing quality, especially at this price point.
Pros/Cons & Buying Guide
Advantages: The Gent excels in several key areas that justify its price. The S35VN blade steel, titanium liners, and bearing pivot would typically cost significantly more. The slim profile and excellent ergonomics make it exceptionally carriable, while the refined design suits professional environments. Limitations: It’s not without compromises.
The thin blade stock limits heavy use capabilities, and the clip’s coating wear could be better. Some users might find the handle slightly thin for larger hands, and the detent can feel strong to those who prefer lighter deployment. Buying Guide: Prices typically range from $80-100 through Drop.com, with occasional sales dropping to $75. Watch for holiday sales and group buys. Secondary market prices often match retail, indicating strong value retention.
Massdrop Ferrum Forge Review: Alternatives
Civivi Elementum ($50) A more affordable option with D2 steel and similar size. While lacking the premium materials of the Gent, it offers excellent value and similar gentleman’s folder styling. Choose this if budget is primary concern. We Knife Banter ($98) Similar price point with different design philosophy. Features 20CV steel but larger profile. Consider this if you want premium steel in a more tactical package.
Massdrop Ferrum Forge Review: Final Thoughts
The Massdrop x Ferrum Forge Gent represents an exceptional value in the EDC knife market. It successfully bridges the gap between premium design and affordable pricing, delivering materials and construction quality typically found at much higher price points. Where to buy: Primary purchasing through Drop.com ensures authenticity and warranty coverage.
Secondary market options through knife forums can offer good value but verify seller reputation. I recommend the Gent for: Office professionals seeking a discrete EDC Users wanting premium materials at mid-range prices Those who appreciate refined design Anyone needing a slim, lightweight carry While it may not suit those needing a heavy-duty tool or preferring larger knives, the Gent’s combination of premium materials, excellent execution, and reasonable price make it a standout choice for urban EDC use.
Remember: This knife proves that high-end materials and quality construction don’t always require premium pricing. Through smart collaboration and focused design, the Gent delivers exceptional value while maintaining true everyday usability.