Spotlight Civivi Elementum: one of the most popular EDC knives

Since its introduction, the Civivi Elementum has been one of the most popular EDC knives on the market. This high-quality pocket knife is incredibly versatile, and with its affordable price it has won the hearts of many knife enthusiasts across the world. Let's take a closer look at what makes the Civivi Elementum series so special.

History of Civivi and the Elementum series

Chinese brand Civivi, a subsidiary of WE Knife Co., has created an icon within the world of EDC knives with its Elementum series. The design and development of the Elementum series are the result of years of experience and innovation within the knife industry. After the launch of the first few models, dozens more variants soon followed, with different steels, handle materials and locks. Even a premium version was released by parent brand WE Knife in 2021.

Features of the Civivi Elementum

The Civivi Elementum series offers a wide selection, allowing users to choose from different combinations of blade shapes, steels, locking mechanisms and handle materials. Whether you are looking for a classic Elementum with G10 handle or a luxury version with carbon fibre or titanium, there is always an Elementum to suit your style.

Blade shapes

The Civivi Elementum is available in different blade shapes to meet different needs.

Drop point: The drop-point shape is a popular choice for the Elementum series. This blade shape is beloved for its versatility and friendly-looking appearance. A drop point is versatile and suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks, from precision work to general use.

Sheepsfoot: Sheepsfoot blade shapes are easy to use, with a rounded tip that significantly reduces the chances of poking yourself in the hand during use. These blades are ideal for precision work and for opening packages or peeling fruit.

Tanto: A tanto blade shape has a strong and pointed tip, ideal for piercing materials such as cardboard and plastic. They are often used in tactical applications, but are also suitable for various EDC tasks. The flat part at the tip is easy to use as a scraper.

Locking mechanisms

The Elementum series is equipped with different locking mechanisms, depending on the model and handle material used. The most common locking mechanisms within the Elementum range are:

Liner lock: Liner locks are reliable and easy to operate with one hand. They keep the blade in place for safe use. A liner lock is hidden between the scales of the handle. As a result, the pocket knife retains its sleek looks.

Button lock: Button-lock mechanisms are very user-friendly and offer a quick and easy way to operate the lock with one hand. You only need to press the button to unlock the blade. Button locks are very quick to use, making them also suitable for emergency situations. Moreover, it's very fun to fidget with.

Frame lock: Frame locks are sturdy and reliable, with a mechanism that is integral with the handle scales. In contrast to a liner lock, a frame lock is part of the pocket knife's frame; hence the name. The clever design of a framelock only makes the lock stronger when you hold the handle firmly. For maximum safety.

Steel types

The Civivi Elementum is available in different steel grades, each with their unique properties:

D2 steel: D2 steel is known for its excellent toughness, hardness and wear resistance, making it the perfect steel type for prolonged use. It offers a good balance between sharpness retention and easy sharpening. Please note: this steel is not stainless. This can be easily solved with a bit of oil, though!

Damast steel: Damast steel, or damascus steel, offers great performance, combined with a beautiful appearance thanks to the unique pattern created during the forging process. However, it is important to note that the damascus steel of an Elementum knife is generally less corrosion resistant, so regular maintenance will be required.

Sandvik 14C28N: Sandvik 14C28N steel is known for its excellent sharpness retention and corrosion resistance, ideal for EDC use. This steel is easy to sharpen and retains this sharpness for a long time.

Nitro-V steel: Nitro-V steel strikes an excellent balance between hardness, corrosion resistance and wear resistance. It is a relatively new steel on the market that is appreciated for its performance for various EDC cutting tasks.

Handle materials

In addition to choice of steel type and locking mechanisms, there are many handle materials to choose from. The advantage is that users can choose which material best suits their preferences and needs. We'll list the most popular handle materials!

G10: G10 is the most common handle material within the Elementum range. It is known for its excellent durability, grippiness and lightweight properties. It delivers a good balance between strength and comfort during use and is resistant to external influences.

Micarta: Micarta has a warm look and feel to it. It is a very grippy material, even in wet circumstances. The nice thing about micarta is that it develops a patina over time, making your knife unique!

Carbon fibre: Carbon fibre is known for its strength and light weight. No wonder it's such a popular material in the car industry. Carbon fibre has a cool, modern look and is incredibly durable. However, it might feel a bit less grippy than some other materials.

Bubinga wood: Bubinga comes from Africa and has a warm and rich appearance, with a natural texture and grip. It offers a unique aesthetic that makes an Elementum knife with bubinga double as a gentleman's knife.

Ebony: Ebony is known for its deep black colour and smooth texture. Like bubinga, it also offers a luxurious look and a comfortable grip, but can be a bit more susceptible to scratches and damage than other materials.

Copper: Copper has natural antibacterial properties and develops a unique patina over time. Copper is pretty heavy, offering a comfortable grip and classic look.

Brass: Brass has a warm, golden colour and, like copper, offers a classic aesthetic. It is durable and easy to work with. Like copper, brass will develop a unique patina over time.

Ultem: Ultem is a high-quality thermoplastic polymer, meaning it's an extremely strong, rigid material that is known for its chemical resistance. This material originates from the aircraft industry. Ultem is an emerging material for EDC knives and gained much popularity, especially in 2023.

Pocket clip

A handy feature is the deep-carry pocket clip that allows you to carry the knife discreetly and securely in your pocket. The clip is slim, but has enough surface to help you grab the knife between thumb and index finger to lift it from your pocket.

Check out all Civivi Elementum pocket knives here!

Civivi Elementum Utility

The Civivi Elementum Utility is a bit different to the other Elementums. This knife is a must-have for craftsmen, artists and warehouse workers. In fact, this knife is a combination of a regular Civivi Elementum and a utility knife. The straight edge offers the ability to quickly and efficiently cut a wide range of materials, such as wood, leather, cardboard, fabric, paper and more, as well as being an indispensable tool for detailed cutting tasks and parcel unpacking. Has the blade become dull? Simply replace it with a sharp one!

Civivi Elementum fixed knives

Besides the popular pocket knife variants, the Civivi Elementum series also offers a selection of robust fixed knives. These knives are designed for outdoor adventures and tactical applications for which reliability and durability are essential. Unlike pocket knives, fixed-blade knives offer a sturdier construction, making them ideal for cutting tasks that require more strength. Whether you go camping or hiking in the wilderness, a fixed Civivi Elementum knife offers the strength and reliability you need.

WE Knife Elementum: premium version

WE Knife, Civivi's parent brand, also offers a premium version of the Elementum, distinguished by high-quality materials and a slightly more meticulous finish. With titanium handle scales, premium CPM 20CV steel and a frame lock, the WE Knife Elementum is a luxurious upgrade for fans of the Elementum series.

Flytanium upgrades

Flytanium offers several types of alternative handles and accessories for the Elementum range, from materials including titanium, brass and copper. These upgrades take your Elementum knife to the next level in terms of style and functionality, giving you a unique EDC knife that perfectly suits your personal style.

Check out all Flytanium accessories for the Elementum.

Civivi Elementum's success story

Much of the success of the Elementum range is the result of the knife's excellent value for money. Regardless of which version you choose, the quality of the knife is in line with the price. Within the same price range, it is hard to find a knife of the same quality, unless you're still shopping within the Civivi range, of course. Because the Elementum series is in a lower price range, it's really a knife you'll feel happy to use every day. Because, let's face it, we're almost more cautious with a more expensive knife.

Design also plays an important role. Good EDC knives are compact, lightweight, user-friendly and don't look too threatening. The Elementum delivers on all counts! In terms of size; the blade of the standard Elementum measures 7.5 cm, which is perfect for most cutting tasks. When closed, the knife measures 10 cm, not much bigger than a credit card. The G10 version only weighs 80 grams. As a result, the knife will not bother you when you carry it on your daily adventures. The round shapes of the knife are not just ergonomic, they also make the knife have a friendly-looking appearance. In short: the Elementum ticks all the boxes for a good EDC knife!

Conclusion

The Civivi Elementum series has proven itself as one of the best EDC knives on the market, with its excellent value for money, versatility and reliable performance. With even more exciting developments and variations on the horizon, the future of the Elementum series looks bright for collectors and users worldwide.

Check out all Civivi Elementum pocket knives here!