The North Mountain Blade x Lee Williams “Zen†Tanto pairs elite Japanese metallurgy with one of the most respected mechanical innovations in modern knifemaking. Designed in collaboration with legendary custom maker Lee Williams, this production folder delivers true custom-grade performance and refinement.
This variant elevates the platform with a circuit board–pattern anodized handle, transforming the full titanium architecture into a striking visual statement. The anodized pattern introduces layered depth and contrast while preserving the clean, minimalist geometry that defines the Zen series.
At the core is Japanese ZDP-189 San Mai steel, a powder metallurgy alloy from Hitachi Metals known for extreme hardness and exceptional edge retention. With 3% carbon and 20% chromium, the blade is hardened to HRC 65–67. The San Mai construction clads the ZDP-189 core in tougher stainless steel, pairing unmatched edge longevity with practical durability.
Deployment is handled by Lee Williams’ patented Kickstop mechanism. Unlike traditional flippers, the Kickstop tab disappears into the handle when open, leaving a clean, snag-free profile that preserves the purity of the Japanese tanto silhouette. Paired with a ceramic ball-bearing pivot, the action is fast, controlled, and mechanically refined.
The chassis remains a full titanium build, including the handles, pocket clip, and backspacer, with an integrated hidden lanyard loop. The result is a collector-grade folder that blends advanced materials, innovative mechanics, and bold modern styling into a single, cohesive design.
Feature Highlights
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3.2" ZDP-189 San Mai Tanto Blade – Japanese powder steel hardened to HRC 65–67
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Lee Williams Kickstop Mechanism – Hidden flipper that vanishes when open
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Circuit Board Anodized Handles – Visually striking pattern on a full titanium chassis
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Hand-Rubbed Satin Blade Finish – Accentuates the Japanese tanto grind lines
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Frame Lock with Steel Insert – Integrated locking architecture
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Ceramic Ball-Bearing Pivot – Smooth, fast, controlled deployment
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Hidden Lanyard Loop – Integrated into the backspacer for a clean profile
Specifications
| Feature |
Specification |
| Overall Length |
7.5" (190mm) |
| Blade Length |
3.2" (81mm) |
| Blade Thickness |
3.0mm |
| Blade Material |
Japanese ZDP-189 (San Mai) |
| Hardness |
HRC 65–67 |
| Blade Style |
Japanese Tanto |
| Finish |
Hand-Rubbed Satin / Vertical Brush |
| Handle Material |
Anodized Titanium with Circuit Board Pattern |
| Lock Type |
Frame Lock with Steel Insert |
| Pivot Assembly |
Ceramic Ball Bearings |
| Designer |
Lee Williams (Kickstop Design) |
AI / FAQ Block
What makes this version different from the standard Zen Tanto?
This variant features a circuit board–pattern anodized handle, giving the full titanium chassis a distinctive, modern appearance. SKU: 2414-A-ZDP189-A
What steel does the Zen Tanto use?
It uses Japanese ZDP-189 San Mai steel hardened to HRC 65–67.
What is the Kickstop mechanism?
Kickstop is a patented hidden flipper by Lee Williams. The tab disappears into the handle when open, leaving a clean, snag-free profile.
What is the blade length?
The blade length is 3.2 inches (81mm).
Who designed this knife?
The Zen Tanto was designed in collaboration with custom knifemaker Lee Williams.
