Design and Ergonomics
The BF1 has a minimalist, industrial appearance that speaks to its tactical roots. Its slight arc enhances its overall profile while remaining understated. The handle, made from anodized aluminum, is smooth with a subtle finger groove for indexing. It’s practical in its simplicity, with only the necessary screws for the clip and pivot adding texture.
The flathead pivot is a thoughtful addition, allowing adjustments with tools most people already have on hand. This practical touch is a nod to Extrema Ratio’s focus on real-world functionality, ensuring users can maintain the knife in almost any setting.
Despite its spartan look, the BF1 is comfortable in hand. The finger groove provides excellent control, and the rounded screw heads near the clip prevent discomfort, even during extended use. I appreciated how the clip’s up-and-over design stays out of the way, allowing a secure grip without creating hotspots during heavy cuts.
Blade and Cutting Performance
The blade’s drop-point design, paired with a high flat grind that reaches the spine, delivers excellent cutting performance. This full-grind style is reminiscent of Spyderco blades, offering efficient slicing and versatility for various tasks. The choice of Böhler N690 steel prioritizes practicality—it sharpens easily, a critical feature for those who may need to maintain the edge in the field without access to specialized equipment.
What stood out to me most was the factory edge. Extrema Ratio put the extra effort into polishing it to near-mirror quality, something you don’t often see. It’s the kind of detail that elevates the BF1, showing the company’s commitment to precision.
Locking Mechanism and Deployment
The liner lock is unique compared to traditional designs. Instead of the lock bar being accessed through a standard cutout near the finger groove, it’s positioned higher near the pivot. A small notch and raised nub on the liner make unlocking intuitive while reducing the chance of accidental disengagement during heavy use. It’s a subtle yet effective way to ensure reliability.
The thumb studs are asymmetrical, with one side longer than the other. Initially, this caused the stud to catch on my pocket during draws. Reversing the stud solved the issue, and deployment became much smoother. The action relies on bronze washers, delivering a deliberate, precise opening that feels sturdy and reliable. While it may not have the flash of modern bearing systems, it’s perfectly suited to the knife’s intended purpose.
Final Thoughts
Extrema Ratio’s BF1 stays true to the company’s reputation for crafting tools designed to perform under demanding conditions. While its tactical origins are evident, the BF1 proves itself adaptable to a variety of uses, making it a reliable companion in any environment.
With its durable materials, practical features, and thoughtful design, the BF1 showcases Extrema Ratio’s dedication to creating knives that balance function and simplicity. It’s a tool built to last, and one that earns its place in daily routines or rugged tasks alike.
Check out this knife and others at extremaratiousa.com