The James Brand Redstone: Inspired by Climbing, Made for Adventure

Author

The latest design from the Portland-based knifemaker is the unique result of a collaboration with climber and photographer Savannah Cummins


Published: 12-02-2021

Updated: 05-23-2024

About the author

Tanner Bowden
Tanner Bowden
Tanner Bowden is a Vermont-based writer, editor, photographer, former wilderness educator, and Field Mag Editor-at-Large. He also contributes to the likes of GQ, Men's Journal, Gear Patrol, Outside.
Field Mag may receive a minor commission from purchases made via affiliate links.

Whether you're hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, canoeing, backcountry skiing, or simply pitching a tent next to your car at a dusty KOA, your adventure kit needs to include a trusty pocket knife. Chuck one in your backpack, and glove box, and leave it there (along with a headlamp, and maybe some Duct Tape) so it's always handy. A good outdoor pocket knife is compact, durable, and lightweight.

The James Brand's new knife, the Redstone, is an excellent example of what we're talking about.

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The James Brand Redstone

The Redstone has all the trappings of a typical folding knife: a blade (this one's 2.5 inches, made of Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel, and partially serrated), a lock (an ambidextrous slide lock in this case), and a handle.

That's where the Redstone takes its own route; its handle's grip is divided into multiple parts that The James Brand calls islands, which were inspired by climbing holds. They simultaneously provide new places to perch your fingers and a totally unique look. The climbing-inspired design came in part from a collaboration with climber and photographer Savannah Cummins, who also had input into the new knife's overall size and look.

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The Redstone also comes with a paracord lanyard and a formed wire pocket clip to help keep it secure when you aren't cutting rope, repairing gear, breaking into a brick of cheddar, or whatever else your adventures might require a blade for.

Price: $89

BUY NOW


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Sketch provided by The James Brand

For more essentials to add to your kit, check out our 2021 gear guide.