Zyac Z01S - A Titanium Folder That Locks Like a Fixed Blade When You Shorten the Handle

Fixed blade or folder has long been a debate in the knife world, and this one settles it with a mechanical design. The way the handle shortens is so unusual that it caught my eye.
📊 Quick Info
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Zyac Design |
| Price | About $379 (based on the discounted price shown) |
| Materials | Grade 5 titanium handle, Böhler M390 blade |
| Blade | Drop point or tanto |
| Key feature | With the blade open, shortening the handle engages an additional lock |
| Verdict | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ A collector's knife where the mechanism itself is the show |
✨ 3-Line Summary
- 👍 Best point: The adjustable handle length, and the double lock that keeps it from folding when shortened
- 👎 Downside: It's expensive, and it looks like a limited-quantity sale
- 🎯 Recommended for: People who collect knives for the fun of the mechanics
📸 Product Tour

Two blade shapes: drop point and tanto

The handle in its shortened state

You can see both the grip and the blade at a glance

Three finish options
🔍 Why It Caught My Attention
Changing the handle length
With the blade open, you press the button and slide the rear section forward to lock it into the short handle. You can extend it again without tools or screws. The long handle is a standard grip, while the short handle is a precise grip close to the blade.
An extra lock
When the handle is shortened, a second lock engages, so the knife reportedly won't fold even if you release the liner lock. To close it, you first have to extend the handle and then release the lock, which prevents unintended movement.
Exposed structure
The screws, frame, and sliding mechanism are all left visible. You can trace with your eyes which parts move, which is appealing to collectors.
🤔 What Gives Me Pause
Price and quantity
The listed price isn't trivial, and it looks like a limited-quantity sale. Domestic purchase options and shipping still need to be confirmed.
No clip
The base configuration doesn't include a pocket clip; it's a separate option. If you want to carry it in your pocket every day, you'll need to factor in that option.
Carry rules in Korea
For knives, you should check the domestic rules on carrying and importing first.
📋 Product Traits (Subjective Ratings)
- Design: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Portability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Practicality: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Value for money: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (at collector-level pricing, opinions will differ)
🛒 Before You Buy
✅ Recommended for
- People who collect knives with unusual mechanisms
- People who like titanium and M390 steel
❌ Not recommended for
- People looking for a casual first knife
- People who feel uneasy about limited-quantity sales
🎯 Final Verdict
You're buying the idea and the mechanism more than practicality. Its approach of changing the handle length while keeping a safety lock is convincing.
The price calls for a careful purchase decision, but it's a model I want to keep watching because it shows where knife design is heading.
Source: Yanko Design product page
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