Kubey Hydro Knife Black Titanium, Black DLC M390 by Mark Perez (KB323B)

Hydro Black Titanium, Black DLC is a compact EDC folder designed by Mark Perez. The blade is made of Böhler M390, considered one of the best knife steels, vacuum-hardened and subjected to a cryogenic stabilization process. This gives the blade exceptional abrasion resistance and long-lasting cutting edge retention. Handle made of titanium with distinctive diamond texture. The frame lock guarantees safety and security during use, eliminating the risk of accidental blade retraction. Ball bearings ensure that the knife opens smoothly and quickly. The titanium clip allows for comfortable tip-up carrying.

Kubey is one of the largest manufacturers of high-quality knives at an affordable price! The company's motto is “An Edge Above the Rest”. By using high-speed CNC machine tools, milling machines, laser cutting and custom manual finishing, the brand focuses on quality workmanship and an innovative approach to design.

M390 - martensitic high-performance chromium steel produced by powder metallurgy. Due to the alloy concept, it is characterized by extremely high wear resistance and high corrosion resistance. Thanks to its high wear resistance, it retains the shape of the edge properly, so that the blade remains sharp for a very long time (requires minimal maintenance). Another advantage is the resistance to “wire” formation during sharpening. Steel with a high chromium content of 20.0% (Cr) with an admixture of 1.9% carbon (C), 4.0% vanadium (V), hardened to 59-61 HRC. This super steel is comparable to CPM 20CV or CTS-204P steel from Carpenter. Produced by Böhler Edelstahl in Kapfenberg, Austria.

Vacuum & Cryogenic - CPM 20CV steel undergoes a specialized heat treatment process involving two key stages. Vacuum Heat Treatment - the steel is hardened in a vacuum environment, which minimizes oxidation and ensures more uniform metal properties. This process increases the strength and structural integrity of the steel. Cryogenic Treatment: After heating, the steel is rapidly cooled to extremely low temperatures, often below -100°C (-148°F). This transformation changes the residual austenite into martensite, significantly increasing the hardness, wear resistance and overall durability. Thanks to these advanced processes, CPM 20CV steel provides exceptional performance, offering both razor-sharp edge retention and extraordinary blade durability.

The DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) durability of the blade surface is increased by a black, matt nanocomposite coating, which has unique properties such as exceptional hardness and low friction, as well as excellent corrosion protection. It is one of the most scratch and wear resistant coatings used in the industry, including the knife industry.

Blade - classic Clip Point, coated with black DLC. The thickness of the blade in combination with the high, flat grind gives excellent cutting edge geometry and extreme cutting performance. Ceramic ball bearings ensure a smooth and quiet mechanism and support the opening of the blade with a flipper, which, when opened, forms a mini guard to prevent the hand from sliding onto the blade. The knife can also be opened with a hole in the blade. The whole is locked with a proven and popular frame lock with a steel inlay protecting the lock face from wear.

Handle - made of titanium 6AL4V with a characteristic diamond knurling, a material extremely mechanically durable and practically completely resistant to weather conditions and chemicals. The whole is screwed to a solid backspacer, also made of titanium 6AL4V. The simple, solid construction ensures many years of use. The forefinger groove improves grip. The single-position (right) titanium deep carry clip allows you to carry the knife discreetly in your pocket in a tip-up position (with the tip of the blade up).

Technical data:

Product number: KB323B
Product name: Hydro Black Titanium, Black DLC

Overall length: 185.0 mm / 7.28”
Blade length: 80.0 mm / 3.15”
Blade thickness: 3.1 mm / 0.12”
Handle length: 105.0 mm / 4.13”
Handle thickness: 12.0 mm / 0.47”
Weight: 74.0 g / 2.61 oz

Blade material: Böhler M390
Blade hardness: 60-62 HRC
Blade grinding: Flat
Blade finishing: Black DLC coating

Handle material: Titanium 6AL4V
Handle finish color: Black
Backspacer material: Titanium 6AL4V
Backspacer color: Black

Clip: Right, Tip-Up
Clip material: Titanium

Pivot mechanism: Caged Ceramic Ball Bearing
Locking mechanism: Liner Lock
Opening type: Manual, flipper, thumb hole
Additional accessories: n/a

Designer: Mark Perez
Brand: KB Knives
Manufacturer: Kubey Knife
Country of origin: P.R.C.

Developed by: Sharg® company