
Kansept Dako : The Design That Started It All
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COMING IN APRIL 2025
Every creative journey starts somewhere, and for me, it all began with the Kansept Dako. This knife wasn’t just another design, it was the first one where I poured my ideas, frustrations, and excitement into creating something that felt truly mine. But let me tell you, simplicity is not as easy as it sounds.
When I started sketching out the Dako, my goal was to keep the design clean. I wanted those sleek, smooth lines that just work. But here’s the tricky part: how do you create something simple and unique? You’d think simplicity would make things easier, but nope. There’s a fine line between “minimalist greatness” and “generic design,” and it took a while to figure out how to land on the right side of that.
Eventually, everything clicked, and the Kansept Dako was born. It’s got that understated vibe I was aiming for. Plus, it doesn’t fall into the trap of looking like every other knife out there. I’m proud of how it turned out, even though getting there was definitely a process.

After Kansept sent me the first two prototypes, I made sure to do a lot of testing on them. I needed to make sure the knives were going to function well. While Kansept did an excellent job following the design, it all came down to performance.

The knife felt awesome in hand. Comfortable and easy to control, like it just belonged there. Plus, it looked great, with a design that really stood out. The main thing we tweaked was the blade stock. The blade worked just fine as it was, but we knew a thinner stock could take it to the next level. That little change is what turns a good knife into a slicing machine that’s a blast to use.
The Kansept Dako made its public debut at Blade Show West 2024. To everyone who tested it, handled it, and took the time to ask me or the Kansept team questions about the design, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your interest. Your feedback was invaluable, and I truly appreciate it!

Now, let’s talk materials. For the blade, I knew I wanted S35VN steel. Why? Because it’s just a solid performer. It holds an edge like a champ and doesn’t leave you sweating bullets when it’s time to sharpen it. It’s one of those steels that gives you the best of both worlds: performance and practicality.
Then there’s the handle. For me, titanium is a no-brainer. There’s something about the way it feels. Light yet strong, durable yet refined. But titanium really shines when you pair it with other materials. I love combining it with carbon fiber, fat carbon, micarta, or even some more unconventional choices. Those pairings let you keep that premium feel while adding some personality to the design.

The Dako might have been my first design, but it’s also one I’ll always come back to. I feel very grateful with Kansept Knives for allowing me to design this piece for them, and it humbles me that they took me seriously. It is an important design to me, so it is name after my two sons. I am glad I was able to create something that’s simple, functional, and uniquely mine. Whether you’re a knife enthusiast or just someone who appreciates good design, I hope you enjoy this piece as much as I enjoyed creating it.