Kansept's Lucero Is a 2.25-Ounce 154CM Reverse Tanto
Sean Nemeth of August Originals set out to build one knife that works at a dinner table and on a job site, and the Lucero is the attempt. At 2.25 ounces and 6.18 inches overall, it is the smallest knife in Kansept's current batch and the easiest to carry.
Specs: 2.56-inch reverse tanto in 154CM at 0.118 inch stock and 58-60 HRC, flat grind, blackwash finish, dark blue anodized aluminum handle, liner lock, 63.7 grams. The reverse tanto puts a straight edge out front with a strong point behind it, which is the shape that gives you both slicing and a usable tip on a short blade.
Aluminum is the choice that makes the weight possible and the one that costs durability. An anodized aluminum frame will show dings and scratches where a titanium one shrugs them off, but it also saves roughly 40 grams against a titanium build of the same size. At 2.25 ounces on a 6.18-inch knife, the Lucero disappears in a shirt pocket, which is the entire point of a knife in this size class.
Against the Lichen at $129.89, the Lucero saves $30 and gives up 0.46 inch of blade, a titanium clip and Micarta. Against the $179.89 Navaja, it saves $80 and gives up S35VN and a frame lock. The interesting comparison is with knives outside the brand: a 2.56-inch 154CM blade at $99.89 is a premium price for a small knife, and what you are buying is the machining and the finish rather than the steel.
Verdict: a good small folder for office carry where a bigger blade would be conspicuous. The 154CM and the reverse tanto do real work, and the aluminum keeps it light. Buy it if you want a knife that disappears; look at the Lichen if you want one you will use hard.