The Vosteed Ankylo Pocket Knife: An In-Depth Review & Model Overview

Introduction to the Vosteed Ankylo Pocket Knife

The Vosteed Ankylo is an exciting entry in the world of everyday carry (EDC) pocket knives, blending practicality with innovative features. Designed for those who appreciate both form and function, the Ankylo strikes a balance between performance, comfort, and style. Whether you’re a seasoned knife enthusiast or someone just looking for a dependable tool, this pocket knife brings a lot to the table.

One of the standout features of the Ankylo is its unique "Vanchor Lock" system—a fresh approach to knife locking mechanisms that enhances usability and safety. The Vanchor Lock sets it apart from other knives by offering a secure and smooth locking experience that you won’t find with traditional locks like the liner or frame locks. This innovative design, coupled with a choice of premium blade steels (Elmax or 154CM), makes the Ankylo not just another knife, but a reliable companion for your everyday needs.

The Ankylo is also available in various blade finishes, handle designs, and colors, allowing users to select a version that best fits their personal style and functional requirements. From satin blade finishes to striking handle textures, there’s an Ankylo for every preference.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into all the available models, explore the features that make the Vosteed Ankylo a standout choice, and share my personal experiences with it. Whether you’re curious about the new Vanchor Lock, looking for detailed comparisons of the models, or interested in how this knife performs in real-world use, this review will give you everything you need to know.

Overview of All Models

The Vosteed Ankylo comes in a range of models that differ primarily in color and blade steel. With 14 unique options, each version retains the signature features of the Ankylo, such as the Vanchor Lock and the ergonomic aluminum handle. The main differences between the models are the type of blade steel—Elmax or 154CM—and the finishes, which range from satin to stonewashed, giving each knife a distinct character, and grip texture on the handle.

Below is a comparison table of all 14 Ankylo models, including a picture, blade steel type, and blade finish. This overview will help you find the one that’s right for your needs and style:

Picture	Model	Steel	Finish
	A1908 Black	154CM	Stonewash
	A1911 Orange	Elmax	Black Stonewash
	A1914 Black	Elmax	Stonewash
	A1910 Gray	Elmax	Satin
	A1905 Black	Elmax	Stonewash
	A1901 Black	Elmax	Black Stonewash
	A1902 Green	Elmax	Black Stonewash
	A1903 Gray	Elmax	Satin
	A1904 Orange	Elmax	Black Stonewash
	A1906 Blue	Elmax	Stonewash
	A1907 Green	154CM	Black Stonewash
	A1913 Green	Elmax	Black Stonewash
	A1909 Black	Elmax	Black Stonewash
	A1912 Blue	Elmax	Stonewash

Blade Steel Types:

• Elmax: This high-quality steel provides exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. It’s perfect for users who need a dependable, long-lasting blade that can tackle both everyday and demanding tasks.
• 154CM: Known for its balanced properties, 154CM is an excellent choice for those who want a mix of toughness, ease of sharpening, and resistance to corrosion without the premium price tag of Elmax.

Blade Finishes: The blade finishes are designed not only for aesthetics but also for practicality:

• Satin Finish: A classic, polished look that accentuates the blade's high-quality steel.
• Stonewash Finish: The rugged appearance of a stonewash finish minimizes the visibility of scratches and is ideal for hard use.
• Black Stonewash Finish: A darkened, matte variation that offers a low-profile, tactical aesthetic while also being highly resistant to showing wear.

All models share the same aluminum handle but some with different textures, providing a robust and lightweight feel that is comfortable for extended use. The aluminum handle ensures a consistent experience across the models, regardless of the other variations.

With these choices, you can pick the Ankylo model that fits your style—whether you prefer a sleek black tactical look, a bright and bold color like orange, or the more subtle and sophisticated satin finishes. In the following sections, we’ll delve into the details of how the Ankylo performs in real use and why its features, like the Vanchor Lock, set it apart from other pocket knives.

Detailed Review of My Experience

As someone who appreciates both the form and function of a good pocket knife, the Vosteed Ankylo really hits the mark for me in several key areas. From its overall design to how it feels in hand, there’s a lot to like about this knife, even with a few minor adjustments I had to make during use.

Design & Aesthetics: One of the first things that drew me to the Ankylo is its sleek and modern design, especially with the reverse tanto blade. I’ve always liked the look of reverse tanto blades—they offer a nice balance of style and functionality. The clean lines and sharp angles make this knife visually appealing, giving it a tactical yet refined appearance. Whether I’m using it around the house or carrying it as part of my everyday kit, the Ankylo looks great in any setting.

Ergonomics & Comfort: While the overall design is solid, I did notice that with my larger hands, my pinky tends to hang slightly off the end of the handle when I grip the knife with my index finger in the groove. However, I don’t see this as a problem, especially since I’m not using the knife for tasks like chopping wood or bushcraft. The handle still provides a secure and comfortable grip, and for the typical everyday carry (EDC) tasks I use it for, it performs more than adequately.

Weight & Build: In terms of weight, the Ankylo is definitely on the heftier side, but not to the point where it feels overwhelming. In fact, the added weight gives it a very solid, robust feel, making it clear that this is a well-built, durable knife. You can tell just by holding it that it’s designed to take on whatever everyday tasks you throw its way, whether it’s cutting rope, opening packages, or light outdoor use.

Blade Performance: The reverse tanto blade isn’t just for looks—it’s highly functional. The blade shape provides a strong tip for piercing tasks, and the edge itself is sharp and durable. Whether you’re using the Elmax or 154CM steel version, the blade performs impressively in both edge retention and ease of maintenance. I’ve found it easy to sharpen when needed, and it holds up well to regular use without showing signs of wear.

Learning the Vanchor Lock: One aspect that took some getting used to was the Vanchor Lock system, particularly because of how the push button interacts with the large front flipper. At first, I found that when I used the Vanchor Lock to open the blade, the front flipper would often hit my hand. To avoid this, I had to adjust my grip and position my hand a bit farther back on the knife. It was a small adjustment, but once I got used to it, the lock mechanism became much more intuitive. I’ll include a picture below to show what was happening.

Multiple Opening Methods – Fidget Factor: One thing I love about the Ankylo is how fidget-friendly it is. This knife offers multiple ways to deploy the blade: front flipper, back flipper, thumb hole, and of course, the Vanchor Lock. Having so many options makes it fun to use, and it adds to the knife’s versatility. Whether you prefer a quick flick with the back flipper or a more controlled open with the thumb hole, the Ankylo gives you flexibility in how you operate it. It’s definitely one of the more fidgety knives in my collection, and I’ve found myself reaching for it just to play with the various opening mechanisms.

Overall, the Vosteed Ankylo strikes a great balance between aesthetics, ergonomics, and functionality. It may take a little adjustment, especially with the Vanchor Lock and the large front flipper, but once you’ve got the hang of it, the knife becomes a reliable and versatile tool. The weight, while noticeable, contributes to its solid build and gives me confidence in its durability.

The Unique Vanchor Lock: What Sets It Apart

One of the most innovative features of the Vosteed Ankylo is the Vanchor Lock, which brings a fresh approach to knife locking mechanisms. While at first glance it may seem similar to a traditional button lock, the Vanchor Lock integrates a magnetic connector and a robust lock plate to ensure superior stability and reinforcement. This combination makes it not only strong but also incredibly smooth to operate.

How the Vanchor Lock Works: The Vanchor Lock uses a magnetic connector, paired with a durable lock plate, to secure the blade in place. When the blade is fully deployed, the magnetic connection and lock plate work together to ensure a stable and secure lockup. This design prevents the button or pivot from sticking out, regardless of whether the lock is engaged or disengaged. This recessed button gives the knife a sleek, low-profile appearance and prevents accidental engagement or disengagement of the lock, even when carried in your pocket.

What Makes the Vanchor Lock Different? What really sets the Vanchor Lock apart is its ease of use and comfort. Unlike many other button-style locks that require a precise press with the tip of your thumb, the Vanchor Lock’s button is wide enough for you to press comfortably with the flat part of your thumb. This not only makes the knife easier to operate but also more comfortable over extended periods of use.

One of the things I’ve noticed during my time with the Ankylo is how much smoother the Vanchor Lock is compared to other locks. When opening the knife, the button is exceptionally easy to press, requiring minimal pressure and distance to engage. It takes noticeably less effort to press the button for opening than for closing, making deployment quick and seamless. Closing the knife with the Vanchor Lock does require a bit more pressure, but the motion remains fluid and intuitive.

Comparing the Vanchor Lock to Other Locks: Traditional locking mechanisms, such as liner or frame locks, often require more dexterity and manual effort to disengage, sometimes needing two hands. The Vanchor Lock eliminates these complications by providing a smooth, one-handed operation that feels natural. In contrast to many other button locks, which can sometimes feel stiff or require too much pressure, the Vanchor Lock’s magnetic design ensures consistent and reliable operation without excessive force.

Moreover, the lock plate and recessed button design ensure that your fingers stay clear of the blade’s path, adding an extra layer of safety compared to traditional locks. This thoughtful design not only enhances the knife’s overall functionality but also provides peace of mind during use.

Overall Experience: The Vanchor Lock has quickly become one of my favorite features of the Vosteed Ankylo. Its blend of innovative technology and smooth, reliable operation makes it stand out from other pocket knives in its class. The magnetic connector and robust lock plate add durability and safety, while the wide, comfortable button makes it easy to use. Whether you’re a seasoned knife user or new to modern locking mechanisms, the Vanchor Lock offers a user-friendly and secure experience that enhances the overall performance of the knife.

Pros and Cons of the Ankylo

After spending time with the Vosteed Ankylo, I’ve come to appreciate many aspects of this pocket knife. From its design to its functionality, the Ankylo delivers a reliable and enjoyable experience. However, like any tool, it has its pros and cons, which are important to consider before making a purchase. Let’s break them down:

Pros:

• Exceptional Design: The reverse tanto blade is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. Its unique shape allows for precise cuts and a strong tip, making it versatile for a variety of tasks.
• Comfortable Grip: Despite having larger hands, I’ve found the handle to be comfortable for everyday use. While my pinky slightly hangs off the end, this hasn’t been an issue for the tasks I use it for. The ergonomics are well thought out, providing a secure and reliable grip.
• Solid Build and Weight: The knife has a reassuring heft to it. It’s on the heavier side, but that only adds to its feeling of quality and durability. The solid aluminum handle and robust construction make it clear that this is a tool built to last.
• Fidget-Friendly: One of the most fun aspects of the Ankylo is just how many ways there are to open it. Between the front flipper, back flipper, thumb hole, and Vanchor Lock, there are multiple deployment methods that make it incredibly fidget-friendly. It’s satisfying to open and close, and it adds to the overall enjoyment of using the knife.
• Innovative Vanchor Lock: The Vanchor Lock is easy to operate, with a smooth action that makes both opening and closing the blade feel intuitive. The wide button is comfortable to press, requiring less pressure to engage when opening than closing. Its design keeps the button recessed, making the knife safer to carry and preventing accidental engagements.

Cons:

• Initial Adjustment to the Front Flipper: The only real con I’ve encountered is related to the large front flipper. When I first started using the Ankylo, I noticed that the front flipper would occasionally bump into my hand when I used the Vanchor Lock to open the blade. This was a minor issue, but it did require me to adjust my hand position and grip, holding the knife a little farther back to avoid the flipper. After a few uses, it became second nature, and I haven’t had any issues since, but it’s something to keep in mind, especially for those with larger hands like mine.

Conclusion: Despite the small adjustment period with the front flipper, the Vosteed Ankylo excels in almost every area that matters for an EDC knife. Its solid construction, sleek design, and innovative Vanchor Lock make it a standout in any collection. For those who appreciate both style and functionality, the Ankylo offers a reliable and enjoyable experience that’s well worth the investment.

Model Highlights & Personal Preference

With so many different variations of the Vosteed Ankylo available, you’re bound to find a model that fits your aesthetic and practical preferences. While I appreciate all the options, I find myself particularly drawn to the green and blue models. These colors give the knife a fresh and bold appearance without being too flashy, making them perfect for everyday carry.

Out of all the models, the green and black version stands out as my favorite. The green handle paired with the black stonewash blade gives the knife a tactical yet stylish look that really resonates with me. Whether you choose Elmax or 154CM steel, both are excellent options that offer great performance and durability. Personally, I don’t have a strong preference between the two steel types; both provide solid edge retention and ease of maintenance.

For those looking for a knife that combines performance with a unique colorway, the green and black Ankylo is a fantastic choice. Its vibrant handle finish, paired with the robust blade and Vanchor Lock, makes it a perfect companion for anyone looking to add a touch of personality to their EDC gear.