Zero Tolerance ZT0850 | Custom Collaboration Perfection

Recognizing the artistic genius of legendary knife builders, Dmitry Sinkevich and Todd Rexford, Zero Tolerance saw no other choice than to commission a custom collaboration. And with that, the ZT0850 was born. I’m not sure if this is a daily use knife or a collector’s item so bear with me. Priced at $400, this thing of beauty is a knife to behold. Much like my ZT0450CF made from lightweight materials like carbon fiber and titanium, the ZT0850 has my number. Although no longer available from ZT due to its limited production number, I’ve only seen it available on Amazon.

ZT0850 Custom Collaboration

If you haven’t heard of Dmitry Sinkevich or Todd Rexford, a quick internet search should offer an education on the accomplishments of these two craftsmen. If nothing else, you must consider the collaboration between a Russian and American edged weapon specialist, a bit interesting. Both men have crafted beautiful knives on their own. This collaboration has yielded something very special. Dmitry provided the initial concept drawing, and Todd worked out the design details and décor. Together, in Todds Colorado workshop, they began sawing, milling, sharpening and polishing. Originally producing only two examples of their work, ZT encouraged a full-scale production version.

ZT0850 Blade

The blade of this masterpiece is honed from CPM 20CV stainless steel. CPM 20CV is a powdered metallurgy steel offering outstanding edge holding capability as well as excellent corrosion resistance. This bold, strong blade also features a distinctive two-tone, stonewash-and-satin finish. Although I usually gravitate towards assisted opening folding knives, this manual opener is so buttery smooth, you’ll have to try it to believe it. Clearly, Zero Tolerance lives up to its moniker with precision final assembly and operation.

An unusual back-spacer, sculpted from aluminum and anodized clear, highlights the artistry of these two craftsmen. Additionally, this unique design feature is carried throughout the knife. Found on both the thumb stud and hinge, this distinctive shape maintains continuity within the design. Keeping such a large knife a reasonable weight is no easy task. So ZT selected a carbon fiber composite capable of taking a deep blue color for the handle scales. Adding a color to what’s typically an all black material really makes this knife stand out. In comparison to my previously reviewed ZT0450CF knife.

ZT0850 Features

• Made in the USA
• Round turned-aluminum backspacer
• Manual opening system
• Thumbstud
• Single-position titanium (right, tip-up)
• Sub-Frame Lock, hardened steel lockbar insert
• Steel: CPM 20CV, stonewashed & machine satin finish
• Handle: Carbon fiber composite
• Blade Length: 3.75 in. (9.5 cm)
• Blade Thickness: 0.156 in. (0.396 cm)
• Closed Length: 4.95 in. (12.6 cm)
• Overall Length: 8.7 in. (22.1 cm)
• Weight: 4.3 oz. (121.9 g)
• MSRP: $400

ZT0850 Locking Mechanism

A patented Sub-Frame Lock with hardened steel lock bar insert keep’s a rock-solid lock on the blade. While offering smooth, easy to operate unlocking of this folding knife. Finally, a custom machined titanium clip with bead-blasted finish round out the details of the ZT0850. Owning several knives from ZT, I can tell you that the durability and design are exemplary. As always, a great company stands behind their work, and Zero Tolerance is no exception. They offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty and free sharpening on all their knives. So take a look at ZT Knives for your next knife purchase.