Today's tactical fixed blade knives still resemble the first Bronze Age tools of 4000 years ago, especially in their handle design. Michael Martinez, inventor of the Merlin® knife deployment system, didn't start out to redesign the fixed blade, but he explains, "We tested over 400 knives with the Merlin system, and I kept noticing how many knives, even expensive ones, didn't feel right, didn't have a grip that gave both control and comfort in the four fundamental tactical grips." Michael's design firm, Group Design, Inc., reached out to a team of medical specialists for the answer. Their Ultima achieves 22 out of 23 ideal contact points with its unique patent-pending* handle. The injection-moulded black Zytel® scales feature over 70 triangular grip segments, separated by sipes, or "ooze grooves" which channel away water, mud and oil. Horizontal grooves are placed under the fingertips for optimum feel. The scientific placement and crisp edges of these segments result in the best possible contact for tactical grips.

The Ultima has a 6.75" full-tang blade of 1.4116 stainless steel with a light bead-blast non-reflective finish. The Ultima's custom black Cordura®/Zytel® sheath has an injection-moulded liner. Dual belt loops are Velcro® adjustable. For maximum versatility, there are ample grommets with a length of 550 Para cord included, an adjustable leg strap, plus a slotted sheath back that can mount on MOLLE gear. Removable security handle straps with snaps give access and security. A utility pocket with a Fastex buckle will carry a variety of folding knives, multipurpose tools or sharpeners.