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Reate Exo M Review
- Pros: Improved features like a lock, better pocket clip, and smaller size make the Exo M a more practical EDC option. High-quality materials, including 3V blade steel and 3D milled titanium handle scales. Unrivaled fidgetability that sets it apart from other knives in its class. Yeah fidgetability is a word. Unique design and one-of-a-kind appeal for gravity knife enthusiasts. Multiple blade options, including the popular tanto style.
- Cons: High price point at $275, which may be a barrier for some buyers. Slight blade play and rattle, although this is common in gravity knives and not a dealbreaker. Black micarta inlays are a bit understated; Damascus inlays would elevate the knife's appearance. And plenty of other options of inlays are available. No fully serrated blade option available (yet). Limited availability due to high demand and quick sellouts.
As a tactical gentleman, a bit of a scallywag, a flat cap, and an appreciator of fine EDC pieces, I was thrilled when Blade Ops approached me about this Reate Exo M review. I feel like the descriptors lose some of the irony in the text version of this review. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this upgraded gravity knife and share my thoughts on how Reate has made the greatest even better.
Key Takeaways
- The Reate Exo M is an upgraded version of the already impressive Exo gravity knife, with new features like a lock, improved clip, and smaller size.
- The dagger-style blade, available in several blade options like tanto, is made from 3V steel, a semi-stainless metal with excellent stain resistance.
- The 3D milled titanium handle scales feel great, with only a slight hint of the clip in the top rear corner.
- The Exo M's unparalleled fidgetability is the main reason to buy this knife, and the blade play and rattle are part of its charm.
- At $275, the Exo M is still pricey, but the upgrades and quality materials justify the cost for serious gravity knife enthusiasts.
- Compared to other popular knives like the Para 2, Deadlock Model B, Factor, and Pro-Tech Don, the Exo M stands out with its unique design, top-notch materials, and unmatched fidget factor.
The Original Reate Exo Gravity Knife: Love at First Sight
When I first got my hands on the original Exo at a show, it was love at first sight. I mean not enough to drop $350, but a love from a distance. The moment I laid eyes on that exquisitely milled titanium, I got all mushy inside. Who doesn’t love gray titanium? Ok, I’m seeing some hands. The fidget factor had me hooked, and I couldn't stop flipping it open and closed. Sure, I didn’t buy it, but I thought about it a lot. Like what if someone bought one for me. That would be cool.
However, as much as I adored the original Exo, there were a few things that left me thinking, "Reate, you could have included this from the start, buddy!" It's like they were holding out on us, waiting for the perfect moment to drop the Exo M and make us all swoon even harder. Also, they’d never listen to me, anyway.
But hey, I get it. You gotta leave some room for improvement, right? It keeps us on our toes, always eager for the 2.0, V2, QC’ed, the mini, the XL. And boy, did Reate deliver with the Exo M! They took an already incredible knife and cranked it up to 11.
Exo M: Elevating the Gravity Knife Game
Reate has taken the Exo to new heights with the Exo M, adding features that should have been there from the beginning:
- a lock to prevent accidental deployment and closing
- an improved clip for better pocket carry
- a more compact size compared to the full-size Exo.
These upgrades make the Exo M not just a car meetup parking lot showpiece but a practical EDC knife that you can actually use for pocket knife stuff. But also show to your buddy Seth who just got a sweet lift on his 1500, and a punisher decal for the back window. Although still pricey at $275, the added features justify the cost for serious gravity knife enthusiasts.
Specs
| SPECIFICATION | VALUE |
| Overall Length | 7.83" |
| Blade Length | 3.25" |
| Cutting Edge | 3.15" |
| Blade Width | 0.78" |
| Blade Thickness | 0.11" |
| Blade Material | ELMAX |
| Blade Style | Drop Point |
| Blade Grind | Flat |
| Finish | Satin |
| Edge Type | Plain |
| Handle Length | 4.58" |
| Handle Width | 1.02" |
| Handle Thickness | 0.53" |
| Handle Material | Titanium, G-10 |
| Weight | 4.20 oz. |
| User | Right Hand |
| Pocket Clip | Tip-Down |
| Knife Type | Manual OTF |
| Country of Origin | China |
Blades, Steels, and Handles
The Exo M's dagger-style blade is available in various options, including the obligatory tanto. Made from 3V steel, a semi-stainless metal similar to D2 but with better stain resistance, this blade is ready for action. I wouldn't mind seeing a fully serrated version for the pro-serration crowd. They’re out there, trust me.
The handle is where the Exo M really shines. The 3D milled titanium scales feel great in the hand, with only a slight hint of the clip in the top rear corner—a minor nitpick. The black micarta inlays are a bit understated for my taste. Picture this knife with some Damascus inlays, and you've got a real rent check stealer.
Fidget Factor: Maxed Out
Let's be honest: the main reason you're buying the Reate Exo M is for its unparalleled fidgetability. Yes, there's a bit of blade play and rattle, but that's part of the charm with gravity knives. A little rough around the edges like your Peaky Blinders viewing crew. It's not a deal-breaker by any means.
Comparing the Exo M to the Big Boys
So, how does the Exo M stack up against (size-wise) some of the other heavy hitters in the knife world? Sorry, I do not have any current gravity knives to compare it to. Here are my thoughts:
Spyderco Para 2
A solid everyday carry option with its compression lock, but it lacks the unique deployment and fidget factor of the Exo M.
Deadlock Model B
Another highly fidgety and scarce knife, but it comes with a much higher price tag than the Exo M.
Factor
The updated version boasts improved milling and a better clip, making it a strong contender in the gravity knife arena.
Pro-Tech Don
A sleek and stylish option, available with or without a clip. It's a great choice for those who prefer a more understated look.
Ultimately, the Reate Exo M's combination of unrivaled fidgetability, unique design, and top-notch materials sets it apart from the competition.
Video Review
Want to see the Exo M in action? Check out my full video review:
Conclusion
In this Reate Exo M review, you can see that Reate has taken an already incredible gravity knife and elevated it with sensible improvements. The addition of a lock, pocket clip, and smaller size make the Exo M a more practical EDC option without sacrificing its one-of-a-kind appeal.
Sure, it's still a pricey knife at $275, but if you're a gravity knife aficionado (I’m sure it’s a thing?) looking for something special, this Reate Exo gravity knife is worth every penny. With its 3V blade steel, titanium handle, and unmatched fidget factor, this knife is a true standout.
Keep an eye out for the next drop of the Exo M, as these tend to sell out fast. And if you do manage to snag one, be sure to let me know your thoughts.
