Kubey KB lshtar Black Titanium, Black PVD Stonewashed M390 by Maksim Tkachuk (KB170C)
- lshtar Black Titanium, Black PVD Stonewashed—a bold, premium-class EDC folder designed by Maksim Tkachuk. M390 powder-coated steel blade, ergonomically contoured titanium handle, and a proven Frame Lock mechanism.
181,53 €This product is intended for use only by adults with knowledge and experience in handling sharp cutting tools. Improper use of the knife can result in serious injuries. The blade is extremely sharp and can easily cut through skin and tissue; therefore, extra caution should always be exercised while cutting, and hands should be kept away from the cutting edge. To prevent the knife from slipping, it is recommended to cut on a stable, non-slip surface and avoid excessive force, which may cause uncontrolled blade movement.
Leaving the knife on the edge of a table, countertop, or in easily accessible places—especially where children are present—poses a significant safety risk. The knife should always be properly secured after use, ideally by placing it on a stable surface or storing it in designated knife blocks, protective sheaths, or magnetic strips. The knife should never be used for tasks it is not designed for, such as opening cans or prying objects, as this can damage the tool and lead to dangerous accidents.
A dull blade increases the risk of injury, as it requires more force and is more likely to slip from the material being cut. Therefore, it is essential to sharpen the knife regularly to maintain optimal sharpness. Additionally, proper cleaning and drying of the knife are necessary to prevent corrosion and bacterial growth. Periodic inspection of the handle and blade is recommended to check for cracks, chips, or looseness. If any damage is detected, the knife should be repaired or replaced immediately.
When using the knife, focus solely on the task at hand—avoid talking on the phone, watching television, or other distractions while cutting. Ensure proper lighting in the workspace for better visibility and control. Please note that some countries or regions have laws restricting the ownership and carrying of knives. Before purchasing or using this knife, verify that its use is legal in your location according to applicable regulations.
Following these safety guidelines will help ensure safe and effective knife use, minimizing the risk of accidents and extending the lifespan of the tool.
KB Ishtar Black Titanium, Black PVD Stonewashed M390 by Maksim Tkachuk (KB170C) is a premium outdoor folding knife featuring a Straight Back blade, Böhler M390 steel, and a Frame Lock mechanism.
KB Ishtar – a titanium outdoor folding knife designed by Maksim Tkachuk
KB Ishtar Black Titanium, Black PVD Stonewashed M390 by Maksim Tkachuk (KB170C) combines the sleek lines of a premium folding knife with a functional Straight Back blade and a titanium handle finished with Black PVD & Stonewashing. Maksim Tkachuk’s design has a distinctly technical character: a straight blade spine, Frame Lock, ceramic ball bearings, and a monochromatic construction create a folding knife designed for outdoor use, camping, and everyday tasks requiring a reliable, controlled cut.
The blade is made of Böhler M390 powder steel, which has undergone vacuum heat treatment and a cryogenic process. A hardness of 60–62 HRC promotes long-lasting sharpness, while the flat grind ensures predictable edge guidance through cardboard, ropes, packaging, plastics, and field materials. The Black PVD & Stonewashing finish combines a dark coating with a functional texture that masks minor wear marks, while the thumb hole allows for controlled manual opening.
Straight Back blade made of Böhler M390 steel
The Straight Back profile is distinguished by a straight spine and practical geometry that supports stable blade guidance during longer cuts. This design works well for outdoor work, gear preparation, and cutting through packaging, ropes, and synthetic materials. The flat grind reduces resistance in the material and ensures good edge control, while the Black PVD & Stonewashing finish emphasizes the blade’s functional, technical character.
Böhler M390 is a premium powder-metalled steel, valued for its excellent corrosion resistance, high wear resistance, and long-lasting sharpness. Vacuum treatment and cryogenic freezing help achieve stable properties at a hardness of 60–62 HRC. In practice, this means a blade well-suited for regular EDC and outdoor use, where edge durability and less frequent sharpening are key.
Black PVD & Stonewashed Titanium Handle and Frame Lock
The handle, made of Titanium, provides high rigidity, mechanical strength, and a favorable weight-to-durability ratio. The Black PVD & Stonewashing finish covers the handle, backspacer, clip, and hardware, creating a cohesive, darkened aesthetic. Stonewashing visually softens the surface and gives the knife a more utilitarian look, well-suited for field work.
The Frame Lock utilizes a spring-loaded section of the titanium handle to stabilize the blade when open. Ceramic ball bearings ensure smooth pivot operation, and the thumb hole allows the knife to be opened without an additional protruding element on the spine. The right-hand, tip-up titanium clip allows for comfortable carrying in a right-hand pocket, while the included Pouch protects the folder during transport and storage.
Key features at a glance
- Blade: Böhler M390 steel with a hardness of 60–62 HRC, Straight Back profile, flat grind, and Black PVD & Stonewashing finish.
- Handle: titanium with a black PVD finish and stonewashing.
- Mechanics: ceramic ball bearings, thumb hole, and Frame Lock.
- Carrying: right-side titanium clip, tip-up, and protective pouch.
- Applications: outdoor, camping, EDC, and everyday utility tasks.
Technical Specifications
| Product Number | KB170C |
| Product Name | KB Ishtar Black Titanium, Black PVD Stonewashed M390 by Maksim Tkachuk |
| Overall length | 200.00 mm / 7.87" |
| Blade length | 90.00 mm / 3.54“ |
| Blade thickness | 3.10 mm / 0.12” |
| Handle length | 110.00 mm / 4.33“ |
| Handle thickness | 13.00 mm / 0.51” |
| Weight | 93.00 g / 3.28 oz |
| Blade material | Böhler M390 |
| Blade hardness | 60–62 HRC |
| Blade profile | Straight Back |
| Blade Grind | Flat |
| Blade Finish | Black PVD & Stonewashing |
| Handle Material | Titanium |
| Handle finish color | Black PVD & Stonewashing |
| Backspacer material | Titanium |
| Backspacer color | Black PVD & Stonewashing |
| Clip | Right, Tip-Up |
| Clip material | Titanium |
| Pivot mechanism | Ceramic ball bearings |
| Lock | Frame Lock |
| Opening method | Manual, thumb hole |
| Additional accessories | Pouch |
| Designer | Maksim Tkachuk |
| Brand | KB Knives |
| Manufacturer | Kubey Knife |
| Country of origin | China |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the KB Ishtar designed for?
The Ishtar is ideal as an outdoor and EDC folder for camping, cutting through packaging, ropes, plastics, and everyday tasks requiring a stable Straight Back blade.
How does the Frame Lock work?
Frame Lock uses a spring-loaded part of the titanium handle to support the blade when open. The mechanism ensures high rigidity, simple operation, and a minimal number of moving parts.
How to care for Böhler M390 steel and how to sharpen it?
After use, the blade should be cleaned, thoroughly dried, and periodically protected with a thin layer of oil. For sharpening Böhler M390, it is best to use diamond or CBN wheels, finishing the work with a fine grit.
What sharpening angle does the manufacturer recommend?
The manufacturer specifies a range of 15°–20°. A lower angle improves cutting aggressiveness, while a value closer to 20° increases edge durability during more demanding use.
How can the blade be opened?
The blade can be opened using the thumb hole. Ceramic ball bearings ensure smooth and consistent operation of the mechanism during manual use.
Developed by: Specialists at Sharg® – Your expert in EDC and cutting tools
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