Anyone growing up in the 1990s knows the MTV show Jackass. It centered around a group of daredevils willing to do almost anything for a laugh or a gasp. The show was so popular that it launched a series of movies, as well as the careers of a few interesting characters, including Chris Pontius, aka “Party Boy.”
Pontius would go on to star in another MTV show, Wildboyz, with Jackass alum Steve-O. The show was similar to Jackass in that Pontius and Steve-O would do outlandish things that put them in danger. But in this case, crashing shopping carts into cars and running around random city streets in a thong and bowtie were replaced with trying to lure sharks and lions to them for a laugh.
Since then, Pontius has kept busy by starring in more Jackass stuff, being a parent, and sharing his love for knives on Instagram. This affinity for sharp things — and being known around the world for his antics — earned him a spot across the table from knifemaker and one-part-owner of GiantMouse Knives, Jasper Voxnaes. Together, they came up with The Pontius, a full-sized adventure-ready EDC knife with a harpoon-style ELMAX blade and a variety of handle materials.
Specifications
- OAL: 7.7″ in ”
- Blade length: 3.2″ in “
- Blade steel: ELMAX
- Blade shape: Harpoon
- Grind: Flat
- Hardness: 60-62
- Lock type: Liner
- Opening type: Thumb slot
- Carry: Left or right hand, tip up
- Weight: 4 oz.
- Price: $285-335
Features & Versions
The Pontius is a full, four-fingered folding knife designed for everyday carry, outdoor adventures, and any other wild ideas you can cook up to use a four-fingered knife with premium ELMAX powder steel.
Available with either green G10 ($285), black Micarta ($285), or raw titanium ($335) handle scales, the knife’s handle flows from tail to tip with a swell in the middle and oversized choil for maximum blade control. The choil also allows for easy access to the liner lock, which holds the 3.2-inch harpoon-style ELMAX blade in place.
Additionally, the Pontius has steel liners to increase the overall structure of the knife to meet your demands. There’s also the customary wire-gate pocket clip for deep carry and easy retrieval. All in all, this knife is meant to get the job done.
First Impressions
I am a big fan of Chris Pontius as well as ELMAX steel. Both have proven that they can get through just about anything and be ready for the next adventure.
ELMAX is a super-steel known for its balance in corrosion resistance, toughness, and edge retention. The trade-off is that it can be more of a bear to sharpen, but that’s all right by me. Knowing that this knife can be used in any and all environments is ultimately appealing. Considering the fact that Pontius was inspired by hunting knives, puukos, and skinning knives when working with Voxnaes to create this knife, it was the right choice for steel.
That said, you can’t go wrong with G10 or Micarta for a knife designed for lifelong adventures. Not only are they both incredibly strong materials, but they both provide an incredible grip. Titanium is even stronger and makes for a great knife handle, but it will not be as grippy as the other two.
Kickstarter
The Kickstarter campaign for the Pontius started on Friday, June 5. By Monday, June 8, the knife was fully funded, four times over. Anyone interested in this knife should consider backing the Kickstarter for the following reasons:
- It’s cheaper during the Kickstarter campaign
- First Edition versions will be signed by Chris Pontius
- Backers get a wicked cool EDC coin
In Conclusion
Overall, I like the shape and size of the Pontius, especially when combined with the materials and build quality. I haven’t gotten my hands on one yet, but I have a feeling that when I do, I’ll be hard to get a hold of, as I will be preoccupied with testing it to the limits out in the wild.
Knowing that Pontius designed this knife after years of experience leads me to believe that it’s going to have a positive impact on anyone who uses it. Being made by GiantMouse further stratifies that idea.
I think a knife like this could be a useful tool for someone who wants to rely on a single knife when they go out exploring. Its build is strong and reliable, and the materials are up for anything you can throw at them.
Some folks will scoff at the price, others will gladly pay for this premium experience. Either way, the GiantMouse Pontius is going to have its 15 minutes and then some.
