FABLADES

The Enrique Pena Custom Rhino Flipper is a powerful collaboration between Pena and designer Jared Van Otterloo (JVO). This “near mint” custom build is a significantly more refined and rare version of the popular X-Series production model, showcasing the extreme fit and finish that earned Pena his reputation as a master of the “modern traditional” style.

Custom Metallurgy and Hand-Finishing

• The Blade: Crafted from CPM S30V with a hand-rubbed satin finish. While the production models often utilize M390, this custom S30V blade is prized for its balanced toughness and edge retention. The hand-rubbed finish is a labor-intensive process that results in fine, directional grain lines, elevating it above machine-finished production blades.

• Rhino Profile: The blade features a “harpoon” swedge and a deep belly, giving it the aggressive yet utilitarian “Rhino” silhouette that excels at both heavy slicing and precision piercing.

Elite Custom Accents

• Timascus Details: This build is elevated by Timascus pivot collars and a pocket clip. Timascus (Titanium Damascus) is heat-treated to reveal vibrant, multi-colored patterns—blues, purples, and bronzes—that change color as they catch the light from different angles.

• Hardware: Outfitted with custom hardware that complements the bronze aesthetic of the handle.

Frame and Ergonomics

• Bronze Anodized Chassis: The titanium frames have undergone a tiered finishing process—blasted and stonewashed—before being anodized in a bronze finish. This sequence creates a rugged, “working” texture that is exceptionally good at hiding “snail trails” and minor wear while maintaining an elegant, warm glow.

• Action: Like all Pena customs, this Rhino runs on a high-grade bearing system with a perfectly tuned detent, providing a snappy, reliable deployment that feels “hydraulic” rather than merely fast.

About the Maker

Enrique Pena, based in Laredo, Texas, began his career specializing in traditional slipjoints. When he transitioned to tactical flippers, he brought that same level of “zero-tolerance” precision to his modern designs. Custom Rhinos are produced in very small batches, making a pre-owned example in near-mint condition a high-value acquisition for collectors.