The CIVIVI Kukei C25036-4 takes the micro-folder concept in a more sophisticated direction. Designed by Tashi Bharucha, this tiny folding knife measures just 7.3 cm when closed and weighs 47.3 g, yet boasts a construction and mechanism comparable to those of significantly larger EDC models.

This elegant version stands out thanks to its black G10 handle overlaid with twill carbon fibre. The visible carbon weave adds texture and depth to a knife whose particularly small dimensions could easily have made it look like a mere miniature object.

The 5.1 cm sheepsfoot blade is made from Nitro-V, with a stated hardness of 59–61 HRC. Unlike the C25036-3 Black Stonewashed, CIVIVI has opted here for a satin finish, which is particularly well-suited to the more elegant character of this carbon version.

The knife opens via a front flipper mechanism. The pivot, mounted on encapsulated ceramic ball bearings, ensures smooth operation, whilst a stainless steel liner lock secures the blade in the open position.

With a total length of just 12.4 cm, the Civivi Kukei remains a true micro-knife. Its sheepsfoot blade is particularly well-suited to small, everyday cutting tasks, whilst its compact size means it can be carried with minimal bulk.

Finally, CIVIVI supplies the Kukei with a small black leather sheath – a particularly welcome touch on this more elegantly styled version.

Technical specifications of the CIVIVI Kukei C25036-4 Nitro-V Twill Carbon Fibre folding knife:
Brand: CIVIVI
Model: Kukei
Manufacturer’s reference: C25036-4
Designer: Tashi Bharucha
Type: EDC folding knife
Total length when closed: 7.3 cm
Blade length: 5.1 cm
Total length when open: 12.4 cm
Blade thickness: 2.6 mm
Handle thickness: 10.0 mm
Steel: Nitro-V
Hardness: 59–61 HRC
Blade profile: sheepsfoot
Grind: flat
Blade finish: satin
Handle: black G10 with twill carbon fibre overlay
Handle colour: black
Liners: grey stainless steel
Backspacer: grey stainless steel
Opening mechanism: front flipper
Pivot: encapsulated ceramic ball bearings
Lock: liner lock
Weight: 47.3 g
Sheath: black leather

Tellknives review:
The Kukei is tiny, but this C25036-4 version proves that a micro-folder can also be elegant.

The choice of Twill Carbon Fibre on black G10 significantly alters the knife’s appearance. Whilst some colourful versions of the Kukei fully embrace their playful side, this one looks more like a small, contemporary gentleman’s knife.

The satin-finished blade contributes greatly to this impression. It particularly highlights the very taut design of the sheepsfoot blade conceived by Tashi Bharucha, whilst the front flipper eliminates the need for a thumb stud, which would have visually cluttered such a short blade.

We also appreciate that CIVIVI hasn’t simplified the mechanics simply because the knife is small: encapsulated ceramic bearings and a liner lock remain standard features.

However, you need to be aware of what you’re buying: at 7.3 cm when closed and with a 5.1 cm blade, it really is tiny. For someone with large hands, the Kukei will obviously not replace a conventional EDC.

But as a secondary knife, a small everyday utility knife, or simply for those seeking maximum compactness, the concept works remarkably well.

And amongst the various versions of the Kukei, this one is probably our choice for anyone looking for the most understated and elegant model.