The Ellis Pocket Knife, Serrated
We've redesigned the Ellis from the ground up, based on feedback from you, our customers. First off, we've added our very first scissors, which makes the Ellis supremely versatile. If you can't cut it with the Ellis's knife blade, you can almost assuredly cut it with scissors. We have also updated the construction of the Ellis into a slip-joint design to make it easier to use. The new Ellis also features a new deep-carry wire clip as well as our All-Things scraper, flat-head screwdriver and pry tool. The Ellis is built around a partially-serrated Swedish Sandvik 12C27 stainless-steel blade and is available in three different scale options. It will immediately become your daily multi-tool of choice.
Our Review
The James Brand Ellis Pocket Knife — Slim EDC for the Prepared Traveler
The gist: A 3.8-inch-closed slip-joint folder from Portland’s James Brand, blending a 2.6” Sandvik 12C27 blade with built-in scissors and screwdriver — three tools in a profile thinner than a pack of gum.
- Sandvik 12C27 stainless blade (2.6”): A high-alloy stainless steel known for corrosion resistance and edge retention — holds a working edge through daily travel utility tasks without frequent sharpening.
- Scissors + pry bar + flat-head screwdriver: Three integrated tools eliminate the need for a separate multitool — useful for cutting travel tags, tightening luggage hardware, and opening packages.
- 6061 aircraft aluminum handle (3.8” closed, 4.4 oz): Rigid and lightweight; sits flat in a front pocket without the bulk of a Swiss Army knife or full-size multitool.
- Slip joint with half-stop: A non-locking design with a built-in half-stop for extra safety during single-hand use — the intentional choice for carry contexts where a locking blade is restricted.
Gear Patrol’s review confirmed the Ellis is “The James Brand’s most pocket-friendly multi-tool knife,” noting its slip-joint design, Sandvik steel blade, and scissors-plus-screwdriver toolset make it a genuine daily-use EDC.
Best for: Travelers who check bags and want a capable slim EDC for on-the-road utility. Skip it if: you travel exclusively carry-on — pocket knives are not permitted in airplane carry-on luggage. Runs ~$119 — check the current price before buying.
As an affiliate we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
You Might Also Like
Europe's New Nomad Country Index Misses the Real Trade-Offs
Private Equity Buys Into Aeroplan: What It Means for Miles
Booking.com's LGBTQ+ Badge Reaches 150K Properties
FAA's $875M Flyways Bet Could Cut Flight Delays
Europe's Wildfire Gap Leaves Nomads Without a Safety Net
