Compact, Legally-Compliant Discreet Carry Knives
Analysis: The user is clearly happy with their acquisition of a discontinued knife (Civivi Lumi), particularly because its design makes it ideal for carrying in places where having a knife is generally frowned upon. This suggests a strong demand for knives that are both discreet and legally compliant, especially when popular models are no longer available.
Product/Service Opportunity: There's a consistent demand for knives that are:
- Legally Compliant: Designed to meet or be ambiguous enough to comply with strict knife laws in various regions (e.g., blade length, locking mechanism, overall appearance).
- Discreet/Non-threatening Profile: Compact, slim, and with an unassuming aesthetic suitable for everyday carry (EDC) without drawing unwanted attention.
- High Utility for Size: Despite being compact, the knife should still offer good cutting performance and ergonomics for common tasks.
Specific Product Suggestion: Develop a new line of folding knives, or a specific model, focused on "Legally Discreet Carry."
- Key Features:
- Blade length under commonly accepted legal limits (e.g., under 3 inches or specific regional metrics like 7.62 cm).
- Non-locking or a legally permissible locking mechanism (e.g., slipjoint, friction folder, or a detent-based mechanism that isn't considered a "true" lock in some jurisdictions).
- Slim profile for comfortable pocket carry.
- Unobtrusive pocket clip (deep carry preferred).
- Materials that offer good value and performance (e.g., D2, 14C28N steel; G10, Micarta, or lightweight aluminum handles).
- A design aesthetic that is more utilitarian or "gentlemanly" rather than tactical or aggressive.
- Marketing Angle: Emphasize "Global EDC," "Travel-Friendly" (where permissible), or "Urban Discreet Carry."
Expected Benefit:
- Targeted Niche Market: Address the needs of a specific segment of the EDC community facing legal restrictions or preferring discretion. This includes individuals in countries with strict laws, or professionals in environments where an overt knife is inappropriate.
- Filling a Market Gap: Capitalize on the discontinuation of popular models like the Civivi Lumi that served this niche.
- Brand Loyalty: A well-executed product that meets these specific, often underserved, needs can create strong brand loyalty.
- Steady Sales Potential: While a niche, it's a persistent one. Sales can be driven through online knife retailers, EDC specialty shops, and direct-to-consumer channels.
- Potential for Product Line Expansion: If successful, the line could be expanded with different blade shapes, materials, or slight variations while adhering to the core "legally discreet" concept.
- Estimated Revenue: Difficult to quantify without market size data, but niche markets can be profitable if product development and marketing are efficient. A successful model could generate significant revenue, especially if it becomes a "go-to" for this specific need, similar to how the Lumi was for the user. Given the enthusiasm for a discontinued model, a well-priced successor (e.g., $50-$100 price range) could achieve thousands of units in sales annually.
Origin Reddit Post
r/knifeclub
Civivi Lumi, finally got my hands on a new discontinued Lumi
Posted by u/MarcusMaximius•05/30/2025
It has for 2 years been always my most used knife…it’s profile makes it perfect to carry in a country where carrying a knife it’s a big no no… happy to get a new one before they completely di