knives
Demko makes folding knives and fixed-blade knives shaped by Andrew Demko’s practical designs and distinctive locking mechanisms. The range includes American-made and Taiwan-made models, with blade steel, handle materials and construction varying by model. Many folding knives use the Shark-Lock, a sliding lock with a fin along the handle spine.
The AD20 and slimmer AD20 Slim are American-made folding platforms offered in varied configurations, while the Taiwan-made AD20.5 brings the Shark-Lock design to a more compact format. For fixed-blade use at campsites, jobsites or workshops, FreeReign models pair a full-tang blade with a textured rubber handle and sheath.
AD 20 Replacement Springs 3 Pack
AD 20.5 Replacement Springs 3 Pack
AD 20S Replacement Springs 3 Pack
Carrying Case
AD 20S Left Handed Pocket Clip
Folding knives and locking designs
Andrew Demko began forging in 1988 and later designed locking mechanisms for Cold Steel before building Demko Knives with his brother John. The Shark-Lock is a central feature of the AD20, AD20 Slim and AD20.5 families. Its sliding bar sits along the handle spine; users move its fin to disengage the blade lock. On Taiwan-made models such as the AD20.5, Demko says the lock components are metal-injection molded, while the American-made Shark-Lock uses precision-cut steel components.
The AD20 is an American-made modular folding-knife platform offered in different blade shapes, steels and handle configurations. AD20 Slim versions provide a slimmer profile within the same family. The AD20.5 is a more compact Taiwan-made option, with configurations ranging from AUS10A blades and lightweight Grivory handles to versions with G10, carbon fiber or titanium handles and other blade steels. Grivory favors low weight; G10 offers a more rigid, grippy handle, while titanium provides a different handle material and feel. Exact materials depend on the configuration, so check the individual model details when comparing options.
Fixed-blade choice and origin
FreeReign is a full-sized fixed-blade knife with a 5-inch full-tang blade. Its textured thermoplastic rubber handle is designed to provide a secure grip, and the included two-part sheath offers multiple mounting options and can be separated for cleaning. Different blade shapes let users choose a profile suited to their tasks around a campsite, jobsite or workshop. FreeReign configurations use different steels, including AUS10A, 3V and MagnaCut.
Demko manufactures knives in the United States and Taiwan, depending on the model. FreeReign production is transitioning: Demko says new batches from 2026 are made in the United States, with Taiwan-made handle grips and sheaths. Earlier FreeReign versions were made in Taiwan. Check each knife’s specifications for its materials and manufacturing origin.