According to famed writer Malcolm Gladwell, it takes 10,000 hours of practice and perseverance to become an expert at something. With more than four decades of experience designing tactical knives, Gerber puts that theory into practice with the finely tuned Decree.

The Gerber Decree combines all the elements that make a superior everyday carry into a compact and reliable flipper.

It all starts with the blade. The blade design is a cross between a tanto blade and a drop point, excelling at both piercing and slicing. A partially serrated edge gives the knife even more functionality.

But the best part is the steel. Using premium S30V stainless steel, the black ceramic-coated blade holds an edge like nobody’s business and will tackle anything you throw at it. It springs open using a flipper mechanism or you can have a more controlled opening with the thumb studs.

The handle is simple but effective. Thanks to the rubberized diamond texture, its grip feels solid in the hand. Even if you’re having a bad day and the environment is cold, wet, and stacked against you, the Decree won’t leave your hand without your consent.

Rounding out the knife is a one-position, tip-up carry pocket clip and a tempered steel glass breaker in the pommel.

With those countless hours of blood and sweat behind it, this American-made folder is in it for the long haul.

For more information on this Badass Knife of the Week, check out the product page for the Gerber Decree.