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Sharp, Strong, and Built to Last: Inside the World of Chaves Knives

Corey Decker . February 03, 2025 . New Products
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These Knives Hold Their Own in Any Lineup

Let’s cut straight to the point—these aren’t your average knives. With roots in custom knifemaking going back to 2010, Ramon Chaves has built a legacy, and his blades have become a staple for both collectors and blue-collar folks who put their tools to work.

From Albuquerque to Worldwide

Ramon started crafting custom blades in Albuquerque, New Mexico, making every piece by hand. As his name gained traction in the knife world, he wanted to produce blades that more people could get their hands on without the premium price tag of a custom. Enter Chaves Ultramar, a production line born out of a partnership with Reate Knives, one of the best OEM manufacturers in the game. Think of Reate as the Toyota of knifemaking—top-notch quality and reliability.

“Ultramar” means “worldwide” in Portuguese, a fitting name for a line designed to reach the masses. Fast forward to today, the Ultramar name has been retired for SEO and branding purposes, and the company has evolved into simply Chaves Knives. With the rebrand came upgrades and three distinct labels: Red Label, Blue Label, and Black Label. Ramon Chaves also made a major move, relocating his family and shop to Pleasant Grove, Utah, where he continues to innovate and grow Chaves Knives. Let’s break it down.

Red Label: Built Like a Tank

The Red Label is Chaves Knives’ bread and butter. These are your premium, overbuilt knives made to take on anything you throw at them. With stonewashed titanium frames and M390 steel blades, they’re as tough as they come. These knives aren’t about flash—they’re about performance and letting you add your own flair. Think of them like a 4Runner straight off the lot, ready for you to modify and make your own. Models like the RCK9 and Radiation Exclusive variations show off how versatile these knives can be. You’ve got size options too: the Redención 229 for big jobs and the Street for a more compact carry. These blades don’t just sit pretty in a display case—they’re made for work.

Blue Label: Knives for the Working Class

Chaves Knives knows not everyone wants to drop big bucks on their first knife. That’s where the Blue Label line steps in. Built with steel liners and black micarta scales, these knives are lighter on the wallet but still carry that Chaves quality. The Blue Label’s ELMAX steel blades are tough, sharp, and built to last. Want to customize? The scales pop right off, and options like copper, brass, and carbon fiber are on the way.

These blades are for folks who need a solid tool they can toss in the truck bed without worrying about scratches. Priced from $60 for the C.H.U.B. Slipper to $180 for the Redención 229, there’s a Blue Label for every budget. Whether you’re on the job site or camping in the woods, this line has you covered.

Black Label: Exclusive and Limited

If you’re looking for something special, the Black Label is where it’s at. These exclusive knives are limited to small runs, often just 50 pieces, making them a hot ticket for collectors. Each Black Label knife features unique finishes and materials hand-picked by the Chaves team. Models like the Scapegoat and Integral T.A.K. are only available on their website and won’t be repeated. These are the crown jewels of the Chaves lineup, for die-hard fans who want a knife that stands out from the crowd.

The C.H.U.B. and Drivers: Versatility Redefined

The C.H.U.B. line is a testament to Chaves Knives’ focus on utility and practicality. With three distinct options, there’s a C.H.U.B. for everyone. First, the C.H.U.B. Slipper, priced at $60, is a manual push OTF (out-the-front) knife with an aluminum body that’s as durable as it is lightweight. Next, the C.H.U.B. Flipper, priced at $100, offers a compact yet reliable bladed design for those who prefer a traditional flip-open knife. Lastly, the Auto C.H.U.B., a premium automatic utility blade priced at $250, takes the crown for innovation. Made in Chaves’ Utah shop, it features an aluminum body and quick blade replacement, making it the ultimate tool for on-the-job practicality.

What sets the C.H.U.B. line apart is its accessibility and usability. The Slipper and Flipper come at two different price points, catering to a wide range of users. Meanwhile, the Auto C.H.U.B. stands as the top-tier option, designed for those who want a high-performance utility blade that redefines durability and ease of use. Whether you’re flipping, pushing, or automating, the C.H.U.B. series has you covered.

Chaves Knives also offers the Little Boy Driver and Fat Man Driver, compact multitool screwdrivers packed with functionality. These drivers are designed with WIHA bits stored inside the body for easy access. The Little Boy Driver is perfect for those who want a smaller, pocket-sized option, while the Fat Man Driver offers a beefier grip for tougher jobs. Both come equipped with a glass breaker tip that doubles as a fidget spinner, blending practicality with fun. These tools are a great addition to any toolkit, offering convenience and the rugged durability you expect from Chaves.

Why Chaves Knives?

Every Chaves knife comes with a lifetime warranty (as long as you don’t modify it), so you know you’re getting a product that’s built to last. Whether you’re a collector, a tradesperson, or just someone who appreciates a quality blade, there’s a Chaves knife for you. From the durable Red Label to the affordable Blue Label and the exclusive Black Label, Ramon Chaves has created a lineup that’s as diverse as it is reliable.

So, whether you’re in the market for a workhorse or a showpiece, Chaves Knives delivers. These blades are more than just tools—they’re built for the grind, ready to take on whatever comes their way. Take a closer look, and you’ll see why Chaves Knives has become a name to trust in the knife world.

Source:

TChaves Knives
chavesknives.com

 

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