Cartila MK2 Utility Platform

Introducing the Cartila MK2 — a precision-built pikal-style utility knife made in the USA, designed around versatility, durability, and real-world function. This isn’t a rework. It’s a ground-up platform built to perform.

Each Cartila MK2 includes a highly functional, purpose-built sheath and a blade. Limited drops may feature sterile, marked, or specialty engraved blade options.

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Features

Screw-Based Blade Mount
The blade is mechanically clamped into the handle. No play. No movement. Just a solid, repeatable lockup every time.

Ergonomic Grip
Heavy jimping and purpose-built ergonomics provide a secure, controlled grip in both forward and reverse orientations without overcomplicating the design.

Lightweight, Low-Profile Design
Slim, compact, and easy to carry. Built to move with you, not against you.

Modern Functional Design
Clean lines with purpose behind them. Every surface and edge exists for a reason.

Integrated Magnetic Hex Wrench
The hex key wrench required for blade changes is recessed directly into the Cartila MK2 handle and held securely in place by three neodymium magnets. The tool stays onboard with the platform, allowing blades to be changed without carrying a separate wrench.

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Performance

The Cartila MK2 is a high-control utility platform built for adaptability and toughness. Optimized for multiple grip styles, including pikal-style edge-in reverse grip, it delivers consistent control in real-world use.

Blade changes are simple and tool-based using the included hex key wrench stored directly in the handle. When an edge is worn or damaged, replace it and keep going. No sharpening is required.

Blade Tips supplies a high-quality blade with each Cartila MK2 that has been selected and tested for durability and performance. Because disposable utility blades are manufactured by third parties, their country of manufacture may vary.

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Blade Options

Stanley-Style Utility Blades
The Cartila MK2 utilizes widely available Stanley-style contractor utility blades, making replacement blades easy to source.

An additional mounting hole along the spine of the Cartila MK2 was incorporated to accommodate variations in attachment-point geometry between blade manufacturers. This expanded compatibility also allows the platform to accept certain convex roofing-style utility blades.

Additional specialty, marked, or engraved blade options may be available depending on the production run.

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Sheath System

Every Cartila MK2 includes a purpose-built sheath designed around secure retention, accessibility, and real-world carry.

The specific sheath supplied with each Cartila MK2 is identified in the individual production-run or drop description. Sheath styles and carry configurations may vary by batch and availability.

Depending on the configuration, the sheath may incorporate magnetic retention or other purpose-built retention systems.

Leather Neck Sheath: The leather neck sheath is directional and is not ambidextrous. Always insert the Cartila MK2 in the intended orientation. Attempting to insert the knife backward can damage the leather or stitching and may compromise safe retention.

Additional sheath options may be available under Accessories, allowing the Cartila MK2 platform to adapt to different carry preferences and applications.

Some modular sheath configurations are produced in-house by PragmaTac using 3D printing. Minor cosmetic variations or surface imperfections inherent to the 3D-printing process are normal and do not affect function.

Note: Legacy sheath designs from previous generations are not compatible with the Cartila MK2 platform due to updated blade geometry and safety considerations.

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Care & Maintenance

Disposable utility blades are manufactured from tool steel and can develop surface corrosion when exposed to moisture, humidity, perspiration, or other corrosive environments.

Apply a light coating of appropriate oil to the blade periodically to help prevent corrosion, particularly when the Cartila MK2 will be carried or stored in humid conditions.

Keep the blade, handle, and hardware clean and dry. Periodically inspect the blade and mounting hardware for corrosion, damage, or excessive wear.

Minor surface rust can often be removed with a standard pencil eraser. Rub the eraser in the same direction as the grain of the steel to help avoid creating visible swirl marks.

Replace the blade if significant rust, corrosion, damage, or deterioration is present. Because blades are inexpensive and replaceable, when in doubt, replace the blade rather than continuing to use a compromised cutting edge.

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Magnet / Medical Device Warning

The Cartila MK2 contains three strong neodymium magnets used to retain the integrated hex key wrench, and some sheath configurations may contain additional magnets. Magnets may interfere with pacemakers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), and other implanted or wearable medical devices.

Do not wear or carry the Cartila MK2 or a magnet-equipped sheath near a pacemaker, ICD, or other magnet-sensitive medical device. If you use a medical device, consult the device manufacturer or your healthcare provider regarding magnetic interference before carrying or handling the Cartila MK2 or its sheath system.

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Additional Functionality

Impact Mode
Remove the blade and the Cartila MK2 can be used as a compact, bladeless impact tool while retaining the same secure, indexed grip geometry.

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Age, Legal & Responsible Use

Purchasers must be 18 years of age or older.

The purchaser and user are responsible for understanding and complying with all applicable local, state, federal, and other laws and regulations concerning the purchase, possession, transportation, carry, and use of the Cartila MK2 and its components.

This product is intended for use by responsible adults with proper knowledge of its operation. By purchasing or using this item, the user assumes responsibility for its handling, operation, storage, and use.

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International Orders

International shipping regulations and import requirements vary by destination.

Blade Tips does not ship a Cartila MK2 internationally with a blade installed or packaged together with the handle. International Cartila MK2 orders are shipped as the handle and sheath only unless other arrangements have been made.

Replacement blades may be eligible to ship separately from the Cartila MK2 handle where permitted.

International shipments require an adult signature.

International customers should contact Blade Tips before ordering if special shipping arrangements are required. The purchaser is responsible for determining whether the Cartila MK2, replacement blades, or other components may legally be imported, possessed, or carried in the destination country or jurisdiction.

Blade Tips is not responsible for items delayed, refused, seized, or confiscated by customs or other governmental authorities.

Additional import duties, tariffs, taxes, and customs fees may apply upon delivery. These charges are determined by the destination country or local customs authority and are the responsibility of the customer.

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Specifications

Overall Length: [TO MEASURE]
Handle Length: [TO MEASURE]
Maximum Width: [TO MEASURE]
Handle Thickness: [TO MEASURE]
Weight: [TO MEASURE]
Handle Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
Blade: Stanley-Style Contractor Utility Blade
Hardware: Stainless Steel
Blade-Change Tool: Recessed hex key wrench, included
Tool Retention: Three neodymium magnets
Finish: Varies by production run
Handle Manufacturing: USA
Blade Origin: Varies by blade manufacturer
Sheath: Varies by production run

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Build Quality

Each Cartila MK2 is produced in small batches and finished individually. Machining and finish characteristics may vary slightly from piece to piece.

Variations in anodizing, especially in multi-tone finishes, are normal and make each handle slightly different.

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Use Case

Built for everyday utility, field use, and demanding environments, the Cartila MK2 combines the rigidity and control of a purpose-built platform with the convenience of a replaceable cutting edge.

It isn't a conventional fixed blade, and it isn't a conventional utility knife. It takes elements from both and distills them into a versatile, purpose-built platform.

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Bottom Line

Versatile.
Replaceable.
Built to perform.

Blades are disposable.
The platform isn't.

Small batch. Limited runs. When they're gone, they're gone.