Independent everyday-carry (EDC) brand Sao Tools has officially introduced a new dual-perspective logo alongside the launch of its highly anticipated "Little Squid" front-opening tool series. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the brand's ongoing evolution from traditional pocket-knife heritage toward a modern, design-forward product language.
A Logo Designed for Two Perspectives
The newly unveiled Sao Tools logo features a clever dual-orientation design. When viewed vertically, the mark evokes the silhouette of a small duck or swan while simultaneously forming the letter "S." Rotated horizontally, the same graphic reveals the initials "CD"—a subtle nod to Chengdu, the brand's home city.
According to the brand's founder, the previous "Max Sao" wordmark carried a more traditional aesthetic that paired naturally with classic slip-joint knives and natural handle materials. However, it felt visually mismatched when applied to modern metal-handled designs. The new logo was developed specifically to unify the brand's contemporary lineup, including the upcoming "Sao Dreamcatcher" and all future modern models.
From Heritage to Innovation: The "Four Modernizations"
Sao Tools has systematically modernized its most beloved classic patterns over the past three years. Beginning with the Flying Barlow in 2023, followed by the Flying Lanny, the Flying Trapper, and the forthcoming Flying Elephant slated for early 2027, the brand has completed what it calls its "Four Modernizations."
The Little Squid series arrives as a special spin-off chapter. The concept originated four years ago when an American friend asked whether Sao Tools would ever develop an OTF (out-the-front) platform. While the idea was shelved at the time, it planted a seed that would eventually grow into a creative solution to a complex design challenge: delivering the tactile satisfaction of a front-opening mechanism within a globally compliant, user-friendly format.
The Little Squid Series: Playful by Design, Serious About Materials
The debut Little Squid collection emphasizes customization and material integrity. Key highlights include:
Utility Configurations (Fork & Comb): Built on the same front-opening chassis, these "harmonious" variants feature interchangeable handle scales for extensive personalization. Despite their non-cutting profiles, they are constructed from 14C28N blade steel and undergo full heat treatment to approximately 60 HRC—the same metallurgical standard applied to the brand's knife lineup.
Blade Variant: Crafted from premium 20CV stainless steel, the blade edition is currently offered unsharpened to maintain broad accessibility. The brand notes that bringing the blade version to market required extensive prototyping and regulatory consideration.
About Sao Knife
Founded in Chengdu, Sao Tools is an independent design studio and manufacturer specializing in premium EDC knives and pocket tools. The brand is recognized for merging traditional knife-making values with contemporary aesthetics, utilizing top-tier steels and precision heat treatment to create carry-worthy pieces for enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
For product availability and distribution inquiries, follow Sao Tools on WeChat or contact authorized regional dealers.