Fox Italico Black FRN, Black Top Shield N690Co by Antonio Di Gennaro (FX-540 B)

Italico Black FRN, Black Top Shield, the latest model from Fox, designed by renowned knifemaker Antonio Di Gennaro. Keeping up with market trends, Antonio created a folding knife that is highly compact yet conveys a sense of solidity from the first grip. The key features that needed to be met were an excellent handle grip and a blade type suitable for even heavy-duty tasks, despite its small size. Thus, the Italico was born.

N690Co - a high-cobalt 1.65% (Co), corrosion-resistant, high-carbon 1.07% (C), martensitic stainless steel with 17.30% chromium (Cr), and additional elements such as molybdenum 1.10% (Mo) and vanadium 0.10% (V). Developed to provide superior wear resistance compared to the original Böhler N690 steel, it features an increased cobalt content of 1.50% (Co) to enhance structural uniformity. It is known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and long edge retention. Considered one of the best tool steels in the world, it is hardened to a range of 58-61 HRC. Manufactured by Böhler Edelstahl in Kapfenberg, Austria.

Blade - Drop Point type blade, coated with black, non-reflective Top Shield® coating. The small thickness of the blade combined with a high, flat grind (Flat Grind) gives excellent cutting edge geometry and extreme cutting performance. The knife is opened with a quick flipper flipper (index-finger flipper). When opened, the flipper forms a mini-guard to prevent the hand from slipping on the blade. A section of the blade's back is covered with an upper jimping, a notched thumb rest for easy control of the knife. The whole is locked with the proven and popular liner lock.

Handle - grips made of FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon), a lightweight material, insensitive to weather conditions, resistant to chemicals and mechanical damage. Handle texture aids a secure grip. The solid backspacer to which the grips are attached guarantees the rigidity and strength of the entire structure. The simplicity and solidity of the construction give the assurance of many years of use. Single-position clip (right), made of steel wire, allows you to carry the knife in tip-up position. In the rear part of the lanyard hole, a place for a safety or decorative cord.

Technical data:

Product number: FX-540 B
Product name: Italico Black FRN, Black Top Shield

Overall length: 150.0 mm / 5.91”
Blade length: 60.0 mm / 2.36”
Blade thickness: 3.0 mm / 0.12”
Handle length: n.d.
Handle thickness: n.d.
Weight: 78.0 gr / 2.75 oz

Blade material: Böhler N690Co
Blade hardness: 58-60 HRC
Blade grind: Flat
Blade finish: Black Top Shield® coating

Handle material: FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon).
Handle finish color: Black
Backspacer material: Aluminum
Backspacer color: Black

Clip: Right, Tip-Up
Clip material: Stainless Steel wire

Pivot mechanism: n.d.
Locking mechanism: Liner Lock
Opening method: Manual, flipper
Additional accessories: none

Designer: Antonio Di Gennaro
Brand name: Fox
Manufacturer: Fox Cutlery, Italy
Country of origin: Italy

Developed by: the Sharg® company