Look, we could've opened this with some clever pun about "cutting-edge design" or "making the cut," but honestly? When Vero Engineering drops something this good, the knife speaks for itself. (Though we're not above a solid pun when the moment strikes.)
Vero's kicking off 2026 with an absolute stunner, and we're not being dramatic when we say it's been worth the wait. Meet The Avid 2 – the follow-up to their award-winning Avid 1, and yes, the name is refreshingly straightforward because sometimes the best sequels don't need flashy subtitles.
THE NATURAL EVOLUTION OF A CHAMPION
As the second release in the Avid lineup, and the perfect companion to the award-winning Avid 1 – this knife delivers unmistakable Vero quality in a package that's built to be carried, used, and enjoyed every single day. We're talking about a design that doesn't just look good in photos (though it absolutely does); this is a tool that earns its pocket space. 
Joseph Vero (founder & designer of Vero Engineering) with the Avid 1 - Imported Folding Knife of the Year, Blade Show Atlanta 2025
Here's the thing: Vero kept what works and gave it one killer upgrade. The Vero Engineering Avid 2 is the natural next step from the Avid 1, keeping the same proven design DNA that took out Imported Folding Knife of the Year at Blade Show Atlanta 2025. Yeah, you read that right – award-winning pedigree. But instead of resting on their laurels, Vero swapped in a bold cleaver-style blade for a fresh take on everyday utility.
This was Vero's first move toward making their highly regarded designs more accessible, and the Avid 2 proves you don't need to change a winning formula – just sharpen it. (Okay, we couldn't resist that one.)
CYBERTRUCK VIBES, POCKET-FRIENDLY SIZE
Vero's design language has always been understated, modern, sophisticated – the kind of aesthetic that makes other knife nerds do a double-take at your EDC spread. But this cleaver blade? It hits different. Major Cybertruck vibes. You know that feeling when something's so unexpectedly bold you can't look away? That's the Avid 2.
Same clean lines, thoughtful ergonomics, and iconic Vero styling you'd expect, now with a cleaver blade that adds serious cutting authority and a slightly space-age edge to an already modern EDC. It's like they took everything that made the Avid 1 a winner and said, "What if we made it... cooler?"
THE SPECS THAT MATTER (AKA THE GOOD STUFF)
Let's get into the nitty-gritty, because this is where Vero really shows their engineering chops:
3.25" S45VN cleaver blade – We're talking tough, edge-retentive steel that's ready for daily use. S45VN is basically the superhero of EDC steels: corrosion-resistant, easy to maintain, with edge retention that'll make other blades jealous. It's the Goldilocks steel – not too hard to sharpen, not too soft to hold an edge. Just right.
High flat grind – This isn't just about looks (though it does look fantastic). A high flat grind means efficient slicing with excellent control. Whether you're breaking down boxes, prepping food, or tackling whatever your day throws at you, this grind geometry does the heavy lifting.
Titanium liner lock with steel insert – Smooth action meets long-term durability. The steel insert means this lock bar isn't wearing out anytime soon, even with thousands of flips. (And yes, you will flip it thousands of times. Don't lie to yourself.)
Caged ceramic bearings – Smooth, fast, controlled deployment. This is the kind of drop shutty action that makes you reach for your knife just to open it again. We're not saying you'll develop a fidgeting habit, but... you might develop a fidgeting habit.
Ambidextrous wire pocket clip – Lefties, rejoice! This clip works for both left- and right-hand carry, and the wire design is low-profile without sacrificing retention. It's there when you need it, invisible when you don't.
YOUR EXCLUSIVE GATEWAY TO VERO
Here's the part where we get to brag a little: As Vero Engineering's exclusive Australian dealer, Adventure Carry is your only gateway to getting one of these beauties in your hands as soon as they drop. No wondering if you're getting the real deal – we've got you covered.
Adventure Carry's Mitch with Joseph Vero at Blade Show Texas 2025
Being an exclusive dealer isn't just a fancy title for us. It means we've worked directly with Vero to bring their designs to Australian knife enthusiasts who appreciate thoughtful engineering and modern aesthetics. It means when you have questions, we have answers. It means when new releases drop, you hear about them here first.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
The Avid 2 is dropping on 31 January, and if Vero releases have taught us anything, it's that hesitation equals missing out. This isn't one of those knives that lingers around – the combination of award-winning design DNA, that bold cleaver blade, and Vero's reputation for quality means these move fast.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Vero Avid 2 is what happens when a proven winner gets a bold redesign that somehow makes it even better. It's sophisticated without being stuffy, modern without being trendy, and built to be used without sacrificing an ounce of aesthetic appeal.
Whether you're a Vero collector looking to complete the Avid lineup, someone who missed out on the Avid 1 and wants the next best thing (or arguably, an even better thing), or just an EDC enthusiast who appreciates knives that punch above their weight class – this is one you'll want in your rotation.
Drop a comment and let us know what you think of that cleaver blade – are you team traditional or team space-age? We're curious to hear what you think!
