By: Crystal Janetta

When it comes to the art of everyday carry (EDC), it’s not just about owning a blade—it’s about owning a statement piece that performs just as well as it looks. Enter the CIVIVI Anaaki Flipper & Thumb Hole Knife (Model C24039-DS1). This sleek and stylish red-anodized aluminum beauty with a Damascus blade doesn’t just meet expectations—it exceeds them with grace, precision, and a touch of flair.

In this hands-on review, we’ll dive deep into the aesthetics, performance, build quality, ergonomics, and unique charm that makes the CIVIVI Anaaki not just another EDC knife, but a companion worthy of pocket time.

First Impressions: Red That Commands Attention
Straight out of the box, the Anaaki grabs you—not with gimmicks, but with elegant confidence.

The vivid red aluminum handle is bold without being overbearing. It exudes a sense of refinement, almost like a sports car in blade form. The smooth contours, the subtle contrast of the Damascus blade, and the minimal branding all blend to deliver one message: this knife is meant to be admired just as much as it is used.

And it’s lightweight. At just 2.17oz (61.5g), you barely feel it in your pocket, but you absolutely feel it in your hand.

The Blade: Damascus Steel That Performs as Well as It Looks
📏 Specifications Recap
• Blade Length: 2.98″ / 75.7mm
• Blade Thickness: 0.12″ / 3mm
• Blade Material: Damascus Steel
• Blade Hardness: 58-60HRC
• Grind: Flat
• Blade Style: Clip Point

CIVIVI is known for offering real Damascus steel on production knives, and the Anaaki doesn’t disappoint. The layered, wavy patterns on the blade are mesmerizing—each unique, giving your knife a fingerprint of its own.

The clip point design, paired with the flat grind, makes for a precise cutter. It pierces effortlessly, yet handles slicing tasks with finesse. Whether you’re opening packages, slicing fruit, or cutting paracord, this blade is razor-sharp out of the box and holds its edge impressively well.

Plus, the blade action is superb. Thanks to the caged ceramic ball bearings, deployment is buttery smooth via either the flipper tab or the thumb hole. It offers ambidextrous flexibility while also catering to your personal fidget preferences.

Locking It In: The Button Lock You Can Trust
One of the standout features of the Anaaki is its button lock mechanism.

Not only is it reliable and intuitive, but it also contributes to the smooth, satisfying deployment and retraction. Button locks have grown in popularity for their one-handed ease of use, and the Anaaki’s implementation is flawless. There’s no blade play in any direction, and the lock engages with a confident “click” that assures safety during use.

Plus, there’s no need to worry about accidental disengagement. CIVIVI has nailed the button tension perfectly—it’s responsive but not too soft.

Handle & Ergonomics: Comfort in Every Curve
📏 Handle Specs
• Handle Length (Closed): 4.08″ / 103.6mm
• Handle Thickness: 0.47″ / 12mm
• Material: Aluminum
• Color: Red Anodized
• Weight: 2.17oz (Total Knife Weight)

Holding the Anaaki feels like shaking hands with a well-balanced tool. The aluminum handle offers just enough traction without being abrasive, and the slight contouring allows your fingers to naturally find their place.

The jimping on the spine is subtle but effective—just enough to give your thumb a place to anchor. There’s no aggressive texture to create hot spots, even after extended use.

At only 0.47″ thick, this knife sits slim in the pocket and feels even slimmer in hand. The pocket clip—tip-up, left or right carry—is functional and discreet. CIVIVI smartly opted for a deep-carry clip, allowing the Anaaki to vanish into your pocket without drawing attention.

The total packed weight of 4.67oz (132.5g), including packaging, also makes it an excellent giftable option—especially considering the compact and classy presentation box it comes in.

Everyday Performance: What Can the Anaaki Handle?
If you’re looking for a hardcore bushcraft tool or a camp chopper, the Anaaki isn’t your pick. But that’s not what it was built for.

This knife was born for urban utility, daily slicing, and light-to-medium duty tasks. Think:

• Opening packages
• Cutting rope or string
• Food prep on the go
• Light wood shaving for fire starting
• Zipping through plastic ties and tape

Thanks to its lightweight build, it won’t drag down your pocket. The clip point blade pierces packaging with ease, and the flat grind ensures it slices cleanly. It’s one of those knives that, once you carry it for a week, becomes second nature to reach for.

And did we mention it looks damn good while doing it?

Fit & Finish: What You’d Expect from CIVIVI
CIVIVI continues to punch way above its weight class in terms of quality. The Anaaki’s construction is tight, clean, and meticulous. No blade play, no uneven grinds, no loose screws.

The stainless steel screws and pivot are rock solid, and the ceramic bearings make opening and closing feel almost frictionless.

Even the packaging feels premium—this isn’t just a knife tossed into a clamshell. It comes in a neatly designed box with CIVIVI’s typical polish: branded microfiber cloth, sticker, and user guide. It’s the kind of detail that makes this knife feel like a special piece, not just another tool.

Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
• Stunning Damascus Blade: Each one is unique, and the performance is top-tier.
• Smooth Button Lock Operation: Easy and safe one-handed use.
• Ambidextrous Deployment Options: Flipper or thumb hole—choose your style.
• Lightweight Yet Strong: Just over 2oz without sacrificing quality or usability.
• Pocket-Friendly Design: Deep carry clip and slim profile.
• Excellent Fit & Finish: CIVIVI delivers flawless manufacturing once again.

❌ Cons:
• Aluminum Handle Can Be Slippery: In wet conditions or gloves, grip might suffer slightly.
• Not Ideal for Heavy-Duty Tasks: While great for EDC, this isn’t your go-to for hardcore outdoor use.
• Red Color Might Not Appeal to Everyone: Though striking, the red handle may be too bold for users who prefer neutral or stealthier tones.

Final Verdict: CIVIVI Anaaki C24039-DS1 – A Classy Performer
The CIVIVI Anaaki is more than a knife—it’s a stylish, capable, and well-balanced everyday companion. Whether you’re a knife collector looking for a visually unique piece, or a casual EDC user in search of something functional with flair, the Anaaki delivers.

From its stunning Damascus blade to the smooth button lock and feather-light aluminum frame, everything about this knife speaks of practical elegance. CIVIVI continues to dominate the mid-tier market by offering premium touches without the premium price.

Would we recommend it? Absolutely. Whether it’s your first CIVIVI or your tenth, the Anaaki earns its pocket time—and a permanent place in your rotation.

🛒 Where to Buy:
You can find the CIVIVI Anaaki Flipper & Thumb Hole & Button Lock Knife (Model C24039-DS1) at most online knife retailers or directly through CIVIVI’s official website and authorized distributors.