EDC Knightly Tools Get a Comic-Book Makeover in Cell-Shaded Limited-Release Collection
In a surprising fusion of art and utility, Detroit-based WESN unveils its Cell Shaded Collection, merging comic book aesthetic with everyday carry (EDC) tools. This limited-edition series, launching on May 21st, features two signature models – the compact Microblade and the versatile Allman – reimagined to resemble animated props from popular graphic novels.
A Melding of Detroit and Manga
WESN, established in 2017 by founder Billy Chester, has drawn upon Detroit's industrial heritage and Scandinavian minimalism to create a distinctive brand identity. The Microblade, a cornerstone of the brand, has earned a reputation for its exceptional performance and has been recognized as one of the top neck knives. The Allman, a beefier addition to the lineup, complements the Microblade with its balanced form and function.
The Art of Cell Shading
To create a true departure in the EDC world, WESN collaborated with Michigan-based Way of Knife. The result is an innovative process called "Cell Shading" that imbues each titanium handle with bold black outlines and carefully placed white highlights, reminiscent of hand-drawn comic book illustrations. Five distinct grip colorways are available for each model – Ultraviolet Purple, Cryo Freeze Blue, Gamma Ray Green, Gold Rush Yellow, and Dust Ripper Brown.
Functional Artwork
Despite the visual transformation, the Allman and Microblade have retained their original performance features. The Allman still boasts a 2.8-inch CPM S35VN blade steel and a dependable frame lock mechanism. The Microblade, with its 1.5-inch D2 tool steel blade, continues to deploy via a flipper tab and maintains the same ergonomics that have made it a favorite among EDC enthusiasts.
Limited-edition Release
The Cell Shaded Collection is a rare find, with production limited to just 100 Allmans and 200 Microblades across all colorways. Once they're gone, they're gone, unless WESN decides to release a "reprint" in the future.
Technical Specifications
- Models: Allman & Microblade
- Handle Material: Grade 5 Titanium with cell shading anodization
- Blade Steel: CPM S35VN (Allman), D2 Tool Steel (Microblade)
- Blade Length: 2.8 inches (Allman), 1.5 inches (Microblade)
- Overall Length: 6.65 inches (Allman), 3.75 inches (Microblade)
- Weight: 3.65 oz (Allman), 1 oz (Microblade)
- Lock Type: Frame Lock
- Colors: Ultraviolet Purple, Cryo Freeze Blue, Gamma Ray Green, Gold Rush Yellow, Dust Ripper Brown
- Limited Edition: Yes, 100 (Allman), 200 (Microblade)
Pricing and Availability
The Cell Shaded Allman is priced at $229, while the Microblade retails for $129. Expected to ship in July 2025, the first batch of these standout EDC knives will be made-to-order in Michigan. With only 300 pieces produced in total across both models, potential buyers are encouraged to set their alarms to secure one for their collection.
This limited-edition Cell Shaded Collection, merging comic book aesthetic with everyday carry (EDC) tools, also includes WESN's smart-home-devices and gadgets, showcasing a unique blend of technology with style. The innovative "Cell Shading" process imbues each product with a distinctive visual appeal, similar to hand-drawn comic book illustrations, making them a perfect addition to any modern, smart-home setup.
