"Navyar": The Story of the Knife Created in Collaboration Between PROSTA STAL and the "Tuman" Special Detachment
PROSTA STAL presents the new "Navyar" knife model, developed in collaboration with the "Tuman" Separate Special Purpose Detachment of the 1st Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine "Azov". Behind this distinctive name lie ancient linguistic roots, a contemporary interpretation, and the design story of a dedicated blade.
1. The Origin of the Name "Navyar"
"Navyar" is a newly coined word created specifically for this model, yet its etymological foundation carries deep historical resonance.
The first part originates from the ancient root "nav" (навь). In early Slavic worldview, it was associated with the spirit realm, the departed, and notions of the unseen world beyond. Related terms persisted in the Ukrainian language: archaic words like nav (coffin), navk (the deceased), and the familiar folk figure mavka, which researchers trace back to the earlier form navka.
The second part is the agent suffix "-yar" (-яр). It is readily recognizable in Ukrainian craft designations such as kameniar (stone worker), zbroiar (armorer / gunsmith), or pisniar (bard) — designating a person by their discipline, calling, or the element with which they contend.
Bringing these two parts together formed "Navyar".
It is a contemporary title built upon archaic language roots, into which we infused our own meaning: the one who sees through the fog, does not lose orientation in the unseen, and passes safely through the Nav.
2. Why the "Tuman" Special Detachment
The "Tuman" Special Detachment was originally established in 2023 around the sniper company of the 12th "Azov" Brigade. Over time, the unit expanded its operational capabilities, and in November 2025 it became part of the 1st Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine "Azov" as an independent special purpose detachment.
Today, its core mission profiles encompass precision sniping, deep reconnaissance, and both strike and reconnaissance UAV operations.
For the PROSTA STAL team, the concept of "Navyar" resonated naturally with the imagery of "Tuman" (Fog). Fog conceals customary landmarks, distorts visibility, and demands absolute reliance on heightened observation, accumulated field experience, and unyielding accuracy.
In this way, an ancient motif of traversing the unseen received a modern operational context, establishing a direct link between the blade's identity and the unit alongside which it was created.
3. From Concept to Form
Throughout the development of the "Navyar", the PROSTA STAL team focused on compact dimensions, clean functional geometry, and intuitive handling under demanding field conditions.
The knife features a deliberate profile with a nearly straight primary cutting edge, a distinctive front bevel swedge, a generous forward finger choil, and functional jimping along the spine. For the handle scales, we chose micarta — a proven, dimensionally stable composite known for dependable tactile traction in wet or cold environments.
Measuring 192 mm in overall length, the knife weighs just 118 g. The blade is forged from Kh12MF (X12MФ) tool steel, heat-treated to 59 HRC. This steel is favored for its edge retention and wear resistance, allowing the working edge to maintain slicing efficiency over extended duty cycles. The blade stock thickness is 2.6 mm.
The resulting "Navyar" is disciplined, compact, and purpose-driven. A key aesthetic element is the dedicated laser engraving on both the blade and the sheath, reinforcing the overarching design ethos developed with "Tuman".
"Navyar" Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Blade Steel | Kh12MF (X12MФ) |
| Hardness | 59 HRC |
| Handle Material | Micarta |
| Overall Length | 192 mm |
| Blade Length | 86 mm |
| Cutting Edge Length | 97 mm |
| Blade Width | 34 mm |
| Blade Thickness | 2.6 mm |
| Knife Weight | 118 g |
| Sheath Weight with Clip | 45 g |
| Total Carry Weight | 163 g |
4. PROSTA STAL × "Tuman": A Purpose-Driven Collaboration
in struggle, a people is forged into a nation."
For our workshop, it is essential that this partnership extends beyond symbolic value.
Proceeds from the sale of each "Navyar" knife are directed toward direct mission support for the "Tuman" Special Detachment.
Every blade acquired represents not only a piece of this collaborative design but also an active contribution toward equipping the unit's operators.
The "Navyar" is now available for order on the official PROSTA STAL website.
