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Dexter Ewing

Best Tactical Knives [Tested]

We put production tactical knives to the test to see which ones come out as best in class.

Originally conceived for law enforcement and military and rescue personnel, tactical knives quickly found their way into the hands of those looking for a heavy-duty edged tool robust enough to withstand extreme use and abuse—and to do so without falling apart.

Modern tactical knives are some of the most refined and precisely manufactured of cutters in terms of ergonomics, edge holding and price points, and the market is saturated with all the big names producing them in almost all price ranges.

No matter the mission, one of these sharp tactical knives can cut it.

Originally conceived for law enforcement and military and rescue personnel, tactical knives quickly found their way into the hands of those looking for a heavy-duty edged tool robust enough to withstand extreme use and abuse—and to do so without falling apart. Modern tactical knives are some of the most refined and precisely manufactured of cutters in terms of ergonomics, edge holding and price points, and the market is saturated with all the big names producing them in most all price ranges.

What Is A Tactical Knife?

Exactly what constitutes a tactical knife has been addressed in BLADE®, other knife magazines—one of which was even called Tactical KnivesKnifeForums and other knife discussion forums, social media, books, the national media and elsewhere. Some originally described it, and still do, as a folding or fixed-blade knife with a non-glare blade and black synthetic handle ideal for any number of utility purposes, including combat. There are other qualifications but these three seem to universally apply to tactical knives.

As noted by many, BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-Of-Fame© member and Spyderco founder Sal Glesser once said a tactical knife is any knife you have with you when you need a knife. Such a definition also would seem to apply to an everyday carry (EDC) knife. The Wall Street Journal once even referred to a Buck Metro keychain knife as a tactical knife. Go figure (though, technically, the Buck Metro would seem to fit both Glesser’s definition and the EDC comparison and, thus, the definition of a tactical knife). Others insist the term tactical knife is no more than a marketing gimmick.

Buck Metro keychain knife
The Wall Street Journal even referred to the Buck Metro keychain knife as a tactical knife.

As for who the father of tactical knives is, that is a question guaranteed to spark healthy debates. Some say custom knifemaker Bob Terzuola made the first tactical folding knife, while others say custom knifemaker Ernest Emerson did. Some say any number of other makers made the first one. The argument even can be made that the original popularizer of the term is Greg Walker, editor of the now-defunct Fighting Knives magazine, who wrote extensively about tactical knives during FK’s run in the 1990s. Some say the original tactical knife is the Buck 110 folding hunter, which was introduced in 1964 and used by many American GIs in the Vietnam War. Of course, if Glesser’s definition holds true, then the first knife fashioned by early man from a bone, rock, obsidian or what have you many millennia ago is the original tactical knife.

Whatever the case, tactical knives have been hot for over two decades with no end in sight. Observers have predicted the end of the tactical knife phenomenon any number of times, with the knife and its spinoffs enjoying almost as many popularity spikes as the predictions of its demise. About the only thing that seems certain about tactical knives is that such forecasts will continue until one of them actually comes true.

Then again, who really knows anything for sure when the subject is tactical knives?

Best Tactical Knives Specs Comparison

KnifeBlade Length (inches)Overall Length (inches)Weight (ounces)Blade SteelHandle MaterialMSRP
CRKT Septimo3.628.198Cr13MoV$70
Halfbreed Blades CCK-03 Tuhon Raptor3.947.793.53Bohler K110G103.15
Fallkniven R2 Scout8.6255.2440 Stainless SteelZytel$35
Bear Edge Brisk 1.03.828.936.54CPM-Cru-WearG10$325
Benchmade Adamas3.828.936.54CPM-Cru-WearG10$325
CobraTec Special Ops3.758.6255.9M390Titanium$500
Maserin 920/TP Tactical3.5828.26440C Stainless steelAnodized Aluminum~$165
Hogue Deka Manual3.257.52.3CPM 20CV Stainless SteelG10$195

CRKT Septimo

CRKT Septimo
In a pinch, the Ve serration of the CRKT Septimo can be used to strip electrical wire. Doing it this way a ords great cutting control, thus increasing user safety.

Septimo Specs
Blade Length: 3.62″
Overall Length: 8.19″
Weight: 4.7 oz.
Blade Steel: 8Cr13MoV
Handle Material: Aluminum w/Glass-Reinforced Nylon Inlay
MSRP: $70

Pros

  • Effective Serration
  • Deep Carry Pocket Clip
  • Quick Deployment

Cons

  • Mid-Tier Blade Steel

CRKT is among the industry leaders in production tacticals that strike an outstanding balance between affordability and the most modern of designs. What’s more, the company has a great reputation for offering the biggest bang for the buck. Among its many forward-thinking designs is the Septimo tactical folder.

Jeremy Valdez of Olalla, Washington, is an Army veteran who served with the 7th Special Forces. The primary inspiration for the Septimo—the name means seventh in Spanish, an homage to Jeremy’s brothers in the 7th—came from his tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2009. While there, he was aboard a helicopter when it crashed. The knife Valdez had on him at the time proved ineffective at cutting through various materials during the exit from the chopper carcass. Soon after, he set out to design a tactical folder that could fulfill multiple roles as a backup weapon and cutting and rescue tool. The Septimo is the result.

Jeremy’s design for CRKT has a 3.6- inch tanto blade of 8Cr13MoV stainless steel with a black oxide coating to bolster corrosion resistance and reduce glare. While it may seem you can thumb the blade open by the oblong hole, it actually is difficult to do so, which is why the blade has a flipper tab opener. A flick of your index finger is all it takes to deploy the blade quickly. The action is very smooth.

The blade’s most noticeable feature is the single large Ve serration close to the tang. The serration’s large tooth helps gather and hold the material in as it’s being cut, so it provides a lot of control. It severs webbing, cord, string, paracord, small diameter tubing and most anything else that fits inside it.

Septimo Ve Serration
The Septimo blade’s most noticeable feature is the single large Ve serration. The large tooth helps gather and hold material in as it’s being cut, so it provides a lot of control. It severs webbing, cord, string, paracord, small diameter tubing and anything else that fi ts inside it. Country of origin: China. (CRKT image)

The ergonomic handle has T-6 6061 aluminum scales with textured TPR (thermoplastic rubber) inlays for grip enhancement.  Two stainless steel liners provide the knife’s backbone.  The linerlock engages securely. The clip is mounted to carry the closed knife blade tip up and as deep as possible in the pocket.  Multiple grooves provide comfortable placement to wrap your fingers around the handle.  A solid steel spacer anchors the rear of the handle and includes a lanyard hole. The Septimo is an ideal tactical folder for those in law enforcement and the military. Thanks to its distinctly angled tip, the tanto blade has a great reputation for penetration power.

Septimo Deals

CRKT.comCheck Price

Halfbreed Blades CCK-03 Tuhon Raptor

The Halfbreed Blades CCK-03 Tuhon Raptor Tactical Knife.
The Halfbreed Blades CCK-03 Tuhon Raptor Tactical Knife.

Tuhon Raptor Specs
Blade Length: 3.94″
Overall Length: 7.79″
Weight: 3.53 oz
Blade Steel: Bohler K110
Handle Material: G10
MSRP: ~$165

Pros

  • Compact and Discreet
  • Ergonomic Grip
  • Live Edge Identifier

Cons

  • Maintenance Requirements

The Halfbreed Blades CCK (Compact Clearance Knife) series was developed as low-profile bladeware for fast-access self-defense situations.  Designed for discreet carry, the series shares a common handle design but with varied blade patterns. The handle is very slender and features a ring at the end, which accommodates an index finger to lock in your grip. The top of the ring has an indentation to seat the thumb comfortably, as well as aid in applying downward pressure on the blade. The CCK-03 Tuhon Raptor is one of the most distinctively shaped blades in the series. 

Designed by Special Operations CQC instructor Jared Wihongi, the blade is designed to be implemented in multiple ways, including to trap and hook. The talon-shaped tip has a devastatingly eeffective ability to slash as well as thrust, with its slight hook implementing a gathering action.  The main and top edges offer options for slashing in either direction. While most of the blade is sharp all the way around, a portion is unsharpened to incorporate a feature called a live edge identifier. It can be seen as a raised protrusion on the handle. You can use it to index the knife, that is, determine by the feel which way the blade is oriented.

The talon-like tip of the Halfbreed Blades Tuhon Raptor acts as your own personal claw. The curved edge grabs and feeds on the material to be cut—as in slicing a section of air hose lengthwise—thus amplifying the force applied.

Halfbreed Blades CCK-03 Tuhon Raptor

At 8 inches overall and sporting a 3.94-inch blade, the Tuhon Raptor has plenty of length to get the job done while remaining compact in nature. The D2 blade steel boasts a balance of toughness, edge holding and value pricing.The knife comes in three hues: black, desert tan and OD green. Each color permeates the knife with matching G-10 handle overlays. The injection-molded plastic sheath corresponds in color to match the knife. It is a single-column design molded as one piece, not halves riveted together.  The sheath is MOLLE compatible and there’s a Blade-Tech Tek Lok for those who prefer belt carry.  The knife locks into the sheath very securely—no worries about it falling out accidentally. It locks with a firm and deliberate push.

Unlike the other two test pieces, the Tuhon Raptor is a single-purpose modern tactical knife. It is meant for self-defense and not as a utility tool. The handle design is not conducive for lengthy cutting in a traditional grip. However, in a pinch it can be used as a scoring tool or even to open packages and mail. Nonetheless, if you want to use the knife for self-defense, you should not subject it to any sort of utility use to preserve the sharpness of the edge.

CCK-03 Tuhon Raptor Deals

Knife Country USA$358Check Price

Fallkniven R2 Scout

The Fallkniven’s R2 Scout
The Fallkniven’s R2 Scout

R2 Scout Specs
Blade Length: 3.15″
Overall Length: 7.13″
Weight: 4.66 oz.
Blade Steel: Elmax
Handle Material: Thermorun
MSRP: ~$181

Pros

  • Sturdy Design
  • Good Blade Steel
  • Full-Tang Construction

Cons

  • Limited Blade Size

Fallkniven’s R2 Scout is a smaller knife designed for users with littler hands, or for folks who just prefer a somewhat undersized blade. Meanwhile, it’s a myth that smaller knives cannot function as tactical tools. Smaller knives are just as capable, or maybe even more so, as their larger counterparts for certain tactical tasks. They can be just as strong as well.

At only 3.1 inches long, the R2’s drop point blade is .196-inch thick, which is quite thick for a short blade. The thickness is intentional to give the knife strength to withstand heavy-duty tasks. The blade’s ELMAX Swedish stainless particle steel is known for superb edge holding, and its Scandi grind descends straight down to a sharp edge. This is known as a zero edge because there is an absence of a cutting-edge bevel. What results is a blade that’s very sharp and easy to maintain.

The Fallkniven R2 Scout’s extra-thick blade enables it to tackle tougher tasks such as baton work easily. The extra thickness works as a wedge to split wood quickly. Country of origin: Sweden.
The zero-grind edge of the Fallkniven R2 Scout has excellent bite and is great for whittling tasks that require the ultimate in sharpness.

The sheath of the R2 carries well on the belt and has the freedom to move when you sit down or snag it on something. (Fallkniven image)

The handle is Thermorun, a sturdy, grippy plastic with rubber-like properties. It has a coarse textured finish on the sides, which does a great job at preventing the handle from slipping out of your hand in adverse conditions. The sheath is equally well thought out, too. Molded of Zytel, it incorporates a webbing belt loop and an imaginative locking system that holds the knife securely. Activate the lock and the knife is guarded against accidental loss. You also can choose not to activate the lock, as the sheath otherwise holds the knife via an ever-present spring detent.

Fallkniven’s R2 Scout

The sheath carries well on the belt and has freedom to move in case you sit down or snag it on something. The R2 is a workhorse of a compact fixed blade. The zero-grind edge has an incredibly aggressive bite. The blade is well suited for camp chores, food prep and carving/whittling utility jobs. As thick as the blade is, don’t be afraid to use it hard. Dig right in with it without worrying about the blade tip breaking or the blade bending. It withstands batonning well. Full-tang construction lends it a nice balance. Since the tang protrudes a bit through the handle butt, you can use it as a crushing tool. I found the texture of the handle to be just right; it gives a great grip in all conditions. 

R2 Scout

Knife Country USA$268Check Price
Amazon$169Check Price

Bear Edge Brisk 1.0

Bear Edge Brisk 1.0
Bear Edge Brisk 1.0

Edge Brisk 1.0 Specs
Blade Length: 3.635″
Overall Length: 8.625″
Weight: 5.2 oz.
Blade Steel: 440 Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Zytel
MSRP: $35

Pros

  • Sharp Out of the Box
  • Partially Serrated Blade
  • Easy to Carry

Cons

  • Not Ideal for Hard Use

The Bear Edge Brisk 1.0 tactical fixed blade features a 4⅞-inch modified drop-point blade of 440A stainless steel with a black-epoxy-type coating. The cutting edge is partially serrated to power through tough materials. The ergonomic handle is stainless steel with a soft touch coating for grip comfort. Five oblong holes through the full tang and handle provide additional grip traction, as well as lighten the load. A large forward finger recess aids in indexing your grip, and the dropped-butt design helps seat your fingers and prevent your hand from sliding backward off the handle. The lower integral guard and choil allow you to employ a choke grip for precise cutting tasks. The knife has a folder counterpart in the Brisk 1.0 series, which, along with the slimmed-down handles, explains why the fixed blade sports a folder look.  

While the knife has an overall tactical appearance and feel, it seems better suited to outdoor use. Why? The blade grind is hollow. Most tactical fixed blades have a flat grind to leave more steel in the cross-section, therefore increasing lateral strength. And then there’s the slim handle. For a tactical fixed blade, the handle needs to be wider to accommodate a secure grip. The thin handle doesn’t feel that secure in-hand, so I would be hesitant to use it for tactical tasks. While the slim handle minimizes weight and bulk, making the knife carry on a belt very easily, it’s just not geared toward a hard-use environment most tactical fixed blades must tackle.

Bear Edge Brisk 1.0
The partially serrated 440A stainless steel blade of the Bear Edge Brisk 1.0 eats through tough and fibrous materials with ease.

As for the blade, it slices easily. The edge was extremely sharp out of the box and had the right amount of bite that I prefer, though it won’t last long due to its lower-end 440A stainless. It’s just not a steel known for edge holding. Conversely, it’s easy to sharpen in the field because it’s not wear resistant. Hence, if you prefer stainless blades for outdoor leisure activities and don’t want to fool with the extra care of carbon steel blades, consider the Brisk 1.0. The serrations are equally as sharp and eat through fibrous materials with ease. Those who love partially serrated blades will enjoy their versatility with cutting tasks. Plus, it saves you from carrying a separate serrated knife.

The knife includes a ballistic nylon belt sheath with button-snap closure. It’s a basic style sheath, nothing to get excited about. It just does the job. 

Brisk 1.0 Deals

Amazon$20Check Price
Knife Country USA$27Check Price

Benchmade Adamas

Benchmade Adamas
Benchmade Adamas

Adamas Specs
Blade Length: 3.82″
Overall Length: 8.93″
Weight: 6.54 oz.
Blade Steel: CPM-Cru-Wear
Handle Material: G10
MSRP: $325

Pros

  • Durable Blade Steel
  • Axis Lock Reliability
  • Ergonomic Handle

Cons

  • Thick Handle

The Benchmade Adamas is a stout, full-on, all-in tactical folder that oozes brawn and might in appearance and has the muscle to back it up. Knifemaker Shane Sibert designed the Adamas series and is known for heavy-duty tactical folders and fixed blades. The original comes in a larger size with a 3.7-inch blade, but customers started asking for a more pocket friendly, scaled-down version. Enter the Benchmade 273GY-1 Mini Adamas. With a blade of 3.25 inches and at 4.35 inches closed, the Mini Adamas is probably the toughest small folder you’ll ever meet. 

The drop-point blade is CPM Cru-Wear tool steel to go the distance in edge holding and toughness—two important factors in tactical knives. The blade has a fuller milled in on both sides and sports dual conical-shaped thumb studs for easy one-hand opening. The tank-like handle comes in a choice of black or OD green G-10. The design incorporates three holes and milled grooves to enhance grip and aesthetics.

The Axis™ Lock provides the ultimate in blade lockup while being easy to disengage and close. Integral forward and rear lower guards prevent your hand from sliding off, and a deep-carry pocket clip positions the knife blade tip up. Additional screw holes permit relocating the clip to accommodate southpaws. 

The Mini Adamas is a good chunk and larger and wider than other mini folders. Compared with its bigger brother, the 275 Adamas, it’s scaled down. Still, it carries better in the pocket and is easy to deploy. The Axis Lock has a longstanding reputation as one of the best locks on the market, and Benchmade has it dialed in with being ultra-solid yet easy to operate—even for novices. If you like the Adamas design but say the regular size is too big for EDC, the 273 is for you. 

Benchmade Mini Adamas
The Benchmade Mini Adamas is easy to control for finer cutting tasks like stripping wires. The edge geometry of the CPM Cru-Wear blade from the factory is spot on. 

A common complaint about mini folders is when you reduce the size, it changes the in-hand dynamics from the original. Not so much here. There’s still plenty to hold onto! The same cutting power and durability is present, and the boxy handle shape is still comfortable in-hand, more so than you expect—which is a good thing. It is a good working folder and/or tailored for hiking, camping and other outdoor activities. 

Cru-Wear goes the distance and is a perfect choice for such a knife. It isn’t stainless so you will have to take some care of it, even though it has a Cerakote coating. The tungsten gray Cerakote has some sparkle to it, is kind of reminiscent of Teflon-coated cookware, and goes well with the black G-10 handle. Don’t be fooled, this mini is definitely mighty.

Adamas Deals

Amazon $320Check Price

CobraTec Special Ops

CobraTec Special Ops
CobraTec Special Ops

Special Ops Specs
Blade Length: 3.75″
Overall Length: 8.625″
Weight: 5.9 oz.
Blade Steel: M390
Handle Material: Titanium
MSRP: $500

Pros

  • Durable Blade Design
  • Smooth Flipper Action
  • Aesthetically Unique

Cons

  • Handle Could Be Better

I would have to put the CobraTec Special Ops in the large folder category. It’s built like a tank. The blade is stout, with a well-executed grind. It’s thick enough to have plenty of strength for hard use yet fine enough to create a keen cutting edge. It is definitely not a folding pry bar.

The knife has a blade thumb hole and a flipper for opening. The thumb hole is a little too close to the scale for me. Having the hole so close prevented me from opening the blade smoothly; I just couldn’t get a comfortable angle on it. On the other hand, the flipper is so smooth it’s like that first sip of a good coffee in the morning. I just love the fast, crisp action.

CobraTec takes advantage of the titanium handle by using a framelock system. As the blade opens, the locking bar slides over smooth and easy for a bank-vault action. The dimensions and finish are down pat on the framelock. Sometimes on framelocks you find the lock binds a bit. Not on the CobraTec—everything seems to flow on the knife’s action.

The flipper action on the Special Ops is smooth. “One of the reasons CobraTec has such a smooth action is they don’t skimp on the flipper,” the author noted. “You can easily get a purchase on it and it is large enough to follow through on the action.”
The flipper action on the Special Ops is smooth. “One of the reasons CobraTec has such a smooth action is they don’t skimp on the flipper,” the author noted. “You can easily get a purchase on it and it is large enough to follow through on the action.”

Handle fit is spot on. As for the texturing, it is a milled CNC design. I understand the urge to look different and have appealing aesthetics but the most important thing should be ergonomics. I am not saying the knife is painful to hold but it isn’t like a broken-in pair of house slippers, either. At this price range, grabbing the handle should give me shivers. If the handle ergonomics were as sweet as the action, I would be a new fan boy. The pocket clip is too tight. A large blade provides plenty of length for penetration. The knife is a solid build so there is no reason why you can’t expect faithful service from it for a lifetime.

Maserin 920/TP Tactical

Maserin 920/TP Tactical
Maserin 920/TP Tactical

920/TP Tactical Specs
Blade Length: 3.582″
Overall Length: 8.26″
Weight: 3.95 oz
Blade Steel: 440C Stainless steel
Handle Material: Black Anodized Aluminum
MSRP: ~$165

Pros

  • Functional Blade Profile
  • Compact and Nimble Design
  • Corrosion Resistance

Cons

  • Overly Tight Sheath

I would call the Maserin 920/TP Tactical a small boot knife or even a modern dagger. It has a dagger blade profile with one side a combination serrated/razor and the other a false edge. Keep in mind dual-edged blades are illegal in some areas, so know your local laws before you decide to sharpen the second side.

The guard is integral to the handle. A mechanical system fastens the aluminum scales to the blade. The 920/TP is not a full-tang knife. Maserin screws the scales to a short tang and then uses spacers at the back, somewhat like a folder. A through-handle construction such as this does not lend the knife to extreme hard use. The 440C stainless blade steel is tolerant of close-to-the-body carry without getting rusty, and the heavy blade coating helps resist rust.

The construction of the 920/TP lacks a full tang and uses a through handle design like some folders. Observed the author, “I would not pick this design for tough use.”
The construction of the 920/TP lacks a full tang and uses a through handle design like some folders. Observed the author, “I would not pick this design for tough use.”

A molded Kydex sheath accommodates MOLLE and horizontal or vertical belt carry. The sheath was so tight that I struggled to pull the knife out. I’m not a strongman competitor and I don’t want to have to work that hard. After repeated drawing, unsheathing the knife did become manageable. I would say the grip is good and serviceable. Overall, the knife is light and nimble but is not built to abuse. I think it would make a good 4:30 or vest carry.

Hogue Deka Manual

Positioned here at 10:30 to the pivot, an Ambidextrous Bar Lock Enhanced (ABLE) mechanism secures the Deka blade open. Simple to use and very convenient, the lock matches up well with the thumb stud blade opener.
Positioned here at 10:30 to the pivot, an Ambidextrous Bar Lock Enhanced (ABLE) mechanism secures the Deka blade open. Simple to use and very convenient, the lock matches up well with the thumb stud blade opener.

Deka Manual Specs
Blade Length: 3.25”
Overall Length: 7.5”
Weight: 2.3 oz
Blade Steel: CPM 20CV Stainless Steel
Handle Material: G10
MSRP: $195

Pros

  • Ambidextrous Pocket Clip
  • User-Focused Design
  • Reliable Everyday Carry

Cons

  • Pocket Clip

According to Hogue, the Deka Manual is one of its more popular folders. It’s easy to see why, since without missing any points on style it maintains a straightforward user design. CNC-milled G-10 scales with a “V” design are basic in nature yet effective in helping gain a solid hold. An Ambidextrous Bar Lock Enhanced (ABLE) mechanism secures the blade open. Simple to use and very convenient, the lock matches up well with the thumb stud blade opener. You can pull back the lock and give the knife a decent flick to open it as well.

I would like to spend some time on the blade. Aesthetically, the wharncliffe pattern the company uses isn’t my cup of tea, though I must say the design has plenty of utility and for that reason alone has appeal. Hogue uses a compound angle grind. At the base, the edge starts out following one angle and then takes a crisp but slight upward angle. Wharncliffe tips give plenty of engagement to manipulate the point during cuts. Add the gimping on the thumb ramp and you can control the force you drive into the cut.

The Deka was razor sharp out of the box. A straight angle on the back of the blade allows you to put some power into a cut without the material trying to run along the blade.
The Deka was razor sharp out of the box. A straight angle on the back of the blade allows you to put some power into a cut without the material trying to run along the blade.

The Deka has a deep carry, ambidextrous pocket clip that carries the knife tip up. I would like to see a sturdier clip but it does its job, and I had not experienced any issues with it as of press time. Sometimes the simple designs stand out most because they are solid users. I think the Hogue is a user-driven knife, unlike many knives that are popular for their Gucci factor. It comes in more colors than black but since there’s a black one it can be tactical.

Amazon$176Check Price

Editor’s Note: Steve Shackleford and Abe Elias contributed to this report.

Check Out More Buyer’s Guides:

Best Seax Knives [Tested]

Cut like a Viking with some top factory interpretations of an ancient design.

When knife fans think Vikings and Viking blades, the seax is at or near the top of the list. The seax (pronounced sax) blade shape originated in northern Europe from late Roman to early medieval times and was used widely by the Germanic tribes.

Seax means knife or cutting tool, both of which aptly describe the useful blade shape that is equally at home as a tool or a weapon. Typical uses include but are not limited to food preparation, general cutting, carving and more. Medieval warriors entered battle carrying swords, axes and the seax as a back-up. It was a very well-rounded knife design that played a prominent role in daily life.  

Typical seax construction included forged carbon steel blades paired with wood, bone or antler handles. The handle often was adorned with decorative carvings or inlays. In size, the knife ranged from small utility models to swords and everything in between. It also was a symbol of status and identity. Today the seax comes in a wide range of materials, sizes, price ranges and more.

TOPS Knives Storm Vector

Storm Vector batoning wood.
Storm Vector batoning wood.

Storm Vector Specs
Overall Length: 18.25″
Blade Length: 12.63″
Blade Thickness: .250″
Blade Steel: 1095 RC 56-58
Blade Finish: Sniper Gray
Handle Material: Black Canvas Micarta w/ Blue G10 Liner
Weight: 24oz
Sheath: Black Kydex
MSRP: $360

Pros

  • Durable Carbon Steel Blade
  • Effective Chopper
  • High-Quality Sheath

Cons

  • Heavy Weight
  • Blade Coating Wear

A leading example is the TOPS Knives Storm Vector. Featuring a 12.6-inch blade of 1095 carbon steel and an 18.25-inch overall length, the Storm Vector is the largest seax of the test bunch. It’s an intriguing twist of seax meets machete that results in an interesting cutting tool. Done right, 1095 can hold an edge quite well but is also very easy to sharpen in the field, a major selling point. A Sniper Gray coating protects the blade from stains and corrosion and provides a subdued, tactical look. 

The ergonomic handle is black Micarta®. Blue liners give a subtle pop of color to an otherwise dark knife. The handle’s curve, prominent finger grooves and expanded butt all help to make the knife feel as if it were molded to your hand. The Micarta corners are rounded for more comfort. 

Make no mistake, this isn’t a lightweight. The blade is a quarter inch at the thickest and the knife tips the scales at a healthy 24 ounces. The side-break Kydex sheath has a button snap/strap closure to secure the knife, and a neat dangler belt loop allows the sheath to swing freely and not bind up on vegetation. Overall sheath quality: excellent.

Designed by TOPS Knives headman Leo Espinoza—inset holding one at BLADE Show West—the Storm Vector handles baton work like, well, a Viking. (image of Espinoza by BLADE® staff)
Designed by TOPS Knives headman Leo Espinoza—inset holding one at BLADE Show West—the Storm Vector handles baton work like, well, a Viking. (image of Espinoza by BLADE® staff)

The Storm Vector especially excels at chopping. It has the weight to support it, as well as superior handle ergonomics. My hand felt very secure throughout testing; never did I feel as if I were losing control of the knife. TOPS has superb handle ergonomics on many of its larger fixed blades. Rounded, contoured Micarta edges make the handle comfortable to hold, even for extended periods. 

TOPS excels at making superb outdoor knives and the Storm Vector is testament to this. It offers excellent fit and finish. If you want a heavy-duty chopper you can throw around and not have to worry about durability, the Storm Vector is it.

CAS Iberia Legacy Arms Witham Seax

The CAS Iberia Legacy Arms Witham Seax feels agile in hand and can easily chop small saplings with ease.
The CAS Iberia Legacy Arms Witham Seax feels agile in hand and can easily chop small saplings with ease.

Legacy Arms Witham Seax Specs
Overall Length: 17.25″
Blade Length: 12″
Blade Thickness: 0.217″
Blade Steel: 5160
Blade Finish: Satin
Handle Material: Leather-wrapped wood
Weight: 14.4oz
Sheath: Leather
MSRP: $170

Pros

  • Authentic Historical Design
  • Comfortable Handle
  • Good Blade Steel

Cons

  • Light Blade

Based on a 10th-century seax design and at 17.25 inches overall, the Legacy Arms Witham Seax from CAS Iberia is pretty impressive size wise. The 12-inch blade offers plenty of edged real estate paired with a simple handle sporting minimal adornment. 

The 5160 carbon steel blade is flat ground with a convex edge for razor sharpness. A forward guard at the tang is inlaid with what appears to be copper diamond shapes. The motif carries over to the steel buttcap, which boasts the same adornment. The brushed finish of the guard and buttcap complements the blade’s satin finish, rounding out the knife’s overall appearance nicely.

The wood handle is wrapped with leather for a luxurious vibe. It definitely is comfortable to hold. The double-stitched leather sheath is dyed a light brown and features two horizontal carry belt loops. The sheath is pretty basic but is all that’s needed to protect the blade.

The Witham’s double-stitched leather sheath is dyed a light brown and features two horizontal carry belt loops. 
The Witham’s double-stitched leather sheath is dyed a light brown and features two horizontal carry belt loops. 

The Witham Seax is very well made. The quality of finishing is superb and the cutting edge was reasonably sharp out of the box, though I was able to improve it using a coarse-grit diamond sharpening rod. The 5160 sharpens quickly and easily. The fit of both the guard and buttcap to the tang is excellent. 

This is a slender, agile knife. It feels great. It is a bit blade heavy but not so much that it can be employed as a dedicated chopper. While it handles chopping well, I would opt for a design that is more blade heavy and also a more ergonomic handle. That being said, the Witham Seax shines as a general cutting tool. The blade has great bite and the 5160 responds well to steeling or stropping, something you can do easily in the field to prolong a sharp edge. The inlaid edges of the guard are a nice visual touch as well. This is as much a collector piece as it is a user.

Condor Tool & Knife Norse Dragon Seax

Decorative laser etching adorns both sides of the handle of the Condor Norse Dragon Seax, with the same motif carried onto both sides of the classy, well-made leather sheath.
Decorative laser etching adorns both sides of the handle of the Condor Norse Dragon Seax, with the same motif carried onto both sides of the classy, well-made leather sheath.

Norse Dragon Seax Specs
Overall Length: 11.7″
Blade Length: 7.03″
Blade Thickness: .12″
Blade Steel: 1095 High Carbon Steel
Blade Finish: Natural
Handle Material: Burnt American Hickory
Weight: 6.24oz
Sheath: Handcrafted Welted Leather
MSRP: $101

Pros

  • Unique Blade Design
  • Attractive Aesthetics
  • Good Blade Steel

Cons

  • Slim Handle

The Condor Tool & Knife Norse Dragon Seax features a broken back seax blade design with an angled tip reminiscent of today’s reverse tanto pattern. The 7-inch blade is 1095 and features a two-tone finish—the bevels are satin finished and the flats sport the natural darkened finish a blade exhibits emerging from heat treatment.

The simple handle design is durable hickory with a single brass spacer where the handle meets the tang, accenting the handsome overall look. Decorative laser etching adorns both sides of the handle, with the same motif carried onto both sides of the classy, well-made leather sheath. At 11.7 inches overall, the Condor entry can tackle a wide variety of chores both indoor and out.  

The Norse Dragon Seax does well on a variety of media thanks to its Scandi-like grind and easy-to-sharpen 1095 carbon steel. 
The Norse Dragon Seax does well on a variety of media thanks to its Scandi-like grind and easy-to-sharpen 1095 carbon steel. 

The Norse Dragon Seax has great blade geometry, enabling it to sail through various materials with ease. The edge out of the box wasn’t quite keen enough but I was able to fine tune it with my arsenal of sharpening equipment very quickly. Once I got the edge to my liking, the Norse Dragon tackled cutting chores with aplomb. The hickory handle is comfortable, though possibly could be a bit thicker to make it easier to grip for folks with larger hands.

This knife is not a chopper. It lacks the mass and blade length as well as handle ergonomics for the activity. However, for a tool that slices and dices, this is it. As long as you limit it to cutting only, you should have no issues. In fact, it is a highly capable cutter that would find a good home in any fixed blade fan’s collection.

Emerson Knives Seax

Thanks to a conventional double “V” grind, whittling is no problem with the Emerson Seax Fixed Blade. The Wave design at the end of the ramp helps identify the knife as an Emerson.
Thanks to a conventional double “V” grind, whittling is no problem with the Emerson Seax Fixed Blade. The Wave design at the end of the ramp helps identify the knife as an Emerson.

Seax Specs
Overall Length: 9″
Blade Length: 3.9″
Blade Thickness: .125″
Blade Steel: 154 CM
Blade Finish: Stonewashed
Handle Material: Black G-10 epoxy/glass laminate
Weight: 5oz
Sheath: Kydex
MSRP: $279

Pros

  • Exceptional Handle Ergonomics
  • Durable Blade Steel
  • Versatile Blade Design

Cons

  • Short Blade Length

Emerson Knives, Inc., has folding and fixed-blade versions of the seax, the latter which is the entry for this review. It is more toward the tactical side, as most of Emerson’s knife line is. Ten inches overall, it sports the company’s superb signature grip ergonomics. 

The handle curves encourage firm, non-slip purchase and the chamfer of the G-10 scales checks the comfort box. The handle surface is textured and sports a series of well-placed golf-ball-like dimples that further enhance purchase. 

The spine thumb ramp terminates in another Emerson signature design, the Wave. Normally used on the company’s folders to assist in opening the blade, the thumb ramp/Wave allows you not only to lock in your grip but also to exert downward pressure to make cuts. One look and it’s an Emerson design for sure, so the thumb ramp/Wave serves as a visual identifier as well.

The 4.8-inch blade boasts a conventional double “V” grind, though the chisel cutting edge bevel is single sided only. The 154CM stainless steel holds an edge very well and is fairly easy to sharpen. The fold-over, taco-style Kydex sheath is drilled to accept a Blade-Tech Tek-Lok or similar belt attachment. The sheath is basic but a quality make and functions well.  

To help enhance purchase, the handle surface of the Emerson Seax Fixed Blade is textured with well-placed golf-ball-like dimples. The fold-over, taco-style Kydex sheath is drilled to accept a Blade-Tech Tek-Lok or similar belt attachment.
To help enhance purchase, the handle surface of the Emerson Seax Fixed Blade is textured with well-placed golf-ball-like dimples. The fold-over, taco-style Kydex sheath is drilled to accept a Blade-Tech Tek-Lok or similar belt attachment.

Though the knife has a tactical design and feel, don’t let that discourage you from using it in outdoor or general settings. First and foremost, it is a great all-around cutting tool. The straight edge easily cuts cardboard, hose, plastic sheeting and foam, and more. It also handles whittling well, with the chisel-ground edge biting into wood aggressively and deeply.

One of the things I have always loved about Emerson knives is the company’s expert application of handle ergonomics. I’ve yet to use an Emerson handle I don’t like. In addition to enhancing purchase, the handle dimples help displace moisture, providing an excellent grip even with wet hands. Emerson builds knives meant for hard use, so don’t fear putting the knife through its paces. It is built for the long haul and won’t let you down. 

More Buyer’s Guides:

Best Rescue Knives [Field Tested]

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What better knife to carry daily than one explicitly designed to save lives?

Why rescue knives as EDC? It’s more like “why not?” Life presents situations you don’t expect—an accident happens and there you are, right in the middle of it. It is therefore very important to be and stay prepared. Having a rescue knife within close reach can help when you need it most.

But who really carries a rescue knife daily? If you are a fireman, EMT or in law enforcement, it’s an easy answer. Remember the be and stay prepared motto. Even if not in a save-and-serve profession, you can have a rescue knife with you for times you need it most.

Victorinox Rescue Tool

It probably is no surprise that Victorinox makes a rescue knife. The company is well known for fashioning super handy pocketknives with all sorts of onboard tools that make work, play and life easier and more convenient—and in this case, safer, too.

Victorinox Rescue Tool comes with a special saw that will cut through laminated vehicle glass
The Victorinox Rescue Tool comes with a special saw that will cut through laminated vehicle glass such as the kind used for windshields. The author said the saw grabbed on the pull stroke. “The saw possibly would have better results if the windshield were shattered first,” he noted, “but I couldn’t locate any shattered windshields on any of the test vehicles.”

At about 4.4 inches closed, the Victorinox Rescue Tool has a frame based on the largest knife the company makes. This is definitely not a pocketknife! It comes with a high quality sewn and riveted nylon sheath (more on it later).

As with most Swiss Army knives, the Rescue Tool sports a variety of on-board tools: a partially serrated 3⅛-inch main blade with hole opener; bottle opener; flathead and Phillips screwdrivers; a combination can opener and small flathead screwdriver; a 3.25-inch semi-curved, fully serrated blade for cutting seatbelts; a specially designed 3.25-inch pull saw for cutting shatterproof glass; and a glass breaker. The latter two are removable. The polyamide scales come in high-visibility yellow for easy location in low light conditions, and the scales glow in the dark after being charged up by sunlight or artificial light. Fit and finish on the Rescue Tool is standard for Victorinox—perfect out of the box. The blades and tools are finished nicely in a full polish except for the saw blade, which is satin finished. Opening and closing action is smooth. The main partially serrated blade locks open via a linerlock as well.  

The seatbelt cutter is extremely effective. The rounded, dull blade tip extends slightly beyond the handle butt so you can deploy the blade with or without gloves. Work the blade under the seatbelt and, with one swift motion, pull and the blade slices clean through. The serration pattern is similar to one you might see on a steak knife, with evenly spaced teeth—simple yet very effective and extremely sharp out of the box.

seatbelt cutter blade of the Victorinox works
The fully serrated blunt tipped seatbelt cutter blade of the Victorinox works exceptionally well. It has plenty of aggressive bite to cleave through seatbelts in a hurry.

The partially serrated main blade is easy to deploy via the hole opener. The blade is unlike most if not all other partially serrated non-Victorinox patterns. The front 70 percent of the edge is serrated and the balance closest to the tang is plain for finer cutting. The serrations are more rounded at the tips than on the seatbelt cutter, presumably to allow the blade to cut evenly like a plain edge. I tested it on food, cardboard and manila rope, and it cut smoothly and aggressively.

Now for the disappointing part—the glass breaker. It was not effective at all. I could not get a side car window to shatter no matter how hard I hit it. I presume the failure is due to the breaker point being too big. In my experience, the most effective glass breakers are the ones that come to a point and are made of carbide, as with the balance of the review knives. The glass saw is effective, though it grabs a bit too much on the pull stroke. However, when I adjusted the pressure it worked. Country of origin: Switzerland. MSRP: $115.

SOG Escape 2.0 ATK

The SOG Escape 2.0 ATK is the updated version of the original SOG Escape, a multipurpose rescue folder targeted at the serve and save pros. It features a 3.4-inch blade of AUS-8 stainless steel PVD coated black, a partially serrated edge, anodized aluminum handle, integrated/replaceable seatbelt/line cutter, and glass breaker. The blade sports ambidextrous thumb studs and a flipper for one-hand opening. The edge is serrated to tackle a plethora of cutting chores. The clip point shape is adaptable to a wide range of tasks and the defined point is great for scoring. The serrations provide extra slicing power when the going gets tough.

SOG Escape 2.0 ATK shatters a car
The author uses the SOG Escape 2.0 ATK to shatter a car window, both prior to (inset) and after the fact. Inset into the handle spacer, the glass breaker quickly shattered the side glass with a concentrated pop to the window’s lower corner.

The handle is cast aluminum with stainless steel liners. It comes in two colors: high visibility orange and OD green. The integrated slot at the butt houses a blade for cutting seatbelts, line and string without opening the knife. A glass breaker in the handle spacer quickly shatters side car windows. The breaker works very well. It quickly shattered the side glass with a concentrated pop to the lower corner of the window. The pocket clip is a fold-over, deep carry model. A spare seatbelt/line cutter blade stows safely beneath the textured panel handle inlay. Back out the two small Phillips screws securing the cover and you will see the blade underneath—it is simple to swap out.  Country of origin: China. MSRP: $54.95.

Kershaw Drivetrain

Kershaw’s Drivetrain rescue knife looks like any standard EDC linerlock folder. It has a stylish handle coupled with a very utility friendly blade—but that’s where the similarity ends. The presentation side of the handle butt boasts an integrated seatbelt cutter that folds out. A glass breaker is inserted into the end of the handle spacer. The 3.2-inch clip point blade has ambidextrous thumb studs and a flipper for one-hand opening enhanced by the company’s SpeedSafe assist mechanism. The blade is D2 tool steel for augmented edge holding and wear resistance, especially for the price point. The stonewash finish is attractive and hides scratches.

Kershaw Drivetrain cutting a seatbelt
The author indicated the fold-out locking seatbelt cutter of the Kershaw Drivetrain is the best of the test bunch. It’s a wide hook with a blunt tip leading edge for safety. Rest the handle spine on the seatbelt and pull. The handle guides the cutter to the belt and it cleaves very easily.

The handle is molded glass reinforced nylon with double stainless steel liners. The scales are textured and contoured for a nonslip, comfortable grip with no hot spots. The seatbelt cutter easily deploys with one hand and a separate linerlock holds it in place. When closed, the cutter is concealed within the lines of the handle profile and doesn’t get in the way. A steel pocket clip carries the closed knife blade tip up.

The blade is very utility friendly, from opening boxes and mail to cutting cardboard and plastic sheeting. Once locked open, it is extremely secure with no play.

Kershaw glass breaker works very well
The Kershaw glass breaker works very well. Situated at the end of the handle, a quick strike with it to the lower corner of the vehicle side window did the job.  

The seatbelt cutter works well. The hook tip is dull and rounded so you can work it under the seatbelt without inadvertently cutting yourself or the accident victim. The blade is ground on both sides to enhance sharpness. For best results, make your pull cut at an angle in relation to the seatbelt. Also, resting the handle spine on the seatbelt is a great way to “aim” the cutter. It bites in better that way and, when you feel it engage, give the handle a quick tug and it cleaves through effortlessly. It is a surprisingly effective seatbelt cutter! The glass breaker works very well, too. Country of origin: U.S. design, prototype and quality control, Chinese manufacture. MSRP: $69.59.

Utica’s Honor Rescue Knife

Utica’s Honor Rescue Knife is the least expensive of the test group. It packs a few features normally found on rescue knives, such as the integrated seatbelt cutter, glass breaker and a partially serrated, modified tanto blade. The 3-inch stainless steel blade’s partial serrations help rip through thicker materials. A two-tone finish adds character, with the bevels and spine black oxide coated and the flats satin finished. A flipper tab provides ambidextrous opening, and the blade rides effortlessly on bearings for ultra smooth action. The handle is aluminum with double stainless steel liners providing the backbone. A linerlock holds the blade open securely. A seatbelt cutter slot in the handle butt has two sharpened blades held in the scissor position to cleave seatbelts with a firm pull. The steel back spacer has an extended portion that tapers to a point, which serves as the glass breaker. 

The Utica tanto blade’s partial serrations help rip through thicker materials.
The Utica tanto blade’s partial serrations help rip through thicker materials.

Like with the Victorinox Rescue Tool, the glass breaker on the Utica test model was ineffective. The point rounded off due to multiple hits to a side window and did not shatter it. The breaker needs a carbide point. A deep carry clip positions the closed knife blade tip down. Cost and feature wise, the Honor Rescue Knife is a great option without breaking the bank. Country of origin: China. MSRP: $32.97.

Final Cut

A final thought: Some prefer having a rescue knife for emergencies only as opposed to having one for both work and emergencies. You can get away with a relatively inexpensive rescue knife if you preserve it for emergency use exclusively. (Some high-end rescue knives cost as much as regular tactical folders, that is, several hundred dollars.) There’s nothing wrong with an inexpensive rescue knife as long as the manufacturing quality is there, the blade lock holds and the blade is sharp. If you are adept at doing so, sharpen the blade first before stowing it away; this way you know the blade is very sharp. And since you won’t be using it as an EDC, the sharp edge will be preserved. This works well if you have multiple vehicles in your family that you wish to outfit with rescue knives.  

Where To Keep Your Rescue Knife

Keeping a rescue knife in your vehicle is a great idea as it can help free you and others should you have an accident or happen upon one. However, give careful thought to where you stow the knife.

The author keeps his Hogue Trauma rescue folder in the sheath wrapped around the lower portion of the seatbelt anchor in between the seat and door of his truck.
The author keeps his Hogue Trauma rescue folder in the sheath wrapped around the lower portion of the seatbelt anchor in between the seat and door of his truck.

Most assume a glovebox is a safe place and while not a wrong choice, it is a poor one. Why? For one, in an accident your seatbelt may not release because of the tension; in essence, you’re strapped to the driver’s seat and cannot lean over to access the glovebox. Worse, the vehicle could be upside down or on its side. In other words, have the knife placed securely within arm’s length.

I keep a Benchmade Auto Triage inside the sunglass holder in the roof of my car, just above the inside rearview mirror. It is secured shut with a latch so it won’t pop open on impact. I can easily reach it and remove it from the holder with my right hand. In my truck I keep a Hogue Trauma rescue folder in the sheath wrapped around the lower portion of the seatbelt anchor in between the seat and the door. It’s just enough room for me to access the knife with the door shut, and the knife is secured in that position and won’t move.

The worst place to keep the knife is in the center console cupholder. While it’s convenient to access, if you get rear ended or t-boned, the knife will go airborne and land way out of reach. Some vehicles may have a center console storage/armrest in the middle. Yeah, mine in each vehicle is a clutter catchall for receipts and other junk, but it’s another ideal location because the armrest lid latches shut and is within arm’s reach.

Read More Knife Reviews:

Spartan Blades Clandestina Review: 2024 Blade Knife of the Year

Find out why the Spartan Blades Clandestina took home Blade Knife of the Year, thanks to its standout tactical design, top-tier materials, and unbeatable performance.

A deadly beauty, Spartan Blades’ Clandestina packages the best of both worlds. Yup, it’s a looker, but dang if it isn’t engineered to inflict damage.

The dueling personalities of the BLADE Knife of the Year aren’t surprising, given who cooked up this wicked fixed blade. Bill Harsey has built his reputation on designing robust outdoor and tactical knives.

Spartan Blades Clandestina blade markings
Photos by Marty Stanfield, Marty Stanfield Photography

A favorite of Army Special Forces and figures such as Col. Rex Applegate, Harsey work also has a certain lethal aesthetic to it as well. But even with operators enamored with his work, Harsey’s Spartan project has an appeal beyond serving in foreign conflicts.

Spartan Clandestina Specs

Knife Type: Fixed
Blade Type: Spear Point
Blade length: 5.5
Blade steel: CPM MagnaCut
Blade grind: Flat ground
Handle material: Canvas Micarta Black and Camo
Blade Hardness: 61-63 HRC
Overall length: 10 3/16”
Sheath type and material: MOLLE and Kydex options
Special features: Available in Black and FDE PVD Coating, Double Deep Cryogenic Treatment
MSRP:

Pros

  • Superior Ergonomics
  • Premium Blade Material
  • Sheath Options

Cons

  • Large For Everyday Carry
  • High Price Point
  • Niche Design

Spartan Clandestina Handle

Oddly enough for a knife review, I’m going to start at the handle. There’s a method in this madness, given this feature is what gives the Clandestina its edge.

The canvas Micarta handle is slim in profile, even understated, yet sports big-league features.

Spartan Blades Clandestina handle
Photos by Marty Stanfield, Marty Stanfield Photography

Boasting two-finger grooves leverage the use of the middle finger to help stabilize the knife in the user’s grip and help lock it in for security.  The double guard is somewhat subtle but does its job very well.  

The entire handle is rounded and therefore, extremely comfortable to hold. No hot spots or harsh angles to get in the way. Overall outstanding ergonomics make the knife one with the hand. In brief, it’s pure Harsey all the way.

Micarta itself was an excellent choice for the tactical fixed blade—it’s lightweight yet strong.  Comprised of fabric saturated in phenolic resin, it is also impact-resistant and fluid-resistant. 

These attributes were engineered in the Clandestina with combat in adverse conditions in mind. Yet, the everyday user benefits, given it’s a robust system that should last a lifetime. Not to mention, the Micarta is available in a multitude of colors, besides my black and camo.

Spartan Clandestina Blade

From the understated to the obvious—the knife’s nefarious.

At 5.5 inches long and sporting a spear-point profile, the Clandestina was designed for more than opening boxes. A testament to this was Spartan opting for premium CPM Magnacut stainless steel.

Spartan Blades Clandestina blade
Photos by Marty Stanfield, Marty Stanfield Photography

Know for its capability of long-term edge retention, the metal makes the ready to slash or perforate with ease. Again, this material also has superior corrosion resistance, adding to the overall hardiness of the knife.

The blade is flat ground and the factory edge right out of the box is outstanding. I found nothing needed to be done to improve the edge, I just took it out of the box and put it right to work! 

While larger than most folks’ carry option, the blade length isn’t over the top. I found it nearly perfect for belt carry, hitting an elusive sweet spot many fixed-blades miss.

Spartan Clandestina Sheath

Sheath-wise, there are two options – form-fitting Kydex or a tried and true ballistic nylon.  The sample knife shipped to me with the latter.

Spartan Blades Clandestina sheath
Photos by Marty Stanfield, Marty Stanfield Photography

I found the sheath is very well made, with double sewn edges and a button snap retention strap to hold the e knife in.  A large belt loop allows the use of various widths of belts to be used.

Should you opt for Kydex, the sheath is of a riveted construction with a belt loop attachment.  The form-fitting sheath locks up around the integral guard of the handle. There are two MOLLE straps that also double as belt loops.

Testing The Spartan Clandestina

Putting the Clandestina to work is nothing short of an excellent experience. 

All of Harsey’s tactical fixed blade design expertise comes into play here, and you quickly realize you have a piece of serious bladeware in your possession. It makes slicing cuts with brash confidence thanks to the excellent factory edge coupled with the flat grind. 

Spartan Clandestina Sheath and pistol side by side
Photos by Marty Stanfield, Marty Stanfield Photography

The blade thickness tapers down progressively to the tip, allowing it to have the ability to do some serious piercing without being too thin where accidental breakage can occur. The overall blade profile is somewhat dagger-like, as you will notice. 

The handle is downright comfortable.  It allows the user to obtain a secure grip at all times, instilling and promoting user confidence. Thanks to the dual finger grooves, these allow the slender handle to have such a great grip quality. Locking your grip on the handle, it feels very stable and unlikely to rotate. 

Furthermore, when you grip the handle and allow your thumb to rest on the blade spine, you can feel how secure this choke grip is and the knife is very controllable in this grip. Whittling and wire stripping are two such tasks that this grip facilitates.  Simply put, the Spartan HARSEY Clandestina is built for use.   

Short Cut

It’s definitely not a toy!  Use it with confidence and use it hard.  Spartan Blades’ craftsmanship skills are highly rated consistently, with each knife they turn out.  You cannot go wrong with choosing the Clandestine.

Spartan Blades$360Check Price
DLT$390Check Price

More On Tactical Knives:

Best Tomato Knives: Top Picks For This Delicate Job

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No matter how you slice it, three top tomato knives turn the trick.

Nothing beats homegrown tomatoes and tomato sandwiches, or just simply enjoying them as they are, sliced up with all their juicy goodness. Who doesn’t love a ripe and ready tomato?  

Cutting tomatoes requires a very sharp knife. Besides writing for this fine publication, I also have another side hustle of running a sharpening service. I get asked all the time, “How do I know when it is time to have my kitchen knives sharpened?” I always answer with the tomato test. If your knife cannot slice a tomato cleanly without squashing it, then it is time for a sharpening.

Tomatoes have a firm exterior and a squishy/liquid interior. A sharp knife is mandatory to break through the firm exterior. If your knife is dull, it won’t bite right into the exterior but instead will squash it, thus squeezing out the juice and ruining a good slice of succulent tomato.

Sure, any sharp kitchen knife will slice tomatoes and do a fine job of it. But there are specially designed tomato knives that take the work out of perfect slicing. If you do a lot of meal prep involving tomatoes, then you might want to procure one of the following tomato-slicing knives for the occasion.

Case Tomato Slicer

Case Tomato Slicer
The Case works effortlessly due to the thinness of the blade coupled with the serrations.

Case Tomato Slicer
Blade Length: 5.5″
Overall Length: 9.25″
Blade Material: Tru-Sharp Stainless
Handle Material: Walnut
Country of Origin: USA
MSRP: $39

Pros

  • Hightly effective for tomatoes
  • Durable and attractive Construction
  • Effortless cutting

Cons

  • Limited to specific tasks

The 5½-inch Tomato Slicer from Case is a highly effective tomato knife. It is specifically designed to make quick work of processing tomatoes without damaging them. The 5½-inch blade is slender and has a trailing-point shape. It is hollow ground, fully serrated and Tru-Sharp stainless steel (420 HC stainless). The handle is walnut and features triple-rivet construction for strength and durability. It is a nice-looking knife and part of a larger household cutlery family Case offers with the same blade and handle materials.

Performance wise the knife excels. The serrations cut smoothly but have an aggressive bite that help break cleanly through the tomato’s firm skin. The hollow grind and slender blade aid in sailing through the fruit without collapsing it. The knife is quite effortless in action. Due to the slender, almost minimalist blade width I would limit use of the knife to tomatoes and other similar fruits like grapes and kiwi. It is sort of a specific-use knife and not one you generally grab when you need to cut something in the kitchen. It is more like a hybrid knife. It has a serrated edge but cuts clean and smooth similar to a plain edge knife. MSRP: $38.99. Country of origin: USA.  

Amazon$34Check Price
Knife Center$47Check Price
Lemans$35Check Price

Kershaw Utility Knife

Kershaw Utility Knife
The thin blade stock gives the Kershaw Utility Knife great bite and slices very easily. The contoured handle adds a high degree of comfort and control. 

Kershaw Utility Knife Specs
Blade Length: 6″
Overall Length: 10.6″
Blade Material: DIN 1.4116
Handle Material: Polypropylene
Country of Origin: China
MSRP: $21

Pros

  • Versatile for light-to-medium tasks
  • Comfortable and Secure Grip
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Not made for tough tasks
  • Very basic design

The Kershaw 6-inch Utility Knife is designed to be a “do-it-all” knife in the kitchen for light-to-medium-duty food prep tasks, and can handle meats, fruits and vegetables with no problem. One look at this knife and the word “basic” comes to mind. It is just a no-frills kitchen knife and I say that not in a negative light but rather a positive one. Sometimes simple is the way to go; it is the most direct way.

The 6-inch blade is DIN 1.4116 stainless steel in a nice brushed-satin finish. The handle has an expanded front section that not only acts as a finger stop but also is shaped in a way that promotes using the pinch grip for more precise control for detail cutting. The handle profile is rounded so it sits in your grip nicely and comfortably with no hot spots to speak of. The material is molded polypropylene and sports a slight texturing to aid in grip retention.  As an added bonus, the knife comes with a molded plastic slip sheath to protect the blade when not in use. Because of this, the knife can be stored in a backpack for a camping trip, a drawer of your RV or a kitchen drawer, all without worry of edge damage or accidental cuts.

Due to the very thin blade stock (.057 inch at the thickest), the Kershaw slices tomatoes with surgical precision. The edge bites into the skin and glides right through with very little resistance. The blade is somewhat flexible but not as much as, say, a fillet knife. You are still able to flex the blade a bit, so I would not tackle any tough cutting with it and certainly not torque the handle. The blade shape is adaptable to all sorts of food prep tasks, from meats to vegetables to fruits.

The size is perfect to accompany a larger chef’s knife, for those tasks for which an 8-inch chef’s knife is too big and a paring knife is too small. The major selling points are the basic design, thin blade stock, rounded handle and price. MSRP: $20.99. Country of origin: China.

Amazon$21Check Price
Knife Center$21Check Price
Kershaw$21Check Price

Gerber ComplEAT Utility Knife

Gerber ComplEAT Utility Knife
The Gerber ComplEAT Utility Knife has more aggressive serrations than the Case Tomato Slicer, slices tomatoes well and doubles as a bread knife.

Gerber ComplEAT Specs
Blade Length: 6″
Overall Length: 10″
Blade Material: 4116 German stainless stee
Handle Material: Glass-filled polypropylene
Country of Origin: China
MSRP: $35

Pros

  • Multi-use versatility
  • Serrated blade stays sharp
  • Ergonomics are great

Cons

  • Constructed of basic materials

The serrated Gerber ComplEAT 6-inch Utility Knife will handle meats, produce and bread. It’s the perfect complement to the other two models—chef’s and paring knives—in the company’s ComplEAT series.

The 6-inch blade is German 4116 stainless steel for affordability and stain resistance. Commonly used in pocketknives, the sheepsfoot blade is utility friendly. The full flat grind thins the serrations down well without being fragile and gives the edge its bite. A stonewash finish seals the micro pores in the steel to prevent rust from forming easily.

The handle is dual molded, with a hard plastic outer frame and inlays of a softer, grippier rubber-like material. The inlays are inset some to provide an innovative finger groove of sorts that allows you to obtain good handle traction, as your fingers and thumb can rest inside it, helping you to control the knife at all times. Additionally, there is a forward pinch grip/recessed area on both sides of the handle for exact control. The handle perimeter features multifaceted chamfers that not only reduce hot spots but also make the handle feel slimmer by removing bulk. An oblong hole accepts a lanyard or simply serves to hang the knife on a peg, nail or hook when not in use.

The handle color is interesting. Gerber calls it Baltic Haze and is a matte light green with dark green rubber inlays. It is more appealing than standard black and fits in well with the outdoor theme. A matching plastic slip sheath protects the blade and is safe to carry in a backpack.  

The ComplEAT handles tomatoes similarly to the Case Tomato Slicer. The serrations allow the blade to immediately bite into the tomato skin and help the edge to remain sharp over time. Unlike the Case, the ComplEAT can be used for other foods, too—cucumbers, onions, chicken, pork, beef and even as a bread knife, including bagels, baguettes and such. It is a true multi-use performer. If you need one knife to tackle a variety of food for camping, it might be the one as the evenly spaced serrations cut smoothly. If you prefer infrequent sharpening, the serrations are for you. Why? The serrations’ scallops are sharp and are protected by the teeth. 

Gerber$35Check Price

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Buckhorn Review: Ketuo-Ken Onion Hit It Out Of The Park

The Buckhorn collaboration is about as good as it gets without going custom.

Ketuo Knives partnered with renowned custom knifemaker and designer Ken Onion, to come out with a collaboration knife unlike any other collaboration Onion has previously done.

Dubbed the Buckhorn and marketed under the Karbon Knives banner, the knife debuted at the 2024 BLADE Show in Atlanta in June, and it won the 2024 Knife Collaboration of the Year in the Knife of the Year award. And it takes partnership knives to the next level offering a bevy of top-shelf features at a price that doesn’t blow your budget.

Honestly, it’s shocking!

BUCKHORN Blade

Buckhorn blade
Known to hold up against heavy usage, the blade’s S35VN steel blade is a solid choice.

Onion has outfitted the Buckhorn with a modified 3.8-inch drop-point blade constructed from S35VN stainless steel. The material is a tried-and-true high-performance blade steel that holds an edge well and be fairly easy to sharpen when the need arises. To this is applied a high, flat grind that progressively thins down, giving the folder an elegant cross-section capable of cleaving through even tough materials. Topping it off, the blade is given a nice ceramic blast finish which is subdued but also has a nice sheen to it that is rather classy and dressy.
Action

Onion opted for dual thumbstuds on the Buckhorn, making the folder friendly to both lefties and righties. Additionally, a flipper tab is included, for effortless blade deployment with the flick of your index finger.

A hidden gem, Ken Onion is hidden away on the backside of the spacer.
A hidden gem, Ken Onion is hidden away on the backside of the spacer.

The blade rides on a pair of caged ceramic bearings in the pivot for the ultimate smoothness in opening and closing. The flipper action is very dialed in as well. Place your index finger on the flipper and press on it for a second and you’ll feel it load up then the detent lets the blade go, and it rotates to the fully open and locked position effortlessly.

Buckhorn Handle

Ketuo-Ken Onion Buckhorn closed
Very nicely textured and featuring a palm swell, the Buckhorn fits the hand just right.

The handle of the Buckhorn is really, where all the magic is.

Perhaps the most unique design trait of the handle is the palm swell machined into the middle of the handle. This is employed to help seat the knife firmly in your hand and make it easier to grip. Continuing on, there’s the eye-catching 3D checkerboard micro-milling pattern at both ends of the handle, on both sides. Even the stylish minimalist titanium pocket clip sports the same 3D micro-milling pattern on the back, providing visual continuity to the clip side of the handle.

Speaking of the pocket clip, it is held onto the handle with one Torx screw. The handle end of the clip sits in a matching cavity to prevent it from rotating, thus remain secure with one fastening point.

The pivot screw is brass colored, as is the pivot ring. Eye-catching, the tandem give the illusion of the end of a shotgun shell, which is a unique aesthetic to the Buckhorn. The brass color pops against the bead-blasted handle. The matching titanium handle spacer covers about ¾ of the handle length, and at the end of the handle, the spacer forms an integral lanyard loop.

Keuto-Onion Buckhorn pivot.
An absouletely stunning design point, the pivot screw looks like a shotshell head. Interestingly, the other side where the torx head is looks like a fired shell with a firing pin impression.

The framelock lockup engages the lower third of the width of the tang, so an easy lockup. It engages solidly without any movement in any direction. With a firm push of your thumb, the lock disengages allowing the blade to rotate closed.

I don’t believe you’re going to have any concerns over the lock holding or failing on this one. Ketuo did this one right!

Buckhorn Tested

Buckhorn half open
Outfitted with thumbstuds and a kicker, the knife is quick into action.

In action, the Buckhorn is a very efficient cutting tool. It deploys easily and with the flat ground blade, it slices easily and effortlessly.
The front section of the blade has the wedge and is the thinnest portion, sailing through various materials with ease. I like how the entire cutting edge has a graceful curve to it. Not only visually appealing, this feature allows you to make use of the entire length of the cutting edge.

S35VN is a top-performing steel and is an excellent choice for the Buckhorn. This steel will go the distance and withstand heavy usage. Also, dig the fact the ambidextrous thumb studs are positioned as far back on the blade as possible, this gets them out of the way to eliminate hanging up on material being cut. A smart move!

Ken Onion Buckhorn lanyard loop
Then handle spacer is also titanium and forms an intergral lanyard loop at the aft of the knife.

With the handle’s ergonomic features, I felt in control of the knife at all times and found no hot spots to speak of. It just fits the hand so perfectly. This is a testament to Ken Onion’s design prowess and intimate understanding of handle design.

Final Cut

This knife is about as close as anyone will get to owning a full-blow custom knife from the man himself. At MSRP $275 and made in China, the Buckhorn is an excellent deal for what you get in return. It’s an exciting-looking design from one of the best in the game, using high-end materials with 3D machined titanium and S35VN, and a sturdy framelock. Well worth the price of admission.

Pros

  • Stunning overall design
  • Excellent materials
  • Crisp action
  • Priced right

Cons

  • Nice enough you may not want to carry it.

Buckhorn Specs
Blade Material: S35VN
Blade Angle: >60°
Full Length: 8.78″
Handle Length: 4.84″
Blade Length: 3.85″
Type: Folding Blade Knife
Handle Material: 6AL-4V
Finishing: Bead blast & Anodizing
Weight: 4.44 oz
Color: Silver w/ Gold Ano Accents
Designer: Ken Onion
Brand: Karbon Knives
Manufacturer: Ketuo Knife

Buckhorn Deals:

BladeHQ$270Check Price
Karbon Knives$275Check Price
White Mountain Knives$270Check Price

Work Sharp Ken Onion Elite Mk2 Review [Hands On]

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Has Work Sharp improved on its legendary tool?

The Work Sharp Ken Onion Elite has been the standard for powered abrasive belt sharpening for about a decade. And it’s more than earned its place in knife enthusiasts’ sharpening stations. Yet, Onion and Work Sharp were just getting warmed up.

Unveiled at the beginning of 2024, the Ken Onion Elite Mk2 (KOE Mk2) aims to outdo the original in about every way. But does it?

That’s what I aimed to find out when I pulled out a bevy of knives and put the unit through its paces. Is the sharpener more user-friendly? Does it offer more functionality? Can it unseat the legendary Work Sharp Ken Onion Elite?

Let’s find out.

Work Sharp Ken Onion Elite Mk2 Grinding Attachment

Ken Onion WorkSharp MK.2 with grinding head

Work Sharp didn’t veer away from the basic functionality of the Work Sharp Ken Onion Elite in the Mk2. For example, blade grinding attachment still uses the same 1”x18” belts as the original and pretty much functions the same.

Onion and the company, however, have enhanced the operation of the attachment in several ways.

The angle adjustments on the grinding attachment now can be made on the fly and without de-tensioning the belt or even turning the unit off. This is done through a round nob under the plate controls, which raises and lowers the idler wheel. A built-in angle indicator allows you to dial in the exact edge.

The aforementioned idler wheel is also new to the system and can be set for three edge types: conventional V, low-angle convex, and high-angle convex. A major plus, this is achieved without tools or even de-tensioning the belt—though, the power must be off.

Ken Onion WorkSharp MK.2 grinder adjustment

Work sharp has included a belt guard on the new model, gone are the days of the original’s open face. The guard has a port hole that you can place the hub fastener into (so you won’t lose it!) whenever you convert this unit to the standard three-pulley cassette.

Finally, the Mk2 has an adjustable height reference plate on the platen end of the grinding attachment. Quite simply, this allows for finer adjustments at the platen end.

Overall the build, of the new BGA is more substantial than the original, as there is now more weight to it.

Work Sharp Ken Onion Elite Mk2 Sharpening Head

Ken Onion WorkSharp MK.2 Sharpening Head

If you prefer to use the standard three-pulley cassette instead of the Blade Grinding Attachment, you can physically swap out the two easily. The power head attaches to either using a simple twist lock connection at the motor housing at the drive shaft.

A nice aspect of the cassette is it includes a scissor guide in addition to a knife guide, which is set at a 65-degree angle. For knives, you use the pull-through method, resting the blade on one of the leather-lined blade rests and pulling the blade through along the belt.

Selecting your edge angle is as easy as turning a dial, similar to the blade grinding attachment. Rotate the knob to the desired edge angle and both blade rests will move in or out simultaneously.

There’s also an included blade rest with plastic rollers that allow you to steady the blade as you pull it through. If you wish to not use these, they simply rotate out of the way and lock into the stowed position.

However, with the cassette, there is no option to adjust for different edge types (standard V, low convex, or high convex). You just get a regular convex edge only, but still razor sharp.

Work Sharp Ken Onion Elite Mk2 Power Head

As for the power head end of things, there are several improvements here. You’ll notice the larger motor housing and inside is a more powerful motor with electronic torque management. The motor senses the load placed on the belt and compensates for it, making this sharpener almost impossible to bog down in use.

The pushbutton speed control with LED light scale shows you at a glance how fast the belt is running. And slowing down or speeding up the belt is as easy as pushing a button.

The Mk2 has a constant on setting—you just squeeze the power trigger and press a button to lock in the setting. Shutting it off is a matter of hitting the stop button or squeezing the power trigger.

The body of the Mk2 has a cast metal overlay that adds rigidity as well as boosts the rough and tumble looks of the tool. Furthermore, the metal overlay makes the unit quieter and dampens vibrations.

Work Sharp Ken Onion Elite Mk2 Testing

Putting the Ken Onion Elite Mk2 to use is a pleasure. However, I’d say, that to step up to a tool of this nature you need to know your manual sharpening skills inside and out—especially when using the grinding attachment. If you don’t know what you’re doing you risk damaging blades or simply spinning your wheels with a sub-par sharpening. Given the guides, the cassette is more forgiving.

I have ten solid years of experience with the original Ken Onion Elite and know the limits of the machine. With this being said, the functionality of the Mk2 is identical to the original and the improvements mentioned make it more user-friendly, improving the overall experience.

Ken Onion WorkSharp MK.2 sharpening with grinding head

I also found the Mk2 is easier to set up and dial in, as well as change angles instantly with the machine powered on. The ability to dial in the edge type (standard V, low convex, and high convex) allows you to tailor the edge format to your specific task for the knife.

Personally, I prefer the high convex, which allows you to cut the edge angle back 2-3 degrees more for enhanced edge sharpness. At the same time, it still retains enough “meat” in the center for lateral strength.

Final Cut

As it goes, the Work Sharp Ken Onion Elite Mk2 doesn’t come cheap with an MSRP of $300. It’s a bit steep for a sharpener. But when you look at what you get, it’s easy to see why it’s still valuable.

While this was primarily designed as a sharpening machine, it’s also a miniature variable speed belt sander that will work on metal, PVC, plastic, and wood. In turn, you receive two machines in one, plus it can handle knives and scissors as well as assist you with projects in your garage or shop. How can you beat that?

Honestly, if you want to take your sharpening game to the next level and beyond, invest in the Ken Onion Elite Mk2 from Work Sharp.

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