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5 Leading Sharpening Rods

Dexter Ewing
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5 Leading Sharpening Rods

5 LEADING SHARPENING RODS TAKE THE AUTHOR’S SHARP TEST

The sharpening rod is perhaps the No. 1 kitchen knife accessory in many households. Why? Usually 8 to 12 inches long, it is a hardened steel rod with a coating of industrial diamonds that helps abrade steel and lightly sharpens a  cutting edge. Most models are basic and there’s not much to them. They are more effective than standard butcher-type steels that align the edge and don’t remove material, and are good for regular maintenance of kitchen knives in between professional sharpening.

Accusharp 9-inch

Accusharp offers a 9-inch sharpening steel, model #034C. The ergonomic, rubber overmold handle makes it easy to hold thanks to the non-slip grip. It stores easily in a drawer or hangs from an extra-large handle hole. The guard is round, so the sharpener will roll when you set it down, which can be annoying. It does not come with a container for protection while not in use.

The steel and its fine abrasive in a 1500 grit maintains a blade well. My only complaint is with the soft rubber part of the co-molded handle. The rubber is in a diagonal shape and on one end closest to the guard of the test model, it is visibly raised and you can peel it back a bit. However, if it comes undone, you can easily fix it with a strong adhesive. Country of origin: China. MSRP: $34.99.

TOOTHIER EDGES: Lansky’s Diamond Sharp Stick

The handle of Lansky’s 9-inch Diamond Sharp Stick is a dual-material, rubber overmold for both comfort and durability. Like most sharpening-steel handles, a full integral guard protects your hand from accidental cuts. A split ring affixed to the handle’s end provides for hanging the rod on a hook or nail.

The Sharp Stick has a hard plastic tube that fits over it and secures in place by an O-ring that slides down the rod close to the guard. You can remove the O-ring but you must leave it on to take advantage of the hard plastic tube to protect the sharpening rod surface when stored. The O-ring is positioned far down on the handle to not interfere with operation.

I discovered something interesting with the Sharp Stick. As with all the test models, the grit is fine but the Lansky seemed most aggressive in the cut and produces a toothier edge than the rest. In my opinion this is very good, as I prefer a toothier edge on my kitchen knives, though some do not.

The rubber gripping portion of the handle is textured well, and offers a great purchase with wet or dry hands. The guard is also robust in appearance, as some equate robustness with better quality. That’s not always the case but with this one it definitely is. Country of origin: China. MSRP: $33.99.

Diamond Machining Technology (DMT) DS2F

In my opinion, the Diamond Machining Technology (DMT) DS2F diamond sharpening steel is superior in several ways to the balance of the test rods. The fine-grit diamond-coated model has a red plastic/rubber tip. DMT uses a color-coded system to denote various grits, including red for fine. The tip also helps stabilize the rod on a flat surface. The DS2F ships in a nice, clear vinyl pouch that locks around the guard. The pouch is great for storage.

While the other test models have dual-molded handles that incorporate hard plastic and firm rubber for comfort, the DMT has a hard plastic one. However, don’t turn your nose up just yet. The handle tapers gradually toward the guard, which makes the entire grip fill your hand nicely. There are also five grooves on the tapered part that enhance a secure hold. The guard has four semi-circular cutouts to provide anti-roll qualities, which I really like. The DMT doesn’t roll at all when you put it down. A plastic shackle attached to the handle end for hanging also is color-coded to grit. The shackle can be removed if you desire. It’s creature comforts like these that make the difference between a good product and a great one.

The DMT is definitely a top performer. The 12-inch rod captures pretty much all sizes of kitchen knives. Of all the test models, I felt the DMT produced the finest edge, that is, the edge isn’t toothy or grabby, it’s just plain sharp. The D2SF leaves a nice, refined finish on the cutting edge.

One thing about the handle shape: Since it tapers toward the guard, it forces you to nestle your hand up against the guard when holding it. This stabilizes the sharpener in your hand. When you grip it farther away from the guard, the sharpener isn’t as stable—something to consider. If you prefer holding your sharpening rod, you might want to get the DMT for this very feature. This is just a top-notch, high-end sharpener. Country of origin: USA. MSRP: $53.59.

EZE-Lap Model G

The 8-inch EZE-Lap Model G is the shortest of the test models. The shorter rod allows for easy use as well as com pact storage inside a drawer. It comes in a fine grit to produce a nice working edge in a minimal amount of time. The large-diameter plastic handle has enough girth for a comfortable hold. The integral guard is very much like the DMT D2SF’s, with a non-round shape that helps curb rolling on a flat surface. Well done! An extra-large handle hole promotes hanging for storage.

EZE-Lap’s Model G round-profile diamond sharpening rod is only 8 inches long, which makes it the shortest rod evalu- ated, though that doesn’t mean it is any less effective. The shorter overall length stores in a drawer easily or in cramped quarters such as in an RV.

The thing about a shorter rod like the Model G is you must be quick on the draw when working on longer kitchen knives, such as 8-inch chef’s knives and up. Compared to 10- and 12-inch rods, you’re losing real estate to work from and must pull the blade across the length of the Model G quicker. For shorter blades, this should not be an issue. On the other hand, the smaller size is ideal for camping, traveling in an RV, etc.

The Model G ships in a stiff paper sleeve, which can be reused to protect the rod as well as other items stored near/by it. The sharpener felt very coarse to the touch out of the packaging. All diamond sharpeners do. As you use them they will smooth out, though this has no bearing on performance, and performance-wise the EZE-Lap does very well. Country of origin: USA. MSRP: $31.95.

Work Sharp Culinary M3 Sharpener

The Work Sharp Culinary M3 sharpener takes the basic diamond-coated steel rod sharpener and improves on its function by offering choices. The M3 comes with not one but two rods—coarse-grit steel with a diamond coating and a fine-grit ceramic rod. Both rods interchange with the included ergonomic handle and are secured in place by strong magnets.

The 8.25-inch steel rod tapers gradually from handle to tip. At the end of the rod is a rubber button, which helps stabilize the sharpener when the end is placed on a table or countertop and the handle is held with one hand. It sounds like a typical steel rod until you get to the handle.

Instead of the standard integral, flared guard is a pair of ramped surfaces that serve as angle guides. When you hold the sharpener upright, place the side of the blade on the rod and rest it against the ramped surface. Then, with the standard motion using a rod sharpener, travel down the rod, holding the blade at the preset angle. Bring the opposite side of the blade to the other side of the rod and repeat. The gripping part of the handle is firm-textured rubber, and a thumb divot on the end helps stabilize the sharpener in use.

A little “MicroForge” slot in one of the guides contains a small yet wide serrated wheel. After you get a sharp edge, remove the rod from the handle and place the end of the handle on the table, in similar fashion to how you were sharpening. Place the blade in the slot at the tip. With light pressure, push the blade through until the handle gets to the tang, then stop. The serrated wheel will crimp the edge slightly, forming tiny and evenly spaced micro serrations. The serrations act like bigger serrations found on other kitchen knives. Using the MicroForge feature is not mandatory, but it is designed as an additional function to help provide the longest-lasting edge possible.

The steel rod cuts fast to restore dull edges. It provides a working edge in a minimal amount of time. Follow up with the fine ceramic rod after the edge has been established to refine it further. The ceramic rod’s smooth and fluted sides give a choice of edge finishes: a bit more bite with the latter and a more polished edge with the former.

The M3 ships in a sturdy cardboard box, the sharpener parts store inside a tray, and the tray slides into the box. The steel rod has a protective plastic sleeve, too. It is the most comprehensive of the test lot. Country of origin: Parts sourced globally, U.S. assembled/calibrated. MSRP: $69.99.

HOW TO USE A ROD

No matter the brand or model, sharpening steels are used the same way. Most manufacturers recommend using one while standing at the kitchen counter or seated at a table.

Take the sharpening steel and place the tip on the table, held upright with the handle at the top. With one hand, grasp the handle firmly, keeping it perpendicular with the flat surface at all times. With the other hand, grasp the knife handle and place the blade at a 20-to-30 degree angle in relation to the sharpening steel. Place the blade as close to the guard as possible, set to start at the part of the blade closest to the tang. In one motion, move the blade down the length of the rod while at the same time draw the blade fully across the steel. When you near the flat surface you are working from, though without touching the surface, you should be at the blade tip.

Raise the blade to where you started from, switching the blade to the opposite side, then repeat the same stroke. Then, return to the side you started from, and repeat once again. Do an equal amount of strokes for both sides of the blade.

As you become more comfortable using the sharpening steel, you can forego the flat surface and hold the steel with one hand similar to how you would a large kitchen knife. With the other hand, place the blade on the rod at the recommended 20-to-30 degree angle and lightly push the blade across the rod, ending at the blade tip. I highly recommend you not proceed to this step until you are confident enough, because with this alternate method chances for not holding the angle correctly is greater.

Whatever method you use, remember to always use light strokes. There is no need to bear down on the blade with pressure. Let the rod do the work.

4 Carbon Cutters: Steel With An Old School Feel

Dexter Ewing
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4 Carbon Cutters: Steel With An Old School Feel

Carbon steel knives continue to be among the top factory performers.

High-performance stainless steels—CPM S30V, S35VN, S90V and 20CV, along with CPM 154, M390 and CTS 204P, to name some— rule in many corners of today’s knife market. While such steels exhibit astonishing edge-holding power and the ability to go the distance without much maintenance, the tradeoff is they can be difficult to sharpen. With the ascendance of such “super steels” you might think carbon steels would be gone for good.

Nothing could be further from the truth. While carbon steels may not attract the attention they once did, that doesn’t mean they’re no less a viable option for hunting, camping and even tactical knives. Many still prefer carbon steels over the high-performance stainless ones, and the primary reason is ease of sharpening, especially in the field. While carbon steels require a bit more maintenance, such as a light coat of oil to prevent corrosion and staining, they can give premium stainless steels a run for the money. Another factor is the all-important lower cost of carbon steels.

 

SANDBOX STEEL: A.G. Russell Knives Sandbox Dagger

Photo from agrussell.com

The inspiration for the Sandbox Dagger from A.G. Russell Knives comes straight from the old Camillus Marine Raider Stiletto and legendary Fairbairn-Sykes dagger, both of World War II fame. BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-Of-Fame® member A.G. Russell’s intent was to recreate the effectiveness of the venerable dagger designs while boosting the durability of the blade, as the tapered, relatively thin blades were prone to break. Carefully studying the old combat knives, A.G. devised the Sandbox Dagger.

Most daggers fail with broken tips. The A.G. Russell Sandbox Dagger in DM1 carbon steel is redesigned to allow for more blade tip thickness. The knife survived this sideways snap-out treatment with no damage whatsoever.

Beginning with a wider blade that takes longer to taper, thus giving it more body, he discovered new ways of grinding that allowed more stock thickness to remain, enhancing lateral strength. Traditionally a weak spot for daggers, the point thickness is more considerable as well. Another A.G. idea was to offer a “varied edge angle.” Most of the blade would be sharpened at A.G.’s preferred angle of 15 degrees, but toward the tip it changes to a more obtuse angle to bolster point strength. Phil Gibbs, company design engineer, was in charge of torture testing prototypes.  One of the tests he successfully performed was driving the dagger through an AK-47 magazine, with absolutely no damage to the tip, and the edge remaining very sharp.

The Sandbox Dagger from A.G. Russell is a highly functional cutting tool. It sliced up cardboard just as well as any single-edge knife would. It is razor sharp out of the box.

The 6-inch blade is DM1 steel, named in honor of bladesmith/metallurgist Dan Maragni, who assisted in its development and heat treatment for A.G. Russell Knives. It is a modified version of the 0170-6C carbon steel the old Camillus used when it made the Becker Knife & Tool line. (Today, KA-BAR makes all BK&T knives.) DM1 can sustain hard use without edge deformation or chipping, yet remains easy to resharpen.

The ergonomic handle is green, rib-textured Rucarta. The rounded handle expands toward the tang to better fit your hand. Indentations on either side give your thumb a non-slip resting place for grip retention, as well as a reference point for blade indexing. The blade is razor sharp out of the box.  Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP): $375. 

 

A-R-RMY, SIR! Case Hambone

Photo source: knifecenter.com

Knifemaker Daniel Winkler and U.S. Army veteran Clint Romesha (page ??) designed the Case Hambone to be a “do-all” field knife for field dressing, batonning wood, preparing food and more. Hambone was the nickname of the legendary U.S. Army pack mule Hamilton T. Bone. Hambone was based at Fort Carson, Colorado, as part of the pack mule program and served from 1943-56, including two combat missions during World War II—the same base Romesha operated from during his military career. 

Is it tactical or outdoor? How about both? The Case Hambone is a heavy-duty fixed blade of 80CrV2 carbon steel that will serve either function very well. The flat-ground blade slices easily.

Hambone the knife embodies the hardworking spirit of Hambone the pack mule. The 80CrV2 carbon steel is tough and holds an edge. The trailing point/skinner blade is 4.75 inches with a full flat grind and generous belly that facilitate chores like slicing and chopping/batonning. Handle material options are black canvas Micarta®, curly maple and black textured rubber. The finger-grooved handle with a bird’s-beak butt and integral guard ensures a secure grip in most conditions.

The eight stars engraved on the handle spine memorialize Romesha’s eight teammates who gave their lives during the Battle of Kamdesh in Afghanistan (page ??). The exposed blade tang can be employed as a hammer or glass breaker. The felt-lined Kydex sheath promotes sure knife retention and easy deployment equally well. Rather than having a typical fold-over or sandwich construction, the sheath uses a Micarta spacer to separate its Kydex halves. The OD green Kydex features black overlay with a star laser cut into it to symbolize the Army’s colors and logo.

The eight stars on the blade spine of the Case/Winkler Hambone memorialize the eight men who were part ofArmy Staff Sgt. Clint Romesha’s Cavalry unit who perished during a 2009 battle with Afghan rebels. Along with Daniel Winkler, Romesha designed the Hambone.

The Hambone’s deep blade belly is great for cutting meats and vegetables. The blade is fairly thick up to the tip, which makes it strong for heavy use and abuse. The handle is quite comfortable, providing ample blade control at all times, even with wet hands. The Micarta material is an excellent choice for an all-around user.

The only downside might be the weight. Some may find the knife too heavy on a belt, but, then again, the weight is one of the contributing factors to its cutting power. MSRPs: $325.99 (black canvas Micarta), $333.99 (curly maple) and $342.99 (textured rubber).   

 

TACTICAL CLASSIC: Steel Will Barghest

The Steel Will Barghest has all the hallmarks of a great tactical folder. The test model’s modified clip-point blade of 3.5 inches is full-flat ground from D2 tool steel, a favorite among production companies and custom makers for its toughness and ease of sharpening.  The blade opens via a flipper or ambidextrous thumb studs, and the swedge grind adds a bit of attitude. The action is quick, smooth and precise, with the blade riding on a pair of phosphor bronze washers.

The Barghest and its D2 tool steel blade is the latest tactical folder from Steel Will. It comes in two sizes and two blade finishes, and features flipper opening as well as dual thumb studs. It’s a rugged EDC folder at a great MSRP ($84.99 and $89.99)

The handle is a study in the perfect tactical folder design well suited for prolonged use regardless of the elements. The  integral guard prevents your hand from slipping forward, and the handle gracefully curves and expands slightly at the midsection to fill your palm nicely without feeling too unwieldy.  The blade secures via a linerlock, and dual steel liners provide rigidity. Black G-10 scales feature a series of machined grooves that enhance your grip with or without gloves. A pronounced chamfer on the edges of the scales makes the Barghest feel very comfortable, eliminating any hot spots. A fold-over steel pocket clip carries the knife deep in a pocket. Steel Will also offers a second clip for lefties—just switch clips. The G-10 handle spacer sports large  traction notches, and is slightly oversized to make the notches stand out.

The Steel Will Barghest and its D2 blade packs the punch to get tough cutting jobs accomplished and still hold an edge very well.

The Barghest offers what I like in a tactical folder. The blade shape and size is ideal for many cutting tasks, not too small nor too large, and has plenty of bite to power through a variety of tough materials. D2 is a time-proven steel that withstands abuse yet is easy to maintain.

The only negative I see is the pocket clip.  Yes, it is a positive as well, but not everyone likes the deep-carry feature, as no part of the handle sticks above the pocket to grab onto. Hence, you must fish around a bit to grab the knife. Hey, you can’t please everyone! MSRPs: $84.99 (3.5-inch blade) and $89.99 (4-inch blade).

 

STOUT as it is SOLID: Condor Tool & Knife Blue Havoc

condortk.com

The Condor Tool & Knife Blue Havoc features a 5.5-inch drop-point blade of 1075 carbon steel mated to two-tone black-and-blue paper Micarta scales and a black phenolic bolster. The knife is a handful, a beast that can tackle any cutting task at camp or, in a pinch, use for combat. It is stout as it is solid. The satin-finished blade’s full flat grind is aces in cutting efficiency. A series of traction notches filed into the blade spine provide optimal positioning for applying downward pressure for tougher cutting tasks.

The Condor Tool & Knife Blue Havoc and its beastly blade of 1075 carbon steel can tackle most any camp cutting task.

The handle sports a generous palm swell that fills your grip comfortably, is non-slip and offers precise blade control. Micarta is an excellent choice for using knives because it is strong yet lightweight. It is impervious to most fluids and isn’t affected by weather changes, humidity, heat or most any external factor that would cause integrity issues. Plus, it comes in a myriad of hues to please the pickiest knife enthusiast. The dual-color Micarta® layers show through, adding an exciting visual texture, more so than any solid color Micarta can offer. Integral front and rear guards prevent unwanted hand movement in either direction, and the front guard enables you to choke up to exercise control for precise cutting. As big as the knife is, it’s important that it be able to tackle finer cutting as well, especially in a camp or survival scenario.

The Condor Tool & Knife Havoc is an edged tool to take on your next camping trip. Its droppoint blade and ergonomic handle are ideal for a variety of cutting tasks.

The Blue Havoc’s sheath materials are an unusual mix: molded Kydex and a leather belt loop. Most Kydex sheaths usually have either a Kydex belt loop or some sort of quick-release attachment, such as a Blade-Tech Tek-Lok. The reason Condor went with the leather belt loop on a Kydex sheath is to allow you to remount the belt loop in the event the sheath orientation must be reversed to accommodate left-hand/side-body carry. Simply remove/replace two screws to dismount/remount the loop. Also, the leather allows the entire sheath to move on your belt to a degree to prevent the knife from being caught up in bushes, branches, etc.

Condor’s catalog states the Blue Havoc can be used in either a tactical or outdoor setting, though due to its appearance, the knife is probably better suited for outdoor use. Moreover, the drop-point blade shape makes it a great camp utility knife for food prep or field dressing/skinning tasks. The 1075 carbon steel resharpens very well, which helps at the campsite. MSRP: $134.98.  

STILL RELEVANT

Carbon steel is alive and well at a time when super steels are all the rage. It remains the steel of choice of many hardcore knife users, not only for the lower cost but primarily for the ease of sharpening. It may require a bit more maintenance than stainless, but carbon steel is still relevant and here to stay.

 

How to Use a Knife Sharpening Rod

Dexter Ewing
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How to Use a Knife Sharpening Rod

No matter the brand or model, sharpening steels are used the same way. Most manufacturers recommend using one while standing at the kitchen counter or seated at a table.

The Set Up

Take the sharpening steel and place the tip on the table, held upright with the handle at the top.

With one hand, grasp the handle firmly, keeping it perpendicular with the flat surface at all times.

With the other hand, grasp the knife handle and place the blade at a 20-to-30 degree angle in relation to the sharpening steel. Place the blade as close to the guard as possible, set to start at the part of the blade closest to the tang.

Move the Blade

In one motion, move the blade down the length of the rod while at the same time draw the blade fully across the steel. When you near the flat surface you are working from, though without touching the surface, you should be at the blade tip.

Repeat

Raise the blade to where you started from, switching the blade to the opposite side, then repeat the same stroke. Then, return to the side you started from, and repeat once again. Do an equal amount of strokes for both sides of the blade.

Getting Better

As you become more comfortable using the sharpening steel, you can forego the flat surface and hold the steel with one hand similar to how you would a large kitchen knife. With the other hand, place the blade on the rod at the recommended 20-to-30 degree angle and lightly push the blade across the rod, ending at the blade tip.

I highly recommend you not proceed to this step until you are confident enough, because with this alternate method chances for not holding the angle correctly is greater.

Let the Rod Do the Work

Whatever method you use, remember to always use light strokes. There is no need to bear down on the blade with pressure. Let the rod do the work.

SOG Knives Refreshes in 2020

Dexter Ewing
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SOG Knives Refreshes in 2020

THE AWARD-WINNING FACTORY KNIFE COMPANY UNDERGOES A BRAND REFRESH IN 2020

The year was 1986. The Soviet Union hosted its first Goodwill Games. Halley’s Comet was visible from Earth for the first time in 76 years. Up to 6.5 million people participated in a charity event called Hands Across America. Phantom of the Opera premiered in London’s West End. And SOG Specialty Knives—aka SOG—made its debut.

The first SOG-brand knife was a reproduction of the original SOG Bowie in tribute to the Studies and Observations Group* of Vietnam War fame. Eventually, the SOG Specialty Knives line grew to include knives mass produced with attention to detail and quality. Today, the company has grown into an innovative, major player whose products are among the leading choices of Navy SEALs and other military, law enforcement, fire and rescue, tradesmen and everyday knife users the world over. Folders, fixed blades, flashlights, multi-tools and gear— SOG has you covered.

Over the years, it’s only natural that a knife company keeps growing in size and product offerings, constantly evolving itself and its knives. SOG has kept moving forward, and 2020 marks a significant milestone in the company’s evolution: a prominent revamp of sales and marketing strategies, a refresh of existing models and an engineering of new ones to further meet the demands of those who serve and keep us safe, as well as the needs of everyday knife consumers.

With its slender form factor, XR lock, carbon fiber handle and CTS XHP stainless blade, the Ultra XR defines classy high tech. The super-slim folder carries well and also doubles as a money clip. The gold-titanium-nitride coating adds a bit of bling. The blade also is available in a more subdued black-titanium-nitride coat.

The architect for the brand refresh is Jonathan Wegner, company brand vice president. “We’ve taken the best things from the last three decades, and doubled down on the things that we feel are most relevant to our end users today and into the future,” he explains, “and are focused on delivering solutions that are authentic to the brand.”

Why the transformation? According to Wegner, consumers reported that the company’s more recent focus and quality were not there. Many stated their idea of SOG was from an era that is now past, when the company brought some innovative ideas to market and was driven to produce the best knives and tools for tactical and other consumers. “So, by first studying and observing ourselves, we were able to determine that a significant change was needed,” Wegner notes. “Most of this led to our reposition and future focus.”

The Flash AT is designed for daily carry with a drop-point blade of D2 tool steel and a handle of molded glass-reinforced nylon in multiple color options.

SOG founder and president Spencer Frazer was the primary driving force behind the company and many of its product designs, from its inception until a couple of years ago when Joe McSwiney was hired to lead the outfit.

“Spencer was involved throughout the brand refresh process, and a lot of what we have done with the brand hearkens back to his original vision,” Wegner states. “Therefore, it was vital that he was involved throughout every aspect of it.” Even back then, Frazer was seriously considering stepping down from overseeing daily operations and returning to his passion of developing innovative products. “So, once the brand refresh and new products strategy were in place,” Wegner says, “he felt comfortable stepping back.”

SOG has been Spencer’s baby since day one, so stepping back at any time or putting just anyone in charge isn’t what he wanted. “SOG’s future is pushing into an even greater extension of the original intent when it was founded,” Spencer notes. “I cannot be prouder of what the company has grown into.”

RELENTLESS by DESIGN

The new company slogan is “Relentless by Design.” This encompasses SOG’s past while embracing the future. Being a major player in the tactical market for many years has pushed the company to continuously innovate and bring new models to market. Starting this fall, SOG will double down on the pushing and debut some intriguing models.

With Frazer retired and the right people in place, the company is poised to embark on a fresh, new and exciting chapter where its knives and other products will be more focused and specifically aimed at three target groups: Professional, Outdoor and Daily. More on them later. Meanwhile, by the time the new vision was in place, many of SOG’s lower-end knives and other products already had been discontinued. “We felt those items didn’t truly represent the types of items we want to be [offering],” Wegner says.

SOG has gone to some stylish pocket clips this year, model examples from top: the Ultra XR and its extra-wide/long clip (it doubles as a money clip), Flash AT, Terminus XR and Pentagon XR.

Along with this, Walmart, which previously sold some of the now- discontinued, lower-end SOG items, was removed as a retailer. Most everyone else who had sold SOG knives will remain, including many knife-specific retailers on the Internet and elsewhere.

Beginning in the fall, the first phase of the brand refresh will officially go live, and, as of press time, some of the new knives already had been released. All of the new product classes are designed to function at peak levels, engineered with intent and built with the best materials for each specific price point.

As part of the new SOG’s knives fall into the three aforementioned categories: Professional (law enforcement, EMT, fire and military); Outdoor (hunters, hikers, campers, fishermen, etc.); and Daily (trades, office workers, warehouse workers and such). All three incorporate what the SOG brain trust calls a visual brand language. This means each category incorporates a specific geometric shape that is a motif for the designs that populate it.

For example, the knives in the Professional category have trapezoidal design elements. Outdoor employs a circular design motif. Finally, Daily employs triangular design elements. The purpose of the visual brand language is so you can readily identify each knife’s purpose.

In addition to the visual brand language, SOG is using new “naming conventions” as well. The standardized approach allows you to easily identify the primary technologies the knives use. For example, XR denotes the knife uses SOG’s XR lock (SEAL XR), AT denotes Assisted Technology (Flash AT), and FX indicates the knife is a fixed blade (SEAL FX). There are a few other designations but these are the most commonly used.

With the assisted- opening AT-XR lock, the Flash AT combines rapid deployment with lock security. Pulling back on the ambidextrous release disengages the lock. Note the lock safety on the handle spine. The red dot indicates the blade is ready to open.

Also new is a color-coded accent stripe on the packaging. Yellow is for Daily, light blue for Professional and gray for Outdoor. Topping it off is new packaging in which you can actually see the product inside and read about its key highlights on the partial flap of the box. The packaging is bold, forward looking and helps usher in the new SOG era.

The blade mark also has changed. The previous SOG logo is now STUDIES AND OBSERVATIONS GROUP—a nod to the past while looking to the future.

FALL KNIFE DEBUTS


First up for the new fall line is the SOG- TAC XR, a Professional class tactical folder using the XR lock, a 3.5-inch drop-point blade of D2 tool steel, flipper opening and a textured G-10 handle. The ergonomic handle integrates a guard, dual nested steel liners, and a deep-carry pocket clip. Handle colors come in black or OD green. Another Professional class piece is the Pentagon XR. Building on the legacy of the Pentagon series of folders and fixed blades, it takes the dagger-ish styling and adds the XR lock, textured G-10 handle, dual nested steel liners, flipper opening and a 3.5-inch spearpoint blade of CTS XHP stainless steel. Handle colors are black, FDE and OD green. The Vision XR flipper folder brings some aggressiveness to the Professional series, with bold styling and a 3.5-inch double- ground tanto blade of CTS XHP, and a textured black G-10 handle with dual nested liners.

The revamped Pentagon XR tactical folder has multiple choices of G-10 handle colors, and a fullered spear- point blade of CTS XHP stainless steel. The knife features flipper-tab and ambidextrous thumb-stud opening options.

In the Daily category is the Ultra XR, an ultra-thin, ultra-lightweight gentleman’s folder with a linerless carbon fiber handle and a 3-inch clip-point blade of CPM S35VN stainless. An extra-large, fold-over pocket clip doubles as a money clip. The blade is available in gold titanium nitride or black coating options. Another Daily category entry, the Flash AT features a 3.5- inch drop-point blade in D2 powered by SOG’s Assisted Opening Technology. The molded Zytel handle is available in a choice of red, cyan, yellow and black. The new folders use pivot bearings for ultra- smooth blade action.

SOG long has been a viable player in the production knife market and the new refresh elevates the company even further. Expect more good things to come.

5 Out-The-Side Automatic Knives that are Stylish & Functional

Dexter Ewing
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5 Out-The-Side Automatic Knives that are Stylish & Functional

By Dexter Ewing

Because the blade opens swiftly by the press of a button, the automatic has a special aura knife enthusiasts dig. There’s something satisfying about the crisp snap! sound the blade makes when it opens and locks. Add the fact that all five of our out-the-side (OTS) test autos are American made and their aura takes on a winsome red-white-and-blue tint.

What better way to start off a story on all-American-mades than with the Patriot Auto from Diamondblade Knives (DBK)? Among its notable safety features are an integrated forward hand guard and a handle butt that drops down to help discourage rearward sliding of your hand. Plus, the handle is contoured for comfort over prolonged use.

Another interesting Patriot feature is it is the only auto this writer is aware of that incorporates not one but two springs to fire the blade. There is a traditional coil spring plus a kicker leaf spring of 17-4 stainless steel integrated into the handle spine that, after the blade is released, “throws” the blade out. The coil spring takes over from there, propelling the blade to the open and locked position. In this writer’s experience, the Patriot has the most recoil of any OTS.

The blade is DBK’s patented Friction Forged D2 tool steel. You can clearly see the forged zone, which is demarcated similarly to a blade with a hamon. Due to the acute cutting edge angle, the blade has plenty of bite. Cutting meat, the Patriot is like a scalpel. Tougher materials such as cardboard and reinforced rubber hose are no match either.

Pros: The opening action is very responsive due to the twin spring setup. The lack of steel liners makes the knife thin, lightweight and easy to carry. The heavy-duty pocket clip totes the knife securely. Friction Forged technology enables the cutting edge to stay sharper for longer periods of time. There is a secondary sliding switch safety for additional carry security.

Cons: Because they are not steel, the Patriot’s liners widen the handle a bit, making it more comfortable for some users. This is not as stylish, appearance- wise, as other autos but the design works—and that’s what matters. There is a lack of gimping at the thumb rest on the handle spine. MSRP: $269.

UNOBTRUSIVE & STURDY

The Colonial Knife Model 556 automatic is tailored for law enforcement use. Though all black, it is an unassuming knife and doesn’t look aggressive.

The slender-profiled handle with a rounded contour rests in your hand comfortably. The main blade is a hollow- ground clip point of 440A stainless steel. A secondary blade operates via a slip joint from the handle butt—a specially designed, recessed rescue-cutter hook. Originally designed to sever flex-cuff restraints used in law enforcement, the hook also can be used to cut jammed seat belts or to remove accident victim clothing for emergency medical treatment.

The handle is a highly durable, impact- resistant thermoplastic called Isoplast. It has high-tensile strength to withstand rough service. There is a molded-in, earthy-type texture that provides a nonslip grip without being aggressive and rough on pants material.

The main blade fires automatically. It works off a button with a sliding switch safety to prevent both accidental activation and locking. The blade opens quickly with no recoil.

Due to the handle’s slender cross section, combined with its 1-ounce weight, the knife is a pleasure to carry. It lacks bulk and weight, and because it doesn’t take up much room, you can easily slide your hand into a pocket to fish out keys or change.

Pros: The 556 is easy to carry and comfortable to hold. The clip holds the knife securely in a pocket. It is lightweight and the main blade cuts like a scalpel.

Cons: The thin blade tip could be susceptible to breakage if used roughly, and the slender profile might be a disadvantage for those with bigger hands. MSRP: $120.

LOOKER that PERFORMS

The Heretic Medusa OTS pairs a wide blade with a curved, slender-ish, ergonomic handle. When the knife is open, it almost looks as if the blade will not fit into the handle when closed. It is an interesting visual effect this writer finds whimsically appealing in folding knives.

The blade finish is two-tone. The blade bevels have a KG Gunkote, and the flats are satin. The bit of bright silver popping through an otherwise all-black knife creates an interesting visual contrast.

The caged bearing system inside the coil spring assists with the ultra-smooth blade action. The handle is ergonomically shaped to fit the hand like a glove, with an integrated forward guard that tapers and curves to bring the rest of the handle into proper shape. Grip-tape inlays enhance hand traction. The tape is sufficiently recessed so it will not chafe pants fabric but not so deep that your fingers cannot touch it.

The handle comes in carbon fiber or anodized titanium and color options of black, green, blue, purple and orange. On the reverse side is a milled steel pocket clip with a large imbedded ball bearing on the end for ease of secure attachment/ detachment. The clip is unusual looking and not simply stamped steel. Some thought has obviously been invested into its appearance and function—very cool!

The handle has a steel spacer and a lanyard hole. The firing button is large, offers a checkered surface for a sure grip and sits flush to the handle surface. Firing the blade involves a deliberate push of the button. While there is no secondary safety, there is little to no danger of the Medusa’s blade firing accidentally.

Pros: The carbon-fiber version is extremely lightweight and a pleasure to carry. Since it’s recessed, the grip tape won’t damage your pocket. The flat- ground blade cuts very well and the tanto tip has excellent piercing capabilities.

Cons: The price is on the high side. In addition, some users do not like grip tape because it is too harsh on the fingers.

MSRPs: $322 to $350 for the aluminum- handle version and $434 to $462 for the carbon-fiber-handle one.

TACTICAL/STYLISH FUSION

The Gerber Empower features a utilitarian-friendly, spear-point blade mated to an aluminum handle. The OTS infuses a bit of “sporty” with “heavy duty” resulting in a huge amount of practicality. The Empower employs CPM S30V stainless blade steel and a machined aluminum handle with Type III hard- anodized coating for scratch protection. The 3.25-inch blade can tackle some of the biggest daily cutting tasks. The nearly full-length swedge gives it a sleek appearance, and a black-oxide coating boosts corrosion resistance and non- glare properties.


An expanded area around the pivot acts as an integral guard, and gimping in several handle locations enhances purchase. For style and further hand traction, Gerber includes an inlay called the “Armored Grip”—a plate of stainless steel with an electroformed, random- textured pattern.

Because the button isn’t recessed into the handle, the secondary safety is a necessity. Why doesn’t Gerber recess the firing button? Some argue it creates issues when the user is wearing gloves: It’s hard to deploy the blade quickly if you cannot feel the button. The ramped sliding switch safety is easy to operate, even with gloves. When you see the red dot, the knife is ready to go!

The handle comes in black, gray, urban blue and multicam arid camo. All have black, plain-edged blades except for the black handle version, which is also available in a stonewashed finish as well as black coated and partly serrated. The steel pocket clip carries tip up or down.

Pros: Due to its Armored Grip inlay, the Empower is an interesting fusion of tactical and style. The spear-point blade is adaptable to many cutting tasks. There is a pronounced firing button and sliding switch safety that are easily accessible, even with gloves.

Cons: The pocket clip is not ambidextrous and the handle gimping isn’t aggressive enough. The recessed lanyard holes are small, so standard 550 cord will not work as a lanyard.

MSRPs: $130 (black-bladed models); $125 (stonewash); and $150 (Multicam Arid).

ITALIAN STALLION

The “little brother” to Kershaw’s bigger Launch 8 Italian-style, stiletto automatic, the Launch 12 offers the same design in a more compact and easier-to-carry/ use package. Custom knifemaker Matt Diskin configured the Launch 8 and 12 to be modern versions of the classic Italian stiletto switchblades with the iconic symmetrical blades and handle profiles, along with integral curved guards.

The blade releases via an inlaid firing button but lacks a secondary safety. Kershaw obviates this by designing the release to be an intentional action: You must depress the button deliberately in order to get the blade to fire.

The Launch 12 may seem to be merely a curio but is far from it. The smaller size allows it to ride in the pocket nicely. The handle width makes it comfortable to grip and provides a secure hold. The blade action is very crisp and ultra-quick (no doubt, the blade’s small size and light weight help in these regards).

Pros: The Launch 12 is a good pocket-carry size. The clip is ambidextrous and positions the knife as low as possible in a pocket. The knife offers great action. It’s small but there is enough handle width to make it comfortable in the hand, and it doesn’t feel as if it might slip from your grip. The carbon-fiber inlay adds a nice touch of class.

Cons: The size might be too small for some with larger hands, and the blade tip might be fragile for rough use. MSRP: $149.99.

Editor’s note: Be sure to check all laws that pertain to both you and the area in which you carry your automatic knives.

For the contact information for the pictured knives, see “Where To Get ’Em” on page 71.

For the latest knives, knife news, trends and more visit blademag.com, BLADE®’s popular Instagram page @blade_ magazine, and on Facebook and Twitter.

We Demolish Cars with 3 New Breaching Tools

Dexter Ewing
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We Demolish Cars with 3 New Breaching Tools

Written by Dexter Ewing

Breaching tools are handy to have if you’re a firefighter, an EMT or in law enforcement. They can assist in gaining access to structures or vehicles in an emergency to help extract an accident victim, or to forcibly gain entry into a house or apartment to apprehend “the bad guys.”

There are differing varieties of breaching tools. Those in the story are tomahawk-based; they’re like standard tomahawks, but incorporate other features that make them more useful in emergency situations. Think tomahawks on steroids!

 

CRASH BROTHER 

U.S. military veterans Jared Ogden and Grady Powell designed the Camillus CRASH breaching tool. Ogden served as a Navy SEAL and Powell as an Army Green Beret. Both have designed other knives and tools for Camillus, employing the expertise they gained from their years of service to create efficient tactical implements. One such design is the CRASH breaching tool.

At 21.75 inches overall, the CRASH features 3Cr13 stainless steel with a titanium-nitride coating for rust resistance. The cutting edge is 3.5 inches, long enough to be used effectively as an axe or tomahawk. A generous-sized cutout in the head allows for control and leverage when using the prybar/metal- cutting claw feature on the end of the tool.

A checkered-face hammering surface that measures about 1 inch wide by 2.3 inches long is on the head’s opposite end. The checkered face provides grip and won’t slip off the surface you’re hammering. The handle scales are molded Zytel for solid purchase. Molded-in texturing further enhances gripping ability. On the hawk side of the handle, two sets of machined- in finger grooves enable your fingers to settle in for a better grip.

Weighing 6 pounds, the CRASH can develop some serious momentum when swung as a tomahawk or hammer. In addition, the extra length and weight of the hammerhead make the CRASH a very effective axe. Moreover, the long handle allows for added leverage.

I hacked up and disassembled one wood pallet with the CRASH. It’s a powerful chopper and the edge bit into the wood aggressively. Using the hammer portion, I was able to knock the boards loose. It’s very convenient to have the two tools in one product for such a task.

Conversely, I dislike the prybar portion. Understand that the prybar isn’t the standard wedge-shaped tip found on so many commercially available models. The wedge tip allows for easy insertion under materials to initiate prying. However, while dismantling the pallet, I found myself wanting the traditional prybar wedge tip. Why? Because it would make the job easier to have three convenient tools in one rather than two. In fact, I found the prybar useless. It’s great to make use of the additional length of the tool, coupled with the integral handle grip in the head, but the C-shaped prybar tip wasn’t effective at all in getting in between the pallet boards.

AUTO SALVAGE SHAKEDOWN: I took the CRASH to a local auto salvage yard to test the axe head. After just a few swings, I drove the head into the door of a large pickup truck. Though the edge suffered some rolling, it wasn’t a big deal. When I tried to hack into the door of a second vehicle, about a quarter inch of the head’s edge broke off. Yes, it made it into the door but the CRASH was damaged. Nonetheless, the coating held up well, and, overall, the CRASH looked no worse for wear.

COMPACT HAMMER/PICK 

Halfbreed Blades builds some of the most robust factory fixed blades and folders Down Under. It also has a line of rescue tools to augment its knife line. One such model is the IRT-01 (Incident Response Tool).

At a tad over 10 inches overall, it is one of the more compact of the test breaching tools. However, there’s a reason for its compact nature: It’s designed to carry via insertion into a single column row in a MOLLE plate. Neither a sheath nor a holster is included. At .32 inch thick, the IRT-01 can get the job done.

Steel is Bohler K110—basically, D2 tool steel. D2 is widely known for high impact resistance and toughness, as well as ease of working and resharpening. The tool is available in two colors of Teflon coating—black and flat dark earth (FDE). The entire length of the handle has a series of traction grooves machined into the flats, and there are traction notches on the handle edges. The two features work in conjunction for a secure, nonslip grip, even while wearing gloves.

A hammer and modified pick are on opposite ends of the head. The hammerhead is a bit over 1.5 inches wide and shares the same thickness as the handle—a generous .32 inch. There’s enough face to use it as a field- expedient hammer. On the opposite end is a modified pick with a rounded blunt end, which can be used as a glass breaker. The handle traction notches continue up under the pick so you can employ the “break-and-rake’’ method of glass breaking: After breaking the glass, the tool is used to rake and pull the glass shards out of a window frame.

Handle weight is optimized via the skeletonized design. It includes a built- in, multi-sized wrench for tightening nuts and bolts, as well as a quarter-inch drive hole that accommodates common hex bits. At the very end of the handle is a prybar/nail-puller. The single beveled side of the prybar allows for easy insertion between a wooden door and door jamb for forced entry/exit.

I was able to dismantle pallets with the IRT-01. I used my 32-ounce dead-blow hammer to pound the prybar end of the tool under the boards. I then grabbed the hammerhead and pulled to separate the boards. I also used the nail-puller to extract nails.

The tool has zero flex. You can whale on it as hard as you want without fear of bending it. Its short length might be a bit of a hindrance in tasks where leverage wins out.

AUTO SALVAGE SHAKEDOWN: I used the IRT-01 as a window breaker at the auto salvage yard. However, you can’t hit a window head on with the pick end. You have to catch the glass on the corner of the pick where there’s a point of contact on the window. I hit it in the lower corner of the window and, with one good, stinging pop, the glass shattered completely. I then used the underside of the pick to rake away the broken glass and knock away any that was still hanging on as if I were clearing the window out in order to gain access into a vehicle to rescue the occupants. Unfortunately, due to the IRT-01’s short length and lack of a cutting edge, that was the end of the salvage-yard test.

HACK ATTACK

DoubleStar’s Wrath crash hawk combines the best of a tomahawk and breaching tool all in one. Starting with .275-inch- thick 80CrV2 carbon steel, the 16.5-inch Wrath features a multifaceted face that simultaneously cuts as it penetrates. A scalloped spike on the opposite end penetrates wood and metal. The handle has a heavily checkered, machined-in texturing that bites comfortably, even when you’re wearing gloves.

The test version of the Wrath DoubleStar provided is a sample of the new model, which will be sold on the company’s website and not by dealers. It has a Parkerized coating as opposed to tan Cerakote®, and a green-and-black G-10 handle instead of the standard tan and black. Other than the cosmetic changes, the Wrath is similar to the original design. Each model comes with a heavy-duty, eighth-inch-thick Kydex sheath.

The quality is definitely there. All the grinds are even and the cutting edges are quite sharp. In fact, everything about the Wrath fits up well. Hacking up a pallet is just pure fun! Because of the V-shaped hatchet head, the cutting edges attack at an angle relative to the wood with each blow. It really made the wood chips fly.

The Wrath has an aggressive bite. It managed to hack through about half the width of the pallet boards. At about the halfway point, it broke the rest of the way through via sheer blunt force. The handle machining worked very well for the task. I wore latex-coated, cut-proof gloves during the test. The aggressive, checkered machining pattern on the G-10 worked efficiently to keep the tool from slipping from my grip during the powerful chopping blows.

If you use the Wrath without gloves on, you’ll probably find the machining pattern too aggressive. My recommendation: Always wear gloves while using this tool. Once you do, you’ll realize it makes sense. There were absolutely no issues with hand slippage.

AUTO SALVAGE SHAKEDOWN:
During my auto salvage yard visit, I was able to hack into a vehicle door but there was a bit of a price to pay: The tip of the hatchet head broke off. Nonetheless, the rest of the head escaped unscathed. The 80CrV2 steel is tough! When I got home, I used a regular metal file to touch up the edges and make it more serviceable.

Author’s note: Thanks to the good folks at Lewisville Motor Co., Inc., in Winston- Salem, North Carolina, for allowing me to test the breaching tools on vehicles destined for the crusher. An auto salvage yard specializing in parts for late-model cars and trucks, the company serves the Piedmont Triad metro area of North Carolina—and beyond—with fast and friendly personalized service. Visit lewisvillemotorcompany.com or e-mail sales@lewmoco.com.

Know Your Knives: What is a Ring Knife?

Dexter Ewing
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Know Your Knives: What is a Ring Knife?

When you think of a knife with a ring in the handle butt, a karambit probably comes to mind. Fact is, there are other knives with such a feature. In fact, some have rings at the middle and also even at the front of the handle.

Unlike karambits, in which the ring is used for quickly spinning the knife in between different grips as well as affecting the grips themselves, non-karambit versions of such knives employ the ring in utilitarian ways that are less flashy.

Ring knife examples
The latest ring knives from left, with manufacturer’s suggested retail prices in parentheses: SOG Keytron ($23.95), Boker Plus Accomplice ($119.95), Gerber Epic ($42) and KA-BAR Wrench Knife ($54.74). (Marty Stanfield Photography)

Examples include assisting in providing a more secure purchase on the handle, dangling the knife from a pinky to allow for full use of the hand while keeping the knife handy, attaching the knife to a keyring, or simply hanging the knife on a tool rack or elsewhere.

If your approach involves frequent intermittent knife use, interspersing it with employing your hand to grip, hold or pull the material you’re cutting or some other method all your own, then adding a ring knife to your collection might be beneficial.

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