This summer’s crop of custom knives brings damascus front and center. From twisted and ladder patterns to stainless blends and copper-clad creations, each blade in this collection highlights not just the maker’s skill, but their artistry with steel. Whether forged for daily carry, culinary precision, or collector prestige, these knives turn heads with standout materials—think crystallized titanium, crosscut mammoth, and ringed Western Myall—paired with performance-driven designs. Featured makers range from journeyman smiths to Guild members, each offering a unique take on the timeless beauty and cutting power of damascus steel.
Carlos Queiros Thorn Persian TRS
Knife type: Folder Blade length: 3.35” Blade material: Chad Nichols Starfire stainless damascus Blade grind: Flat Scales: Vintage bright red linen Micarta® Bolsters: Crystalized titanium Pocket clip: Yes Closed length: 4.53” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $4,700-$4,800 at press-time exchange rate Maker: Carlos Queiros (SharpByCoop image)
Casey Brown Dagger
Blade length: 5.5” Blade material: Ladder-pattern damascus Blade grind: Flat Scales: Desert ironwood Guard/fittings: 416 stainless steel Overall length: 10.25” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $900 Knife to know: The maker is an ABS journeyman smith Maker: Casey Brown (SharpByCoop image)
Luka Allen Petty Knife
Blade length: 5 5/8” Blade material: Bjorkman’s twist damascus by Damasteel Blade grind: Flat Scales: Cottonwood Fittings: Brass Overall length: 9.75” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $450 Maker: Luka Allen, lukaallen.com (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Micah Dunn Chef Bread Knife
Blade length:7.5” Blade material: Baker Forge & Tool copper-mai Surge pattern Blade grind: Flat Scales: Spalted chestnut burl and vintage Micarta® Overall length: 12.25” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $1,200 Maker: Micah Dunn, mdedgeworks.com (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Dennis Friedly Art dagger
Blade length: 9” Blade material: Mike Norris damascus Blade grind: Hollow Scales: Picasso marble Fittings: Blued steel Embellishment: 24k-gold inlay by Ray Cover Jr. Maker’s price for a similar knife: $7,200 Knife to know: The maker is a voting member of The Knifemakers’ Guild Maker: Dennis Friedly, friedlyknives.com (SharpByCoop image)
Dane Standen Cleaver
Blade length: 7.3” Blade material: 243-layer textured damascus of 1084 carbon- and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels Blade grind: Flat Scales: Colored resin Pins: Copper Overall length: 12.2” Maker’s price for a similar knife: Contact maker for info Knife to know: The maker is a probationary member of the Australian Knifemakers Guild Maker: Dane Standen (Rod Hoare image)
Josh Howard Folding Hunter
Action: Slipjoint Blade length: 3.5” Blade material: Pattern-welded deer hunting scene Blade grind: Hollow Scales: Amber stag Handle frame & bolsters: Stainless steel Closed length: 5.25” Maker’s price for a similar knife: Contact the maker for info Maker: Josh Howard, deerlickridgeforge.com (SharpByCoop image)
Chad J. Jones Hunter
Blade length: 3.75” Blade material: Mike Norris Hornet’s Nest stainless damascus Blade grind: Flat Scales: Crosscut mammoth tusk Liners: Black and white G-10 Bolster: Zebra carbon fiber Overall length: 8” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $1,250 Maker: Chad J. Jones (Jocelyn Frasier image)
William Manning Hunter
Blade length: 3.35” Blade material: Random-pattern damascus of 1084 carbon-and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels Blade grind: Flat Scales: Antler w/copper spacer Guard: 416 stainless steel Overall length: 8.27” Maker’s price for a similar knife: Contact maker for info Knife to know: The maker is a probationary member of the Australian Knifemakers Guild Maker: William Manning, manningblades.com (Rod Hoare image)
Francois MazieresMedium Paring Knife
Blade length: 5” Blade material: Pattern-welded damascus in 150 layers of 1084 and 1075 carbon- and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels embossed using chevron dies for the final pattern Blade grind: Flat Scales: Stabilized South-Australian ringed Western Myall wood shaped in a composite Western/cowboy style Spacers: G-10 and stainless steel Bolsters: Scalloped, pinned and soldered 416 stainless steel Construction: Hidden tang Overall length: 10” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $320.62 at press-time exchange rate Knife to know: The maker is a member of the Australian Knifemakers Guild and a journeyman smith in the American Bladesmith Society Maker: Francois Mazieres, Yandiwa.com.au (Rod Hoare image)
Nate “Tuna” Grant Utility Fixed Blade
Blade length: 4” Blade material: Rietveld Dragonskin damascus by Bertie Rietveld Blade grind: Flat Handle: Titanium, nickel silver, fiber liners, laser engraved Overall length: 8” Sheath: Guster leather; inlaid w/exotic animal skin; belt model with snap Maker’s price for a similar knife: $5,000 Knife to know: The maker’s utility fixed blade won Best Utility at the 2024 Lost Pines Knife Show Maker: Nate “Tuna” Grant, madebytuna.com (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Bryan Montalvo Basset
Knife type: Folder Blade length: 3.25” Blade material: Grabak damascus by Damasteel Blade grind: Hollow Blade pivot: Skiff caged ceramic bearings Handle: Same material as blade Lock: Linerlock Pocket clip: Same material as handle Closed length: 3.5” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $3,000 at press-time material costs Maker: Bryan Montalvo, keanisonknives.com (Jocelyn Frasier image)
We dive into the new additions to the CRKT 2026 catalog.
Columbia River Knife & Tool (CRKT) has officially pulled the curtain back on its 2026 lineup, and it’s a diverse spread that leans heavily into premium materials and clever engineering. By collaborating with some of the biggest names in the custom knife world, CRKT is continuing its push to bring high-end design language to the production market.
According to Kyle Stuart, CRKT’s VP of Marketing, the goal this year was to pair “smart innovation with practical, purpose-driven design.” Here is a breakdown of the standouts from the new collection.
Sero
Designed by Richard Rogers, the Sero is where high fashion meets the everyday carry world. It’s a low-profile flipper that takes inspiration from Art Deco styling but doesn’t skimp on performance. The blade is S35VN—a favorite for edge retention—and it rides on an IKBS™ ball bearing pivot for snappy deployment. The lines are incredibly clean, with a flipper tab that disappears into the bolster when open. It also features a Crossbar Lock, making it fully ambidextrous. MSRP: $140 ($250 damascus/titanium version)
Princeton Wong brings his award-winning custom vision to the production line with the Orochi. Named after the mythical eight-headed Japanese serpent, this knife features a distinct clip point recurve blade made from 14C28N steel. You can deploy it via a discreet “hidden” flipper tab or dual thumbstuds. The G10 handle and stainless-steel bolsters give it a solid, ergonomic feel that punches way above its weight class in terms of refinement. MSRP: $140 ($200 damascus/titanium model)
When you see Ken Onion’s name on a knife, you expect smooth curves and real-world utility, and the Counterpart series delivers. This is a collection of purpose-built folders available in four different models. Most feature 12C27 drop point blades, though there is a D2 tanto version for those who prefer a more tactical edge. All of them utilize an ambidextrous Crossbar Lock and a reversible deep-carry pocket clip. MSRP: $89 – $99
The late Kit Carson’s M16 is perhaps one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the knife industry. For 2026, CRKT has taken that DNA and moved it into the world of butterfly knives. These aren’t just “fidget flippers”; they are serious, American-made tools crafted in Colorado. Featuring MagnaCut steel—the current “super steel” king of corrosion resistance—and titanium handles, these are available in both tanto (M16-02) and drop point (M16-03) configurations. MSRP: $300
Matthew Lerch is known for clean lines, and the Zephyr is a perfect example of his philosophy. It uses a sheepsfoot blade profile which is ideal for the sort of controlled, precise cutting most people actually do on a daily basis. The G10 handle keeps it light, while the IKBS pivot ensures it’s fast. For those who want something a bit flashier, a premium version offers an acid-etched Damascus blade and titanium scales. MSRP: $100 – $130 ($160 damascus/titanium version)
CRKT isn’t just about the blades this year. Designed with Joe Wu, the ToGo Driver is a compact maintenance tool for the person who likes to keep their gear in top shape. The anodized aluminum handle hides an internal compartment for seven precision micro bits. It even features a ball-bearing spinner on the end, making those tedious takedowns and reassemblies significantly smoother. MSRP: $50
Technically a late-2025 arrival, the Provoke X is still a major head-turner for 2026. Using the Kinematic® technology that made the Provoke karambit famous, this is a “morphing axe” that fits in a pocket and snaps open with a flick of the wrist. It’s secured by the Deadbolt® lock and features a titanium nitride-coated SUJ2 steel blade. It’s easily one of the most unique tools we’ve seen in recent years. MSRP: $350
Elite Line debuts with premium CPM S35VN steel, aluminum scales and an innovative top-liner lock mechanism.
Civivi has always aimed at more budget-conscious knife enthusiasts, arming them with stout yet affordable blades. The company, however, recently announced a new tack with the introduction of its Civivi Elite Line of knives.
Inaugurated with the Brova model, the line of knives offers a higher grade of materials and is meant to fill the gap between Civivi and its top-tier sister brand We. For some perspective, a good section of Civivi’s catalog falls below the $100 mark, while most of We’s are premium $200-plus models. Elite fills the hole in the middle and, as Civivi’s release puts it, is designed for its customers “ready to take the next step.”
Civivi doesn’t spell out its overall ethos for the entire line, but the Brova insinuates some of the notes Elite knives aim to hit. One of the more notable material upgrades is the knife’s blade steel—CPM S35VN. The brand has used the top-line Crucible Industries steel previously, but generally in premium editions of established models. Civivi’s go-to blade steels are typically 14C28N, Nitro-V and D2.
Furthermore, the vanguard knife of the Civivi Elite line features an entirely new lock for the brand—a top-liner lock. Operated via a button near the spine of the handle, the mechanism should prove convenient. Smartly, Civivi recessed the button to ensure the blade isn’t inadvertently retracted when in use.
The Brova cuts a bellicose profile, with a subtle 3.41-inch clip-point blade coming down to a fine point. It certainly should have decent penetration potential with this design, but with a respectable amount of belly on its edge and a good length of straightaway before the handle, it should prove adept at slicing or with push cuts.
The handle is well contoured, featuring a notch for locking the knife in with the index finger and thumb. It’s dressed in smooth aluminum scales with the choice of three colors that house stainless-steel liners. The hardware and clip are also stainless steel, and the action is run on caged ceramic ball bearings.
As for Brova’s price, all three colorways come in at $145. The EDC looks like a solid start for the Civivi Elite Line; it will be interesting to see what comes next.
Whether It’s An Inexpensive Model Or One The Chefs Use, There’s An Electric Knife Sharpener Out There For You.
There is no one-size-fits-all for electric knife sharpeners. Some specialize in sharpening certain steels or styles of knives. Some have multiple stages, and others are a basic, affordable option for a less discerning home cook. And some are made for pocket knives rather than kitchen knives.
No matter your desire and needs, there is a sharpener out there for you. We’ve scoured the crowded marketplace to pick out five electric knife sharpeners we think will check the important boxes for you today and for years to come.
Chef’s Choice Model Trizor 15XV 3-Stage Professional Electric Knife Sharpener, Platinum
Chef’s Choice Model Trizor 15XV 3-Stage Professional Electric Knife Sharpener, Platinum
Our list starts with what is, arguably, the baddest sharpener on the block. Highly-rated, and with a price to match, this sharpener from Chef’s Choice is called professional for a reason. With three different stages (sharpening, honing, and polishing), the device truly can do it all and revive your knives.
The sharpener is engineered to the point of ridiculousness. The sharpening stage features proprietary diamond abrasives, and the polishing stage features patented stropping disks to give your knives a pristine finish. It can even convert a traditional 20-degree edge to a finer 15-degree edge.
If there is a knock on the machine, it’s it isn’t rated to sharpen ceramic knives or scissors. Everything from a chef’s knife to pocket knives and yes, even serrated knives, can be brought back to life using the Trizor 15XV.
In a test of nine different electric knife sharpeners, the 15XV was named the best by America’s Test Kitchen. You can take a look at their methodology and how they determined the winner below.
The hefty MSRP of $179.99 is eye-popping to start, but there is no other sharpener like this on the market today.
Presto EverSharp
Presto EverSharp
Maybe a three-stage, pro-level sharpener isn’t what you need, and you’d prefer something a bit more affordable. I’m right there with you. That’s where the Presto EverSharp comes in.
The EverSharp uses Sapphirite sharpening wheels — a synthetic material almost as hard as diamond — to sharpen your blades to a razor’s edge. The EverSharp comes with two stages, one for sharpening and the other for honing & polishing. Each stage features internal guides so your knife always is at the perfect angle every time you pull it through. There’s two slots on each stage, one for each side of the blade.
It’s so easy to use you could probably do it with your eyes closed (but please keep them open so you don’t slice off a finger). The one drawback of the sharpener is it can’t sharpen serrated blades.
Durable and affordable with an MSRP of $47.99, the EverSharp provides great bang for your buck.
Wüsthof Easy Edge
Wüsthof Easy Edge Electric Knife Sharpener
From one of the legendary makers of kitchen knives, Wüsthof’s electric sharpener is robust and easy to use.
Unlike the previous sharpeners on this list, the Easy Edge is a belt-drive sharpener. No stones or grinding wheels in this one. The machine can sharpen, hone, and shape your straight-edge knives. It does this by varying the speed of its sharpening belt.
While the device can’t sharpen serrated blades it can sharpen Asian-style knives, which typically are ground to a different angle than traditional German-style knives.
Made of professional quality materials, and coming in with an MSRP of $160, the Easy Edge is worth the price and can replace your whetstones, honing steels, and many other pieces of knife maintenance equipment.
WorkSharp Combo Knife Sharpener
WorkSharp Combo Knife Sharpener
Unlike the other sharpeners on this list, which are made for kitchen knives, this sharpener from WorkSharp is made for pocket and EDC knives.
Like the Wusthof sharpener, this one uses an abrasive belt to sharpen your knives and uses internal guides to guarantee that your knives are at the perfect angle every time.
There’s also a ceramic honing rod built directly into the machine to help you polish and finish your flat-edge knives. The rod is also perfect for sharpening knives with small or large serrations.
It’s also relatively small. Some of these sharpeners are a bit bulky; WorkSharp has made a nimble sharpener that won’t take up much space on your workbench. You’ll love using this every day, and it’ll make your knives like new. At an MSRP of $59.95, it’s worth the price for the type of product it is.
Smith Essentials Compact Electric Knife Sharpener
Smith Essentials Compact Electric Knife Sharpener
If you’re looking for an electric knife sharpener on a budget, or simply don’t need the heft of professional machines, Smith has you covered. Their compact sharpener features both electric and manual elements for the low MSRP of $29.99.
The electric part of the machine features a synthetic sharpening wheel and built-in guides to keep your knives at the best angle. The ceramic rods on the manual side are there to hone and finish your blades.
It can only be used on straight-edge Euro/American style knives though so you would need some other sharpening implement if you have serrated knives at home. However, for a sharpener under $30, you may not be able find much more out there today.
Tactical Pens Allow You To Have A Self-Defense Multi-Tool On You Even In Places Where A Knife Isn’t Allowed. These Are Five Pens That Will Keep You On Top Of Your Work And Can Keep You Safe.
The tactical pen is the perfect protection tool to have when you’re going somewhere where knives simply aren’t allowed. A tactical pen is great to take to the airport, to the big game, or to have in your pocket every day simply: it is a pen, after all.
Beyond just writing, tactical pens usually come with a glass-breaking tip, but many have additional features that make them far more than just a rugged pen.
Why Should I Buy A Tactical Pen?
For starters, they are high-quality pens that can write in adverse conditions. Beyond that, they are excellent safety tools that can go with you anywhere. Sure, you could look at a tactical pen and think “this is really excessive for a pen,” but that would miss the point of why they are so useful.
A tactical pen is an excellent way to keep yourself prepared for whatever life can throw at you. Sure, you may never need to use the pen for much more than signing checks, but it is a lot better to have the tools at hand and not need them than to need them and not have them.
5 Tactical Pens That Will Make Your Life Easier
These five pens feature a bevy of different tools and features that make them all incredibly useful as an EDC. No, none of them have built-in blades, but they do all have something that will make life much easier, and you safer when needed.
Atomic Bear SWAT Pen
Don’t let the low price of this pen fool you: it is the real deal. The SWAT pen is a beast. Made from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the SWAT pen is light and can take a beating. The tungsten carbide tip at the end is perfect for shattering glass when necessary and can provide an added bit of malice if you need to protect yourself.
The writing implement is smooth and easy. The inkwell takes Parker G2 ink, which is easy to find and easy to replace. All in all, this is a high-quality tactical pen at a bargain of a price.
MSRP: $15.99
Boker Plus Quest Commando Pen
Boker makes great knives and that craftsmanship carries over to their tactical pens. The Quest Commando was designed by Kevin Passon & David Cyr, and the duo left no stone unturned. The six-inch, black aluminum pen can be used like a kubaton in self-defense situations. The writing implement uses Lamy M-22 ink and is smooth as butter.
This is a durable, quality pen that you can travel the world with and feel confident when it’s in your hands.
MSRP: $44.96
Smith & Wesson Stylus Tactical Pen
It’s not a firearm but it’s made with the same care as Smith & Wesson’s famous guns. The Stylus Tactical Pen is a self-defense tool for the modern age. Yes, it is a good pen and uses Schmidt P900M parker ink cartridges, but this pen shines by what it does away from the page.
Most notable is the stylus tip atop the screw cap. This rubberized tip allows you to use the pen on all touchscreens, which is easier on your hands, especially on a phone screen, and allows you to still use your tech even in wet or cold conditions.
The window breaker at the opposite end of the pen tip works as advertised and is ridiculously strong.
MSRP: $39.99
Nitecore NTP10 Titanium Tactical Pen
The priciest pen on our list is from Nitecore. It’s the only knife on our list made from titanium instead of aluminum. Milled to a thickness of 1.8 mm, the NTP10 is almost unbreakable, and the tungsten steel tip at the end does what you expect. It is insanely light at just .64 of an ounce and takes German Schneider gel ink.
The main thing to think about with this pen is the price. Yes, the titanium is robust in a way that aluminum isn’t, but is it worth it? That’s for you to decide.
MSRP: $119.95
Schrade SCPEN4BK
Is it the most expensive? No. Is it the beefiest tactical pen? No. But boy, did Schrade pack a boatload of features into this pen at an incredibly fair price.
Of course, there’s a tungsten steel glassbreaker at one end, and the pen uses Black Starminen Fine Point D1 Pen Cartridges. But beyond that, the pen elevates to a proper survival tool. When removed from the body, the pen cap doubles as an ear-piercing survival whistle. It’ll get the attention of anyone in the vicinity and even a bit further than that.
Also embedded in the pen is a ferro rod that can be accessed by unscrewing the back half of the pen. There is a striker plate underneath the tungsten steel breaker and is reverse threaded into the pen body so you can’t accidentally unscrew it and lose it, as it is very small.
So many features in such a small space, and at a great price too. Schrade hit a home run with the SCPEN4BK.
An iconic knifemaker, Benchmade had earned the respect of discerning knife aficionados. Here are some of the best of what it has to offer.
The Benchmade company as we know it today began in 1980 as Bali-Song, Inc., later Pacific Cutlery Corp. Before its knives got popular on the national scene, the company went through a couple of initial changes in how they produced knives and where, ultimately settling on the ‘Benchmade’ name in 1987.
The hallmark of Benchmade knives has always been extreme quality. When the company began, they were making knives one at a time. While that is not always the case today, the same spirit of persistence and dedication to the end-user remains. Benchmade has made a name for itself across the board with hunters, military, and law enforcement.
Why Benchmade Gets Props
There is an obvious and easy way to explain why Benchmade dominates the production knife market. Their stuff just works. If you buy a Benchmade, it will not necessarily be the cheapest knife on the shelf, but for damn sure, it will do exactly what it was designed to do. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case with a wide swath of the knife industry, where quantity over quality reigns supreme.
The overall quality of Benchmade knives is something that the consumer should be aware of when purchasing blades. In the author’s experience, Benchmade knives have typically outperformed, or at least equally matched any competing model, regardless of price. That is not something that can be said for most other knife companies.
What Benchmade knives offer is something akin to an investment, a lifetime of use should you take care of it.
Great Benchmade Knives
There is no disparity in quality in the Benchmade lineup. But, for this article, the author selected 10 models that best represent what is good about Benchmade, ranging from specialized hunting knives to out-the-front pocketknives. Not all of Benchmade’s lineup is being produced today, and some of the most well-respected versions have been retired, though their descendants are equally as good if not better.
535 Bugout
If there had to be a standard issue pocketknife for across-the-board use today, you would be hard-pressed to argue against the Bugout. It is not the most expensive knife in the lineup, but it is well over the cost of today’s average pocketknife. The Bugout is a well-respected, reliable design, that is both lightweight and has a very reliable, folding and locking mechanism. Designed to stand out, it is available in bright colors, in this case blue. The knife features a blade designed for optimal use in regular situations. It is not exactly an outdoor knife, although it would be at home for small games and fishing.
MSRP: $180
539GY Anonimus
An interesting knife with an interesting name. This one is a hybrid field knife and every day carry fixed blade. The author received an early example of this knife from Benchmade and it has held up extremely well throughout use. The knife is low profile and has a relatively thin spine, making it unsuitable for some of the heavier camp chores and tasks. What it is great for is skinning deer size animals and smaller. To top it off, it has a wide degree of self-defense function. The knife has a notable choil to protect the finger—it makes for ample protection while thrusting hard or holding the knife tip down. Overall, this is a knife that meets a lot of needs and checks a lot of boxes while not being particularly flamboyant.
MSRP: $310
162 Bushcrafter
Out of all the knives on this list, the Bushcrafter is the model that the author has the most extensive experience. The author received this knife for an article in the print edition of Blade Magazine, where he put it through quite a bit of use. The knife has been a constant companion for outdoor chores and is an incredible product. A great deal of the author’s experience comes from fire making and working with bushcrafting materials, and while this knife certainly meets that task with flying colors, some criticisms can be had given the amount of time the author has spent with it.
The first of these is that this is a relatively small chore knife. The blade is not long enough for heavy work and wood splitting. It is a knife that is usable at the end stage after most of the splitting has been done, meaning you will need to carry additional tools. If you were trying to get a fire started with this knife it is great for striking a rod, which is sadly not included in the price. Many competing designs that have performed equally well if not better have come with striker rods in the same MSRP range. Why Benchmade included the loop but no striker is a mystery.
The handle ergonomics are a little bit more angular than is needed, competing knives that have smoother and more contoured handles are better for extended periods of work and generate fewer hot spots. For the casual camper, this is an exceptional knife. The author tends to fall into the category of outdoorsman that believes you need a 6-inch or 7-inch blade to get stuff done. Smaller blades are the favorite of many people, the author finds them to be fatiguing to use and many times difficult to dislodge from pieces of wood or harder to use when skinning large game on the ground. That said, this is a fantastic knife, the author wishes that Benchmade will come out with a slightly larger version with a thicker spine.
MSRP: $300
317-1 Weekender
If you are casually out and about with your friends on your party barge, this knife is an exceptional comrade. It is something of a modern pen knife in that it features two blades as well as a bottle opener. It is an excellent knife for daily use and covers just about all regular cutting chores you may encounter in your day-to-day existence, barring of course any heavy-duty uses. The knife is beautifully finished and has excellent accent work, it is surely something you will want to show to your friends.
MSRP: $275
15000OR-2 Meatcrafter
This is another knife that the author reviewed for the print edition of Blade Magazine. The author received one of the first initial prototypes for testing. The Meatcrafter knife is an excellent tool, something of a hybrid between a fillet knife, a kitchen knife, and a hunting knife. It is relatively thin in the spine and cannot be used for tasks such as splitting wood, or really anything above cutting soft material.
Benchmade has a series of these knives now, available in a variety of colors and blade finishes. The knife is very well adapted to its specific role. The author butchered a deer with the prototype, and it proved to be an exceptionally sharp cutting tool, so much so that it simply glided through the meat with almost no effort. Because of its thin blade and very fine tip, it can be used for boning out meat at just about any angle. The blade is flexible enough that it can be used to get into some nooks and crannies that thicker and stiffer blades would have a hard time with. The knife does have limitations, though, and one should take care to not drop it on its tip or put it through use that results in extreme bending or pressure on the tip, an example of this would be cutting into the ball joint on the pelvis of a large game animal. There is arguably no finer game knife on the market today than this one. It is quite expensive, but it is something that will last you a lifetime with care.
MSRP: $450
Station Knife
The Station Kinfe is available as a custom order option from Benchmade. The website has a configuration selector where you can pick out every detail of this knife. It is an all-purpose kitchen tool, able to do just about anything that you could imagine a knife could do, from slicing to dicing to breaking down meat and vegetables, as well as carving and serving. If you are a professional in the food service industry, this knife is something of the Holy Grail. Because of its unique shape, it can be used for a variety of cooking styles, not just traditional American cooking, but also different Asian, South American, and European styles. The use of the knife in these culinary arts tends to vary, and you’ll be prepared for all of them with the station knife.
MSRP: Starting at $280
945-221 Mini Osbourne
If you are looking for a pocketknife that truly sets you apart as a gentleman, the mini Osborne is one that you will certainly want to take a look at. The author has carried a version of this knife for a couple of years, it is not a heavy-duty, knife whatsoever, the blade is relatively thin, and the frame is lightly constructed. However, it is excellent at his job, which is a dedicated pocket knife. There are several variations of this knife available from Benchmade, it is a very popular design thanks to its lightweight and ease of use. The version shown here is at the top end of their design range, made of incredible materials, which will surely catch the eye.
MSRP: $700
34000BK-1 Autocrat
This is arguably the king of out-the-front knives. Bench made has truly made a name for itself in this category of knives, while it is quite expensive, it has probably the most reliable mechanism of any OTF knife currently on the market and is constructed with durability in mind. The handle is, not gimmicky, rather, it is simple in overall appearance. Critics of the knife would like to see more embellishment, but the author is just the opposite, OTF knives are not an inherently strong or reliable design. In general, simplicity is king, and reliability stands above that.
MSRP: $500
15060-2 Grizzly Creek
The Grizzly Creek is an excellent, professional-level field knife that can fit just about anywhere. It is not a camp knife in the sense that it can be used for a large amount of splitting or heavy chores, however, it is excellent for breaking down game, regardless of size. Because it is a folder, the blade is not especially long, making it not as good for big game. For all general hunting, it will work, though, you may have some struggles with large deer and above. The knife features a folding gut hook that can also be used to cut fishing line and a variety of other outdoor tasks. The price is right for a working knife; it is not the most embellished or interesting-looking product from Benchmade, but it will certainly do well given its features and intended use.
MSRP: $250
176BK SOCP
The last knife on our list is the discrete SOCP. This is a little dagger with a ring pommel designed to be used as a last-ditch item integrated into your gear. The knife can be used on just about any finger depending on what you’re trying to manipulate. At $130. It may seem a little bit overpriced for a small dagger, but it is a well-made tool that can get you out of some very sticky situations. It is worth noting, that not every municipality allows the carrying of a fixed-blade dagger, you’ll have to check your local laws if you plan to carry this knife.
There’s a reason why spearpoint blade knives are common as bluegrass.
Spearpoint blades are very common blade shape that is used primarily with folding knives but also found on some varieties of fixed blades. This blade shape can either be long and slender or short and on the fat side.
What defines a spearpoint blade is the upsweep that forms the belly of the cutting edge and the equidistant spine that meet at the centerline of the blade’s width. Much as its name suggests, the profile mimics the shape of a spear.
Spearpoint Blade Uses
The spearpoint blade is a handy profile, as it’s very adaptable to any cutting task at hand. There’s enough blade belly present to do slicing work and enough of a point to do scoring and piercing tasks.
Common Spearpoint Blade Knives
Along with the standard single grind spearpoint blade shape, there are a couple of variants of such that you might also be familiar with as well.
Dagger: The dagger is a popular option in fixed-blade tactical knives and are commonly spearpoint blades. The big difference between it and the more common spearpoints, daggers have a double grind. These begin at the centerline of the blade and taper down to the cutting edge, forming two cutting edges instead of just one.
The dagger’s design lends it to penetrating tasks, as well as giving it a certain sexiness due to its symmetry. However, laws are very restrictive when it comes to dagger blades. Additionally, the dagger is not well suited for working tasks due to the relative fragileness of the blade shape thanks to its grinds.
Pen Blade: These are commonly found as a smaller secondary blade on many multi-blade slip joint folding pocketknives. The pen blade is good for just general, mundane cutting tasks like opening mail and packages, or light-duty scraping.
Pedestrian as the role may seem, these spearpoints see a lot of action in day-to-day tasks. It’s safe to say, the world’s fingernails would likely prove much dirtier without this little workhorse.
Spearpoint Blade Knife Buyer’s Guide
We’ve gone through the effort to compile a listing of some of the more popular spearpoint knives on the market. These knives have the spearpoint shape as the primary blade. But please keep in mind that there are more than just these, as the profile is among the most popular in use today. Furthermore, keep an eye open and be sure to do your research carefully to select the best knife to fit both your needs and budget.
FIXED BLADES
Condor Tool & Knife CTK247 Kephart
Designed by noted survival expert Joe Flowers, the Kephart is a good general-use survival knife that is ready to tackle the chores on your camping or hiking trip. The 4 ½-inch long blade is made of 1075 carbon steel for low cost and easy resharpening out in the field and sports a flat grind for cutting efficiency. The handle is made of walnut and features a rounded profile for easy use. Condor uses rivets in the tang to prevent the handle from loosening even under very hard use. Made in El Salvador, the Kephart comes with a sewn leather belt sheath to round out the package.
MSRP: $72, Made In El Salvador
ESEE KNIVES LASER STRIKE
The Laser Strike has a 5-inch blade ground from 1095 carbon steel and sports an ultra-tough black epoxy coating. The coating is a nice extra, protecting the steel from the elements, as well as furnishing a nice low profile with no reflective appearance. A series of traction notches are cut into the blade spine at the thumb rest area, providing a nonslip resting place for your thumb or index finger for extra pressure and more control or power. The handle scales are green canvas micarta, which does an excellent job of being a dimensionally stable and providing a great grip quality. A thoughtful feature, a finger choil at the tang for when you need to choke up on the blade for extra control. Each Laser Strike comes with a form-fitting Kydex belt sheath for easy portability in all conditions.
MSRP: $200, Made In The USA
TOPS KNIVES COVERT ANTITERRORISM (CAT)
With its skeletonized structure, the TOPS Covert Antiterrorism (CAT) is an easy-to-carry, medium-sized, heavy-use fixed blade. Its 3 ¼-inch blade is made from 1095 carbon steel and boasts a flat grind. A pronounced thumb rest allows for more pressure and control while not allowing any slippage at all. The skeletonized handle is outfitted with multiple finger grooves that help seat your hand securely. Multiple oblong cutouts reduce the overall weight further. With an overall length of 7 ¼ inches, the CAT is carried via a multi-carry Kydex sheath so you have the knife with you at all times. This knife here can withstand some hard use for its size.
MSRP: $130, Made In The USA
HALFBREED BLADES MEDIUM CLEARANCE
Australia’s Halfbreed Blades offers up its Medium Clearance MCK-01 model as both a tool and a backup weapon. The blade is beautifully constructed out of Austrian-origin Bohler K110 tool steel that is similar in performance to D2. The blade appears to be a double edge, but in reality, it is only a single, however, it has a more aggressive dagger grind to it. At 4 ½-inches long, the blade is a good size for carry as well as getting your cutting tasks done in short order.
A pronounced guard keeps your hand from sliding up onto the blade. To protect the blade from the elements, a flat dark earth Teflon coating is applied. As a bonus, this also allows easy clean up. The handle is G-10 and sports a milled texturing pattern which works well with both bare and gloves hands. The extended blade tang at the rear of the handle can be used as a glass breaker as well as a blunt strike option as well. The MCK-01 comes with a Kydex sheath that is both belt and MOLLE-compatible attachment.
MSRP: $240, Made In Australia
CRKT MINIMALIST SPEARPOINT
An extension of CRKT’s wildly popular Minimalist fixed blades, the spearpoint iteration is the more general use profile of the line. Starting with the 2.1-inch blade, it is ground from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel for enhanced edge retention. As an added visual touch, there is a fuller (blood groove) cut into the blade. Typically, this is something found on larger knives. The handle sports a series of deep finger grooves that help to seat the Minimalist Spearpoint in your hand safely. The handle material is “resin-infused fiber” which sounds a lot like micarta and even feels similar. Whatever it is, it does a great job of providing traction. Each Minimalist comes with a molded ABS plastic sheath for ease of carry. The sheath can be worn either on the belt or set up for neck knife carry with the included ball chain necklace. So the carry options here are really good!
MSRP: $50, Made In China
FOLDING KNIVES
VICTORINOX PIONEER X
Everybody loves a Swiss Army Knife! The Victorinox brand has a zillion configurations and sizes of this popular multiblade multitool knife. It has a universal appeal that extends way beyond the knife enthusiast. The Pioneer X model is a popular model amongst the Alox (aluminum handle) options. Essentially, the company took its long-standing Pioneer Alox and inserted a pair of scissors, hence the “X”. The Pioneer X has a 2 ½-inch long spearpoint stainless blade, an awl, a combination flathead screwdriver and bottle cap opener, a can opener, and the aforementioned scissors. The checkered textured Alox handle is available in standard silver Alox, and colored versions may be purchased at various Victorinox dealers as exclusives to those outfits. One of the reasons why Alox models prove poplar is they feel very solid and the checkered aluminum has a nice hand traction.
The overall quality of manufacture for the Pioneer X is perfect. The blades and tools have a nice polished finish which not only looks good but also makes them easier to clean up. The spearpoint blade on this one is a real cutter. The full flat grind tapers the cross section down to a precise thin edge. One thing about all Swiss Army Knives is that they are easily sharpened. The scissors are simply the best small scissors I have used on any pocketknife. This is just a very handy pocketknife and you will find that it will go with you wherever you go, quite easily. Boasting an excellent price, it is not only quite handy but affordable as well. Plus, you can guaranteed every Victorinox comes perfect from the factory. Don’t be afraid to purchase sight unseen with confidence.
MSRP: $69, Made In Switzerland
KERSHAW KNIVES LAUNCH 4
Kershaw Knives’ highly successful Launch series of USA-made automatic opening knives have been a great success. The cutting-edge automatics are made with premium materials, but come in at a comfortable price. The 7500BLK Launch 4 is the smallest of the line, with a California-friendly 1.9-inch blade. CPM154 stainless steel is used for the blade, offering enhanced edge retention and corrosion resistance. It is the particle steel equivalent of 154CM, which is used widely in the cutlery industry and lower-tier premium steel. The blade sports a DLC black coating for the ultimate in corrosion resistance and low reflectivity. The handle is machined from T6 6061 aluminum alloy for light weight and strength. It is anodized black and features matching black hardware. A steel pocket clip carries the Launch 4 in the tip-up configuration in the pocket. With an overall length of a bit over 5 inches, this compact cutter carries easily and also doubles as a money clip. Pressing on the lock button causes the blade to rocket out of the handle, snapping open with authority. The same button serves as the blade’s lock release from the open position. The Launch 4 is a fun little automatic opener that proves a great value.
MSRP: $165, Made In The USA
KABAR DOZIER FOLDING HUNTER
Bob Dozier is a respected name in the knife industry. He is an accomplished custom knifemaker whose creations are aimed at the outdoor market with hunters and campers in mind. He has partnered with Kabar Knives to produce his Folding Hunter design. The 3-inch blade is ground from AUS-8 stainless steel and features a hollow grind. A single thumb stud allows you to deploy the blade quickly and easily. The handle is molded from lightweight Zytel to keep the overall weight of the knife to a minimum (2.2 oz) for comfortable carry. A pocket clip carries the Folding Hunter tip up and can be swapped to the opposite side of the handle for lefties. Don’t let the name fool you, this knife excels at daily carry, for those who relish the bang-for-the-buck factor. Made in Taiwan, it is one of the best values for a custom-designed folding hunter. The Kabar Bob Dozier Folding Hunter comes in an array of handle colors to suit your preference.
MSRP: $35, Made In Taiwan
EMERSON KNIVES MINI SHEEPDOG
The Mini Sheepdog is a downsized version of Emerson Knives’ Sheepdog flipper folder. Featuring a 3-inch long spearpoint blade, its 154CM stainless steel is the material of choice for going the distance with work tasks. The blade incorporates three methods of opening: a thumb disk, Emerson’s Wave Remote Pocket Opener, and a flipper. The blade has two options for finishes—satin-finished or black-coated. The blade rides on bearings for the ultimate smoothness in blade action. The handle is ergonomically shaped to seat the hand comfortably. The expanded sections on the front and back of the handle help prevent forward and rearward sliding. Textured black G-10 composite provides a non-slip grip. There is a pocket clip that carries the Mini Sheepdog in the tip-up configuration in the pocket. Emerson Knives is a trusted leader in the production of tactical knives.
MSRP: $240, Made In The USA
HOGUE X5
Designed by custom knifemaker Allen Elishewitz, the X5 represents the latest in tactical folder technology. It does so by offering a flipper opening, button lock in a premium handle and excellent blade materials. The X5 is offered in two blade styles and two sizes within. There is a modified Wharncliffe and a spearpoint, in both 3 ½-inch and 4-inch blade lengths. CPM154 stainless steel is the material of choice for the blade, offering enhanced edge retention. The spearpoint features a harpoon-style swedge, adding an aggressive stylistic note to the appearance. And the high flat grind of the blade bevels make the X5 spearpoint a cutting machine. The handle is highly ergonomic, incorporating chamfers, a prominent finger groove, and an integrated handle spacer for ultimate strength. The X5 comes in your choice of several hard anodized handle finishes: black, OD green, blue, and tan. Certain models also feature textured G-10 inlay for grip enhancement and a styling note. A button lock secures the blade solidly in the open position and also is easy to release and close the blade one-handed. Each X5 comes with a steel deep carry pocket clip—tip up—and an extra clip for lefties.
