Over the years Kershaw and Zero Tolerance  have come up with sharp designs that almost always surpass expectations. Whether it is a handy general-use folder or a fixed blade with a tactical flair, the brands’ knives not only look good, but also perform.

Kershaw and Zero Tolerance both also waste little time resting on their laurels, leading the way in cutting-edge innovation. And the brands have continued to do so recently with a slew of new knives certain to get enthusiasts, well, enthused. Here is a look at three sweet automatic knives from Kershaw and two manual folders from Zero Tolerance that cut to the quick of top-notch engineering.

Kershaw Launch 3

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Kershaw didn’t skimp with the Launch 3, giving the automatic knife the extras to make it a faithful companion. Perhaps the most striking is the rich black-oxide coating on the blade. The finish is certain to keep the knife’s 3.4-inch CPM 154 blade in top-notch shape for years to come. The black-oxide also gives the Launch 3’s overall design a flawless look, as it seamlessly melds into the streamlined anodized aluminum handle. Like the other models in the series, the Launch 3 features a reversible pocket clip and recessed push button that thwarts accidental blade deployments. MSRP: $159.

Outstanding Knife Resources

Knives 2015, 35th Edition

Blade Presents the Best of Knife Throwing

Fighting Folders DVD