From Ancient Inspiration to Modern Innovation: A First Look at the Year’s Most Anticipated Custom and Production Blades.
The new year kicks off with a formidable array of steel, ranging from primitive-inspired spears to high-tech tactical folders. This month’s selection highlights the incredible versatility of the modern cutlery world, showcasing the work of veteran masters with nearly four decades of experience alongside award-winning new makers. Whether you are looking for an ultra-premium custom Bowie for a collection or a hard-use MagnaCut automatic for daily carry, our January 2026 roundup proves that the industry’s innovation shows no signs of slowing down.
Jean-Pierre Potvin Short Spear
Blade length: 3.5” Blade material: Damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels Blade grind: Flat Handle: Ash w/burnt and oiled finish Furniture: Bronze and copper Overall length: 18.5” Knife to know: Jean-Pierre Potvin created the texture for the blade steel by forging damascus and using a rotary tool to accentuate the details … he “wanted the texture to be similar to the flint spearheads that existed long ago”; he has been making knives for 36 years Maker’s price for a similar piece: $2,500 Maker: Jean-Pierre Potvin (SharpByCoop image)
Grant Cunningham Trench knife
Blade length: 8” Blade material: 52100 carbon steel Blade grind: Double convex Handle: Handmade brass knuckles, vulcanized fiber liners S-guard: Brass Overall length: 13” Sheath: By Grey Leather Co.; black leather w/snap strap Maker’s price for a similar knife: $1,250 Maker: Grant Cunningham, cunninghamcustomshop.com (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Rian Doudle Doudle Streetfighter Bowie
Blade length: 7.1” Blade material: W’s pattern damascus in 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels Blade grind: Flat Scales: Western myall, an Australian hardwood Guard: Wrought iron Overall length: 12.6” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $1,200 at press-time exchange rate Maker: Rian Doudle, Fallen Forge, fallenforge.com.au (Rod Hoare image)
Frank Edwards Push Dagger
Blade length: 3.25” Blade material: Twist-pattern damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels Blade grind: Dagger Scales: Carved interior mammoth ivory Overall length: 6.5” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $2,550 Maker: Frank Edwards (Jocelyn Frasier image)
SOG Knives Gambit XL
Knife type: Fixed-blade karambit Blade length: 4” Blade steel: CRYO AUS-10A stainless Blade @the thickest: 0.19” Blade finish: Black stonewash Blade finish: Hawkbill Handle: Green paracord wrapped Weight: 4.75 ozs. Overall length: 8.75” Sheath: Kydex® w/Safe-Lock clip Country of origin: China MSRP: $139.95 Company: SOG Knives, sogknives.com
APOC Wallace Small Puukko
Designer: Mike Wallace Blade length: 3” Blade material: D2 tool steel Blade @thickest: 0.118” Blade pattern: Drop point Blade finish: Titanium coated Scales: Black G-10 Weight: 3 ozs. Overall length: 6.88” Sheath: Kydex®; comes w/fire steel Knife to know: Specs vary from piece to piece Country of origin: China MSRP: $82 Company: APOC, casiberia.com
CRKT Xolotl OTF
Knife type: Out-the-front auto Designer: Michael Rodriguez, U.S. Army Green Beret Blade length: 3.5” Blade steel: MagnaCut stainless Blade @the thickest: 0.13” Blade pattern: Spear point, ground on both edges Blade finish: Titanium nitride Scales: Aluminum Opening mechanism: Dual action Pocket clip: Sternum shaped, reversible Weight: 3.2 ozs. Closed length: 5.31” Knife to know: An Aztec deity, Xolotl is “the guide of souls to the afterlife” … the handle has 21 ribs, one for each of the designer’s years in service Country of origin: USA MSRP: $324.99 Company: CRKT, crkt.com
Cold Steel Frenzy II
Knife type: Tactical folder Knife designer: Andrew Demko Blade length: 5.5” Blade steel: S35VN stainless Blade polish: Satin Scales: G-10 Pocket clip: Yes Lock type: Tri-Ad® Weight: 5.7 ozs. Closed length: 6.75” Country of origin: Taiwan Knife to know: Design based on the kabutowari, an ancient Japanese design MSRP: $239.99 Company: Cold Steel, coldsteel.com
TOPS Knives A-Klub
Designer: Amanda Kaye Blade length: 12.38” Blade material: 1095 carbon steel Rockwell hardness: 56-58 HRC Blade @the thickest: 0.19” Blade finish: Acid Rain Scales: Green canvas Micarta® Weight: 23.8 ozs. Overall length: 17.88” Sheath: Black Kydex® Sheath clip: Dangler Weight w/sheath: 33 ozs. Country of origin: USA Knife to know: The A-Klub is the first TOPS knife designed by a woman, Amanda Kay, a past participant on TV’s Naked and Afraid; design influenced by American Indian war clubs MSRP: $409.95 Company: TOPS Knives, topsknives.com
Geoff Keyes Pirate Bowie
Blade length: 16” Blade material: 1080 carbon steel Blade grind: Flat Scales: Buffalo Furniture: Integral bolster, steel and copper Extras: Silk tassels handmade by Marianne George Overall length: 22” Maker’s price for a similar knife: $1,500 Maker: Geoff Keyes, 5elementsforge.com (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Taran Ma Sanctum
Knife type: Utility folder Blade length: 3.5” Blade steel: MagnaCut stainless Blade openers: Blade oval and ambidextrous thumb studs Scales: Titanium Lock type: Framelock Pocket clip: Yes Closed length: 4.25” Knife to know: Taran Ma has been making knives for 1 year Maker’s price for a similar knife: Contact maker for information Maker: Taran Ma (SharpByCoop image)
Josh Davis Sgian Dubh
Blade length: 3.46” Blade material: 80CrV2 carbon steel Blade grind: Hollow Blade thickness @ricasso: 0.118” Blade @the widest: 1.8” Scales: Ebony, mosaic pin, TruStone and brass Overall length: 7.9” Sheath: By the maker Maker’s price for a similar knife: Contact maker for more info Knife to know: Josh Davis won Best New Maker for his sgian dubh at the 2025 Adelaide Cutlers Expo; he is also a member of the Australian Knifemakers Guild Maker: Josh Davis, CSC Knives (Rod Hoare image)
Don’t overlook small tactical fixed blades for everyday carry.
When most blade fans talk everyday carry (EDC) knives, they usually mean folders. The two main EDC advantages of folding knives are they are convenient to carry and, except for that pesky pocket clip, easy to conceal. Of course, while many overlook the clip, others know it indicates you are carrying a knife.
Folders are designed primarily for smaller everyday chores—opening a box, peeling fruit and so on. This is especially true of slipjoints, which rely on you cutting away from yourself—which you should always do with all knives—and a half-stop as a safety device. Granted, when slipjoints were popularized long ago, lockback, linerlock and framelock folders were unavailable. The problem with both slipjoints and lockbacks is most take two hands to open and close, which, if you are trying to cut something you simultaneously must hold, can be inconvenient at the very least.
The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw a boom in the commercial availability of manual folders that could be opened and closed with one hand. Utilizing the flipper opener and the roller bearing system made the blade deploy quickly and smoothly, often even quicker than an automatic. With the perfection of linerlocks and framelocks, unlocking and closing the manual folder with one hand was no longer a problem.
Kydex sheaths can be molded to fit the blade and, over time, will not deform, providing a safer carry option. Rafal Kolakowski uses Kydex® for the sheaths of his Ridgeline set of small tactical EDC fixed blades.
Even with these technical improvements, the folding knife still has its limitations. A small blade can do only so much before it bends or, in some cases, breaks. Some tactical folder makers tried to address this issue by making folders with 5-inch blades of 1/4-inch stock. This was done primarily for cosmetic reasons without addressing the folder’s primary weakness—the pivot. The very nature of the pivot means it must allow some side-to-side movement of the blade, no matter how slight. If the folder is used for an unintended purpose or put under undue force, the blade can be moved off-center.
On top of that, folding knives require more regular maintenance than fixed blades. Locking folders with back straps and slipjoints with backsprings collect dirt, lint, etc., during daily use and must be cleaned. What’s more, using a folding knife beyond its capabilities and failing to perform regular maintenance can affect its opening and closing ability. Lastly, a folder cannot do anything until you first deploy the blade.
Fixed-Blade Pros
Fixed blades, on the other hand, offer several advantages. As already suggested, larger fixed blades can do tasks that smaller blades either can’t perform or do so with difficulty.
Finger/thumb serrations on the blade spine of Al Polkowski’s Boot Fighter help with controlling the knife in use.
One of the fixed blade’s most significant advantages is full-tang construction, providing added strength and durability. A full-tang fixed blade especially is better suited for heavy cutting and repeated hard use, and safer for use with a heavy load.
A fixed blade also has a superior mechanical advantage. Unlike the folding knife, there is zero chance of mechanical failure under stress. Locks and pivots can fail, especially when using the knife for tasks for which it is not intended.
Another advantage is the style and size of the blade. Fixed blades can feature longer and thicker blades that will perform better under the rigors of hard use.
Full-tang fixed blades such as the Trailhead set by Tomasz Dziubinski are better suited for heavy cutting and repeated hard use, and safer for use with a heavy load.
A fixed blade typically will have better handle ergonomics. Its handle is usually designed for prolonged use, featuring a more comfortable grip that also aids in balance and is ready for immediate deployment. While many folders can be opened with one hand, not so slipjoints. If your hands are cold, wet, injured or gloved it can present a problem as many, if not all, slipjoints require two hands to deploy the blade or blades. On the other hand, with the correct sheath combination, a fixed blade can be rapidly deployed under almost any circumstance.
Sheath Concerns
Top material options for EDC fixed-blade sheaths are leather and Kydex®. Kydex gained popularity because it provides two main advantages over leather.
First, most makers can build at least a rudimentary kydex sheath. Leather sheaths are more of a challenge. Second, Kydex does not hold moisture and does not require tannic acid, which is used in the processing of leather. This is very important for EDC. Tannic acid in the leather can cause carbon steel to discolor. Leather, once wet, can shrink and/or deform, allowing the blade to accidentally cut or poke through it.
Conversely, Kydex does not hold moisture and does not require tannic acid. Kydex can be molded to fit the blade and, over time, will not deform, providing a safer carry option. Finally, the clip attachment on most Kydex sheaths can be adjusted to wear in either a vertical or horizontal position.
They Have The Edge
With the right sheath combination, a fixed blade can be rapidly deployed under almost any circumstance. The Street Scalpel by Rafal Kolakowski with Kydex® sheath and breakaway chain is a classic example.
I’m not suggesting that folders do not have advantages as EDC knives; they do. They are usually more comfortable and concealable to carry than fixed blades. They are more socially acceptable and usually have limited legal restrictions. They can provide versatility for light tasks such as opening letters, boxes, cutting cord, etc.
It is in fact the EDC folders’ size that is its biggest disadvantage. The smaller blades and less ergonomic handles limit the number of tasks folding knives can perform. Also, their moving parts provide a mechanical disadvantage when compared to EDC fixed blades.
The majority of this story’s featured tactical fixed EDCs have a 4-inch or shorter blade. Many tactical EDC folders also have 3.75-to-4-inch blades. When open, they are about the same length as the featured fixed blades.
With perhaps the exceptions of concealability and some legal restrictions, fixed blades have the edge. Depending on what you are using it for, you may want to consider a knife that has the mechanical advantage, requires less maintenance, can be easier to deploy in difficult situations or environments, and is more comfortable in the hand: fixed blades, the other EDC!
Rebel Specs Knife type: Small tactical EDC fixed blade Blade Length: 4.25” Blade Steel: Elmax stainless Blade Finish: Two-tone satin and bead blast Handle Material: Textured black Micarta® w/OD green Micarta liners Overall Length: 9” Sheath: Custom-built by the maker; Kydex® Author’s Comments: “Excellent all-around knife … the tip is ground to give the knife extra penetration … the texture of the black Micarta on the handle gives the user additional traction … primarily designed for belt wear, the clip can be configured for additional carry options … serrations along the top of the blade enhance the knife’s ability to handle small chores … a great knife that provides lots of user options.” Maker’s price: $430
Ridgeline Specs Knife type: Small tactical EDC fixed blade Blade Length: 4” Overall Length: 8.75” Blade Steel: Becut stainless Blade Finish: Satin Handle Material: Black G-10 Sheath: Custom-built by the maker; Kydex® Author’s Comments: “Double-hollow-ground blade with a fuller for added strength … full-tang construction … sculpted handle material for enhanced ergonomics … stainless-steel-tube-lined thong hole.” Maker’s Price: $350 each
Boot Fighter Specs Knife type: Small tactical EDC fixed blade Blade Length: 4” Blade Steel: 154CM stainless Blade Finish: Bead blast Handle Material: Black and green G-10 Overall Length: 8.25” Sheath: Custom-built by the maker; Kydex® Author’s Comments: “Great little back-up knife … it features a double-hollow-ground double edge with an extended tang that features a thong hole … quick and light in the hand.”
Trailhead Specs Knife type: Small tactical EDC fixed blade Blade Length: 3.5” Blade Steel: Sleipner stainless Blade Finish: Black Cerakote® Handle Material: OD green G-10 Overall Length: 8.25” Sheath: Custom-built by the maker; Kydex® Author’s Comments: “Flat-ground, upswept utility-style blade … full-tang construction, excellent handle ergonomics … small knife built for hard work … stainless-steel-tube-lined thong hole … perfect knife for camping, a hike and everyday carry.” Maker’s Price: $280 each
Street Scalpel Specs Pattern: Tactical fixed-blade neck knife Blade Length: 2” Blade Material: 80CrV2 carbon steel Blade Finish: Black Cerakote® Handle Material: OD green G-10 Overall Length: 5.9” Sheath: Custom-made, multi-position in Kydex® by the maker w/ball-bearing breakaway chain Author’s Comments: “Perfect for utility or self-defense … the attachment holes on the sheath allow the knife to be carried however you like.” Maker’s Price: $280
The sub-hilt is at once belligerent and beautiful, adding a strange allure to the knives that sport it.
There is no consensus as to the origin of the sub-hilt knife, though most agree the sub-hilt fighter was popularized by BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-of-Fame® member Bob Loveless in the 1970s, if not earlier. Some believe the sub-hilt design was for hunting, and that the main purpose for the added hilt was for greater leverage when a surer grip was needed. A few have even postulated the additional hilt was for use as a brace in pulling the knife out after being stabbed into bone or another hard material, a use that it would no doubt accommodate most effectively.
Gary Langley: Gentleman’s Fixed Blade
Custom maker Gary Langley’s sub-hilt fighter may be small at 9 inches overall but makes up for its size in sleek blade grinds, exquisite mother-of-pearl scales and gold inlay. Blade and overall lengths: 4.5 and 9 inches. Alice Carter did the engraving. (SharpByCoop knife image)
Many knife enthusiasts think of a sub-hilt fighter as being a heavier-edged companion—and in many cases it is—but custom knifemaker Gary Langley’s iteration is a little gem of a knife.
“The small Loveless-style sub-hilt fighter is 3/16-inch CPM 154 steel with a double hollow grind on a 3-inch wheel,” the Dumas, Texas, maker notes. “The heat treatment is by [Cutlery Hall-of-Famer] Paul Bos. I originally designed the knife without the rear bolster. I added it when I couldn’t source the mother-of-pearl scales long enough—and I believe it turned out even better.”
It has what might be called a 19th-century Michael Price San Francisco knife look that makes it a prime candidate for a true gentleman’s fixed blade.
Andrew Blomfield: Sub-Hilt Bowie
ABS master smith Andrew Blomfield’s sub-hilt bowie is a tour de force of explosive mosaic damascus, salt-blackened steel, brass spacers, and exquisite Australian ringed gidgee wood. Blade and overall lengths: 11 and 16 inches. (SharpByCoop knife image)
An ABS master smith from New South Wales, Australia, Andrew Blomfield enjoys building large knives such as bowies and daggers. “The bigger the knife the better,” he states. An example is his sub-hilt bowie.
“I feel that this knife has great flow and balance,” he begins. “The blade is an explosion mosaic pattern damascus hardened to 59 HRC. The guards and pommel are salt-blackened steel with brass spacers and the handle is a beautiful piece of Australian ringed gidgee.”
The guard’s bottom quillon curves back toward the sub-hilt to partially enclose the user’s hand a la a D-guard, but also has hints of both a C- and an S-guard to it. Very unusual!
Andrew Meers: Rose of Sharon
ABS master smith Andrew Meers calls his 16.5-inch sub-hilt fighter Bees and Flowers, due in no small part to the Rose of Sharon and bees engraving. The 12-inch blade is a damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels in a mosaic pattern. Guard and furniture are 416 stainless steel. Overall length: 16.5 inches. (SharpByCoop knife image)
ABS master smith Andrew Meers of Raleigh, North Carolina, says, “I started with the sub-hilt in mind, which is a departure for me.” To say his deviation from the norm worked out well is an understatement.
“I like to incorporate Japanese influences wherever I can, and I wound up adding an integral habaki into the guard design as well,” he explains. “I wanted a blade that was able to feature a mosaic pattern, so I chose a broader shape that expands towards the point rather than tapers. The handle is a simple design to contrast the visual complexity of the guard.”
The engraving theme is of the Rose of Sharon and bees.
“The client had requested a floral theme, and we worked on the rest of the design and layout from there,” Andrew says. “The engraving was meant to complement the layout of the guard and furniture.”
Justin Harrington: A-Team
Built for an Army buddy, Justin Harrington’s superb sub-hilt fighter incorporates a masterful balance of random pattern damascus, mokumé gané and African blackwood. Blade and overall lengths: 8.5 and 13.5 inches. (SharpByCoop knife image)
Justin Harrington of Clemmons, North Carolina, began smithing 18 years ago and is the owner of Cyclops Forge. Of the sub-hilt he says, “It’s the racecar of fighting knives—weight, balance, curvature, tip control and placement all are important variables to be employed to reach a harmony which is felt right away when correctly done.
“This knife started its life as a phone call from an Army A-team member who wanted a special combat retirement gift for his buddy. The three of us got together and forged a damascus billet for the knife over three days in my shop. The 8-inch recurve blade is a random-pattern damascus of 1084 and 15N20 carbon steels. The guard and sub-hilt are made from a copper-and-nickel mokumé gané I make in my shop. The handle is around 5 inches of sculpted African blackwood with a bronze pin.”
The sub-hilt has a forward lean and spoon-cupped quillon that slants toward the guard to capture the user’s index finger. The result is a handle that seems to want to grab your hand.
Cool & Sexy
Whether fighter, bowie or what have you, the sub-hilt-knife genre may be more recognizably custom than any other. From the classic Loveless Big Bear fighter to the wide array of today’s renditions, top sub-hilts are cool, sexy and in harmony with the best custom knives extant.
White River Exodus 3 is a great little companion blade to add to your gear.
A small bushcrafter/EDC knife, the Exodus 3 by White River Knife & Tool can be very useful. Also known as the Adventurecraft, this lean cutter has a thin, super-sharp blade that does all the chores that a larger knife can’t do easily, from skinning small game to whittling firesticks to removing splinters. It’s a great little companion blade to add to your gear. Does it cut? Let’s see.
White River Knife & Tool Exodus 3 Specs
Company: White River Knife & Tool Blade length: 3.15” Blade material: A2 tool steel Rockwell hardness: 60-61 HRC Blade @the thickest: 0.130” Blade finish: Stonewashed Scales: G-10 Weight: 2 ozs. Overall length: 7.2” Sheath: Kydex® Weight w/sheath: 3.5 ozs. Knife to know: Leather belt loop and different handle materials available MSRP: $140
Light Cutting Duty
The author used vertical cuts on the 8-ounce leather as fast as he could. The edge bit swift and deep with a nice crunching sound.
Slicing regular lined notebook paper went very fast. The Adventurecraft cut smoothly and aggressively. As I warmed up to its thin shape, the cuts were faster. The flat-ground blade is easy to index in use.
Next up, it sliced single-walled cardboard very quickly with a slight curl to the cut pieces. The blade’s width and full flat grind pulled the curl as the blade went through. The aggressive edge was still making noise as it sliced.
Medium Cutting Duty
For skiving the 8-ounce leather, the blade rendered very thin flaps time and time again.
I used vertical cuts as fast as I could on 8-ounce scrap leather. The edge bit swift and deep with a nice crunching sound. I somehow managed to keep all the skin on my fingers in the process. The Adventurecraft is very aggressive cutting leather.
For skiving, the blade rendered extremely thin flaps of leather time and time again. As expected, I surrendered a few thin slices of skin on the leather. The Adventurecraft has a very sharp edge!
Heavy Cutting Duty
Since the handle is as narrow as the blade, the author had to adjust his grip a few times when whittling the firestick. The deeper he cut, the more it wanted to roll in his hand. So he made the curlicues thin and kept on whittling. As he noted, “It’s a handy whittler in any case.”
I grabbed a piece of pine from the kindling pile and started to whittle a firestick. I had to adjust my grip a few times as the handle is as narrow as the blade. The deeper I cut the more it wanted to roll in my hand. So I made the curlicues thin and kept on whittling. It’s a handy whittler in any case.
The edge withstood 30 whacks into a deer antler. The little blade took the beating with no chips or rolls, a sign of excellent heat treatment.
Half-inch sisal rope was next. The Adventurecraft put out 160 crunching cuts before some sliding ensued. The pressure I used on each cut made it challenging to hang on to the narrow handle. I really had to grip it tightly. It cut aggressively once I got going.
I checked the edge with 30 whacks into a deer antler. The little blade took the beating with no chips or rolls. Yep, excellent heat treatment! Back at the workbench, I grabbed the sheet of notebook paper for a second go-round. The Adventurecraft still sliced smoothly.
Final Cut
I would widen the handle for more leverage in cutting. This is a handy little blade to have around the campsite or in a backpack. It’s great for everyday uses.
Check Out More Outdoor Knives:
BEST TOMAHAWKS: OUR TOP HAWKS FOR BACKWOODS TO BATTLEFIELDS
Marine Corps hero feted with Nawrocki knife at The Battleship Ball.
An unforgettable setting for a memorable event celebrating an American hero—all complemented by a beautiful knife by Brian “Rocco” Nawrocki—completed a tribute to USMC Sergeant Scott Bunker during last year’s 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps.
Assigned to Lima Company in 2005 during the Iraq War, Sergeant Bunker took multiple machine-gun rounds at point-blank range in house-to-house fighting, resulting in the loss of an eye, half a lung, several ribs and soft-tissue damage to his left arm. He was the guest of honor at The Battleship Ball 2025 on November 1, held on the deck of the vintage World War II Battleship USS North Carolina in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Event organizer/USMC veteran Dean Smith (left) congratulates Sgt. Scott Bunker after delivery of the Nawrocki tribute knife (in display case on the dais) during The Battleship Ball.
The handsome fixed blade Rocco made for Sergeant Bunker includes steel from the North Carolina for the blade and guard. The wood handle is teak from the battlewagon’s deck, along with purple heart ribbon spacers.
If it needs cutting, do it in style with one of these gems.
Of any class of knife, there’s nothing handier than an EDC blade. From mending hoses to knocking down cardboard boxes and prying open stuck latches, these knives trim down daily chores. Though what exactly defines an EDC knife? Honestly, anything could be an everyday carry if you simply carry it every day. And while a few of our new knife picks aren’t precisely what you call your typical EDC, they’re certainly worthy of keeping at hand to cut into your workload.
Brian Milinski Paratrooper
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25” BLADE MATERIAL: Dragonskin damascus by Bertie Rietveld BLADE GRIND: Hollow BLADE FINISH: Nitre salt blued SCALES: Carbon fiber CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,650 MAKER: Brian Milinski, mrknives.com (Felipe Silva image)
Buck Knives 791 Range Elite
KNIFE TYPE: Folder BLADE LENGTH: 3 3/8” BLADE STEEL: MagnaCut stainless BLADE GRIND: High-panel flat BLADE OPENER: Thumb stud HANDLE MATERIAL: Anodized aluminum LINERS: Tumble-polished stainless LOCK: Crossbar POCKET CLIP: Deep carry, reversible WEIGHT: 3.3 ozs. CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5” SPECIAL FEATURES: Spine gimping COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA MSRP: $275 COMPANY: Buck Knives, buckknives.com
Sean Alonzo Dalisay 2.8 Cigar Cutter
BLADE LENGTH: 2.8” BLADE MATERIAL: Yggdrasil pattern damascus by Damasteel BLADE GRIND: Single bevel SCALES: Mammoth tusk ivory BOLSTER: Black burlap Micarta® KNIFE TO KNOW: Pivot collar, inlay and thumb screws are mammoth ivory; zirconium pivot and backspacer MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $4,200 MAKER: Sean Alonzo, baleteblades.shop (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Brion Tomberlin Personal Carry Fighter
BLADE LENGTH: 4.5” BLADE MATERIAL: W2 tool steel w/hamon BLADE GRIND: Flat SCALES: Ironwood GUARD: 416 stainless steel OVERALL LENGTH: 9.5” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $650 KNIFE TO KNOW: Brion Tomberlin is a master smith in the American Bladesmith Society MAKER: Brion Tomberlin (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Craig Brewer Slipjoint
BLADE LENGTH: 2.5” BLADE MATERIAL: Mike Norris stainless damascus in a Frequency pattern BLADE GRIND: Hollow SCALES: Mammoth ivory CLOSED LENGTH: 3” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,100 KNIFE TO KNOW: Craig Brewer is an apprentice smith in the American Bladesmith Society MAKER: Craig Brewer (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Quintin T. Hardtner IV Take-Down Frame-Handle Bowie
BLADE LENGTH: 8.25” BLADE MATERIAL: Feather damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels BLADE GRIND: Flat SCALES: Curly koa FURNITURE MATERIAL: Same as blade SPACERS: Nickel silver OVERALL LENGTH: 13.5” KNIFE TO KNOW: Won Best Fixed Blade and Best of Show at the 2025 Louisiana Knife Show SHEATH: Leather; custom made by Bob Bobbitt MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $3,000 MAKER: Quintin T. Hardtner IV (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Spartan Blades Soter Carbon Fiber Edition
KNIFE TYPE: EDC folder BLADE LENGTH: 3.25” BLADE STEEL: CPM S35VN stainless ROCKWELL HARDNESS: 58-60 HRC BLADE FINISH: Satin HANDLE MATERIAL: Carbon fiber/G-10 composite LOCK: RaceLock™ POCKET CLIP: Machined from one piece of steel, PVD-coated in flat dark earth WEIGHT: 3.9 ozs. COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA MSRP: $310 KNIFE TO KNOW: Soter is the Greek mythological figure known as the “protector” COMPANY: Spartan Blades, spartanbladesusa.com
Tory Utt Arkansas Hunter
KNIFE TYPE: Slipjoint BLADE LENGTH: 4” BLADE MATERIAL: Feather pattern damascus forged by Bill Poor BLADE GRIND: Flat BLADE PATTERN: Clip point HANDLE FRAME: Nickel silver SCALES: Westinghouse Micarta® SHIELD: Mother-of-pearl BOLSTERS: Topo pattern damascus forged by Tory Utt CLOSED LENGTH: 4.25” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,300 range KNIFE TO KNOW: Tory Utt has been making knives for 12 years MAKER: Tory Utt, sacredbearknives.com (SharpByCoop image)
Mace Vitale Bowie
BLADE LENGTH: 12.5” BLADE MATERIAL: W2 tool steel w/hamon BLADE GRIND: Flat SCALES: Tasmanian blackwood GUARD & FERRULE: Mild steel OVERALL LENGTH: 17.5” KNIFE TO KNOW: The design is inspired by early American knives; Mace Vitale is a journeyman smith in the American Bladesmith Society MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,750 MAKER: Mace Vitale (SharpByCoop image)
Bear & Son Cutlery 112A 4” Stainless Steel Framelock
BLADE LENGTH: 2 7/8” BLADE MATERIAL: Stainless steel BLADE PATTERN: Drop point BLADE OPENERS: Flipper and thumb stud OPENING MECHANISM: Assisted HANDLE MATERIAL: Stainless steel LOCK: Framelock POCKET CLIP: Yes WEIGHT: 3.8 ozs. CLOSED LENGTH: 3¾” COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA MSRP: $59.99 COMPANY: Bear & Son Cutlery, bearandsoncutlery.com
Camillus Explorer
BLADE LENGTH: 3” BLADE STEEL: 3Cr13 stainless BLADE PATTERN: Drop point HANDLE MATERIAL: Nylon glass fiber LOCK: Crossbar WEIGHT: 3 3/8 ozs. CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5” COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Offshore MSRP: $29.99 COMPANY: Camillus, camillusknives.com
5.11 Pryme Double Duty DP
KNIFE TYPE: Folder BLADE LENGTH: 3.25” BLADE MATERIAL: D2 tool steel BLADE GRIND: Compound BLADE PATTERN: Drop point BLADE OPENERS: Flipper and thumb stud HANDLE MATERIAL: G-10 on mark side/420J2 stainless on lock side BOLSTER MATERIAL: 420J2 LOCK: Framelock POCKET CLIP: Steel, deep carry, reversible WEIGHT: 5.3 ozs. CLOSED LENGTH: 5.125” SPECIAL FEATURES: Built-in, full-handle-length pry tool/screwdriver/optic COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: China MSRP: $85 CONTACT: 5.11, 5.11tactical.com
Four U.S.-made EDC sheath knives take the author’s test.
EDC knives have been influenced by folding designs since the inception of steel, if not before. However, historically speaking, compact fixed blades were daily edged tools long before folders.
Cultures worldwide, both known and no doubt unknown, carried short sheath knives for utility, survival and ceremony. Japan’s tanto pierced with precision and Viking seaxes sliced with status. Native Americans relied on trade knives and ulus for skinning and barter. Indonesia’s badik and short kris blended practicality with spiritual meaning.
These blades reflected local needs and traditions, proving compact straight knives were essential long before EDC became a modern gear category.
Wharncliffe Vs. Sheepsfoot Blades
The aptly named Bradford USA G3 Wharnie (top) has a classic wharncliffe blade while the Montana Knife Stockyard (bottom) boasts a modified sheepsfoot pattern.
Wharncliffe and sheepsfoot blades are similar and different. A wharncliffe features a long, straight cutting edge with a spine that tapers gradually to a fine, precise point. This geometry excels at controlled slicing, detailed scoring and utility work where accuracy at the tip is essential. The design allows steady pressure along the edge, making it ideal for carving, whittling and precision-driven EDC tasks.
A sheepsfoot, by contrast, has a straight edge with a spine that curves down sharply to meet the edge in a blunter tip. This greatly reduces the risk of piercing, making it safer for rescue work, controlled cuts and environments where safety matters most.
The wharncliffe offers versatility and precision for fine tasks, while the sheepsfoot provides dependable slicing power, rope-cutting efficiency and unmatched control under pressure. Together, they represent two specialized approaches to cutting—one prioritizing accuracy, the other emphasizing safety and reliability.—by Reuben Bolieu
Montana Knife Co. (MKC) Stockyard
The Montana Knife Stockyard whittled curly, thin feather sticks for a small twig stove. MKC offers free sharpening, cleaning and repair for life, ensuring the knife remains reliable for years to come.
The Montana Knife Co. (MKC) Stockyard is made in the USA and hand-finished in Montana. It embodies the rugged traditions of ranch life and strikes a balance between compact carry and the strength needed for long days in the field. Its MagnaCut stainless steel is known for toughness, edge retention and corrosion resistance, and the blade’s thickness provides durability without excessive weight.
The sheepsfoot blade is designed for controlled slicing and safe utility, excelling in tasks such as cutting twine or trimming hooves where precision is crucial. The stonewash finish reduces glare and disguises wear, while the rugged G-10 scales in green and black ensure a secure grip, even in wet or gloved conditions. The ergonomic handle includes a “subtle hook profile” for extra control and quick deployment.
Each Stockyard comes with a USA-made Kydex sheath, featuring adjustable retention for a secure fit and both horizontal and vertical carry. The design keeps the knife accessible and comfortable, whether you’re riding fence lines or working in the shop. MKC also offers free sharpening, cleaning and repair for life, ensuring your knife remains reliable for years to come.
Bradford USA G3 Wharnie
Wharncliffe and sheepsfoot blades allow you to choke up toward the tip and use a forefinger for fine control work. The author used the technique with the Bradford USA G3 Wharnie on a fried egg eaten right out of his carbon-steel skillet.
Skilled makers in Kent, Washington, meticulously craft the Bradford USA G3 Wharnie, ensuring every detail meets the highest quality standards. The compact fixed blade strikes a balance between portability and cutting strength, making it ideal for everyday carry and outdoor use. The blade’s long, straight edge offers both reach and control, versatile enough for slicing tasks and utility work. The blade thickness provides durability without the weight, allowing for agility in the hand.
Forged from premium Bohler M390 or MagnaCut stainless, the blade excels in edge retention, toughness and corrosion resistance. The wharncliffe blade, featuring the straight edge and fine tip, is particularly suited for controlled slicing, scoring and detailed cutting. A choice between a stonewash or tumbled finish minimizes glare while concealing wear, giving the knife a rugged, industrious appearance.
The handle features 3D-contoured scales in a choice of G-10, Micarta, carbon fiber or G-Wood, ensuring a secure grip and long-lasting durability. The ergonomic shape fits comfortably in hand for extended use, whether in the field or workshop. Each G3 Wharnie comes with a taco-style Kydex sheath that offers secure retention and customizable carry options.
Big Idea Design Deano
Deano Specs Designer: Mak Kelsay Blade Length: 3.125” Blade Steel: Nitro-V stainless Blade @the Thickest: 0.14” Blade Finish: Graphite black Cerakote® Weight: 3.6 ozs. Scales: Micarta® Overall Length: 7.5” Sheath: Kydex w/UltiClip 3.3 Country of Origin: USA MSRP: $325
Pros
Versatile Blade
Good Carry System
Full-Sized Grip
Cons
Expensive
The Deano from Big Idea Design is made in America with global steel origins. Designed by Mak Kelsay in Chattanooga, Tennessee, it strikes a nice balance between compact carry and dependable working strength. The blade provides versatile cutting power for everyday carry, camping and outdoor use. It also offers durability without unnecessary bulk, keeping it agile in hand.
The Nitro-V stainless blade steel delivers excellent toughness, edge retention and corrosion resistance in demanding environments. The modified drop point emphasizes control and practical utility. It tracks straight, bites clean and handles detail cuts with confidence. A graphite-black Cerakote®/tumbled finish creates a rugged, battle-worn look while reducing glare and concealing wear.
Scales are durable Micarta in black or green, providing a secure grip in all conditions. The ergonomic contour ensures comfort during extended use, whether in the field, workshop or camp.
The Deano includes a scout-carry Kydex sheath with an UltiClip Slim 3.3, offering secure retention and versatile carry options. The sheath system rides comfortably on a belt or pack, keeping the knife accessible and protected at all times.
Bear Forest Knives Stumpy
Stumpy Specs Designer: Garrett Tremblay Blade Length: 2 1/8” Blade @the Thickest: .125” Blade Steel: Nitro-V stainless Blade Finish: Raw matte Weight: 3.2 ozs. Scales: Various Micarta®/wood/Bearcarta Overall Length: 5 7/8” Sheath: By JRE Industries of black leather County of Origin: USA MSRP: $200
Pros
Hand Built
Grind Options
Good Ergonomics
Cons
Smallish Handle
The Bear Forest Knives Stumpy is built by hand in the USA for everyday carry and outdoor reliability. It offers a compact profile that disappears on your belt. The short blade delivers precise cutting power for utility, camp chores and daily shop tasks, and strikes a balance between strength and nimble handling, making it quick and responsive in the hand.
The Nitro-V stainless blade steel provides excellent hardness, edge retention and corrosion resistance in demanding environments. The blade features a full flat grind but is also available with a Scandi grind. It has a 90-degree spine ideal for generating sparks with a ferro rod and for scraping tinder. A raw matte finish gives the knife a resilient, understated look while reducing glare and hiding wear.
Scales are available in Micarta, wood or Bearcarta, each offering durability, comfort and a secure grip in most all conditions. The ergonomic design ensures the knife locks naturally into your hand, even during extended use.
Each Stumpy includes a premium JRE Industries black leather sheath, designed for secure retention and comfortable carry. The sheath rides well on a belt or lanyard, keeping the knife accessible and protected wherever you go.
Real World Tests
There are two teams here, as I see it—straight blades and, more commonly, curved blades. Or, MagnaCut vs. Nitro-V. The blades were all hair-popping sharp out of the box, as expected. This is always the first test of any edged tool I get.
The handles are all unusual. The Stockyard and The Deano have full-sized grips, while the Stumpy and G3 Wharnie have shorter, more compact handles. The latter two also have beefier, hand-filling scales, adding to user comfort.
I had the Stumpy with its full flat grind the longest. It is the only EDC in the batch to have a straight, 90-degree sharpened spine. The continuous curve of the belly aided in making feather sticks for a fire, as did the sharp spine for striking a ferro rod. The smallish handle was comfortable due to the textured Micarta and thick scales. Besides, who doesn’t like a good Mexican blanket print on the scales?
The Deano has a thin handle, as many EDC fixed blades do. The scales are smooth and comfy—sleek. The modified drop point has a slightly clip-point feel and look.
On the utility side, I slashed through mounds of cardboard to break down boxes. I cut cardboard, not tape. (There’s nothing more annoying than a sticky blade on a good knife.) Slicing along the side of a box helps open it up and saves your edge, since it separates a lot of area with minimal gumminess. The light gimping was perfect for my forefinger when slicing down. I never use my thumb on the spine— it’s a bushcraft habit.
Wharny Or Sheepy?
The wharncliffe and sheepsfoot are two similar blade shapes with distinct attributes. I received the Bradford G3 Wharnie in MagnaCut first and rekindled my love for the straight-edge style with a curved spine. Nothing screams utility more than a straight edge similar to that of an X-Acto knife blade. Any box-opener blade fits in with the crowd, as does a wharncliffe. Tip-forward pressure is excellent for drawing back slices.
Wharncliffe and sheepsfoot blades allow you to choke up toward the tip and use a forefinger for fine, controlled work. I used the technique on a fried egg eaten right out of my carbon-steel skillet. Only a small amount of steel came in contact with the egg and skillet, as draw cuts use minimal edge.
I ran the MKC and Bradford through identical testing on various fibrous materials for practical EDC use. I sliced scrap leather, nylon webbing, zip ties, phone-charging and lamp cords, and lots of cardboard, all with zero issues. The more challenging materials were plastic packaging banding and 15,000-pound tow strapping. I severed the latter two media on a cutting board, draw cutting and push cutting. The forward leverage obtained from the straight-edge blades was apparent and much appreciated. Both blades sliced through the din with no holdups.
As for the performance difference between MagnaCut and Nitro-V, it has more to do with edge geometry and the materials you’re cutting than anything else. It would take a long time cutting similar materials with identical grinds on two knives to see any real difference. Suffice to say, these are two top-tier stainless steels.
Carry Systems
The test knives come with sturdy Kydex sheaths ready for scout carry.
Besides the Bradford G3 Wharnie, two of the test knives are set up for scout carry with straps. The older model of the BFK Stumpy has one-strap retention for scout carry, which you can adjust to different positions. The MKC Stockyard has a Kydex fold-over sheath that easily attached to my belt while I was already wearing pants. The feature is incredibly convenient for those who often forget to put things on until it’s time to work.
The Deano came with options: scout carry strap set and UltiClip Slim 3.3, like a choose-your-own-adventure book. Bradford sent me a sturdy Kydex sheath without attachments. However, Bradford has order options on its website. I carried the Bradford entry like a slip sheath in my pocket and eventually attached it to a small carabiner to hang on my belt loop.
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