The Hardcore Hardware MILF-02 Is A Heavy-Duty Folder That’s Designed For Any Challenge Users Can Throw At It.
The MILF-02 folder from Hardcore Hardware is made for hardcore users. It’s big and beefy all the way around, has a dimple-textured handle and frame for an excellent non-slip grip, and a classic drop-point-blade shape.
The hollow grind extends halfway up the blade. Blade steel is CPM S30V stainless with a PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating. It offers a classic black color on a framelock design with a flipper tab on the blade. It’s built heavy duty but it still has to cut.
Testing The MILF-02
The first inch of the cuts of the double-walled cardboard went well until the author had to use more pressure to push the cardboard over the thickness of the blade where the hollow grind stops. Once he got used to that, it was easy to overcome the twisting.
Right off the bat, the MILF sliced 20-pound-bond copy paper smoothly. The knife’s weight made the push cuts very easy. There were no snags or hang ups and it was simple to control the width of the slices.
Next: double-walled cardboard. The first inch of the cuts went well, then I had to use more pressure to push the cardboard over the thickness of the blade where the hollow grind stops. Once I got used to hitting this spot, it was easy to overcome the twisting. There were no edge hang ups at all.
I grabbed some 8-ounce leather for some skiving. The MILF was aggressive on every cut and emitted a crunching sound each time. Control was excellent in making fine slices and the handle filled my hand.
Cutting The Hard Stuff
The author gave the 2×4 chunk 20 hard chops and the MILF bit deep on every whack. The edges of each chop were smooth.
It was time for some whittling. The folder seemed to want to bite deep into the wood. I started off with a fine curly-cue and by the end of the cut the edge was well into the wood. The MILF didn’t hesitate at all on the deeper cuts; it just kept curling the wood. It is a heavy cutter for sure.
I put a 2×4 chunk in my vise and gave the wood 20 hard chops. The MILF bit deep on every whack. The edges of each chop were smooth. Lockup was still at 100 percent. The knife is a great chopper with the bigger handle and all, but the inside edges of the handle need softening. They’re a tad on the sharp side
I took the same 2×4 and used the folder to split it into smaller pieces. All it took was a light tap from a dead blow hammer and the wood split with a pop. The thicker blade worked great for this phase of the testing. Lockup was still at 100 percent.
Half-inch sisal rope was next on the slicing block. The MILF crunched through 200 clean cuts very quickly, showing no signs of slowing down. I stopped cutting to save on rope. Edge holding was excellent and the heat treatment was great.
To take the testing further, I grabbed a deer antler for some more whacking. I gave the antler 20 hard wallops and the blade edge suffered no rolling or chipping. I did manage to remove a very thin wire edge on the blade. However, the main edge was still very sharp.
I returned to the paper slice to recheck the edge. I noticed a few hang ups and found more of the wire edge still intact. Two strops on some leather and the edge was back to original sharpness. Excellent job on the heat treat!
Final Thoughts
I would soften the inside edges of the handle for a smoother grip. Beyond that, the MILF is a heavy-duty using folder that holds a great edge. It’s too big for my tastes but a cutter it is.
Tradition meshes with modern in today’s new-age factory slip joint knives.
Like all tools, slip-joint pocketknives have seen their own evolutionary journey. In the olden days there were quality tools and then there were ones produced to be a bit more affordable, yet they still had their utility. These days many people buy knives for their utility, and I would say a number buy them for what I call the “Gucci factor.” As times change what’s considered attractive changes too, and, of course, makers leave their marks with their own innovations.
This time we’re not only going to test the latest in factory slip joints but also examine how companies and designers are innovating the age-old design to ensure it’s useful enough for the user and pretty enough for the collector. I took them all for a spin by shoehorning them into my everyday carry (EDC) rotation. The results are revealing.
CRKT Forebear
CRKT Forebear
A couple of things update the CRKT Forebear. The first is the modified wharncliffe blades of 12C27 stainless steel. They’re not too big of a departure from the traditional style but still enough to make you notice. They are streamlined with an aggressive tip. Second is the use of a streaked-red-and-black G-10 handle. Unlike using texture to add dimension like, say, in a jigged material such as bone, the handle has two contrasting colors instead.
The knife is in a two-blade configuration—small and large wharncliffes—designed by custom maker Darriel Caston. The blades remind me of those on German chip-carving knives. Such blades are excellent for detail work and chores at which utility-style blades excel. They are flat ground and have long nail nicks that follow the spine.
I must say I was disappointed with the out-of-the-box finished edges on the blades. They were very uneven. One side had a larger micro bevel than the other. Machines do the great majority of the work creating the parts of a factory knife. In the end, though, the final edge is most often applied by hand. Before getting full use out of the knife I had to even out the bevels.
A handle closeup gives you a good idea of the depth the two-colored G-10 scales bring to the Forebear. At 3.43 inches closed, it’s a nice size for the watch pocket on your jeans.
Again, fit and finish was a bit of a disappointment, especially coming from CRKT. I have come to expect great value from the finishes on the company’s knives. Both scales exhibited shaping flaws and were left unpolished in spots, leaving an uneven appearance.
I actually like the design. It has great potential for everyday use with the two wharncliffes. It needs some work as mentioned on the edges. With a user knife it’s easier to overlook some fit-and-finish errors. After all, knives become better looking with familiarity as enthusiasts grow attached to their EDCs. As for the edge, it’s very fixable but it should come ready to use out of the box.
Boker Plus Koteyka
The file-style work on the spine of the Koteyka breaks up the profile and gives the blade some character.
The Boker Plus Koteyka is a stylized clip-point-blade folder. The handle is jigged black G-10. The blade is flat-ground D2 tool steel and opens via a nail nick. Closed length: 3.5 inches. I really like that Boker Plus sends the Koteyka in a box wrapped in wax paper like the old-time knives. On the back of the blade is some machining that resembles filework.
Out of the box it cut very well after I stropped it to bring it to the crazy sharp level. The finish on the G-10 has machining marks for a rustic look. One day I will end up hitting it on a buffing wheel. With a high luster polish I think it would be killer. Granted, the MSRP is only $69, so I’m just expressing my own thoughts on its presentation. Texture wise it can be a little rough on your hand, so that is another reason why I will buff it. The blade action and spring tension are good. It is a great little pocketknife update. I look forward to using it further.
Lionsteel Bestman
Lionsteel Bestman
In the Bestman, Lionsteel offers a pocketknife with all the traditional elements, though it’s the presentation and materials that give it the updated look. The folder has three choices of blade configuration: clip and spear points and a combination two-blade set up of clip point and wharncliffe. I received the clip point for the test. Blade steel: M390 stainless. Closed length: 3.75 inches.
The Bestman features two sets of bolsters with a decorative groove. Handle materials come in an array of natural or synthetic materials, from olive wood to carbon fiber. I chose the canvas Micarta® for the rugged look. Lionsteel kept the design blocky while smoothing over the edges to avoid hot spots. None of the metal on the knife is polished. It has a satin finish, as did some of the older high-end brands in which one side of the blade would be polished and the other side hand rubbed. In place of pins are Torx fasteners. Even the execution of the grind on the clip point departs from the traditional by keeping all the lines crisp.
The blade opens via a nail nick. The blade action is smooth yet has a definite half stop. The spring tension is dead on. I must say I am impressed and like it. It came right out of the box ready for work. The materials and design will last a lifetime of chores.
Heretic Jinn
Heretic JInn
At first, adding the Jinn by Heretic Knives to the review was iffy at best for me. I saw it on the company’s website and I somewhat reluctantly included it. To me, a pocketknife design from Heretic is akin to having a thrasher band perform Simon & Garfunkel. Nothing personal, I just thought Heretic couldn’t pull it off. In the end, though, I am the fool standing there clapping after the rest of the audience has stopped.
The sheepsfoot blade of CPM MagnaCut stainless with a combination serrated/plain edge has great application for EDC use. It can cut everything from soup to nuts. For style Heretic includes a false grind. The knife opens via a long nail nick at the blade’s back half. If I had one criticism it would be the position of the nail nick. There would be a greater advantage in opening the blade if the nick were farther away from the pivot point. Just pinching the blade closer to the tip allows for a smoother pull-on opening.
The Jinn is the only slip joint reviewed with a pocket clip.
A half stop enhances user safety and the knife is finished off in carbon fiber scales with a trim, low-profile pocket clip. The clip is my next issue. It is too tight to easily clip onto floppy and thick pocket rims. The design is such that you really don’t want to bend the clip, either.
All else considered, the Jinn really surprised me. It is a great worker. Overall, its looks fit right in with any modern one-hand-opening pocketknife. Closed length: 3.8 inches.
A CERTAIN ROMANCE Slip joints have a certain romance to them. On a base level the designs have tons of utility, and updating their appearances helps keep consumers interested. Of course, there will always be the ongoing love affair with the traditional designs. Many wouldn’t have it any other way.
SOG and designer Kiku Matsuda launch the Hidaka XR folder and FX fixed blade—rugged, Japanese-inspired knives built for outdoor adventure.
SOG has never been afraid to push boundaries, and the brand’s latest collaboration with master Japanese designer Kiku Matsuda proves it once again. August 2025 marks the debut of two new additions to the Hidaka series—the Hidaka XR folding knife and the Hidaka FX fixed blade. Both builds reflect Matsuda’s trademark blend of Japanese tradition and Western practicality, creating tools that are as striking to look at as they are dependable in the field.
The Hidaka XR takes the foundation of the original folder and turns up the performance. This isn’t just a cosmetic refresh. SOG gave the XR a 4-inch modified tanto blade made from CPM 3V steel—steel that’s known for taking abuse and holding an edge long after lesser alloys give out. Designed with outdoor use in mind, the XR can chop, pry, and slice with equal confidence. The textured Micarta handle not only looks the part, it locks into the hand, even when wet, and the company’s XR lock system secures the blade under up to 1,500 pounds of force. In practice, it feels closer to a fixed blade than a folder, making it a smart option for anyone who needs a folding knife that can survive hard use.
SOG Hidaka XR
Then there’s the Hidaka FX, a fixed blade that ticks all the boxes for serious outdoorsmen. Its 4.8-inch CRYO 3V steel blade, satin-finished for clean cuts, is built for durability and edge retention. A linen Micarta handle ensures a secure grip, while resisting heat, moisture, and impact. Add in the streamlined Kydex sheath, and the FX becomes an easy-carry knife ready for camp chores, trail tasks, or emergency situations.
Together, the Hidaka XR and FX show where SOG is headed—knives that merge artistry, ruggedness, and advanced engineering. With Matsuda’s design touch and SOG’s proven reputation for innovation since 1986, these new Hidakas aren’t just fresh models. They’re proof the brand is still redefining what a modern survival and outdoor knife can be.
From the author’s experience, one folding knife has it all.
Most folks pick a folding knife the same way they pick a favorite coffee mug. They grab the one that feels right and doesn’t complicate life. I’ve handled everything from titanium frame-locks to flippers tuned like race cars, yet one knife keeps drifting back into my pocket. A Victorinox Swiss Army Knife (SAK) Camper.
It carries the friendliest profile in the knife world. TSA agents used to relax when they saw it. Camp kids and parents borrow it without hesitation. Neighbors assume you plan to fix something, not start trouble. That kind of energy matters when you choose a knife for real life. So, while hype is infinite, for me the best folding knife is the one that moves through life without causing friction—and that’s where the SAK shines.
Simplicity Succeeds
The Swiss Army Knife survived more trends than any other pocket tool. Bearings exploded onto the scene. Super steels rose and fell. Pocket clips multiplied. Through all of that noise, the SAK kept its shape, its purpose and its quiet confidence. It solves real problems without drama. It tightens screws, trims campfire sticks, opens packages and handles small woodworking tasks with steady control. It never alarms anyone. It never begs for maintenance. It shrugs off grit, pocket lint, and weather. It stays relevant because it never chases trends, delivering honest function through simple mechanics. That kind of timeless design sets up the story of its enduring legacy.
In Bora Bora’s jungle, the author navigated with a sturdy Swiss Camper, ideal for both hotels and outdoor adventures.
The history of the Swiss Army Knife and company can fill the entire pages of this issue. So, I’ll save it, as BLADE® Magazine has put out a wealth of useful SAK information over the years.
Always Prepared
It’s true, the Swiss Camp was my first love of the Victorinox collection. It served me well for three decades and was my consummate companion throughout the world in all environments.
The Victorinox Camper packs a tight set of working parts into a pocket-friendly 3.5-inch frame. The large (2.75-inch) and small (1.398-inch) blades handle most cutting tasks with steady control. Meanwhile, the wood saw chews through branches far bigger than the knife’s size suggests. The can opener, bottle opener and built-in screwdrivers tackle camp, urban chores and quick fixes without hesitation. The reamer punches clean holes in leather and wood, and the corkscrew earns its keep on knots and party saving. The tweezers, toothpick and key ring round out the toolset, keeping the knife welcoming of everyday surprises!
The author relied solely on a Swiss Army Camper during his trip above 9,000 feet in the Eastern Sierra Mountains.
Knife For All Season
Consider how many knives you can take to a wedding, an office meeting or a fishing trip? How many might you present to overseas officials, use in a restaurant, take camping and fix the odds and ends in our lives? Maybe all. However, they wouldn’t be appropriately accepted. The SAK teeters on multi-tool territory. It is a knife-based multitool, yet a knife at heart.
The question, “Do I need something more tactical or bushcrafty for the woods?” is often raised in my head. Woodsy is the answer. When I need more grip, cutting power, and blade length, along with faster deployment, the One-Handed Trekker (known as the Trailfinder in Europe) is the answer.
Hidden Talents
The Camper model’s main blade excels in crafting feather sticks for tinder and kindling, thanks to its thin V-grind edge.
I hate sticky blades, yet I get a lot of packages in the mail. Some have an alternative surface to slice through, but most use tape. The can opener opens boxes, as does the awl. Even the combo tool on other models that open cans and lift bottle lids will do an excellent job on packages. However, when it’s time to slice and slash through heavy nylon strapping, twine and cardboard, it’s hard to beat the sharp main blade.
I always need a saw on a SAK that’s going into the woods for a day hike, bushcraft or any camping trip. It’s one of the best saws in business—sharp and tough. It does an excellent job on the obvious—sawing. I learned about 20 years ago that it excels at a ferro rod striker. The spine is a true 90-degree angle and shaves thin curls on fatwood, bamboo, rivercane and softer woods like poplar easily.
Slow But Steady
The One-Handed Trekker, utilized by the author on various Amazon Jungle and backpacking excursions, includes a locking screwdriver and blade.
I love me a good flipper. Fast, safer than a thumb stud and simpler. Let’s not forget the cool snap factor. That’s my opinion solely. However, the near maintenance-free action of the standard slip joint wins in my book. I understand it may not be a crowd favorite in the current high-tech, super-trendy EDC culture. But it suits me fine.
The deployment speed is slow—I’m not in a rush to slice much. I don’t work in an environment where I need super-slick deployment for attackers or emergencies. If so, I have a Trekker that has a smooth one-handed opening system. Although I like to sit and fondle a SAK like most do their high-speed folders, others may not think it has that cool factor. I do!
Metal Winner
The One-Handed Trekker SAK boasts an exceptional 3½-inch wood saw that serves as a fire steel striker on its spine.
I like simple steels. I’ve used enough teaching and working with various types. For me, it comes down to what’s easy to sharpen and to show students in a learning situation. Especially when there’s not a lot of time on a break to grind away on something too hard. Or better yet, when it’s time to build swamp beds in the jungle as the sun is setting fast. This is the reason why inexpensive tools from Moraskniv, Tramaontina and Victorinox are excellent performers.
MagnaCut won’t save you here. Getting the work done, sharpening it and going on with camp life is serious business on an extended expedition. Nothing against the super steel, it’s just better suited for a completely different situation. It makes sense to buy a MagnaCut steel knife if all you do is break down boxes or cut mundane materials. However, it’s overkill when something like a SAK has been doing that for decades without the hefty price tag. I’m a fan of what works!
Washers Vs. Bearings
In the desert, a hiker or camper needs just a blade, saw and awl for essential utility and crafting.
Knife people love pivot debates, but the truth stays simple enough for any reader. Bearings feel fast and slick. They open with a little thrill and shine in clean environments. They hate dirt, though. Sand and pocket debris grind them down and slow them.
Washers handle the rough stuff better. They tolerate grit, mud and long days outdoors. They deliver smooth, controlled movement under pressure and keep working after hard use. They win when conditions turn unpredictable. That’s why so many outdoor knives still rely on phosphor-bronze washers. It’s the same reason why the Swiss Army Knife’s friction-based slip joint still holds its own. Fewer moving parts mean fewer failure points and more consistency when I need it.
Conclusion
Readers don’t need a metallurgy seminar to pick a good folder. They need clarity. Blade shape guides the job. Lock type guides confidence. Steel choice guides edge life and ease of sharpening. Ergonomics guides comfort. Maintenance guides longevity. The rest comes from real use, not spec sheets. The Victorinox SAK Camper is a gentlemanly woods and EDC folder more in line with my everyday chores!
Gerber May Be Known For Some Of The Most Rugged Tools Out There, But This New Series Of Folders Is Sleek, Sexy, And Shines Bright.
Some knives are more style than substance. Some knives are all about the construction. The new Savvy line from Gerber Gear perfectly blends the two. The above photo is of the Urban Blue version but there are also Grey and Carbon Fiber varieties as well.
The knives are sleek folders that feature a 3.5-inch 20CV improved wharncliffe blade with a plain edge married to a handle made from either aluminum or carbon fiber. Simply put: they look cool. And they feel cool too thanks to the frictionless deployment and everything being kept firmly in place with a pivot lock.
The ambidextrous pocketclip allows for easy carry in a pocket, purse, or as part of a pack. The whole construction is incredibly light at just 2.9 ounces. The Savvy is absolutely worth the price. If you’re looking to invest in an EDC, this might be the perfect knife for you.
The New Ambitious Lightweight Black Blade From Spyderco Is A Fun, Affordable Folder That Comes In Plain Edge And Serrated Versions.
Sometimes basic is perfect, and the new Ambidextrous Lightweight Black Blade from Spyderco checks that box. This affordable folding knife features black G-10 handle scales married to a black-oxide-coated 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade.
The dark, low-profile theme bleeds into every other part of the knife from the skeletonized steel liners to pocket clip, and other black-coated hardware. The blade itself is 2.31 inches when deployed, and a liner lock keeps everything in place when in use. And it truly is lightweight at just 2.8 ounces, making it a breeze to use.
An affordable knife for anyone interested in jumping into the world of Spyderco cutlery, and it’s a testament to the company’s build quality.
We put production tactical knives to the test to see which ones come out as best in class.
Originally conceived for law enforcement and military and rescue personnel, tactical knives quickly found their way into the hands of those looking for a heavy-duty edged tool robust enough to withstand extreme use and abuse—and to do so without falling apart.
Modern tactical knives are some of the most refined and precisely manufactured of cutters in terms of ergonomics, edge holding and price points, and the market is saturated with all the big names producing them in almost all price ranges.
No matter the mission, one of these sharp tactical knives can cut it.
Originally conceived for law enforcement and military and rescue personnel, tactical knives quickly found their way into the hands of those looking for a heavy-duty edged tool robust enough to withstand extreme use and abuse—and to do so without falling apart. Modern tactical knives are some of the most refined and precisely manufactured of cutters in terms of ergonomics, edge holding and price points, and the market is saturated with all the big names producing them in most all price ranges.
What Is A Tactical Knife?
Exactly what constitutes a tactical knife has been addressed in BLADE®, other knife magazines—one of which was even called Tactical Knives—KnifeForums and other knife discussion forums, social media, books, the national media and elsewhere. Some originally described it, and still do, as a folding or fixed-blade knife with a non-glare blade and black synthetic handle ideal for any number of utility purposes, including combat. There are other qualifications but these three seem to universally apply to tactical knives.
The Wall Street Journal
even referred to the Buck Metro keychain knife as a tactical knife.
As for who the father of tactical knives is, that is a question guaranteed to spark healthy debates. Some say custom knifemaker Bob Terzuola made the first tactical folding knife, while others say custom knifemaker Ernest Emerson did. Some say any number of other makers made the first one. The argument even can be made that the original popularizer of the term is Greg Walker, editor of the now-defunct Fighting Knives magazine, who wrote extensively about tactical knives during FK’s run in the 1990s. Some say the original tactical knife is the Buck 110 folding hunter, which was introduced in 1964 and used by many American GIs in the Vietnam War. Of course, if Glesser’s definition holds true, then the first knife fashioned by early man from a bone, rock, obsidian or what have you many millennia ago is the original tactical knife.
Whatever the case, tactical knives have been hot for over two decades with no end in sight. Observers have predicted the end of the tactical knife phenomenon any number of times, with the knife and its spinoffs enjoying almost as many popularity spikes as the predictions of its demise. About the only thing that seems certain about tactical knives is that such forecasts will continue until one of them actually comes true.
Then again, who really knows anything for sure when the subject is tactical knives?
Best Tactical Knives Specs Comparison
Knife
Blade Length (inches)
Overall Length (inches)
Weight (ounces)
Blade Steel
Handle Material
MSRP
CRKT Septimo
3.62
8.19
8Cr13MoV
$70
Halfbreed Blades CCK-03 Tuhon Raptor
3.94
7.79
3.53
Bohler K110
G10
3.15
Fallkniven R2 Scout
8.625
5.2
440 Stainless Steel
Zytel
$35
Bear Edge Brisk 1.0
3.82
8.93
6.54
CPM-Cru-Wear
G10
$325
Benchmade Adamas
3.82
8.93
6.54
CPM-Cru-Wear
G10
$325
CobraTec Special Ops
3.75
8.625
5.9
M390
Titanium
$500
Maserin 920/TP Tactical
3.582
8.26
440C Stainless steel
Anodized Aluminum
~$165
Hogue Deka Manual
3.25
7.5
2.3
CPM 20CV Stainless Steel
G10
$195
CRKT Septimo
In a pinch, the Ve serration of the CRKT
Septimo can be used to strip electrical
wire. Doing it this way a ords great cutting
control, thus increasing user safety.
CRKT is among the industry leaders in production tacticals that strike an outstanding balance between affordability and the most modern of designs. What’s more, the company has a great reputation for offering the biggest bang for the buck. Among its many forward-thinking designs is the Septimo tactical folder.
Jeremy Valdez of Olalla, Washington, is an Army veteran who served with the 7th Special Forces. The primary inspiration for the Septimo—the name means seventh in Spanish, an homage to Jeremy’s brothers in the 7th—came from his tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2009. While there, he was aboard a helicopter when it crashed. The knife Valdez had on him at the time proved ineffective at cutting through various materials during the exit from the chopper carcass. Soon after, he set out to design a tactical folder that could fulfill multiple roles as a backup weapon and cutting and rescue tool. The Septimo is the result.
Jeremy’s design for CRKT has a 3.6- inch tanto blade of 8Cr13MoV stainless steel with a black oxide coating to bolster corrosion resistance and reduce glare. While it may seem you can thumb the blade open by the oblong hole, it actually is difficult to do so, which is why the blade has a flipper tab opener. A flick of your index finger is all it takes to deploy the blade quickly. The action is very smooth.
The blade’s most noticeable feature is the single large Ve serration close to the tang. The serration’s large tooth helps gather and hold the material in as it’s being cut, so it provides a lot of control. It severs webbing, cord, string, paracord, small diameter tubing and most anything else that fits inside it.
The Septimo blade’s most noticeable feature is the single large Ve serration. The large tooth helps gather and
hold material in as it’s being cut, so it provides a lot of control. It severs webbing, cord, string, paracord, small
diameter tubing and anything else that fi ts inside it. Country of origin: China. (CRKT image)
The ergonomic handle has T-6 6061 aluminum scales with textured TPR (thermoplastic rubber) inlays for grip enhancement. Two stainless steel liners provide the knife’s backbone. The linerlock engages securely. The clip is mounted to carry the closed knife blade tip up and as deep as possible in the pocket. Multiple grooves provide comfortable placement to wrap your fingers around the handle. A solid steel spacer anchors the rear of the handle and includes a lanyard hole. The Septimo is an ideal tactical folder for those in law enforcement and the military. Thanks to its distinctly angled tip, the tanto blade has a great reputation for penetration power.
Crkt Septimo "Forged By War" Liner Lock Knife 7050
The Halfbreed Blades CCK (Compact Clearance Knife) series was developed as low-profile bladeware for fast-access self-defense situations. Designed for discreet carry, the series shares a common handle design but with varied blade patterns. The handle is very slender and features a ring at the end, which accommodates an index finger to lock in your grip. The top of the ring has an indentation to seat the thumb comfortably, as well as aid in applying downward pressure on the blade. The CCK-03 Tuhon Raptor is one of the most distinctively shaped blades in the series.
Designed by Special Operations CQC instructor Jared Wihongi, the blade is designed to be implemented in multiple ways, including to trap and hook. The talon-shaped tip has a devastatingly e effective ability to slash as well as thrust, with its slight hook implementing a gathering action. The main and top edges offer options for slashing in either direction. While most of the blade is sharp all the way around, a portion is unsharpened to incorporate a feature called a live edge identifier. It can be seen as a raised protrusion on the handle. You can use it to index the knife, that is, determine by the feel which way the blade is oriented.
The talon-like tip of the Halfbreed Blades Tuhon Raptor acts as your own personal claw. The curved edge grabs and feeds on the material to be cut—as in slicing a section of air hose lengthwise—thus amplifying the force applied.
At 8 inches overall and sporting a 3.94-inch blade, the Tuhon Raptor has plenty of length to get the job done while remaining compact in nature. The D2 blade steel boasts a balance of toughness, edge holding and value pricing. The knife comes in three hues: black, desert tan and OD green. Each color permeates the knife with matching G-10 handle overlays. The injection-molded plastic sheath corresponds in color to match the knife. It is a single-column design molded as one piece, not halves riveted together. The sheath is MOLLE compatible and there’s a Blade-Tech Tek Lok for those who prefer belt carry. The knife locks into the sheath very securely—no worries about it falling out accidentally. It locks with a firm and deliberate push.
Unlike the other two test pieces, the Tuhon Raptor is a single-purpose modern tactical knife. It is meant for self-defense and not as a utility tool. The handle design is not conducive for lengthy cutting in a traditional grip. However, in a pinch it can be used as a scoring tool or even to open packages and mail. Nonetheless, if you want to use the knife for self-defense, you should not subject it to any sort of utility use to preserve the sharpness of the edge.
Fallkniven’s R2 Scout is a smaller knife designed for users with littler hands, or for folks who just prefer a somewhat undersized blade. Meanwhile, it’s a myth that smaller knives cannot function as tactical tools. Smaller knives are just as capable, or maybe even more so, as their larger counterparts for certain tactical tasks. They can be just as strong as well.
At only 3.1 inches long, the R2’s drop point blade is .196-inch thick, which is quite thick for a short blade. The thickness is intentional to give the knife strength to withstand heavy-duty tasks. The blade’s ELMAX Swedish stainless particle steel is known for superb edge holding, and its Scandi grind descends straight down to a sharp edge. This is known as a zero edge because there is an absence of a cutting-edge bevel. What results is a blade that’s very sharp and easy to maintain.
The Fallkniven R2 Scout’s extra-thick blade enables it to tackle tougher tasks such as baton work easily. The extra thickness works as a wedge to split wood quickly. Country of origin: Sweden. The zero-grind edge of the Fallkniven R2 Scout has excellent bite and is great for whittling tasks that require the ultimate in sharpness.
The sheath of the R2 carries well on the belt and has the freedom to move when you sit down or snag it on something. (Fallkniven image)
The handle is Thermorun, a sturdy, grippy plastic with rubber-like properties. It has a coarse textured finish on the sides, which does a great job at preventing the handle from slipping out of your hand in adverse conditions. The sheath is equally well thought out, too. Molded of Zytel, it incorporates a webbing belt loop and an imaginative locking system that holds the knife securely. Activate the lock and the knife is guarded against accidental loss. You also can choose not to activate the lock, as the sheath otherwise holds the knife via an ever-present spring detent.
The sheath carries well on the belt and has freedom to move in case you sit down or snag it on something. The R2 is a workhorse of a compact fixed blade. The zero-grind edge has an incredibly aggressive bite. The blade is well suited for camp chores, food prep and carving/whittling utility jobs. As thick as the blade is, don’t be afraid to use it hard. Dig right in with it without worrying about the blade tip breaking or the blade bending. It withstands batonning well. Full-tang construction lends it a nice balance. Since the tang protrudes a bit through the handle butt, you can use it as a crushing tool. I found the texture of the handle to be just right; it gives a great grip in all conditions.
The Bear Edge Brisk 1.0 tactical fixed blade features a 4⅞-inch modified drop-point blade of 440A stainless steel with a black-epoxy-type coating. The cutting edge is partially serrated to power through tough materials. The ergonomic handle is stainless steel with a soft touch coating for grip comfort. Five oblong holes through the full tang and handle provide additional grip traction, as well as lighten the load. A large forward finger recess aids in indexing your grip, and the dropped-butt design helps seat your fingers and prevent your hand from sliding backward off the handle. The lower integral guard and choil allow you to employ a choke grip for precise cutting tasks. The knife has a folder counterpart in the Brisk 1.0 series, which, along with the slimmed-down handles, explains why the fixed blade sports a folder look.
While the knife has an overall tactical appearance and feel, it seems better suited to outdoor use. Why? The blade grind is hollow. Most tactical fixed blades have a flat grind to leave more steel in the cross-section, therefore increasing lateral strength. And then there’s the slim handle. For a tactical fixed blade, the handle needs to be wider to accommodate a secure grip. The thin handle doesn’t feel that secure in-hand, so I would be hesitant to use it for tactical tasks. While the slim handle minimizes weight and bulk, making the knife carry on a belt very easily, it’s just not geared toward a hard-use environment most tactical fixed blades must tackle.
The partially serrated 440A stainless steel blade of the Bear Edge Brisk 1.0 eats through tough and fibrous materials with ease.
As for the blade, it slices easily. The edge was extremely sharp out of the box and had the right amount of bite that I prefer, though it won’t last long due to its lower-end 440A stainless. It’s just not a steel known for edge holding. Conversely, it’s easy to sharpen in the field because it’s not wear resistant. Hence, if you prefer stainless blades for outdoor leisure activities and don’t want to fool with the extra care of carbon steel blades, consider the Brisk 1.0. The serrations are equally as sharp and eat through fibrous materials with ease. Those who love partially serrated blades will enjoy their versatility with cutting tasks. Plus, it saves you from carrying a separate serrated knife.
The knife includes a ballistic nylon belt sheath with button-snap closure. It’s a basic style sheath, nothing to get excited about. It just does the job.
The Benchmade Adamas is a stout, full-on, all-in tactical folder that oozes brawn and might in appearance and has the muscle to back it up. Knifemaker Shane Sibert designed the Adamas series and is known for heavy-duty tactical folders and fixed blades. The original comes in a larger size with a 3.7-inch blade, but customers started asking for a more pocket friendly, scaled-down version. Enter the Benchmade 273GY-1 Mini Adamas. With a blade of 3.25 inches and at 4.35 inches closed, the Mini Adamas is probably the toughest small folder you’ll ever meet.
The drop-point blade is CPM Cru-Wear tool steel to go the distance in edge holding and toughness—two important factors in tactical knives. The blade has a fuller milled in on both sides and sports dual conical-shaped thumb studs for easy one-hand opening. The tank-like handle comes in a choice of black or OD green G-10. The design incorporates three holes and milled grooves to enhance grip and aesthetics.
The Axis™ Lock provides the ultimate in blade lockup while being easy to disengage and close. Integral forward and rear lower guards prevent your hand from sliding off, and a deep-carry pocket clip positions the knife blade tip up. Additional screw holes permit relocating the clip to accommodate southpaws.
The Mini Adamas is a good chunk and larger and wider than other mini folders. Compared with its bigger brother, the 275 Adamas, it’s scaled down. Still, it carries better in the pocket and is easy to deploy. The Axis Lock has a longstanding reputation as one of the best locks on the market, and Benchmade has it dialed in with being ultra-solid yet easy to operate—even for novices. If you like the Adamas design but say the regular size is too big for EDC, the 273 is for you.
The Benchmade Mini Adamas is easy to control for finer cutting tasks like stripping wires. The edge geometry of the CPM Cru-Wear blade from the factory is spot on.
A common complaint about mini folders is when you reduce the size, it changes the in-hand dynamics from the original. Not so much here. There’s still plenty to hold onto! The same cutting power and durability is present, and the boxy handle shape is still comfortable in-hand, more so than you expect—which is a good thing. It is a good working folder and/or tailored for hiking, camping and other outdoor activities.
Cru-Wear goes the distance and is a perfect choice for such a knife. It isn’t stainless so you will have to take some care of it, even though it has a Cerakote coating. The tungsten gray Cerakote has some sparkle to it, is kind of reminiscent of Teflon-coated cookware, and goes well with the black G-10 handle. Don’t be fooled, this mini is definitely mighty.
Special Ops Specs Blade Length: 3.75″ Overall Length: 8.625″ Weight: 5.9 oz. Blade Steel: M390 Handle Material: Titanium MSRP: $500
Pros
Durable Blade Design
Smooth Flipper Action
Aesthetically Unique
Cons
Handle Could Be Better
I would have to put the CobraTec Special Ops in the large folder category. It’s built like a tank. The blade is stout, with a well-executed grind. It’s thick enough to have plenty of strength for hard use yet fine enough to create a keen cutting edge. It is definitely not a folding pry bar.
The knife has a blade thumb hole and a flipper for opening. The thumb hole is a little too close to the scale for me. Having the hole so close prevented me from opening the blade smoothly; I just couldn’t get a comfortable angle on it. On the other hand, the flipper is so smooth it’s like that first sip of a good coffee in the morning. I just love the fast, crisp action.
CobraTec takes advantage of the titanium handle by using a framelock system. As the blade opens, the locking bar slides over smooth and easy for a bank-vault action. The dimensions and finish are down pat on the framelock. Sometimes on framelocks you find the lock binds a bit. Not on the CobraTec—everything seems to flow on the knife’s action.
The flipper action on the Special Ops is smooth. “One of the reasons CobraTec has such a smooth action is they don’t skimp on the flipper,” the author noted. “You can easily get a purchase on it and it is large enough to follow through on the action.”
Handle fit is spot on. As for the texturing, it is a milled CNC design. I understand the urge to look different and have appealing aesthetics but the most important thing should be ergonomics. I am not saying the knife is painful to hold but it isn’t like a broken-in pair of house slippers, either. At this price range, grabbing the handle should give me shivers. If the handle ergonomics were as sweet as the action, I would be a new fan boy. The pocket clip is too tight. A large blade provides plenty of length for penetration. The knife is a solid build so there is no reason why you can’t expect faithful service from it for a lifetime.
I would call the Maserin 920/TP Tactical a small boot knife or even a modern dagger. It has a dagger blade profile with one side a combination serrated/razor and the other a false edge. Keep in mind dual-edged blades are illegal in some areas, so know your local laws before you decide to sharpen the second side.
The guard is integral to the handle. A mechanical system fastens the aluminum scales to the blade. The 920/TP is not a full-tang knife. Maserin screws the scales to a short tang and then uses spacers at the back, somewhat like a folder. A through-handle construction such as this does not lend the knife to extreme hard use. The 440C stainless blade steel is tolerant of close-to-the-body carry without getting rusty, and the heavy blade coating helps resist rust.
The construction of the 920/TP lacks a full tang and uses a through handle design like some folders. Observed the author, “I would not pick this design for tough use.”
A molded Kydex sheath accommodates MOLLE and horizontal or vertical belt carry. The sheath was so tight that I struggled to pull the knife out. I’m not a strongman competitor and I don’t want to have to work that hard. After repeated drawing, unsheathing the knife did become manageable. I would say the grip is good and serviceable. Overall, the knife is light and nimble but is not built to abuse. I think it would make a good 4:30 or vest carry.
Hogue Deka Manual
Positioned here at 10:30 to the pivot, an Ambidextrous Bar Lock Enhanced (ABLE) mechanism secures the Deka blade open. Simple to use and very convenient, the lock matches up well with the thumb stud blade opener.
According to Hogue, the Deka Manual is one of its more popular folders. It’s easy to see why, since without missing any points on style it maintains a straightforward user design. CNC-milled G-10 scales with a “V” design are basic in nature yet effective in helping gain a solid hold. An Ambidextrous Bar Lock Enhanced (ABLE) mechanism secures the blade open. Simple to use and very convenient, the lock matches up well with the thumb stud blade opener. You can pull back the lock and give the knife a decent flick to open it as well.
I would like to spend some time on the blade. Aesthetically, the wharncliffe pattern the company uses isn’t my cup of tea, though I must say the design has plenty of utility and for that reason alone has appeal. Hogue uses a compound angle grind. At the base, the edge starts out following one angle and then takes a crisp but slight upward angle. Wharncliffe tips give plenty of engagement to manipulate the point during cuts. Add the gimping on the thumb ramp and you can control the force you drive into the cut.
The Deka was razor sharp out of the box. A straight angle on the back of the blade allows you to put some power into a cut without the material trying to run along the blade.
The Deka has a deep carry, ambidextrous pocket clip that carries the knife tip up. I would like to see a sturdier clip but it does its job, and I had not experienced any issues with it as of press time. Sometimes the simple designs stand out most because they are solid users. I think the Hogue is a user-driven knife, unlike many knives that are popular for their Gucci factor. It comes in more colors than black but since there’s a black one it can be tactical.
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