With a simple finger flick or even in promo art, today’s flipper knives fly.
Early flipper folders were used in conjunction with assisted-opening mechanisms as a means for initiating movement, allowing the spring or torsion assists to open the blades the rest of the way. A few years later, folder pivots incorporated ball bearings, nearly negating the need for assisted-opening mechanisms on flippers.
This reduced friction simplified folder construction and provided glassy smooth blade rotation. Although a few companies still offer assisted-opening flipper folders, most production versions rely on ball bearings.
Flipper Folders: Function Flows From Form
A flipper tab and ball bearings don’t necessarily equate a folder with quick action and secure deployment. A flipper mechanism will not work properly without a well-designed detent.
Imperative is the detent’s power to secure and hold the blade shut. When placing pressure on the flipper tab with an index finger, the user should be able to feel the grab of the detent. With more pressure on the flipper, the inertia of the blade overrides the pressure of the detent, and kinetic energy swings the blade into the fully open and locked position.
An imprecise detent results in either sloppy action or a flipper mechanism that requires too much pressure against the narrow tab. Optimally, with pressure on the flipper tab, the detent holds its load for a second before letting the blade go with enough energy to snap it open.
Finding Fun In The Fidget Factor
It’s the flipper action that is so satisfying. It imbues a “fidget factor” that causes knife users to snap open their folders while watching TV, talking on the phone, lying in bed or practicing any number of mundane daily routines.
The latest flipper folders not only offer pleasing aesthetics but stay true to the ideals of their predecessors. With premium materials, designs that make use a pleasure and looks that astound, they epitomize some of the coolest knives around.
Best Flipper Knives
Kershaw Inception
The stonewashed blade of the Kershaw Inception pivots on KVT ball bearings. The custom pivot collar adds a touch of class.
At Kershaw, the Inception is looking good with performance to match. “I love the clean, stylish look,” related Kershaw Marketing Manager Dominic Aiello, “but the satisfyingly smooth action is what really makes the Inception a top-notch manual everyday carry.”
The flipper tab was not designed with the intention of acting as a single guard, Aiello says, but rather in combination with the textured handle overlays to help prevent the user’s hand from slipping. Along with that, the D2 tool steel blade .11-inch at the thickest provides enough heft to balance durability and ease of slicing. The clip is reversible and deep carry with flush screws that won’t snag in the pocket or impede quick deployment.
Kershaw Inception Specs Company: Kershaw Blade Length: 3.25 inches Blade Material: D2 tool steel Handle Material: G-10 Lock: Linerlock Weight: 3.1 ounces Pocket Clip: Ambidextrous/reversible, deep carry, tip up Closed Length: 4 inches Country Of Origin: China MSRP: $99.99
Medford Knife & Tool USMC Fighter Flipper
The CPM S35VN stainless blade of the Medford Fighter Flipper is 3/16-inch thick at the thickest and has a Rockwell hardness of 58 HRC.
The USMC Fighter Flipper from Medford Knife & Tool boasts an iconic name and incorporates titanium along with other highly durable components. “Where to start?” commented Medford representative Geoff Oprandy. “First, the USMC Fighter Flipper has superior design, engineering and aesthetics. When Greg Medford was inspired to make this knife, it didn’t take long for initial sketches to appear. He wanted a worthy companion piece for our top-selling Fixed Fighter, which has been a category king for quite some time.”
Oprandy describes the USMC Fighter Flipper as “a unique mixture of titanium components with the best CPM S35VN blade steel. This is a big, manly knife that’s as comfortable working as it is cruising around in your pocket. There is so much going on with it that it’s hard to take in, from the retro milling on the handles, drop-point blade, and integral Ti pommel to the bearing pressed into the one-of-a-kind pocket clip. The tab is designed to be a tad longer and has a unique radius with a knurled feature. For being a large knife [it provides] great purchase, and the flipper tab combined with the finger-indexing groove enable a great grip. The knife runs on phosphor-bronze washers custom made to meet our specs.”
According to Geoff, the knife has a special connection with the United States Marines Corps. As designer Greg Medford related, “When you hold it in your hand, almost 250 years of Marines speak to your soul.”
The design is intended to feel at home with users who prefer the “connection” made with a large folder, Oprandy says. “When people position the knife correctly and begin to use it,” he stated, “the energy transfer seems balanced, natural and confidence inspiring.”
USMC Fighter Flipper Specs Company: Medford Knife & Tool Designer: Greg Medford Blade Length: 4.25 inches Blade Steel: CPM S35VN stainless Handle Material: Titanium Pivot Action: Phosphor-bronze washers Weight: 9.8 ounces Pocket Clip: Titanium; standard carry Closed Length: 5.25 inches Country Of Origin: U.S.A. MSRP: $840 and up
Rick Hinderer Knives Full Track Spearpoint “Nuked”
The Full Track Spearpoint “Nuked” has a removable tool seated in the spine for disassembly/assembly of the knife. The scale on the show side is removable to store spare washers and spacers.
Sam Santa Rita, general manager of Rick Hinderer Knives, says the Full Track Spearpoint “Nuked” is a bigger version of the company’s “very popular Half Track model. It is one of our larger folders at 3.75 inches and has titanium handles with G-10 inserts. The Full Track features a removable tool seated in the spine of the folder that is capable of complete disassembly of the knife.” The folder also utilizes a G-10 insert cover on its show side that hides a pocket for the storage of steel inserts and washers for the Rick Hinderer Knives Tri-Way Pivot System. This allows the user to easily swap from bearings to washers or vice versa depending on the situation.
“Its size and durability coupled with the ease of maintenance and ‘customizability’ makes the knife a perfect hard-use folder capable in any environment,” Sam added. The Full Track is available in stainless blade steel options of CPM S35VN, CPM 20CV and M390. Another blade steel option will be released later this year.
The Full Track flipper tab doubles as a single guard, while the blade pivots on caged thrust bearings. Meanwhile, the Tri-Way Pivot System allows for the aforementioned use of Teflon™ and phosphor-bronze washers as well, which come standard with the knife.
Full Track Spearpoint “Nuked” Specs Company: Rick Hinderer Knives Designer: Rick Hinderer Blade Length: 3.75 inches Blade Steel: CPM 20CV stainless Handle Material: G-10 Lock: Framelock Pocket Clip: Yes Weight: 6.9 ounces Closed Length: 5.125 inches Country Of Origin: U.S.A. MSRP: $820
Spyderco Sliverax
The Sliverax is the first factory folder to combine Spyderco’s Compression Lock® with a flipper-style opener. Blade thickness and grind: .138 inch at the thickest and full flat.
The Sliverax is a bit of a departure for Spyderco. “It’s a flipper design, which is not common among Spydercos,” explained Joyce Laituri, company marketing manager. “The designer, Paul Alexander, is a different type of cutlery designer we have worked with in the past. He holds a doctorate in industrial design and mechanical engineering, and is a leading researcher for a company in the automotive industry.”
The Sliverax brings a shape with seamless flow and a slightly negative blade angle to enhance leverage, placing the point on the knife’s centerline for utility and control. “The negative angle also shortens the opening arc combined with the round hole and flipper mechanism for a full spectrum of positive, high-speed one-hand-opening options,” Joyce commented.
“The flipper tab doubles as a guard,” she continued, “and it’s easy to see and feel when the knife is held. There is a large, deep finger choil already, and the flipper mechanism in the open position extends the choil, creating a comfortable and deep guard for the index finger, or pinky if held in a reverse grip.”
Laituri describes the opening experience with the Sliverax as “slick as a Slip & Slide.” The mechanism features a phosphor-bronze bushing with ball bearings and a nested liner for structural strength. The CPM S30V stainless blade is exceptional in its combination of toughness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance as well, while the ergonomics of the handle are derived directly from its innovative shape, super-thin choil and expansion at the butt to fill the hand.
Spyderco Sliverax Specs Company: Spyderco Designer: Paul Alexander Blade Length: 3.48 inches Blade Steel: CPM S30V stainless Handle Material: Carbon fiber/G-10 laminate Lock: Compression Lock® Weight: 3.3 ounces Pocket Clip: Deep pocket, wire, ambidextrous, tip up Closed Length: 4.52 inches Country Of Origin: Taiwan MSRP: $306
Editor’s Note: Mike Haskew and Dexter Ewing contributed to this post.
Discover the new Cold Steel Frenzy II folding knife, designed by Andrew Demko and inspired by the Japanese Kabutowari.
Cold Steel has never been shy about bold designs, and the new Frenzy II folding knife is no exception. Designed by custom knifemaker Andrew Demko, the Frenzy II takes its cues from the ancient Japanese Kabutowari and morphs those warrior-worthy aesthetics into a mega-folder ready for today’s EDC crowd.
Let’s start with the blade. At 5.5 inches, it’s not subtle—but it is refined. Forged from premium S35VN powdered steel, the long, flat edge and needle-sharp point make it as functional as it is fearsome. You get top-tier edge retention, durability and slicing performance, all dressed up with a satin line-grain polish and a deep fuller that plays with light like a katana in the sun.
But Cold Steel didn’t stop there. The Frenzy II is all about balance—of power and precision, size and slimness. Despite its impressive blade length, the handle is slim, flat and built for pocket comfort. Crafted from dual-tone, 3D CNC-machined G-10 scales, it’s grippy, eye-catching, and disappears under a shirt tail. This knife may look large, but it carries light and lean.
And yes, the Frenzy II comes equipped with Cold Steel’s bombproof Tri-Ad lock, so when that blade is deployed, it’s staying put. That kind of confidence is why Cold Steel has earned the trust of law enforcement, military and serious knife users for decades.
So, who’s the Frenzy II for? Anyone who appreciates a fusion of heritage-inspired design and modern performance. Whether you’re a collector, a gear geek, or someone who just wants a folding knife that can go toe-to-toe with fixed blades, this one’s worth a serious look.
Frenzi II Specs Weight: 5.7oz Blade Thickness: .14″ Blade Length: 5-1/2″ Blade Steel: American S35VN Handle Length/Material: 6 3/4″ Long Duo Tone G10 Overall Length: 12-14″ Additional Features: Pocket / Belt Clip Knife Type: Folder Blade Length Range: 5+ in Steel Family: CPM Blade Shape: Sheepsfoot Locking Mechanism: Tri-Ad Lock
The Assisted-Opening Knife Is A Powerful Type Of Pocketknife Beloved By Blade Lovers Around The World. These 12 Stand Out From The Pack.
There are quite a few minor differences that separate various types of knives that are otherwise visually or externally indistinguishable. In the same vein as a sword is a sword or an axe is an axe, many people treat knives simply as a variation on a basic theme. In the case of assisted-opening knives, this has led to a great deal of confusion, and for the most part, a large amount of legal misunderstanding.
ORIGINS OF THE ASSISTED-OPENING KNIFE
The foundational designers of the assisted-opening knife modeled their mechanisms along very similar lines—mostly based on motorcycle kickstands. BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-Of-Fame® member Ken Onion is a well-known knife designer and was among the first to arrive at a mass-produced design.
While Onion was not the first, his basic design set the stage for what we have today. Before him, Cutlery Hall-Of-Famer Blackie Collins arrived at a design that was successful. There is a distinction at this point. Some assisted openers are described as “gravity knives” or “flick knives” and this is both true and false.
Some of the first successful gravity knife designs required the user to open the mechanism and the blade would slide down without spring assistance. Flick knives are generally undefined, but in general, require a flick of the wrist to deploy the blade either out the front or from the frame.
One of the most widely issued versions of this is from the Nazi German Air Force, where most aircrews in the Luftwaffe were given a type of out-the-front gravity knife. These became popular bring-back trophies and were oftentimes miscategorized as automatic or switchblade-style knives, and as flick knives.
The original German models never had a spring inside the mechanism. If they had, they would have qualified under modern law as an out-the-front automatic. This knife does deploy extremely quickly, often as fast as a spring-loaded variant.
These incorrect terms are bundled and grouped into the broad ‘bad knife’ generalization. The mechanical function of the assisted-opening knife is to finish opening the blade, not to deploy the blade on its own. This may seem like a minor thing but it is very important legally.
IS AN ASSISTED-OPENING KNIFE REALLY A SWITCHBLADE?
A relatively confusing aspect of this topic is what exactly constitutes a knife that falls into the dubious “switchblade” category, and what is an assisted-opening mechanism. The casual observer may not notice any difference in terms of function. In most cases, it appears that the blade simply pops out on its own from the handle.
The primary difference in this is that an automatic knife is self-actuated, usually with the push of a button. A knife that operates via an assisted-opening mechanism requires a person to start the opening process before the blade actuates and finishes opening itself.
This may seem like a trivial difference, but when it comes to skirting or working around restrictive laws, there is a great deal of importance that is occupied in that slight separation. We tend to see this in many cases where even cosmetic details can determine legality.
In 2009, there was a federal effort to clearly define and limit the number of restrictions that could be placed on knives that were determined to be of the open-assist and one-hand-opening variety, as opposed to those categorized directly as switchblades. 15 US Code 1224 Exemption 5 states that:
“A knife that contains a spring, detent, or other mechanism designed to create a bias toward closure of the blade and that requires exertion applied to the blade by hand, wrist, or arm to overcome the bias toward closure to assist in opening the knife.”
In other words, this defines an assisted opener as a knife that is designed to remain closed until acted upon, whereas a switchblade could thus be assumed to be a knife that is biased to remain open unless retained. These small variations in legalese are all we have that draw a line between what constitutes a legal assisted-opening knife and something reputedly “more inherently dangerous.”
HOW DO ASSISTED-OPENING KNIVES WORK?
As mentioned above in the legal definition of an assisted opener, the preeminent design feature is that the blade remains closed under a given mechanism until a force is applied to it. The mechanism necessary for a knife to accomplish this is quite complicated.
Not only must the blade be able to interact with an internal spring, but that spring also needs to generate enough pressure on a very small rotational axis to extend it to its final position and provide the energy to bypass the locking feature. This could be a linerlock or any number of locking mechanisms.
Because there are a tremendous number of functions being asked of this mechanism, they tend to become quite intricate, and for the most part, should not be disassembled by the owner. If something goes wrong with any type of assisted-opening knife, the owner should contact the manufacturer and get it repaired at the factory. Many of these mechanisms share more in common with watches and other fine pieces of machinery than they do with other knives.
There is a wide range of variation in terms of design from company to company. As a result, you will tend to see that, while assisted-opening knives are a general category, most manufacturers prefer to put their own spin on the terminology used to describe their product.
There isn’t a functional difference between what a company calls its design and what it accomplishes. What matters at the end of the day with assisted-opening knives is that they produce the same end result preceded by meeting the legal requirement of being an assisted opener. It doesn’t really matter if the mechanism is actuated by a thumb peg, flipper tab or wrist flick, the end result is the activation of the spring override forcing the blade to lock into the open position.
The basic design of most assisted-opening knives requires the blade to be manually opened at least 1/4-1/3 of its total travel before the spring takes over and opens it the rest of the way. This can be accomplished through numerous designs. The most common relies on an internal spring in the mechanism that resides on a cam, the latter interacting with the geometry of the rear of the blade surrounding the hinge pin.
Past a certain point, the shape of the parts allows the spring-loaded cam to interact with the gradual, declining angle of the back of the blade, thus forcing it open against the tension. Of course, this is just one way to describe how this works, and individual designers and companies will work around existing patents and models to create new ways to get the job done.
ARE ASSISTED-OPENING KNIVES LEGAL ACROSS THE BOARD?
The short answer to this is, yes, and no. In some states, it matters more how you carry the knife than what type of knife you were actually carrying. Michigan, for instance, allows the open carry of most knife types, regardless of features.
When it comes to carrying concealed, there are some murky definitions. In general, if a knife is visible, at least partially, such as in a front pocket, it is considered open carry. The vast majority of states allow everyday carry for assisted-opening knives. In fact, many states also allow the carrying of automatic knives as well.
Best Assisted-Opening Knives For The Money
While assisted-opening knives may not be for everyone, they are incredibly popular and made by manufacturers around the world. These dozen show off the breadth of models available on the market today.
Kershaw Cryo II
The Cryo II is a very clean, basic carry knife that features a smooth, curved edge without separation. The knife is slab-sided without texture; it can be slippery in the hands if wet or sweaty. The framelock mechanism is very strong and should provide years of reliable service for a very modest price.
The Kershaw Barstow is a very affordable knife at a suggested retail price of under $40. It features a spearpoint blade and a black-washed finish. For being as inexpensive as it is, it is a true assisted-opening knife and affords the owner a great deal of function at a very low price. While not the highest-end model out there, this low-profile knife will be sure to please.
This attractive and very affordable knife bears the Smith & Wesson logo. Its sheepsfoot blade has a clean, straight edge. Despite its low price, this knife has a great degree of utility and is a welcome companion in the pocket or work bag. The blade profile lends itself to general work, and it shouldn’t draw attention when out in public.
The ‘Amazon Special’ is fashionable and quite affordable. The tanto-style blade comes in serrated and plain-edged varieties. For being as inexpensive as it is, it has an impressive number of features that are extremely well thought out. The handle has an anti-slip texture and is machined from durable G10. The blade pivots on ceramic ball bearings. For being a Chinese import, it punches above its class.
Moving up quite substantially in price is Benchmade’s 495 Vector. This is a symmetrical pocketknife that simply bleeds quality while being fairly low profile at the same time. If you prefer to carry a top-of-the-line design without drawing unwanted attention to yourself, this is going to be a top choice.
Another top-shelf choice from Benchmade, the Barrage has an aggressive, tactical look that features a plain-edge blade. While it certainly has that bad boy look, it is quite functional in terms of features and utility for cutting tasks at a relatively high cost compared to other assisted-opening folders. If you want top quality and want to look good doing it, this one is hard to beat.
P.S.D. stands for Particle Separation Device, and CRKT’s folder certainly lives up to the futuristic nomenclature. While the materials used in the construction of this knife are becoming more commonplace, it is hard to find them for this price point, and the PSD delivers a very nice, clean appearance for a relatively low cost. CRKT is well known for the quality and affordability of its edged tools, and the PSD is sure to be a favorite come the holidays.
The Gerber Highbrow is ambidextrous and features an easy-to-use sliding lock just under the spine next to the pivot. The edge is plain with a distinct, drop-point profile. At a price of around $50, it is affordable and makes for a good gift for that someone who is worth the extra few dollars around the holidays.
Boker Plus offers the Kihon designed in conjunction with custom knifemaker Lucas Burnley. Lucas is a hot tactical maker whose Japanese-inspired designs have garnered him worldwide acclaim.
The Kihon’s modified clip-point blade is a little over 3 inches long and made from D2 tool steel, long known for toughness and impact resistance. The blade is flat ground for exceptional cutting through a variety of media. A machined recess on the spine serves as a thumb rest to apply pressure and more control. Ambidextrous thumb studs double as the blade’s positive stop when open. A flipper tab offers quick, easy one-hand opening. Caged bearings in the pivot ensure smooth blade rotation.
The handle is a hybrid construction of a stainless steel framelock side mated with a textured OD green G-10 scale for weight reduction and grip enhancement. Gold-colored collars provide a classy visual touch to the pivot and handle screws. A large standoff is also anodized gold to match the other accents.
The lock side features a lockbar stabilizer disc to prevent blade overtravel. A neat wire pocket clip carries the closed knife blade tip up. The blade and steel lock side have a black stonewash finish for low glare and added corrosion resistance. However, the clip is not reversible for lefties. Milled-out oblong cavities in the handle’s lock side reduce weight.
The Kihon is a great EDC. The thumb rest relief helps control the blade, which provides enough length and belly to do most cutting chores. The action is smooth and predictable. Press the flipper, feel the tension load up and the blade propels to the open and locked position.
The assist mechanism performs like the Kershaw SpeedSafe originally designed by BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-Of-Fame® member Ken Onion. If you own any SpeedSafe knives then you know how the action is, and the Kihon is very similar in feel. There are no problems with handle comfort, either. The knife is easy to hold and there are no hot spots.
MSRP: $119.95
CRKT Oxcart
You may snicker at the Oxcart moniker but once you see the knife, you will clearly understand the name. The new entry from CRKT is somewhat of a dichotomy—the handle slab and blade stock thicknesses are what you would normally find on a large, heavy-duty folder, while the Oxcart is compact and slender.
Knifemaker Robert Carter is the designer. He is the son of maker Joe Pardue and grandson of Cutlery Hall-Of-Famer Mel Pardue, so the pedigree is impeccable. The modified clip-point blade is hollow ground from .16-inch-thick AUS-8 stainless steel. The blade is 3 inches, ideal for an EDC work knife. Large dual thumb studs provide purchase for rapid opening, and an extended flipper tab quickly deploys the blade. The blade rides on the Ikoma Korth Bearing System (IKBS) for ultra-smooth action.
The stainless-steel handle is .15 inches thick—about as thick as the blade. Drilled holes reduce weight and enhance aesthetics. A sturdy framelock secures the blade open with bank-vault lockup and zero play. A stabilizer prevents blade overtravel.
A large finger recess enables you to index your grip. The butt tapers to fit the heel of your palm. All handle edges are rounded for further comfort. The deep carry pocket clip positions the closed Oxcart blade tip up and is reversible for lefties. While the heavy-duty build gives the knife impressive heft at 4.7 ounces, it doesn’t weigh you down in the pocket.
As a work knife, the Oxcart shines. The hollow-ground blade bites hard and deep. It is a very efficient cutter. It’s so sharp we had to guard against nicking the wires inside the casing when stripping electrical wire. Due to the extra width of blade and handle, the Oxcart can be used hard without worry that the blade will break or the tip will snap.
One minor complaint with the compact grip: I found myself wanting a bit more to grasp when bearing down to cut through tough materials. However, it being a “compact big knife,” that would ruin the design philosophy. The assist mechanism is CRKT’s multi-wave torsion bar design that provides firm, fast action, with excellent detent closure. A semi-solid push on the flipper overcomes the detent, sending the blade to the locked position in one swift motion.
AUS-8 steel is well known in more moderately-priced knives as having a good balance of edge holding and ease of maintenance. No problems with the steel—it’s a solid performer. I also like how positive the framelock engages, so there are no worries about accidental unlocking. It’s very tight but easy to unlock when needed.
MSRP: $99.99.
Camillus Arvo
The Camillus Arvo is the most value-conscious of the test group. The 3-inch drop-point blade is made from 420 stainless in a nice satin finish. The blade is utility friendly, with a defined tip for scoring tasks and a belly for most general cutting chores.
The flipper tab extends far enough to function equally as well as a single guard. The sole method of deployment is the flipper; the blade is devoid of thumb studs or discs for a streamlined appearance.
The handle features a typical construction method for tactical folders with dual stainless liners and scales of brown linen Micarta® for strength, high rigidity and dimensional stability, regardless of the elements. The linerlock release has a series of notches for purchase with your thumb when the blade is unlocked. A heavy-duty steel clip provides deep pocket carry of the closed knife in the blade-tip-up position.
The Arvo’s price point is very affordable, which appears to have resulted in a few “oversights.” First, the scales were not finished as smooth as I would have liked. The surface had a texture like peach fuzz from the linen in the Micarta. Don’t get me wrong—having a rougher finish on Micarta isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as the rougher texture aids in grip traction. Nonetheless, the surface finish could be improved.
Second, the edges of the blade spine and flipper tab are crisp. If you are into bushcraft knives, you know that a 90-degree spine is good for striking with a ferro rod to make sparks for fire. However, a 90-degree spine in an EDC folder creates unnecessary sharp corners. Luckily, these can be easily remedied with a metal file and gently rubbing the corners to soften them.
Finally, most flipper folders have the tab with traction notches on it for purchase. The Arvo has no such notches. Otherwise, the knife is a great size for EDC and the handle design is good and comfortable. I love the integral guard formed by the front of the handle at the pivot.
The assist mechanism works very well. Again, judging by the action, I’d say it’s similar to the SpeedSafe torsion-bar type. Deploying the blade is fast and easy. The action is smooth and swift, with the blade riding on Teflon washers. There are no bearings.
The low-end 420 stainless blade steel doesn’t hold an edge nearly as long as even the mid-grade stainless steels such as AUS-8, 8Cr13MoV and VG-10. However, the tradeoff is it’s easier to resharpen. Out-of-the-box sharpness is just OK. I’ve seen better on budget knives and I’ve seen worse. When I put my own edge on it, that’s when performance improved.
At its price point, the Arvo serves well as a work knife. It’s a great alternative to Zytel-handle locking folders and you get upgraded handle material with the Micarta. The hollow grind allows the blade to slice effectively and bite into materials easier. The edge dulls quickly depending on what you’re cutting, so you might benefit from carrying some sort of compact sharpener. And if you end up losing the Arvo, you can buy another one without breaking the bank.
The only thing I found as a slight issue with this particular sample is the blade was off-center a bit when closed. Given the low price, I am more forgiving of such things. However, it has no bearing on the action or cutting performance. The lockup is firm and sure.
There’s a lot of features going for this knife for the price: Micarta handle, deep carry pocket clip, flipper tab, assisted opening and open handle spine. Many of these features are found in knives priced way higher.
MSRP: $27.99
Pro-Tech TR-5 SA
Known widely for autos, Pro-Tech offers an assisted opener with the TR-5 SA. Essentially a scaled-down version of the company’s TR-4, it has tactical styling, superior materials and a distinctive spring-assist mechanism.
The 3.25-inch blade is CPM S35VN high-performance stainless. The modified drop-point pattern has flat-ground main bevels with a swedge added for a bit of attitude. A single thumb stud helps open the knife. The blade comes in a nice stonewash finish that hides scratches and helps resist corrosion.
The handle features rounded ends and a tapered design from pivot to butt. Several large finger grooves help seat your hand securely, along with a series of traction notches following the three finger grooves.
On the handle spine, traction notches are milled into the thumb rest for a non-slip grip. The handle spacer is milled from 416 stainless and also has traction notches to enhance grip. The end of the spacer protrudes a bit at the butt, forming a skull crusher pommel.
The handle slabs are T6-6061 aluminum given a Type III hard anodized black coat for scratch resistance and aesthetics. A deep carry pocket clip presents the closed knife blade tip up. When clipped in the pocket, none of the knife protrudes above the seam.
The handle feels very comfortable and instills user confidence, with no hot spots. Pro-Tech’s high standards for manufacturing excellence carry over into its base models with plain aluminum handles such as this one. The pivot screw and lock button sport spun finishes that reflect light in a refined manner. It’s such nice little touches that set Pro-Tech apart.
The assist mechanism is different from other assisted openers. For starters, it uses the same coil-spring design that drives the company’s automatics. If you’ve handled a Pro-Tech auto, you know it has a strong spring and a nice recoil. The same goes for the TR-5 SA.
There’s an additional component to the mechanism designed by award-winning maker Matthew Lerch: an unusual spring-loaded detent that holds the blade closed. The result is a strong detent that requires a firm push of the thumb stud to overcome; from there the coil spring takes over and drives the blade open. As a result, you get the legendary Pro-Tech action for those who cannot legally buy autos. The action is indeed the fastest of the featured assisted openers and, I believe, the fastest on the market.
Check out a few of the new blades that caught our eye in Las Vegas.
It was a busy week at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas for the outdoor and shooting extravaganza known as the SHOT Show. Of course, there were plenty of factory makers in attendance with plenty of new releases for the coming year.
Sadly, we were unable to make every cutler in the house for the big dance but we did stop by a good number and caught a glimpse of some of the new blades for 2025.
Kronos Knives Gung Ho! Line By Ken Onion
Kronos is a new kid on the block, one-year-old as of SHOT Show 2025. The upstart knifemaker had a heck of an anniversary surprise at the home of its launch. The South Carolina-based company unveiled four Ken Onion-designed Gung Ho! line of fixed blades. The four knives that make up the line are all outdoor/tactically angled with 1095 steel blades and G10 handles. The models include the Stiffneck (MSRP $220), Maxhunter ($228), Elitesurvival ($256), and Truedefender ($228, pictured above). Kronos will have them for sale at the end of February.
Case Sculped Ridgeback
Case gives a modern and rugged look to its Ridgeback Hunter line with the introduction of the Sculpted Ridgeback. The fixed blade still has the sexy sweeping stainless steel blade true to the line but is dressed out in a durable and attractive new handle. In this case, canvass Micarta with G10 liners. The texturing is aggressive, making a workhorse that’s not afraid of bad weather but just as attractive as its rosewood predecessor which it is pictured with above. Case has a $128 MSRP on the knife.
Vero Engineering/Pro-Tech Custom Synapse
The Custom Synapse Auto is a pretty sweet meeting between two of the knife industry’s heavy hitters. Given the fanbase of both companies, expect these to fly off the shelves with the $525-$700 price points. Jeez, who doesn’t want an auto Synapse? Especially one done up with Pro-Tech’s typical flare—pearl inlay button, an action that snaps like a wet gym towel, etc. Mouths will have to water for a while, the auto Synapse doesn’t go public for another six months or so.
CRKT Provoke X Axe
An axe in your pocket? You bet—thanks to the mad geniuses at CRKT. Unveiled at the show, the Provoke X Axe is the latest in the forward-thinking Provoke line. Designed by Joe Caswell, the axe’s head and spike fold flush against the handle, deploying with a flick of the wrist. Built from D2 steel, it’s too light for felling trees but perfect for its tactical role—and it looks like it means business. With an MSRP of $350, the Provoke X Axe is set to drop to the public later this year.
The Kershaw Heist Offers A Righty/Lefty-Friendly Option, Built Tough For Optimal EDC
Southpaws and righties can both rejoice! Kershaw has you covered with one of its newest additions to its extensive EDC lineup. Shake hands with the Heist.
While every knife—save examples like a traditional Nakiri—are ambidextrous sheerly by being a knife, Kershaw has tweaked the Heist to make it a bit more appealing to sinistral users. In particular, the knife’s bar lock with a release situated on both sides of the handle makes it a smidgen more user-friendly no matter the dominant hand.
Added to this, Kershaw has outfitted the Heist with a reversible deep-carry pocket clip, allowing for safe tip-up carry in any pants pocket, thus keeping it right at hand—left or right. Slightly protruding over the handle, the clip also puts the knife deep undercover when not in use, yet facilitates quick retrieval thanks to a flared end.
Kershaw Heist Blade
As to the makeup of the Kershaw Heist, the Oregon-based company appears to have put together a serious work tool. Sporting a 3.2-inch D2 steel blade, the knife should have respectable edge retention and excellent toughness—especially for a knife at its affordable price point.
Furthermore, for tool steel, D2 has decent corrosion resistance, nice since Kershaw seems to aim it as a utilitarian option meant for hard use. But it’s still carbon steel at heart, thus requires maintenance to keep it in good shape and absolutely corrosion free.
The blade has a clip-point profile with a long, wide belly, excellent for long slices. On this, the folder is outfitted with a decent-sized thumb stud. Little surprise here, as Kershaw has stayed true to the opening method, even as flippers have become more popular. And the company has applied a stonewash finish, which gives it a flat, blue-collar look that hides minor dings it’s sure to endure.
Other Heist Features
The Heist boasts a glass-filled nylon handle, made to withstand a beating. Its Duralock opening system is outfitted with a brass washer, which aids in the knife’s fast and smooth opening. And if you need to tether the Heist to something or want to add a quick-retrieval lanyard, the handle comes with a lanyard hole.
Perhaps the Kershaw Heist’s most attractive asset is its price. With an MSRP $85, the knife falls within almost every buyer’s budget. And at this price point, it just begs for hard everyday use, without worrying about shedding tears if you happen to bust it up.
The Navaja Is A Sleek, Svelte Folder Originating From Spain Hundreds Of Years Ago. Today It Remains Popular In Both The Real And Digital Worlds.
The Navaja is one of the most interesting knives in the world. Its history can be pinpointed to the Andalusia region of southern Spain, and its growth and evolution since its creation more than 400 years ago has been well-documented.
The History Of The Navaja
The first Navajas that resembled the modern version came to be in the 1600s. The name is derived from the Latin word “novacula” which means razor, and you can see the resemblance to a straight razor in its construction with the long, thin blade that folds away neatly into the handle.
The knife became popular during a period when, unless you were a nobleman, there were many restrictions on swords and other blades. This meant that the Navaja developed as a peasant’s knife and was used for all sorts of utility tasks. One thing that made using it a bit difficult was the fact that it didn’t lock when opened. Later Navajas would have locking mechanisms, but the first versions didn’t. Most notably the Navaja made a distinctive cracking/popping sound as the blade was opened, differentiating it from other knives.
Thanks to the steel innovations that allowed the knife to lock, the Navaja spread its wings and made its way out of Spain and to nearby countries like France. As the knife continued to evolve it was banned by rulers, then became a popular tool for rich and poor alike, and was used as a versatile combat knife. In fact, it became the knife of choice among muggers who would rob people in alleyways and other dark urban areas. Victims knew they were about to be robbed when they heard the unmistakable popping sound the Navaja made when a mugger opened it.
Roughly a century ago, the Navaja began to fall out of favor with knife lovers. However, it continues to endure thanks to a handful of makers crafting their versions, and, in an extremely modern twist, it has become a popular knife to use for players of the video game Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.
Kings County Tools Navaja-Style Knife
A great modern representation of the Navaja is seen in this folder from Kings County Tools.
The blade is not just razor sharp but also razor thin. At three inches in length and just .25 inch wide, the stainless steel knife is excellent at precise, detailed tasks. The brass and steel handle is both handsome and provides an excellent grip while cutting.
Not quite a razor and not quite a penknife, this Navaja shows what the knife can be and how different it is from other folders on the market.
MSRP: $34.75
Castillo Knives Navaja
Castillo Knives Navaja – Olive Wood Handle
A different interpretation of the Navaja comes from Spain-based Castillo Knives. Their Navaja is similar to contemporary lockback knives in many ways and is an all-rounder in every sense of the term.
The blade is made from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel and the handle comes in a variety of materials, from two types of Micarta® to four types of wood. Every version looks great, and the 3-inch straight-back blade has a small bit of deep jimping on the spine to aid in grip and force when cutting. Every knife comes with a leather pocket sheath and a 240-grit bonded ceramic sharpening stone.
While Not As Plentiful As They Once Were, Quality Folding Hunters Can Still Be Had. These 4 Knives Meld The Robustness Of A Hunter With The Ease Of An EDC.
Folding knives have been used for hunting and skinning since they were first made. Today, the American knife industry has moved quite far in the direction of fixed blades for use in the field.
However, folding knives are seen in the pocket of just about every self-respecting individual these days and are still the top choice for daily use. Time and fashion being what they are, many pocket folders have become somewhat fragile and unsuitable for anything other than opening mail or packages. In short, they have lost their value as serious tools that can be used in the field as well as daily life. Nonetheless, luckily there are a number of very suitable hunting knives that fold and ride in the pocket.
The largest downside to folding hunters is they can be very difficult to clean and have the propensity to break under hard use. Folding knives promoted for hunting are, at least to me, a bit of an exaggeration in that they function but are much harder to get along with on big game. As a result, I try to limit my folders to small game where the weight of the animal has little bearing on blade stress.
Cleaning and maintaining a folding knife exposed to blood and other fluids is a challenge. The mechanical function of such knives can in many cases be impeded with fat, and likewise made dangerous if, for instance, a linerlock gets clogged up.
Washing a folding hunter is easy in some respects, but the best method remains soaking it in hot water with dish soap to dissolve fats and blood. Rust and corrosion can easily occur internally, so you’ll need to oil the knife after soaking it to prevent corrosion.
Lastly, ergonomics and blade length create the most limits for the big game hunter. Because most folders are designed to lay flat against the body in the pocket, they tend to be thin in profile, which can fatigue the hand if you have a great deal of work to do.
Since the blade fits in the handle, you’ll never really get as long a blade as you need for animals like deer without getting a handle that is proportionately as long. This makes for a degree of awkwardness in that you can only get more blade if you get more handle, and at that point a fixed blade is better.
Emerson Knives Market Skinner
I have developed a great fondness for Emerson knives. In fact, as much as I love carrying fixed-blade Winklers, I have ended up going about much of my daily life with an Emerson in my pocket. Much of the utility for me comes down to how well it fits my hand. The Market Skinner is a well-balanced and very functional cutting/slashing knife that has a mixture of hunting and tactical features.
The grip has a fine yet aggressive texture, and is easy to hold onto even when working with fatty meat. The blade has Emerson’s Wave Feature, thus allowing for instant opening coming out of the pocket.
I got to work in the kitchen on some small game and meat. The Market Skinner is designed to emulate the type of blade profiles used in old-world butcher shops to break down large cuts. Having spent the better part of my college years working for a high-end butcher shop, I had a good feel for what this type of knife could do.
For general use, the Emerson, above the others here, was probably the most functional for light-to-medium use. It was also by far the easiest to clean internally. Its open-handle design allows you to wash it easily.
The added upward curve at the Wave on the spine allowed me to put a great amount of pressure on the blade to cut deeply. When covered in fat it was functional. However, the very fine handle material was hard to clean and pulled fiber from my rags. Not a huge deal, just something to be aware of.
While it is profiled as a hunting blade, the tactical features are there and the knife is easy to use thanks to how quick it opens. The clip is righthanded and very stiff. If you intend to carry it lefthanded, Emerson offers a service to drill and tap the other side for you.
MSRP: $267.95
Boker Hunter’s Knife Duo
Styled in the manner most favored by German and European sportsmen, the Boker Hunter’s Knife Duo is not just a functional piece of art but also a very rugged tool. It is so nice looking that you’ll want to make sure to keep it that way—meaning don’t toss it in your gear drawer after a hunt.
Unlike the other test models, the Boker features two edged tools—one, a knife blade, the other a saw. In testing on a lamb rack, the saw performed extremely well and allowed me to make nice, even chops. The teeth are exceptionally aggressive, which is a positive for cutting bone, but they clog easily with fat and sinew.
The Hunter’s Knife Duo is made in Germany and the quality of each part is amazing. A notable feature is the real stag grip panels, a rarity on many production knives today. Care must be taken to not introduce this natural material to stress or harsh cleaning chemicals. Soap and water for cleanup is best, followed by a light coat of oil. In terms of mechanical function, this is a classic gentleman’s knife, slow to deploy and not designed with a day’s labor in mind.
Equal parts showpiece and tool, the Boker is best on small-to-medium game. Since it has no pocket clip, it will likely ride in a belt pouch or simply in a pocket.
The only real problem is the shape and contour of the handle. If your hands have blood or fat on them, the grip tends to be slippery. This is a very slick knife and every metal part is as smooth as glass. Under such conditions sawing also can be slightly hazardous, as can cutting should your hands slip up onto the blade. That being said since a true gentleman is never in a hurry, the Boker is the perfect find for rabbits, pheasant, and turkey, preferably with a fine double gun in hand.
MSRP: $409
Case Kickstart Mid-Folding Hunter
The smallest of the test knives, the Case Kickstart Mid-Folding Hunter performed very well considering its size and blade length. This is in no way a knife you would want to have if you were trying to take down a deer; however, for small game, medium cuts like lamb or chicken, or out harvesting spices in the garden, the Case is perfectly capable.
Like the Boker, it is a very, very slick knife—both visually and in terms of the limited amount of texture it has on the blade and grip. While it can be easy to work with, the knife is prone to slip or rotate in the hand.
In terms of cutting ability, it did just fine. The downward-swept blade lends itself to fine cuts, but very little else. The knife can be used and held like a pen. A full grip of the handle isn’t very safe.
The lock mechanism is easy to use—a bit too easy. The blade can be unlocked and closed with almost no effort, which can present a dangerous situation if you aren’t careful. Of note is that the blade is assisted, and it opens incredibly fast. It also has a pocket clip for easy carry.
MSRP: $127.99
A.G. Russell Folding Gent’s Hunter II
In the vein of classic sport folders from the 1960s and ’70s, the A.G. Russell Folding Gent’s Hunter II is designed along clean lines and minimalist features. It came out of the box with a very sharp edge and a functional, ergonomic grip. Despite being a full-size knife, it is the lightest of the review folders, lighter even than the smaller Case.
Using and cleaning the A.G. Russell was about the same as the others. However, the wood panels required a coat of oil after I used soap on them to remove fat. The blade sliced meat very easily, and it was also rigid enough to approach some larger projects and game. While I’d probably take the Market Skinner if I knew I was working on an adult deer, the A.G. Russell would come in a close second, its only downside being that it got slippery when wet.
This knife is right on the money for a walking hunter going after rabbit or fowl. It’s very light and sharp and still maintains classic lines. Because it is so light, it seems to disappear in the pocket and, if carried daily, won’t draw any unwanted attention. It has “classy” written all over it.
