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New Knives: January 2026

BLADE Staff
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New Knives: January 2026

From Ancient Inspiration to Modern Innovation: A First Look at the Year’s Most Anticipated Custom and Production Blades.

The new year kicks off with a formidable array of steel, ranging from primitive-inspired spears to high-tech tactical folders. This month’s selection highlights the incredible versatility of the modern cutlery world, showcasing the work of veteran masters with nearly four decades of experience alongside award-winning new makers. Whether you are looking for an ultra-premium custom Bowie for a collection or a hard-use MagnaCut automatic for daily carry, our January 2026 roundup proves that the industry’s innovation shows no signs of slowing down.

Jean-Pierre Potvin Short Spear

Jean-Pierre Potvin Short Spear

Blade length: 3.5”
Blade material: Damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels
Blade grind: Flat
Handle: Ash w/burnt and oiled finish
Furniture: Bronze and copper
Overall length: 18.5”
Knife to know: Jean-Pierre Potvin created the texture for the blade steel by forging damascus and using a rotary tool to accentuate the details … he “wanted the texture to be similar to the flint spearheads that existed long ago”; he has been making knives for 36 years
Maker’s price for a similar piece: $2,500
Maker: Jean-Pierre Potvin (SharpByCoop image)

Grant Cunningham Trench knife

Grant Cunningham Trench knife

Blade length: 8”
Blade material: 52100 carbon steel
Blade grind: Double convex
Handle: Handmade brass knuckles, vulcanized fiber liners
S-guard: Brass
Overall length: 13”
Sheath: By Grey Leather Co.; black leather w/snap strap
Maker’s price for a similar knife: $1,250
Maker: Grant Cunningham, cunninghamcustomshop.com (Jocelyn Frasier image)

Rian Doudle Doudle Streetfighter Bowie

Rian Doudle Doudle Streetfighter Bowie

Blade length: 7.1”
Blade material: W’s pattern damascus in 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels
Blade grind: Flat
Scales: Western myall, an Australian hardwood
Guard: Wrought iron
Overall length: 12.6”
Maker’s price for a similar knife: $1,200 at press-time exchange rate
Maker: Rian Doudle, Fallen Forge, fallenforge.com.au (Rod Hoare image)

Frank Edwards Push Dagger

Frank Edwards Push Dagger

Blade length: 3.25”
Blade material: Twist-pattern damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels
Blade grind: Dagger
Scales: Carved interior mammoth ivory
Overall length: 6.5”
Maker’s price for a similar knife: $2,550
Maker: Frank Edwards (Jocelyn Frasier image)

SOG Knives Gambit XL

SOG Knives Gambit XL

Knife type: Fixed-blade karambit
Blade length: 4”
Blade steel: CRYO AUS-10A stainless
Blade @the thickest: 0.19”
Blade finish: Black stonewash
Blade finish: Hawkbill
Handle: Green paracord wrapped
Weight: 4.75 ozs.
Overall length: 8.75”
Sheath: Kydex® w/Safe-Lock clip
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $139.95
Company: SOG Knives, sogknives.com

APOC Wallace Small Puukko

APOC Wallace Small Puukko

Designer: Mike Wallace
Blade length: 3”
Blade material: D2 tool steel
Blade @thickest: 0.118”
Blade pattern: Drop point
Blade finish: Titanium coated
Scales: Black G-10
Weight: 3 ozs.
Overall length: 6.88”
Sheath: Kydex®; comes w/fire steel
Knife to know: Specs vary from piece to piece
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $82
Company: APOC, casiberia.com

CRKT Xolotl OTF

CRKT Xolotl OTF

Knife type: Out-the-front auto
Designer: Michael Rodriguez, U.S. Army Green Beret
Blade length: 3.5”
Blade steel: MagnaCut stainless
Blade @the thickest: 0.13”
Blade pattern: Spear point, ground on both edges
Blade finish: Titanium nitride
Scales: Aluminum
Opening mechanism: Dual action
Pocket clip: Sternum shaped, reversible
Weight: 3.2 ozs.
Closed length: 5.31”
Knife to know: An Aztec deity, Xolotl is “the guide of souls to the afterlife” … the handle has 21 ribs, one for each of the designer’s years in service
Country of origin: USA
MSRP: $324.99
Company: CRKT, crkt.com

Cold Steel Frenzy II

Cold Steel Frenzy II

Knife type: Tactical folder
Knife designer: Andrew Demko
Blade length: 5.5”
Blade steel: S35VN stainless
Blade polish: Satin
Scales: G-10
Pocket clip: Yes
Lock type: Tri-Ad®
Weight: 5.7 ozs.
Closed length: 6.75”
Country of origin: Taiwan
Knife to know: Design based on the kabutowari, an ancient Japanese design
MSRP: $239.99
Company: Cold Steel, coldsteel.com

TOPS Knives A-Klub

TOPS Knives A-Klub

Designer: Amanda Kaye
Blade length: 12.38”
Blade material: 1095 carbon steel
Rockwell hardness: 56-58 HRC
Blade @the thickest: 0.19”
Blade finish: Acid Rain
Scales: Green canvas Micarta®
Weight: 23.8 ozs.
Overall length: 17.88”
Sheath: Black Kydex®
Sheath clip: Dangler
Weight w/sheath: 33 ozs.
Country of origin: USA
Knife to know: The A-Klub is the first TOPS knife designed by a woman, Amanda Kay, a past participant on TV’s Naked and Afraid; design influenced by American Indian war clubs
MSRP: $409.95
Company: TOPS Knives, topsknives.com

Geoff Keyes Pirate Bowie

Geoff Keyes Pirate Bowie

Blade length: 16”
Blade material: 1080 carbon steel
Blade grind: Flat
Scales: Buffalo
Furniture: Integral bolster, steel and copper
Extras: Silk tassels handmade by Marianne George
Overall length: 22”
Maker’s price for a similar knife: $1,500
Maker: Geoff Keyes, 5elementsforge.com (Jocelyn Frasier image)

Taran Ma Sanctum

Taran Ma Sanctum

Knife type: Utility folder
Blade length: 3.5”
Blade steel: MagnaCut stainless
Blade openers: Blade oval and ambidextrous thumb studs
Scales: Titanium
Lock type: Framelock
Pocket clip: Yes
Closed length: 4.25”
Knife to know: Taran Ma has been making knives for 1 year
Maker’s price for a similar knife: Contact maker for information
Maker: Taran Ma (SharpByCoop image)

Josh Davis Sgian Dubh

Josh Davis Sgian Dubh

Blade length: 3.46”
Blade material: 80CrV2 carbon steel
Blade grind: Hollow
Blade thickness @ricasso: 0.118”
Blade @the widest: 1.8”
Scales: Ebony, mosaic pin, TruStone and brass
Overall length: 7.9”
Sheath: By the maker
Maker’s price for a similar knife: Contact maker for more info
Knife to know: Josh Davis won Best New Maker for his sgian dubh at the 2025 Adelaide Cutlers Expo; he is also a member of the Australian Knifemakers Guild
Maker: Josh Davis, CSC Knives (Rod Hoare image)

Check Out Other Months:

First Look: Kizer Pokiman Line Of Gentlemanly EDC Knives

Elwood Shelton
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First Look: Kizer Pokiman Line Of Gentlemanly EDC Knives

Class meets capability: Exploring Kizer’s ambidextrous Clutch Lock folders featuring AEB-L stainless steel and premium handle scales.

‘Tis the season for sharp gifts to place under the tree for your favorite knife enthusiast. Kizer Cutlery has a little something to stuff stockings with once the Yuletide season closes.

Set to officially launch in January 2026, the company’s Pokiman series is described as a collection of gentleman knives. The set of six knives—three models, each with two variations—may look suitable for a church picnic or the office, but they are not small and delicate.

All knives in the Kizer collection are essentially full-sized EDC options. Each one boasts a 3.16-inch blade. Overall length is just under 8 inches. This size provides enough tool for prying at a stuck locker lid or making mincemeat of sisal rope.

Yet, boasting everything from sheepsfoot to clip point blades and Micarta to aluminum and PEI scale, the knives have the look and lines for more suave tasks.

Common across the models are AEB-L steel blades, a very old and respected stainless steel, known for its fine carbide structure and a good balance between hardness and toughness. Plus, it’s known to take and hold an edge.

Kizer outfits the Pokiman line with its Clutch Lock, the company’s take on the ever-popular Axis Lock, presently sweeping the knife world. And why wouldn’t it, given its design makes a knife ambidextrous and offers a fast and quick, one-handed opening/closing option.

Interestingly, and seeming to walk hand-in-hand with the Axis Lock trend, Kaiser turns to thumb studs alone for the opening method on all the knives.

Depending on the model, the Pokiman line has MSRPs from $60-$70. While not available presently, several online retailers already have them on pre-order.

Pokiman CS Specs

Kizer Pokiman CS

Blade Length: 3.16″
Closed Length: 4.21″
Overall Length: 7.36″
Blade Material: AEB-L Stainless Steel
Thickness: 0.110″
Blade Hardness: 58-60HRC
Blade Style: Sheepsfoot
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade Finish: Black PVD or Gray Stonewashed
Handle Material: Tan Aluminum or PEI
Locking Mechanism: Clutch Lock
Pivot Assembly: Bearings
Pocket Clip: Deep Carry, Tip-Up, Right/Left Carry
Weight: 3.08 oz.
Origin: Made in China
MSRP: Micarta & Stonwashed $60; Aluminum & Satin $70

Pokiman CC

Kizer Pokiman CC

Blade Length: 3.16″
Closed Length: 4.21″
Overall Length: 7.36″
Blade Material: AEB-L Stainless Steel
Thickness: 0.110″
Blade Hardness: 58-60HRC
Blade Style: Clip Point
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade Finish: Gray Stonewash or Satin
Handle Material: PEI or Blue Aluminum
Locking Mechanism: Clutch Lock
Pivot Assembly: Bearings
Pocket Clip: Deep Carry (Tip-Up, Right/Left Carry)
Weight: 2.49 oz.
Origin: Made in China
MSRP: PEI & Stonewashed $60; Aluminum & Satin $70

Pokiman CD

Kizer Pokiman CD

Blade Length: 3.16″
Closed Length: 4.21″
Overall Length: 7.36″
Blade Material: AEB-L Stainless Steel
Thickness: 0.110″
Blade Hardness: 58-60HRC
Blade Style: Drop Point
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade Finish: Satin or Stonewashed
Handle Material: Gray Aluminum or Black Micarta
Locking Mechanism: Clutch Lock
Pivot Assembly: Bearings
Pocket Clip: Deep Carry (Tip-Up, Right/Left Carry)
Weight: 3.07 oz.
Origin: Made in China
MSRP: Micarta & Stonwashed $60; Aluminum & Satin $70

Knife Reviews:

First Look: CRKT Squid II Carbon Fiber

Mike Ableson
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CRKT Has Reimagined The Squid II With Their New Carbon Fiber Version Of The Beloved EDC Folder. 

The Squid line of folding knives is one of the most beloved in the cutlery world. CRKT has given the classic a new look with the Squid II Carbon Fiber.

The Italian-made knife features a 2.68-inch blade made from Bohler M390 steel, designed for edge retention and to resist wear, and treated to a 59-61 HRC. The satin finish gives the knife a clean, elegant look. The steel is connected to the carbon fiber handle and stays securely in place via a liner lock, which is the first liner lock on a knife in the Squid line.

Even with the carbon fiber handle, the knife has a nice bit of heft at 4.9 ounces. As you would expect from the Squid line, nothing was forgotten. The new Carbon Fiber is an excellent addition to the Squid line.

MSRP: $195

Read More

Buckhorn Review: Ketuo-Ken Onion Hit It Out Of The Park

Dexter Ewing
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Buckhorn Review: Ketuo-Ken Onion Hit It Out Of The Park

The Buckhorn collaboration is about as good as it gets without going custom.

Ketuo Knives partnered with renowned custom knifemaker and designer Ken Onion, to come out with a collaboration knife unlike any other collaboration Onion has previously done.

Dubbed the Buckhorn and marketed under the Karbon Knives banner, the knife debuted at the 2024 BLADE Show in Atlanta in June, and it won the 2024 Knife Collaboration of the Year in the Knife of the Year award. And it takes partnership knives to the next level offering a bevy of top-shelf features at a price that doesn’t blow your budget.

Honestly, it’s shocking!

BUCKHORN Blade

Buckhorn blade
Known to hold up against heavy usage, the blade’s S35VN steel blade is a solid choice.

Onion has outfitted the Buckhorn with a modified 3.8-inch drop-point blade constructed from S35VN stainless steel. The material is a tried-and-true high-performance blade steel that holds an edge well and be fairly easy to sharpen when the need arises. To this is applied a high, flat grind that progressively thins down, giving the folder an elegant cross-section capable of cleaving through even tough materials. Topping it off, the blade is given a nice ceramic blast finish which is subdued but also has a nice sheen to it that is rather classy and dressy.
Action

Onion opted for dual thumbstuds on the Buckhorn, making the folder friendly to both lefties and righties. Additionally, a flipper tab is included, for effortless blade deployment with the flick of your index finger.

A hidden gem, Ken Onion is hidden away on the backside of the spacer.
A hidden gem, Ken Onion is hidden away on the backside of the spacer.

The blade rides on a pair of caged ceramic bearings in the pivot for the ultimate smoothness in opening and closing. The flipper action is very dialed in as well. Place your index finger on the flipper and press on it for a second and you’ll feel it load up then the detent lets the blade go, and it rotates to the fully open and locked position effortlessly.

Buckhorn Handle

Ketuo-Ken Onion Buckhorn closed
Very nicely textured and featuring a palm swell, the Buckhorn fits the hand just right.

The handle of the Buckhorn is really, where all the magic is.

Perhaps the most unique design trait of the handle is the palm swell machined into the middle of the handle. This is employed to help seat the knife firmly in your hand and make it easier to grip. Continuing on, there’s the eye-catching 3D checkerboard micro-milling pattern at both ends of the handle, on both sides. Even the stylish minimalist titanium pocket clip sports the same 3D micro-milling pattern on the back, providing visual continuity to the clip side of the handle.

Speaking of the pocket clip, it is held onto the handle with one Torx screw. The handle end of the clip sits in a matching cavity to prevent it from rotating, thus remain secure with one fastening point.

The pivot screw is brass colored, as is the pivot ring. Eye-catching, the tandem give the illusion of the end of a shotgun shell, which is a unique aesthetic to the Buckhorn. The brass color pops against the bead-blasted handle. The matching titanium handle spacer covers about ¾ of the handle length, and at the end of the handle, the spacer forms an integral lanyard loop.

Keuto-Onion Buckhorn pivot.
An absouletely stunning design point, the pivot screw looks like a shotshell head. Interestingly, the other side where the torx head is looks like a fired shell with a firing pin impression.

The framelock lockup engages the lower third of the width of the tang, so an easy lockup. It engages solidly without any movement in any direction. With a firm push of your thumb, the lock disengages allowing the blade to rotate closed.

I don’t believe you’re going to have any concerns over the lock holding or failing on this one. Ketuo did this one right!

Buckhorn Tested

Buckhorn half open
Outfitted with thumbstuds and a kicker, the knife is quick into action.

In action, the Buckhorn is a very efficient cutting tool. It deploys easily and with the flat ground blade, it slices easily and effortlessly.
The front section of the blade has the wedge and is the thinnest portion, sailing through various materials with ease. I like how the entire cutting edge has a graceful curve to it. Not only visually appealing, this feature allows you to make use of the entire length of the cutting edge.

S35VN is a top-performing steel and is an excellent choice for the Buckhorn. This steel will go the distance and withstand heavy usage. Also, dig the fact the ambidextrous thumb studs are positioned as far back on the blade as possible, this gets them out of the way to eliminate hanging up on material being cut. A smart move!

Ken Onion Buckhorn lanyard loop
Then handle spacer is also titanium and forms an intergral lanyard loop at the aft of the knife.

With the handle’s ergonomic features, I felt in control of the knife at all times and found no hot spots to speak of. It just fits the hand so perfectly. This is a testament to Ken Onion’s design prowess and intimate understanding of handle design.

Final Cut

This knife is about as close as anyone will get to owning a full-blow custom knife from the man himself. At MSRP $275 and made in China, the Buckhorn is an excellent deal for what you get in return. It’s an exciting-looking design from one of the best in the game, using high-end materials with 3D machined titanium and S35VN, and a sturdy framelock. Well worth the price of admission.

Pros

  • Stunning overall design
  • Excellent materials
  • Crisp action
  • Priced right

Cons

  • Nice enough you may not want to carry it.

Buckhorn Specs
Blade Material: S35VN
Blade Angle: >60°
Full Length: 8.78″
Handle Length: 4.84″
Blade Length: 3.85″
Type: Folding Blade Knife
Handle Material: 6AL-4V
Finishing: Bead blast & Anodizing
Weight: 4.44 oz
Color: Silver w/ Gold Ano Accents
Designer: Ken Onion
Brand: Karbon Knives
Manufacturer: Ketuo Knife

Buckhorn Deals:

BladeHQ$270Check Price
Karbon Knives$275Check Price
White Mountain Knives$270Check Price

First Look: OKC Old Hickory

Mike Ableson
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The Ontario Knife Company’s New Knife, The Old Hickory, Is A Modern Take On The Classic Outdoor Slip Joint Folder.

The new Old Hickory slip joint folder from Ontario Knife Company is a classy knife. It looks straight out of a classic Western film with its 1075 high-carbon steel blade, walnut handle scales, and brass liners. It may be made in New York, but this feels like a cowboy knife at heart.

And it’s a great EDC thanks to a heat treat that hardened the 2.9-inch blade to a 56-58 HRC. The knife opens with ease thanks to a sizable nail nick toward the tip. At 5.6 inches in total length, the OKC Old Hickory is a compact knife that can serve you well as an everyday carry without feeling too big or bulky.

The Old Hickory is an All-American knife made by an All-American company and stands out from the pack.

MSRP: $39.95

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2024 BLADE Show Debuts: New Knives Launched In Atlanta

BLADE Staff
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2024 BLADE Show Debuts: New Knives Launched In Atlanta

In the conclusion, consider the balance of the BLADE Show’s factory knife debuts

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost three months since BLADE Show 2024 blew the doors off the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta. With all the commotion and introductions of new knives, even if you were there you couldn’t help but miss many.

Previously we featured some of the factory knives that debuted in the Cobb but, as those of you who were paying attention know, we didn’t have enough room for the balance of the few we were able to assemble. Ergo, the conclusion this time. We think you will enjoy them all.
As for the many we are unable to publish in this two-part story due to space and other limitations, stay tuned to future issues of BLADE® for a goodly number of them.

Kershaw Tilt 50th Anniversary

Kershaw Tilt 50th Anniversary

Knife type: Folder
Blade length: 3.65”
Blade steel: CPM CruWear, 14C28N
Rockwell hardness: 60-62 HRC
Blade grind: Flat
Blade @ thickest: .156”
Blade pattern: Composite
Blade finish: Bead-blasted
Blade opener: Flipper tab
Handle material: Titanium
Lock: Sub-Frame
Pivot materials: KVT ball-bearings
Pocket clip material: Titanium
Weight: 5.7 ozs.
Closed length: 5.8”
Knife to know: Carbon fiber inlay front and bank; hidden hardware
Country of origin: USA
MSRP: $500
Available: NOW

A.G. Russell Knives Premium Scout

A.G. Russell Knives Premium Scout

Model type: Traditional slipjoint pocketknife
Designer: A.G. Russell
Main blade length: 2 5/8”
Blade steel: VG-10 stainless
Rockwell hardness: 59-61 HRC
Blade grind: Flat
Blade @ thickest: .09”
Blade pattern: Spear point
Blade finish: Satin
Blade opener: Nail nick
Handle material options: Stag and red saw-cut bone
Weight: 3.5-3.7 ozs.
Closed length: 3 3/4”
Special features: Can opener, screwdriver, caplifter & leather punch
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $74.95-$94.95
Available: NOW

CobraTec Koonsman

CobraTec Koonsman

Knife type: Fixed-blade hunter
Designer: Chad Cochran
Blade length: 4”
Blade material: D2 tool steel
Rockwell hardness: 61 HRC
Blade grind: Convex
Blade @ widest: 1.125”
Blade pattern: Drop point
Blade finish: Satin
Construction: Full Tang
Handle material: Micarta® in color options of black, green and tan
Weight: 5.7 ozs.
Overall length: 8.4375”
Sheath type and materials: Belt/pouch and leather
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $79.99
Available: NOW

Bradford USA Gatsby

Bradford USA Gatsby

Knife type: Specialty steak knife
Blade length: 4.5”
Blade steel: N690 stainless
Rockwell hardness: 61 HRC
Blade grind: Full height flat
Blade @ thickest: .11”
Blade finish options: Stonewash and high polish
Handle material options: Maroon, wheat, ivory canvas Micarta® and carbon fiber
Overall length: 8.5”
Country of origin: USA
MSRP: $199
Available: NOW

Spyderco Techno 3

Spyderco Techno 3

Knife type: Folder
Designer: Marcin Slysz
Blade length: 2.64”
Blade steel: CTS XHP stainless
Blade grind: High flat
Blade @ thickest: .127”
Blade pattern: Drop point
Blade finish: Satin
Blade opener: Flipper
Handle material: Titanium
Lock: Reeve Integral Lock (R.I.L.)
Pivot material: Ball bearings
Pocket clip material and type: Titanium, right-handed, tip-up 
Weight: 3.3 ozs.
Closed length: 3.7”
Country of origin: Italy
MSRP: $400
Available: To be announced

Boker Plus Cutweazle

Boker Plus Cutweazle

Knife type: Utility 
Designer: Ben Logan/Turnback Knife Co.
Blade length: 1.18”
Blade steel: Standard replaceable stainless utility blade
Blade grind: Flat
Blade @ thickest: .03”
Blade finish: Satin
Handle material: G-10/stainless steel 
Lock: Button lock
Blade opener: Thumb slide
Pocket clip material and type: Stainless steel, deep carry, right-handed, tip-down 
Weight: 1.38 ozs.
Closed length: 3.7”
Special features: Push button on slide lock allows the blade to be pushed forward in stages or in a single movement and locked in the predetermined recesses; retracts into the handle when pushed again w/a sliding movement
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $56.95 
Available: September 2024

Browning Primal Scalpel 2-Blade

Browning Primal Scalpel 2-Blade

Main blade length: 2.75”
Blade steel: 420-J2 stainless
Rockwell hardness: Scalpel 50-55 HRC, drop point 55-59 HRC
Blade openers: Thumb stud and nail nick
Lock: Linerlock
Handle: Synthetic in orange or black
Pocket clip: Tip-up
Closed length: 4 1/8”
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $59.99
Available: NOW

Stroup Knives MK2

Stroup Knives MK2

Knife type: Fixed blade
Designer: Unnamed active-duty Tier 1 Operator
Blade length: 4”
Blade material: 1095 carbon steel
Rockwell hardness: 58 HRC
Blade grind: Flat
Blade @ thickest: 3/16”
Blade pattern: Spear point
Blade finish: Acid etched & rock tumbled
Construction: Full Tang
Handle material: G10 & nitrile
Pocket clip: Designed by Discreet Carry Concepts, Inc.
Weight: 4.2 ozs.
Overall length: 8”
Sheath material: Kydex
Knife to know: The nitrile in the handle provides extra grip, especially when wet
Country of origin: USA
MSRP: $279.99
Available: NOW

Lionsteel Twain

Lionsteel Twain

Model type: EDC folder
Blade length: 3.15”
Blade steel: CPM MagnaCut stainless
Blade grind: Flat
Handle material: Titanium + carbon fiber or Micarta®
Lock: Button lock
Pocket clip type and material: Bent steel
Special features: Double Solid construction (integral frame and integral handle)
Weight: 3.03 ozs.
Closed length: 4.14”
Country of origin: Italy
MSRP: $380
Available: NOW

KME Precision Control Plus/Professional Knife Sharpening System

KME Precision Control Plus/Professional Knife Sharpening System

Abrasive type: Diamond-coated stones
Grit assortment: 140, 300, 600, 1,500
Dimensions: 13” x 12” x 8”
Construction materials: CNC-machined, anodized aluminum components, laser-cut, powder-coated steel base, CNC cherry hardwood grip, stainless-steel-backed diamond stones
Weight: 2 lbs., 13.9 ozs.
Blade sizes sharpened: Maximum-blade-thickness saber grind 3/8” or more and full flat grind 3/16”
Angle range: 10 to 45 degrees per side
Special features: Smooth friction-drive angle system w/micro adjustment feature; operates w/one hand and absolute angle control; rod end guide w/360° rotation; threaded Monopod brace provides rock-solid sharpening platform; adjustable stone carrier w/magnetic plate for angle cube sharpening uses any stone between 4” and 6”; full line of accessory stones, strops and diamond lapping films in both 4” and 6” lengths
Country of origin: USA
MSRP: $474.95
Available: NOW

CIVIVI Biophase

CIVIVI Biophase

Knife type: Folder
Blade length: 3.48”
Blade steel: Nitro-V stainless
Rockwell hardness: 58-60 HRC
Blade grind: Hollow
Blade @ thickest: .12”
Blade finish: Black stonewash (satin finish and black stonewash w/satin flat and damascus are optional)
Handle material: Aluminum & G-10
Lock: Button lock
Blade opener: Flipper tab
Pivot materials: Stainless steel pivot w/caged ceramic ball bearings
Pocket clip material and type: Stainless steel, tip-up, ambidextrous
Weight: 2.61 ozs.
Closed length: 4.67”
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $98.70 at press-time exchange rate
Available: Late summer

RoseCraft Clinch River Button Lock

RoseCraft Clinch River Button Lock

Model type: Modern/traditional pocketknife
Blade length: 3.125”
Blade material: M390 stainless
Blade grind: Flat
Handle material: Micarta® or Ultem w/titanium bolster & liners
Lock: Button lock
Pocket clip material: Titanium
Knife to know: Modern take on the Clinch River Swayback that won BLADE Magazine 2023 Imported Knife of the Year®; opens and closes via a button lock
Weight: 2.8 ozs.
Closed length: 4”
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $129.99
Available: NOW

CRKT Nucleus

CRKT Nucleus

Knife type: Folder 
Designer: Princeton Wong
Blade length: 3.19”
Blade steel: 12C27 stainless
Rockwell hardness: 58-60 HRC
Blade grind: Flat
Blade @ thickest: .13”
Blade pattern: Reverse tanto
Blade finish: Bead blast
Construction: Screw
Handle material: Stainless steel w/G-10 overlay
Lock: Framelock
Blade openers: Front and rear flipper tabs & blade hole
Pivot material: Ikoma Korth Bearing System (ball bearings)
Pocket clip material and type: Stainless steel; tip-up
Weight: 3.1 ozs.
Closed length: 4.19”
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $113
Knife to know: The knife opens three ways: front and rear flipper tabs and via the blade hole
Available: NOW

Halfbreed MIK-04 SOFMAK

Halfbreed MIK-04 SOFMAK

Knife type: Fixed blade
Blade steel: K340 stainless
Rockwell hardness: 59-60 HRC
Blade finish: PVD coat
Blade style: Drop point
Blade length: 5.31”
Blade @ thickest: .25”
Handle material: G-10
Weight: 11.14 ozs.
Overall length: 10.31”
Sheath material: Injection molded plastic
Mounting: Belt & PALS/MOLLE (DOTS)
Country of origin: Comprises Australian & Taiwanese make
MSRP: $285
Knife to know: The knife is a collaboration between Halfbreed and Joseph Teti, Force Recon Marine and Army Special Forces Green Beret veteran and former operative with the CIA Special Activities Division/Special Operations Group; MIK stands for medium infantry knife and SOFMAK for special operations forces multi-purpose assault knife
MSRP: $285
Available: September 2024

ESNYX Silver Line Beer Buster Jr.

ESNYX Silver Line Beer Buster Jr.

Knife type: Slipjoint
Blade length: 2.63”
Blade steel: M390 stainless
Blade @ thickest: .125”
Blade grind: Flat
Blade pattern: Drop point
Blade finish: Handrubbed satin
Blade opener: Nail nick
Handle: Blasted titanium
Weight: 2 ozs.
Closed length: 3.5”
Country of origin: China
Knife to know: Slipjoint has half stop; bottle-shaped handle shield; bottle opener in butt
MSRP: $265
Available: NOW

Rough Ryder Reserve Whiskey Ryder

Rough Ryder Reserve Whiskey Ryder

Knife type: Swayback doctor’s knife slipjoint
Designer: Brian Wilhoite
Blade length: 3.5”
Blade material: D2 tool steel
Blade @ thickest: 3/16”
Blade pattern: Wharncliffe
Blade finish: Brushed satin
Handle material: Black burlap Micarta®
Weight: 3.2 ozs.
Closed length: 4.5”
Special features: Slipjoint features half stop
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $54.99
Available: NOW

Warthog V-Sharp A4 Model

Warthog V-Sharp A4 Model

Sharpener Type: Patented V-Sharp spring-loaded pull-through
Abrasive Type: Diamond-coated
Grit selection: 325 grit natural diamond hone & hardened hone steel for finishing the edge (270, 325, 600, 1,000 and ceramic hones available)
Dimensions: 8.75” x 8.25” x 2.25”
Construction Materials: Lightweight zinc-cast metal frame, non-slip rubber base and durable powder coat finish
Weight: 1.1 lbs.
Special Features: Four adjustable sharpening angles: 15, 20, 25 & 30 degrees
Types of blades sharpened: All plain-edge knives; serrated knives can be sharpened w/the ceramic hones
Country of origin: South Africa
MSRP: $109.99
Available: NOW

SOG Knives Bulwark

SOG Knives Bulwark

Designer: Mikkel Willumsen
Knife type: EDC flipper folder
Blade length: 3”
Blade material: D2 tool steel
Blade grind: Hollow
Blade @ thickest: .14”
Blade finish: Black PVD coat
Blade pattern: Drop point
Blade openers: Flipper tab and blade hole
Handle material: Micarta® in blue and OD green color options
Pocket clip: Tip-up
Lock: Framelock
Weight: 6.25 ozs.
Closed length: 4.2”
Country of origin: China
MSRP: $134.99
Available: Late summer 2024

Cold Steel Recon M1

Cold Steel Recon M1

Knife type: EDC folder
Blade length: 4”
Blade steel: CPM MagnaCut stainless
Blade finish: Stonewash
Blade pattern: Clip point
Handle material: G-10
Lock: Tri-Ad
Pocket clip: Yes
Weight: 5.2 ozs.
Closed length: 5.5”
Country of origin: Italy
MSRP: $259.99
Available: NOW

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Knife Review: CRKT Bamboozled

Mike Ableson
-
0

No Need For Confusion, CRKT’s Bamboozled Shows Itself A Competent Light-Duty EDC Option.

There are so many assisted-opening knives for sale today that to compare them all is a fool’s errand. However, when you come across a good one you know it pretty quickly. The new CRKT Bamboozled stands out from the pack thanks to its classy, sleek lines, quality construction for a casual EDC, and its incredibly fair price.

New for 2023, the Bamboozled comes in under $100 and feels worth a lot more. Designed by Ken Onion Jr, son of BLADE Cutlery Hall of Famer Ken Onion, his first knife for the company looks straightforward because it is. It’s simply an excellent light-duty EDC.

The proof? After a few weeks of using the Bamboozled, I realized I hadn’t picked up any of my other knives. It pushed some truly excellent blades into the bullpen, and I don’t see that changing for a long time. 

The CRKT Bamboozled: The Ergonomics

The first thing you notice about the knife is how nice it feels in your hand. That’s thanks to the G10 handle and stainless-steel bolster. It looks and feels clean right out of the box and even after a few months of use, it remains pleasurable to employ.

Aside from a tidy look, the ergonomics are there in the Bamboozled’s handle. The straight handle avoids any hot spots you might encounter, and fits a medium-sized hand relatively well. The G10 scale is well-textured, yet not overly aggressive. At once, this offers solid control over the knife on light tasks—even when wet—while avoiding the cheese-grater texturing found on some heavy-duty options.

As with many other CRKT models, the Bamboozled succeeds thanks to a good skeleton. The handle is great, and it’s made even better by the steel liner lock that secures the knife upon deployment. It’s easy to close one-handed although the ridges on the lock itself can dig a bit if you open and close several times in quick succession. I’ve tried for months to find a way to loosen the lock with hard use and it hasn’t budged an inch. 

You can open the knife easily one-handed thanks to the assisted-opening flipper. The flipper tab is well-placed, though it does take a touch of force to get it going. But be careful. Once the assist mechanism kicks in the blade fires out at high speed.

A Blade For Everyday 

The blade is made from D2 steel which holds an excellent edge (more on that later) and is known for its wear resistance. In short, it is a fairly common, yet solid choice for blades likely called into numerous roles.

In total, the Bamboozled is 7.81 inches long and has a blade of 3.34 inches in length. For the user, this means having a blade long enough to make somewhat sizable cuts and a handle long enough to keep a relaxed and secure hold while cutting. The handle’s sharp lines and small profile also work to keep you feeling relaxed while cutting as you can position your hand in a way that works for you instead of being forced into a certain grip by a more contoured and bulky handle. 

This is the knife that will serve you well around the house. I wouldn’t use this for something like prying open rusty or locked boxes, though. The blade is just .11 inches at its thickest point and tapers at the tip. It can flex with your fingers.Thanks to being under four ounces, and just 4.45 inches when folded, the knife is a great casual carry option that will easily fit into a pants or a jacket pocket.

Bamboozled Vs Paper 

CRKT Bamboozled cutting paper
The bamboozled cut through the paper blind with ease.

After losing some blinds to our lovable but rambunctious dog I needed to replace a busted one. I was able to get an inexpensive paper blind at a home improvement store, a great light-work test for the Bamboozled.

Nicely the Bamboozled made it through the thicker paper of the blinds–folded over a dozen times–without any frayed or torn edges. However, it took nearly a minute of intense sawing action to chew through using the entire length of the blade. So while I would call it a success I definitely would say the knife had its work cut out for it in this task. 

Bamboozled Vs Leather 

CRKT Bamboozled cutting leather
The 1/8-inch leather belt was no match for the folder.

Wishing to see how the Bamboozled fared against a more robust material, I pitted the blade against leather. An old belt proved the perfect foe.

Interestingly, the Bamboozled made easier work of the ⅛ inch leather than the blinds. A moderate sawing motion with the belly of the knife cut the belt into tidy strips with clean edges. Given I’d already put the blade to use on other tasks and the edge was no longer pristine, I was surprised with the results.

Bamboozled Vs Nylon Rope 

CRKT Bamboozled cutting rope
The nylon rope provided the stiffest test for the Bamboozled.

 A piece of ⅜-inch nylon rope was the most formidable challenger for the knife. It did cut through but it was a process. Push cuts were only good for getting the main length of the knife to bite in, but the ensuing pull cut made quick work of the rope. 

However, it was hard to get a pull cut to bite and one time it took two pushes to get the knife to chew into the rope. Additionally, the cuts weren’t as clean as the paper or the leather belt. A win for the Bamboozled, but we’ll call it a split decision rather than a unanimous victory.

Not Bamboozled By Everyday Chores

My wife and I welcomed our first child a month ago, providing ample opportunity to put the Bamboozled through everyday paces. Boxes, wrappers and packaging of every sort from stacks of diapers to new furniture needed opening–which meant the Bamboozled had a legion of practical work ahead, which let me see what the knife could do.

Its straight-back blade comes to a point that is excellent at piercing, which was a plus as it easily punctured the material. The knife also was great at cutting straight down cardboard of every thickness in clean, even lines.

Beyond the cardboard, the Bamboozled easily cut through tape without taking on much of a residue and it was able to cleanly cut through foam without peeling off bits. The foam, both thick and thin, was no match for the puncturing blade. 

Judging The CRKT Bamboozled

The D2 blade provides a strong edge that resists wear.

Overall, I really like this knife. It’s easy to use and comes at a great price. The edge is no joke and really does hold up against everyday usage quite well. 

This is a great piece for the small speed bumps that come up in day-to-day life in suburbia or the city. Have to downsize a mountain of cardboard boxes at the office after a bunch of new product is delivered? The Bamboozled will get the job done quickly. Just don’t ask too much from this knife. The Bamboozled is well made but it’s not a heavy-use utility knife. I wouldn’t want to baton wood with it, use it for prying, or use it as my main knife in the backwoods.  

What it does well it does exceptionally well; if you keep the knife in its wheelhouse it should serve you well for years. The $75 price point makes this an affordable, accessible knife that’s great for both knife lovers and someone looking to get their first blade. 

CRKT Bamboozled Knife Specs

Blade Length: 3.34 inches

Blade Edge: Plain

Blade Steel: D2

Blade Finish: Satin

Blade Thickness: .11 inches

Overall Length: 7.81 inches

Closed Length: 4.45 inches

Weight: 3.7 ounces

Handle: G10 with Stainless Steel Bolster

MSRP: $75

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