Somewhere between an EDC and a gentleman’s knife, the ACE Bleecker looks to be a slick sidekick.
Giant Mouse is going gentlemanly but with an attitude. At least, that appears to happen with the newest addition to its catalog—the ACE Bleecker.
Named after Manhattan, N.Y.’s trendy Bleecker Street, the company seems to aim the frame lock toward hipsters’ hip pockets. The same with the sleek, yet somewhat understated lines. However, robustly built with premium steel and components the Italian import likely has the chops to pull off EDC duty—at least for those who tend to smaller knives.
Right off the bat, the notable aspect of the ACE Bleecker is its slim design accentuated by a trailing point blade. In many respects, it’s reminiscent of Giant Mouse’s Knife of the Year award-winning GMX, only smaller and without an integral handle. Despite its svelteness, the company has ensured the knife is capable of more than cutting the foil off wine bottles by making the handle full-sized. It is a bit skinny in the hand, yet it nestles in the palm well enough to handle more aggressive cutting duties.
Giant Mouse went top-shelf for the blade steel, choosing Magnacut—albeit a softer version than some prefer. The company rates it at 62 HRC, a facet that might raise the hackles for the edge-retention obsessive. That aside, the geometry of the 3.26-inch blade is exquisite with a thick(ish) spine adding toughness to the design. The tip doesn’t jut too far above the spine, allowing users to choke up on the blade for finer work. And, boy howdy, should it ever prove apt at fine work, with a very fine tip.
The company has opted for a thumb hole as the opening mechanism on the Bleecker but has made it oblong. The choice is for more than aesthetics, making the knife deployable not only in the traditional style—the thumb—but also in reverse open. As an added benefit, this also makes the knife relatively left-hand friendly. The Bleecker’s well-tuned detent also goes a long way in adding to all these aspects—not so light as to facilitate a negligent deployment, but not overly stiff where users will struggle to get the blade to work.
As for the handle, Giant Mouse offers two options—titanium and carbon fiber. Both are attractive, though I tend to the titanium as it gives the knife more overall continuity and class. In both cases, the knife tips the scales at right around 2 ounces—the titanium a hair more—and measures at 7.43 inches in overall length. Worth note, Giant Mouse includes a notch on the thumb side and a chamfer on the lock that go a long way in making opening the knife simple. Also, it boasts a reversible wire pocket clip for tip-up carry.
With a gentleman’s design comes a gentleman’s price on the Bleecker. Giant Mouse lists the titanium model at $285 and the carbon fiber version at a slightly more affordable $245.
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.
To be competitive, today’s balisongs must excel at flipping as well as cutting.
It’s a focus of versatility. From the style of opening to the enthusiasts who perform a variety of maneuvers with it, blade exposed, the balisong/butterfly knife is an object of curiosity and fascination.
The original term for the subject knife, balisong, is a favorite of Lucas Cao, founder and president of Squid Industries, which produces the popular Tsunami balisong. “Butterfly is a great slang name that describes the mechanism,” he remarked, “but the word balisong has a rich cultural history behind it.”
Flipping competitions have played a key role in the resurgence of the popularity of balisongs, especially among young enthusiasts. James Hill is an example of the latter. He won first prize of $1,000 at the West Coast Flipping Championship during BLADE Show West in Salt Lake City this past October.
With that observation in mind, the Tsunami is true to the Squid concepts of user accommodation. “Each knife we’ve created is on the basis of more variety while still offering a premium flipper experience no matter the price point,” Cao explained. “At the top of our ladder is the Tsunami, which we designed to embody peak performance and build quality.”
Squid Industries Tsunami
The Tsunami features a traditional Japanese-style tanto blade in a straight-back clip point and flat-ground CPM S35VN stainless steel.
The Tsunami features a traditional Japanese-style tanto blade in a straight-back clip point and flat ground CPM S35VN stainless steel intended to perform well across the spectrum of cutting requirements. However, the knife’s main constituency is the flipper community. “We serve a variety of customers with different requirements,” Lucas said, “but a majority of our customers are focused on the flipping aspect. If I had to estimate the customer desirability, I would say approximately 99 percent flipping and 1 percent cutting.”
The Tsunami employs a combination of bushings and phosphorous bronze washers in its mechanism, ensuring smooth deployment. “This is critical to flipping because it allows the user to consistently and reliably manipulate the knife,” he added. “Bearings aren’t used in our products and many other competitive balisongs from other brands because they produce a flipping experience that’s usually too smooth. Bushings are the preferred style because they offer a specific amount of smoothness and speed.”
The Tsunami reflects Squid Industries’ goal of offering balisongs that exhibit both variety and flipping fun, no matter the price. “At the top of our ladder is the Tsunami,” Squid’s Lucas Cao noted, “which we designed to embody peak performance and build quality.”
The Tsunami design is referred to as a “chainwich,” as its 6Al-4V titanium handles come together to mimic an integral grip. The handles themselves are designed with two specific tapers, one along the width and the other along the thickness. This dual taper design in combination with the rounding on the top create a comfortable and controllable feel in the hand, according to Cao.
Squid Industries Tsunami Specs Blade Length: 4.5” Blade Steel: CPM S35VN stainless Blade Grind: Flat Handle Material: 6Al-4V titanium Latch: N/A Pivot: Bushings and phosphorous bronze washers Weight: 4 ozs. Closed Length: 5.6” Country of Origin: USA MSRP: $775
Kershaw Lucha Carbon Fiber
Kershaw’s Lucha Carbon Fiber is a premium edition of the company’s standard Lucha, including such high-end materials as CPM 20CV stainless blade steel and titanium handles with carbon fiber overlays.
The Kershaw Lucha Carbon Fiber’s spear-point blade of premium CPM 20CV stainless blade steel is ideal for piercing and slicing, while the “working” finish hides scratches from hard use. Company spokesperson Dominic Aiello related, “Our goal at Kershaw is to offer something for everyone, whether that be a budget-friendly knife you can abuse and lose all the way to a premium USA-made automatic. With that said, when we brought the original Lucha to the market, our goal was to offer a value packed, affordable, high-quality butterfly knife. It has been a huge hit and as a result we decided to release a premium version.”
Though the original emphasis on the practical use of the Lucha remains with cutting ability front and center, the knife illustrates the versatility inherent in the balisong style. “Of course, cutting is a critical component for any knife,” Aiello reasoned, “but with butterfly knives the flip ability, balance, and comfort are equally as important, if not more important. A lot of customers enjoy the Lucha for the fun and challenge of flipping, but there is also a segment of users that carry it as an EDC.”
The handles of the Lucha Carbon Fiber are titanium anodized blue overlaid with machined carbon fiber. The handles and carbon fiber are contoured for a rounded profile and ease of use.
The Lucha combines good looks with smooth mechanics and easy maintenance. “Each pivot uses two KVT ball bearings, four total,” Dominic commented. “The ball bearings provide an extremely fast and smooth action for easy flipping. The handles are blue anodized titanium with machined carbon fiber overlays. The handles and carbon fiber have been contoured for a rounded profile and ease of use.”
The Bear Song VIII includes a tanto-style blade in flat-ground 154CM stainless steel ideal for detailed cutting and general use.
Matt Griffey of Bear & Son Cutlery says the company has referred to the balisong as the “butterfly knife” since 1986. To that end, the company has continued to develop the famed flippers. With the release of the Bear Song VIII, the company’s design eye was fixed on a knife “being symmetrical and balanced, the most important design elements to start,” Griffey explained.
The Bear Song VIII includes a tanto-style blade in 154CM stainless steel, flat ground and ideal for fine cutting and general use. According to Griffey, the knife’s aptitude is 80 percent flipping and 20 percent cutting.
“A butterfly knife is the strongest folding knife, and as long as you are holding both handles it is as close to a fixed blade as possible for a folding knife,” Matt reasoned. “If the knife is maintained and tight there is almost no chance of lock failure. Maintenance should be just keeping it clean and oiled and checking it periodically to make sure it is not getting loose anywhere on the knife. If you find anything loose, remove the screw, and use Loctite® to replace the screw to the correct tension and let it set for at least twice as long as the thread locker recommends. We find they always give a time that is the bare minimum for the thread lock to work.”
The Bear Song VIII sports stainless steel handles, rounded edges, and milled stepped holes and slots for user comfort. A spring-loaded locking latch and a stainless-steel pocket clip in a short design for easy carry and that can be removed if the user chooses completes the package.
In light of simple maintenance, the Bear Song VIII features an encased bearing design that is easily lubricated, while stainless steel handles, rounded edges, and milled stepped holes and slots provide user comfort. A spring-loaded locking latch makes operation a pleasure. A stainless-steel clip is in a short design for easy carry and can be removed if the user chooses.
“The Bear Song VIII has all the modern features with the timeless classic look,” noted Griffey, who sees the recent legislation regarding butterfly knives as positive (see sidebar). “Butterflies are far slower to open than a modern knife with a flipper on the blade that doesn’t have any spring mechanism. So anyone wasting time in their legislation to target this is just trying to fill time so they don’t have to do any work that might help the people they were elected to serve.”
Bear & Son Bear Song VIII Specs Blade Length: 4” Blade Steel: 154CM stainless Blade Grind: Flat Handle Material: Stainless steel w/Cerakote® finish Latch: Spring loaded Pivot: Ball-bearing washers Weight: 5.1 ozs. Closed Length: 5.25” Country of Origin: USA MSRP: $182.99
Butterfly Knife History
Butterfly knives, also known as balisongs, are one of the most popular knife styles today. They consist of a blade with two handles that rotate around a pivot and wrap around the blade in the closed position. That much is agreed upon. The origin of butterfly knives is still up for debate.
Where Were Butterfly Knives Invented?
Butterfly knives have a rich history, though much of it has been left up to speculation. Walk up to a knife enthusiast and ask, “Where did butterfly knives originate?” and you may get two very different answers.
Fuzzy historical records and well worn legends are to blame. The two main countries of focus are France and the Philippines. Each has evidence and supporters.
One Version: Butterfly Knives Came from the Philippines
Authentic Filipino balisongs (Image from Balislinger on bladeforums.com)
The Philippines is often cited as the birthplace of butterfly knives, where “balisong” is a more appropriate term. Legend has it that the balisong knife has roots that go back to around 800 AD. This style of knife could be opened quickly with one hand and easily used as a weapon. It proved a common choice for self-defense and utility uses.
A rich balisong tradition has been present in the Philippines for more than a century. Countless stands and stores sell handmade butterfly knives today, and Filipino province of Batangas and the area of Balisong in Taal are known for the blades.
At the very least, the word “balisong” is widely recognized to have come from there. That said, the lack of physical evidence to support a Filipino origin fuels the argument.
Another Version: Butterfly Knives Came from France
A vintage example of the Pied Du Roi. (Image from balisong.net)
Another claim is that the butterfly knife was invented in France between 1500 and 1700. The reason for this is the “Pied Du Roi,” which means “foot of the king” and is a French measurement tool that dates to the 1700s. The “Pied Du Roi” greatly resembles a butterfly knife. This tool has been pictured with measurement handles and a blade that folds out on one end. It looks like a butterfly knife, but could it be considered the first one ever made?
Proponents of the French origin argue that Spain, allied with France at the time, adopted the butterfly knife in their tasks and eventually took it to the Philippines as sailors sailed to different countries. Sounds reasonable, but hasn’t been proven.
Another supporting argument for the French is that these knives comes from Germany and England, where some butterflies can trace back to prior to 1900. I recently came across a collector’s piece online made in England with markings dating to 1873. This rules out the butterfly knife originating in the early 1900s in the Philippines, but like I said earlier, it has also been claimed to be influenced from similar Filipino knife models as early as 800 AD.
So Where Did Butterfly Knives Actually Come From?
Due to the popularity of balisongs in the Philippines, it isn’t surprising to suspect it started there. The lore passed down from generation to generation also support this idea.
On the other hand, France has pictures and documentation of a measurement device that resembles a butterfly knife and dates back hundreds of years. However, that measurement device likely wasn’t used for self-defense, flipping, or other tasks common to butterfly knives today. Could it be considered the same thing? Hard to tell.
Both sides have great arguments. More information is needed to finally determine this unsolved piece of butterfly knife history.
Butterfly Knives Today
Regardless of history, butterfly knives are rising in popularity due to the fun of “flipping.” Flipping involves tossing butterfly knives open to perform all kinds of tricks. Whether it’s the danger of it, the community, the collectible appeal, or anything else, there’s no doubt flippers are mesmerizing to watch.
Editor’s Note: Mike Haskew and Trevor Brown contributed to this article.
The technological advancements that have redefined the pocketknife as we know it.
When I stumbled onto the knife scene in 1985, the only pocketknives I had carried up to that point were slipjoints and lockbacks. Of course, slipjoints weren’t called slipjoints back then but simply pocketknives. Today, as far as BLADE® is concerned—not that it’s any major newsflash or anything—any knife you can carry in your pocket is a pocketknife.
All of which brings me to the subject at hand: my picks of the five most important pocketknife developments of the modern sporting knife era. In rough chronological order they are:
•The pocket clip:BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-of-Fame® member Sal Glesser’s introduction in 1981 of the Spyderco pocketknives with the hole in the blade and the pocket clip would turn the genre on its head. While the hole in the blade was a masterstroke in and of itself, it was the pocket clip that forever changed the way people would carry their pocketknives. Rather than rattling around in the bottom of a pocket with change, car keys and what have you, the closed knife was held on the pocket lip by the clip, free from pocket-bottom scratches and poised at the ready to be deployed to cut whatever needed cutting.
•The linerlock: Cutlery Hall-of-Famer Michael Walker invented the linerlock in 1981, but it would take a few more years before custom knifemakers—and shortly thereafter, factory makers—began readily adopting the lock that made one-hand manual opening and closing of the pocketknife an easy reality rather than an exercise in hand contortions. Today, the argument can be made that the linerlock is used on more sporting folders than any other lock.
•The flipper: While exactly who made the first folder with the flipper tab that manually deploys a folding blade with the tap of a finger may be up for debate, there is no debating that the person who popularized it was Cutlery Hall-of-Fame knifemaker Kit Carson. A simple addition to the pocketknife on its face, the flipper tab opens a blade as fast and easy as any other manual method—probably faster.
•The Ikoma Korth Bearing System (IKBS): Pivot systems that helped open folding blades quickly and smoothly had been around before, but it was the IKBS conceived in 2002 that took blade opening to a new level of quick and smooth. In conjunction with the flipper especially, the IKBS transformed one-hand pocketknife opening from fast to just this side of automatic. Developed by Brazilian custom knifemakers Flavio Ikoma and Ricardo “Rick” and Paulo Lala (the latter two collectively known as Korth), the IKBS is another masterstroke of design and invention.
•Material upgrades: These cover a number of materials and years, from Walker’s switch to titanium for his linerlock spring in 1983, to a wide array of other hi-tech substances in subsequent years for pocketknife handles, including titanium, thermoplastics, Micarta®, G-10, carbon fiber and other state-of-the-art materials that not only were super strong and tough but also were lightweight, reducing the weight of pocketknives to the point that they were basically unnoticeable in a pocket. Meanwhile, the advances in blade steels over that same stretch are too many to mention.
How about you? What are the most important pocketknife developments? Tell us in the comments.
The M-1 Folding Pocketknife From MECHFORCE Takes A Licking And Keeps On Cutting No Matter What’s In Front Of It.
Most people don’t like carrying a thick knife. They already have enough stuff without a bulky folder blocking access to the other goodies in their pockets.
I really like the blade thinness of the M-1 folder by MECHFORCE. Add a deep-set pocket clip and the M-1 is low profile when attached to the lip of your pocket. Meanwhile, the handle feels great.
The blade is a classic drop-point shape and cuts like … well, let’s see!
M-1 Folder Takes On Paper And More
The M-1 sliced the 20-pound bond copy paper smoothly and quickly.
Twenty-pound bond copy paper is the first way to test the factory edge. The M-1 sliced the stationery smoothly and quickly. I put a few nicks in my fingernail by moving too slow. I could hear every slice in the paper. Very sharp!
On to double-walled cardboard. The blade bound a tad at the bottom of the cut and during withdrawal. The thicker slice is where I noticed the binding. Thinner slices were not a challenge. It sliced the cardboard fast overall.
I used some plastic board for the next medium. The M-1 sailed through every slice. It was easy to control the width of the cut. I like the shape of this handle a lot. It really gives me control with my sidewinder cutting style.
The M-1 bit into 8-ounce leather and did so with gusto. I could hear the aggressive sounds of the edge biting through the material—this is very addictive to do as you crunch away. The knife would excel at skinning game.
I did some skiving to check the control of the depth of the cut. There were no issues whatsoever on the leather—super thin cuttings every time. The flat grind really helped in cut-depth control.
Pushing The M-1 Folder
The M-1 Folder wore the author’s wrist out after 250 crunching cuts of half-inch sisal rope.
Next up: half-inch sisal rope—time to use more pressure on the M-1. The knife wore my wrist out after 250 crunching cuts. It still had more bite but I was done for the day on rope cutting. The knife gave me no hot spots and I found zero sharp areas on the handle. It was very comfortable with pressure cutting. Excellent work, MECHFORCE!
To give the edge a heavy workout, I grabbed an old whitetail antler and gave it 30 whacks. I expected to see a few small chips in the edge but none showed. The edge was still sharp with no snags, sure signs of tough steel and excellent heat treatment.
I switched back to slicing 20-pound bond paper to see if the edge was still field ready. It sliced cleanly throughout to the end of the testing.
The M-1 comes with a maintenance kit that includes how-to instructions, two sets of replacement adhesive strips, take-down wrench and a bandage. It’s well thought out.
Final Thoughts
Not much to say here—maybe add some skateboard tape inserts for a no-slip grip. The M-1 is a high-performance knife that takes a licking and keeps on cutting. It makes a great pocket addition.
M-1 Folder Knife Specs
Knife style: Flipper folder Blade length: 3.5 inches Blade steel: M390 stainless Blade thickness at thickest: ⅛ inches Blade grind: Full flat Blade finish: Matte Blade pattern: Drop point Handle frame: 6Al4V titanium Handle inserts: Mars Valley carbon fiber Pocket clip: Deep set Lock: Framelock Weight: 5 ounces Closed length: 4-11/16 inches Knife to know: Features hidden-screw design Country of origin: Partially made in the USA MSRP: $385
Hunting and outdoor endeavors, these blades are a cut above the rest.
Looking to kit up for the next hunting season? Need to start thinking about filleting this summer’s catch? Or maybe you just require a little summer to make camp life a little easier. We’ve got you covered! From stunning custom creations to workhorse production models, we’ve gathered up top-not hunting knives, camp knives and about every other blade to tackle your outdoor adventures.
Paul DiStefano: Hunter
BLADE LENGTH: 5” BLADE STEEL: Mosaic damascus BLADE GRIND: Flat HANDLE: Ivory Micarta® carved w/Japanese maple leaves and birds native to Japan; bird’s-beak butt design HANDLE CARVED BY: Paul DiStefano GUARD: Mosaic damascus OVERALL LENGTH: 9.5” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $2,200 KNIFE TO KNOW: Paul DiStefano is an American Bladesmith Society journeyman smith MAKER: Paul DiStefano
Jacob Gaetz: Hunter
BLADE LENGTH: 4.5” BLADE MATERIAL: Mosaic damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels ROCKWELL HARDNESS: 61 HRC BLADE GRIND: Full flat, .01”-thick BTE (behind the edge) HANDLE: Stabilized redwood burl HANDLE PIN: Argentium silver SPACER: Heat-colored damascus GUARD STEEL: Heat-colored 416 stainless OVERALL LENGTH: 9 5/8” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $2,000 KNIFE TO KNOW: Jacob Gaetz is an American Bladesmith Society journeyman smith MAKER: Jacob Gaetz (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Tanner Couch: Rabbit Skinner
BLADE LENGTH: 3” BLADE STEEL: CPM 154 stainless BLADE GRIND: Hollow HANDLE FRAME: 410 stainless steel HANDLE MATERIAL: Ivory BOLSTER: 416 stainless CLOSED LENGTH: 37/8” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,600 KNIFE TO KNOW: Tanner Couch is a card-carrying member of the South Texas Slipjoint Cartel MAKER: Tanner Couch (SharpByCoop image)
Chris Hamelin: Saratoga Hunter
BLADE LENGTH: 4” BLADE STEEL: 440C stainless BLADE GRIND: Flat HANDLE: Maple Valley Richlite w/copper pin and lanyard tube, natural Micarta® BOLSTER: Copper; engraved by Wolfgang Loerchner OVERALL LENGTH: 8.5” SHEATH (not shown): Belt model w/snap closure of leather and alligator skin inlay by Buffalo Bones MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,300 MAKER: Chris Hamelin (Jocelyn Frasier image edit)
Charlie Lloyd: Crushed W’s hunter
BLADE LENGTH: 5” BLADE MATERIAL: Crushed W’s damascus of 1080 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels BLADE GRIND: Flat GUARD: Damascus OVERALL LENGTH: 10” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,200 KNIFE TO KNOW: Charlie Lloyd is a journeyman smith in the American Bladesmith Society MAKER: Charlie Lloyd (SharpByCoop image)
CAS Iberia: Modern Tanto
BLADE LENGTH: 10.5” BLADE MATERIAL: 1566 carbon steel w/hamon BLADE THICKNESS @ GUARD: .21” BLADE THICKNESS @ TIP: .157” TSUKA (handle): G-10 HABAKI (collar): Copper MENUKI (handle ornaments): Silver shi shi (lion dogs) SAYA (scabbard; not shown): Textured black WEIGHT: 15 ozs. OVERALL LENGTH: 16” MSRP: $259 COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: China COMPANY: CAS Iberia
Russell Roosevelt: Hunter
BLADE LENGTH: 5.5” BLADE MATERIAL: Ladder-pattern damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels BLADE GRIND: Flat HANDLE: Amboyna burl GUARD: 416 stainless steel w/spacers OVERALL LENGTH: 10.75” KNIFE TO KNOW: Russell Roosevelt is a journeyman smith in the American Bladesmith Society MAKER: Russell Roosevelt (SharpByCoop image)
Josh Hults: Skinner/camp knife
BLADE LENGTH: 3.5” BLADE MATERIAL: Twisted ‘W’s’ damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels BLADE GRIND: Flat HANDLE: Stabilized black ash HANDLE SPACERS: Copper and G-10 OVERALL LENGTH: 9.5” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $800 KNIFE TO KNOW: Josh Hults is a journeyman smith in the American Bladesmith Society MAKER: Josh Hults (Jocelyn Frasier image edit)
Outdoor Edge: Razor VX 4
BLADE LENGTH: 3” BLADE STEEL: 420J2 stainless BLADE FINISH: Black oxide coated HANDLE MATERIAL: Forged carbon fiber LOCK: Linerlock LINERS: Vented stainless steel PIVOT: Ceramic ball bearing CLOSED LENGTH: 4.25” KNIFE TO KNOW: The Razor VX 4 is a replaceable-blade model; also available in handle materials of green Micarta® ($54.99) and Black G-10 w/spring assist $44.95) COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: China MSRP: $69.99 COMPANY: Outdoor Edge
Spyderco: Spyder Thrower, Small
DESIGNER: Harald Moeller BLADE LENGTH: 5.3” BLADE STEEL: 8Cr13MoV stainless BLADE GRIND: Dagger BLADE @ THICKEST: .217” BLADE FINISH: Two-tone black oxide and satin finish WEIGHT: 7 ozs. OVERALL LENGTH: 9” SHEATH: Leather KNIFE TO KNOW: Comes in a set of three w/three-tiered leather sheath and a copy of the instructional booklet, Knife Throwing: The Knives and Throwing Technique of Harald Moeller; designed to be thrown by either the blade tip or handle butt COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: China MSRP: $144 for the set Company: Spyderco
BLADE LENGTH: 7” BLADE STEEL: 400 series stainless BLADE FINISH: Corrosion-resistant coating HANDLE: Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) w/non-slip soft grips and hole for a lanyard SHEATH (not shown): Breathable TPE KNIFE TO KNOW: Designed for cleaning small-to-medium-size fish like speckled trout or yellowtail snapper COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: China MSRP: $12.99 COMPANY: Smith’s Consumer Products Inc.
GiantMouse: ACE Iona V2
BLADE LENGTH: 3” BLADE STEEL: CPM MagnaCut stainless BLADE @ THICKEST: .115” BLADE FINISH: Stonewash HANDLE MATERIAL: Green canvas Micarta® POCKET CLIP: Wire, reversible PIVOT: Washer LOCK: Linerlock WEIGHT: 3.4 ozs. CLOSED LENGTH: 4.34” COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Italy MSRP: $195 KNIFE TO KNOW: The knife is named after the Iona Bar, “a beloved establishment” in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York COMPANY: GiantMouse
Get an edge on your cutting needs with the latest production knives.
The 2026 production knives are defined by an impressive range of styles and sizes, spanning from 1.5-inch neck knives to massive 12-inch folders. This year’s buyer’s guide highlights a sophisticated move toward premium materials, with CPM MagnaCut and M390 appearing across diverse price points, alongside traditional touches like India Stag Bone and Damascus. From task-specific hunter sets and tactical folders to “fidget-friendly” button locks and US-made fixed blades, these releases represent the cutting edge of modern manufacturing and designer collaboration.
GiantMouse The Redington
Knife Type: Fixed Blade Blade Length: 5.1″ Overall Length: 9.7″ Blade Grind: Stonewash Scale: Double Black Canvas Micarta Blade Material: CPM MagnaCut Sheath: Black Kydex Date Available: Now Inside Edge: Designed with input from the instructors at SERE East. Limited-Run of CPM MagnaCut. MSRP: $425
Demko Knives AD22
Knife Type: Folding Blade Length: 3.0″ Blade Shape: Shark Foot Overall Length: 7.5″ Weight: 5.4 oz. Scale: Titanium (Smooth or Milled) Blade Material: CPM MagnaCut Date Available: Currently and throughout 2026 Inside Edge: Made in the USA at Demkp headquarters in New Castle, PA. Also available with G10 scale in multiple colors. MSRP: $700
Pattern: Cleaver Designer: Fabian Hobbelen Lock Type: Button‑Operated Frame Lock Blade Length: 3.09” Overall Length: 7.04” Blade Grind: Hollow Scale: Titanium Blade Material: M390 Date Available: August Inside Edge: Designed by Fabian Hobbelen, the Nyrrdreki hides a small surprise in its blade. The hole allows the knife to be flipped open with the pinky finger, turning a traditional opening feature into a playful and highly addictive fidget action. MSRP: Approx. $350
Dagger Trading Begemot
Pattern: Modified Cleaver Knife Type: Folding Blade Length: 3.88″ Overall Length: 8.625″ Liners: Steel Blade Grind: Flat Scale: G10 with 3D print Blade Material: VG10 Date Available: Now MSRP: $71
Vero Engineering Aura
Knife Type: Folding Blade Length: 3.3” Overall Length: 7.7” Liners: Steel Blade Finish: Machine Belt Satin/Stonewash Scale: Aluminum Blade Material: 14C28N Date Available: Summer 2026 Inside Edge: The Aura has a reversible wire pocket clip. MSRP: Approx. $100
Bear & Son Cutlery Locking Farmhand w/clip
Pattern: Drop Point Knife Type: Pocketknife Blade Length: 2.75” Overall Length: 6.375” Closed Length: 3.625” Locking Mechanism: Lockback Handle: Genuine India Stag Bone Blade Material: High Carbon Stainless Steel Date Available: Now Inside Edge: Made in Alabama MSRP: $56
Knife Type: Fixed Blade Blade Length: 3.6″ Overall Length: 7.48″ Pattern: Drop Point Scale: Textured Black G10 Blade Material: 154CM Sheath: Black Custom-Fitted Kydex Date Available: Now Inside Edge: Handcrafted by Boker USA in Denver, Colorado. Perfect for bushcraft, hunting, survival, trekking, camping & EDC. Also available in a high-visibility orange G10, MagnaCut version. MSRP: $200
Maserin 917 Woodsman
Pattern: Bushcraft Knife Type: Fixed Blade Blade Length: 4.01” Overall Length: 9.21” Weight: 6.35 oz. Blade Grind: Flat Scale: Brown Paper Stone Micarta (Also Available In Green Jute Micarta and Black Denim Jeans Micarta) Blade Material: Nitro X7 Blade Finish: Stone Washed Sheath: Black Italian leather sheath with removable dual belt loop position and hook. Date Available: Now MSRP: $ 215
CRKT Orochi
Knife Type: Folding Knife Lock Type: Frame Lock Blade: Clip Point Blade Length: 3.55″ Overall Length: 8.16″ Liners: Titanium Blade Grind: Flat Scale: Titanium With Damascus Bolster Blade Material: Damascus Date Available: Now Inside Edge: Named after the legendary Japanese serpent and its presence in anime, the Orochi features flowing lines, including a clip point, recurve blade, for balance and precise handling. The knife can be deployed either with discreet flipper tab, mirroring the custom knife its inspired by, or by its dual thumbstuds. MSRP: $200
Big Idea Design Ti Manu
Designer: Ken Onion Jr. Overall Length: 7.5” Blade Length: 3.25” Blade Steel: S90V Blade Shape: Modified Drop Point Handles: Grade 5 Titanium Opening: Dual Thumbstuds Date Available: August Inside Edge: All Big Idea Design knives only have 2 screws, The pivot and a screw in the back for the reversible pocket clips. The Ti Manu also was designed to work with both Phosphor bronze washers and bearings. Both options will be included so people can swap them out at will. The lock face is an integrated ceramic ball bearings in lieu of an insert, so it has a super smooth travel and lockup. MSRP: $250
Civivi Knives Kitefin
Knife Type: Folding Lock Type: Button Lock Blade Length: 3.22″ Overall Length: 7.52″ Blade Grind: Hollow Scale: Aluminum Blade Material: Damascus (14C28N option also available) Date Available: Now MSRP: $110
Halfbreed Blades MILF-05
Action: Flipper Folder Carry: Pocket Clip Designer: Jonathan Loftes Lock Type: Frame Lock Blade Steel: CPM S35VN Blade Grind: V Blade Edge: Plain Edge & Partially Serrated options Blade & Handle Finish: PVD Coated Blade Style: Spear Point Blade Length: 3.54″ Handle Material: 420J2 Stainless Steel frame, liner, spacers; G10 scale Washers: Phosphor Bronze Overall Length Open: 8.26″ Date Available: Now Inside Edge: The MILF-05 comes pre-set with a firm action; this can be adjusted for speed via the Torx head pivot point. MSRP: $240
Bear OPS Load Out
Pattern: Drop Point Knife Type: Folder Blade Length: 3.5” Overall Length: 8” Closed Length: 4.5” Lock Type: Liner Lock Handle: Aluminum Blade Material: 14C28N Sandvik Date Available: Now Inside Edge: Made in Alabama with assisted opening, reversible pocket clip and ball bearing washers. MSRP: $110
Liong Mah Design SFD-Small Field Duty
Pattern: Drop Point Knife Type: Folder Blade Length: 3” (2.6” cutting edge) Overall Length: 6.75” Liners: Steel Blade Grind: Flat Scale: Titanium Blade Material: CPM MagnaCut Date Available: August Inside Edge: Hand rubbed satin finish on the blade. MSRP: $278
Browning Knives Stormy Pass Fixed Small
Pattern: Drop Point Knife Type: Fixed Blade Blade Length: 3.5” Overall Length: 7.75” Blade Grind: Hollow Scale: Hidden Tang Wood Blade Material: Damascus Sheath: Leather Date Available: Now Knife To Know: Stainless Guard with black Micarta spacer. MSRP: $140
Bear Edge Light Grey Aluminum Folder
Pattern: Drop Point Knife Type: Folder Blade Length: 3” Overall Length: 7” Lock Type: Liner Lock Handle: Aluminum Blade Material: 440 Stainless Steel Weight: 3.2 oz. Date Available: Now MSRP: $43
Straightline EDC Ally
Knife Type: Fixed Blade Blade Length: 2.68” Overall Length: 5.98” Blade Grind: Flat Scale: 3D Milled Bronze Anodized Gr. 5 Titanium Blade Material: M390 Blade Finish: Black PVD + Stonewash Sheath: Black Leather Sheath With Magnets Inside Edge: Igor Bortolussi, founder of the company, named the knife after his daughter Allegra and its design is based on a drawing she made when she was 4 years old. She’s 9 now. Date Available: Now MSRP: $249
SOG Specialty Knife & Tool Kiku XR
Pattern: Tanto Knife Type: Folder Blade Length: 3.03” Closed Length: 4.30” Lock Type: XR Lock Handle: Fatcarbon Carbon Fiber Blade Material: CTS XHP Date Available: Now Inside Edge: Reversible low-carry belt clip with XR Lock, thumb hole, kick opening mechanism. MSRP: $400
BLACKHAWK Garra Fixed Karambit
Pattern: Karambit Knife Type: Fixed-Blade Blade Length: 3.25” Overall Length: 8” Handle: Black Zytel Blade Material: D2 Tool Sheath: Kydex Date Available: Now Inside Edge: Comes with conceal carry holster, removable Kydex sheath. MSRP: $160
Camillus Knives Heater Mini
Pattern: Drop Point Knife Type: Neck Knife Blade Length: 1.5” Overall Length: 3” Blade Grind: Plain Handle: G10 Blade Material: 3CR13 Sheath: Kydex Date Available: Now MSRP: $19
Pattern: American Tanto Lock Type: Button Lock Blade Length: 3.25″ Overall Length: 7.75″ Liners: Brass Bearing With Ceramic Ball Blade Grind: Flat Scale: Titanium Scales & Clip Blade Material: VG10/Copper Damascus, With Copper Pivot Date Available: Now MSRP: $170
Winkler Knives Drop Point Hunter
Pattern: Drop Point Knife Type: Fixed Blade Blade Length: 4” Overall Length: 8.625” Blade Grind: Flat Scale: Walnut Blade Material: 80CrV2 Sheath: Lined Boltaron with leather cover Date Available: Limited Availability at BLADE Texas 2026 and BLADE Show Atlanta 2026. Publicly Available June. Inside Edge: This knife was designed by combining popular features from several models to create an all-in-one blade tough enough for the hardest tasks yet aesthetically appealing enough for everyday enjoyment. MSRP: $375
Case Knives XR Sod Buster Jr.
Knife Type: Slip-Joint Folder Blade Length: 2.8” Overall Length: 3.625” Weight: 2.1 oz. Blade Grind: Flat Blade Finish: Stonewash Satin Scale: Red, White & Blue Burl G-10 Blade Material: S35VN (Stainless) Inside Edge: This knife will be made in limited quantities. “USA” is lasered into the G-10 on one end. Date Available: Now MSRP: $125
White River Knives S&S 3 Knife Chef Set
Pattern: Chef Set Knife Type: Chef, Boning, Paring set Designer: Smith & Sons Blade Length: 7.5″, 5.8″, 3.4″ Overall Length: 12.5″, 9.9″, 7.25″ Blade Grind: Flat Scale: G10 (Richlite) Blade Material: CMP MagnaCut Available: Now Inside Edge: Designed by Smith & Sons and crafted in the U.S.A. by White River Knives, this premium kitchen set includes three essential blades: a 7.5″ Chef Knife, a 5.8″ Boning Knife, and a 3.4″ Paring Knife. Together, they cover nearly every task in the kitchen—from precision prep work to heavier slicing and trimming. Each knife is built from ultra‑durable, highly corrosion‑resistant MagnaCut steel, heat-treated to a remarkable 63–64 HRC for exceptional edge retention and long‑lasting performance. MSRP: $600
Puma Knife Trophy Car Set
Blade Length: 2.8″ (Gut Hook), 2.5” (Caping, Fleshing) Blade Grind: Hollow Ground, Satin Finished Scale: POM Commando Stag (Synthetic Material) Blade Material: 1.4116 German Cutlery Sheath: Rugged Leather Sheath (Holds All Three Knives) Date Available: Now Inside Edge: Purpose-built trophy care kit for hunters—includes a gut hook skinner, caping knife, and fleshing knife with a premium leather sheath to keep the full set organized. Designed to handle skinning, caping, and hide prep cleanly whether you’re in camp or at home, and ideal for getting a trophy ready for the taxidermist. MSRP: $175
DPx HEST F Urban Ti Redeye
Knife Type: Folding Blade Length: 2.9” Overall Length: 6.7” Blade Grind: High Saber Scale: Titanium Blade Material: M390 Date Available: Now Inside Edge: Flipper with red aluminum pivot ring and red backspacer. MSRP: $425
