From Pie-in-the-Sky Ideas to Likely Gear Trends: Steve Shackleford’s Annual Look Ahead.
Christmas and New Year’s are nigh, so it’s time for my holiday wishes and hoped-for predictions for 2026. Some are pie-in-the-sky, but what the heck—make mine pecan.
You teach a young person how to use a knife proficiently, safely and responsibly;
Every time a Hallmark Christmas movie comes on the power goes out;
The Federal Switchblade Act is overturned;
Every time Jingle Bells by The Singing Dogs plays the power won’t go out;
The U.S. states—28 at press time—that still have automatic knife bans repeal them;
It’s a white Christmas;
If you’ve never been to a BLADE Show, you get to attend the 45th annual rendition June 5-7 in Atlanta;
All Christmas cookies taste exactly like the best homemade chocolate chip cookie Mom ever made;
You buy a seatbelt cutter with a window breaker and place it in your car or truck for the quickest, easiest access in an emergency;
A law passes mandating that all members of Congress go without pay, on-time plane flights, etc., during government shutdowns just like every other applicable person must;
You always remember to carry a knife;
A law passes mandating that members of Congress cannot play the stock market, and that their family members, friends, proxies, etc., who do play it have their stock profits capped at the national consumer average;
Everyone learns how to properly use and sharpen a knife;
You discover an uncut, commercial-free version of your favorite Christmas movie and get the maximum enjoyment out of watching it;
Twenty-twenty-six is the hottest year on record for custom and factory knife sales;
A law passes mandating that before running for office, all candidates must score 90 or better on a test gauging their knowledge of the Constitution;
You finally get to meet and shake the hand of a knifemaker you’ve always wanted to but never met before;
Vladimir Putin gets run over by a reindeer;
The TSA allows Swiss Army knives on plane flights;
If it’s all you want, you get those two front teeth;
For knifemaking beginners, you make a knife that attracts buyers and sells for a value-appropriate price;
A law passes mandating that you must have lived at least 21 years in the USA before you can run for elected office;
You don’t put your or anyone else’s eye out with a Daisy Red Ryder BB gun;
You find and buy your grail knife;
The 190th anniversary of the Battle of the Alamo (March 6) is celebrated in grand style;
The American Bladesmith Society’s 50th anniversary in 2026 is a most rewarding one for all involved;
The observance of the 25th anniversary of 9/11 in New York City in September goes off most appropriately and without suppression/oppression from the city’s mayor;
The 250th birthday of the USA is the most rousing and satisfying of all time for all Americans, and;
Last but not least, you have the merriest Christmas and happiest New Year ever!
Stainless, high-carbon, super steels, see what 2025’s shakeups mean for knife steels in 2026.
Twenty-twenty-five saw radical change in the cutlery industry, but somehow the business of blades not only survived, in some ways, it also thrived. With new steels in the offing and despite a business environment made murky by the specter of tariffs, 2026 has several things going for it that could point to a year of continued resilience for knives.
Ironically, one of ’25’s biggest changes—the closing of Crucible Industries—did not turn out to be as debilitating as some thought it would be. While by mid-year there was no more Crucible, most of its coveted cutlery steels remained available, albeit under new manufacturer names (Knife After Crucible).
A steel processing company that came out quite well during the transition was Niagara Specialty Metals (NSM). Bob Shabala, NSM president, provided a look at the changes from an insider’s perspective.
Several sources say companies that manufacture their knives solely in the USA should experience little to no tariff-induced price increases in 2026. Case is such a company. The Crossroads Barlow features S35VN stainless blade steel and a black and tan Richlite handle. Closed length: 3.375 inches. MSRP: $118.99.
“Crucible’s decline didn’t happen overnight,” he notes. “Long before the shutdown, we saw signs of trouble: inconsistent allocations, slipping ship dates and growing uncertainty around future melts. As a steel processor that lives or dies by delivery reliability, we didn’t wait. We started to order more steel from Crucible to bolster our inventory in case something happened. We also reached out to Erasteel and Carpenter Technology to gauge their interest in supplying PM [powder metallurgy] steels. We have a long history with both companies and they were receptive to our requests. In September 2024, we started placing orders with both mills, not knowing that Erasteel would eventually buy the IP [intellectual property] and trademarks of Crucible in early 2025.
“In short, Crucible’s demise raised costs in the short term but also created an opportunity for us to buy high-quality steel from multiple suppliers. We diversified melt sources, invested in grinding/laser/ti capacity and kept steel flowing. The industry will come out of this with a more resilient supply chain, and makers will see faster builds and better consistency where it counts. If you’re a one-man shop or a major brand, you can get the material and the prep you need.”
Introduction MagnaMax Steel
Dr. Larrin Thomas, metallurgist.
Dr. Larrin Thomas is an acclaimed metallurgist whose web column knifesteelnerds.com is great reading if you want to stay current with knife steels. He sees the industry’s ability to bounce back over time as key to predicting events for the coming year.
“The huge changes in the ownership among steel manufacturers for cutlery consumers were minimal, mainly because the major players had a year to settle into their comfort zones,” states Thomas, whose portfolio as a steel designer includes the uber-popular MagnaCut. “Nothing changed as far as the king-of-the-hill steel. MagnaCut, which has been the most popular stainless steel among knife consumers for over two years, remains the top choice. That could change in 2026 because MagnaCut will be joined by a sibling dubbed MagnaMax.
“MagnaCut isn’t going away—its balance of edge retention, toughness and true ‘stainlessness’ keeps it the all-around benchmark. What’s new is MagnaMax: think MagnaCut-level corrosion resistance with meaningfully higher wear resistance, so edges hang on longer in abrasive cutting. That combination is why I expect MagnaMax to be one of 2026’s headline steels, especially in EDC folders, hunting/skinning knives, and pro kitchen blades that see lots of board or hide contact. MagnaMax complements MagnaCut rather than replacing it—pick MagnaMax when maximum edge life is the priority, MagnaCut when you want the ultimate do-everything balance.”
Knife Steels To Watch
AEB-L stainless will be one of the top blade steel choices for custom folders in 2026. Terry Jellison employs it on the blades of his Hobo Knife. Scales: mammoth ivory. Liners: brass. Closed length: 4 inches. The knife is not for sale. (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Despite or perhaps even because of the Crucible shakeup, manufacturers and custom makers have many steel options. Following is Larrin’s recap of the diversity of top-shelf options for 2026. First, the leading stainless steels for factory knives:
MagnaCut: Expanding across EDC folders, hunting knives and premium automatics as brands refresh the legacy of S30V/S35VN;
MagnaMax: Expect it to appear in the same knife types as MagnaCut and beyond. The appeal is simple: MagnaMax has the qualities of a stainless steel users already love (MagnaCut) but with more wear resistance for longer edge life, and;
LC200N and Vanax: Limited but visible in dive/fillet and salt-exposed knives where “no rust, period” is the spec.
Larrin’s top carbon steels for factory knives in ’26:
CPM 3V and CPM CruWear (aka NSM Wear): Factories use these steels selectively in choppers and survival/tactical fixed blades where warranty-safe toughness matters.
D2: The popular tool steel will persist in value lines, but you’ll see a gradual shift away from it toward tougher, easier-to-sharpen options. In the realm of carbon steels for custom knives, Larrin says Pop’s ProCut, a new blade material designed for use by bladesmiths, including in damascus, will shine. Its combination of nickel, tungsten and vanadium gives it high toughness and wear resistance while still being easy to forge and heat treat. It can be hardened in a 200°F window, which makes it extremely easy to heat treat. The high nickel content also makes it produce a bright layer in damascus. On the stainless custom side, Larrin says to watch these:
MagnaMax: Alongside MagnaCut and AEB-L, MagnaMax will be a go-to for customs where makers want a “set-and-forget” edge on EDC folders, hunting knives and chef’s knives. It delivers premium corrosion resistance plus a clear wear-resistance bump, which lets makers grind thin and still give customers long service intervals between sharpenings, and;
LC200N: It will fill a growing niche for dive knives, fillet knives, coastal EDC and pro kitchens where rust is the enemy.
Tariffs’ Affects On Knife Steel
Bear & Son is another company that manufactures its knives exclusively in the USA and that should experience little to no tariff-induced price increases in ’26. Its 11 7/8-inch White Smooth Bone Professional Fillet Knife features Sandvik 14C28N stainless blade steel. MSRP: $139.99.
Several sources say American consumers will see the effects of U.S. tariffs on both imported knives and/or the steel used in them in ’26—a double whammy in some cases. However, it’s too early to tell the overall impact tariffs will have on the prices American consumers will pay for imported knives. That said, enough has been done in the overall market to draw some conclusions as to what direction those numbers are heading in the knife market in general.
As for those who manufacture their knives in the USA, there will be little to no increase in prices, except for models that include some foreign-made parts. This is uncommon but a possibility, though for the most part, not a liability that cannot be overcome. Case, Bear & Son and others are among those that fall into this category.
The second group contains companies that do a large part of their manufacturing in the United States. Among those that fit into this group is Spyderco, which also has its “value line” of knives produced overseas. Sources say Spyderco can go with a bump in tariffs on its foreign-made knives, move all manufacturing in-house or ditch the value line entirely, though there was no indication at press time that the company will choose either of the latter two options.
Dr. Larrin Thomas says the new Pop’s ProCut blade material is designed for use by bladesmiths, including in damascus. Cliff Ivey combines it with 80CrV2 carbon steel for the damascus blade of his small hunter. Overall length: 6.25 inches. Cliff’s price for a similar knife: $450. (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Then there are American companies that produce the lion’s share of their knives overseas. CRKT is one such company. Sources indicate CRKT can work the tariff costs into existing pricing, move its manufacturing to a country that pays lower tariffs, or figure out a way to manufacture more of its knives domestically. Considering CRKT’s track record, it probably would be a mistake to underestimate the company’s ability to endure.
Bottom Line
While 2026 will have its challenges, barring any surprises, it should be relatively calmer than 2025 due to last year’s upheavals in the manufacturing sector and tariff-induced changes. Meanwhile, the cutlery industry remains healthy in both the budget, moderately priced and upscale sectors—and that is a very good sign.
If it needs cutting, do it in style with one of these gems.
Of any class of knife, there’s nothing handier than an EDC blade. From mending hoses to knocking down cardboard boxes and prying open stuck latches, these knives trim down daily chores. Though what exactly defines an EDC knife? Honestly, anything could be an everyday carry if you simply carry it every day. And while a few of our new knife picks aren’t precisely what you call your typical EDC, they’re certainly worthy of keeping at hand to cut into your workload.
Brian Milinski Paratrooper
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25” BLADE MATERIAL: Dragonskin damascus by Bertie Rietveld BLADE GRIND: Hollow BLADE FINISH: Nitre salt blued SCALES: Carbon fiber CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,650 MAKER: Brian Milinski, mrknives.com (Felipe Silva image)
Buck Knives 791 Range Elite
KNIFE TYPE: Folder BLADE LENGTH: 3 3/8” BLADE STEEL: MagnaCut stainless BLADE GRIND: High-panel flat BLADE OPENER: Thumb stud HANDLE MATERIAL: Anodized aluminum LINERS: Tumble-polished stainless LOCK: Crossbar POCKET CLIP: Deep carry, reversible WEIGHT: 3.3 ozs. CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5” SPECIAL FEATURES: Spine gimping COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA MSRP: $275 COMPANY: Buck Knives, buckknives.com
Sean Alonzo Dalisay 2.8 Cigar Cutter
BLADE LENGTH: 2.8” BLADE MATERIAL: Yggdrasil pattern damascus by Damasteel BLADE GRIND: Single bevel SCALES: Mammoth tusk ivory BOLSTER: Black burlap Micarta® KNIFE TO KNOW: Pivot collar, inlay and thumb screws are mammoth ivory; zirconium pivot and backspacer MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $4,200 MAKER: Sean Alonzo, baleteblades.shop (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Brion Tomberlin Personal Carry Fighter
BLADE LENGTH: 4.5” BLADE MATERIAL: W2 tool steel w/hamon BLADE GRIND: Flat SCALES: Ironwood GUARD: 416 stainless steel OVERALL LENGTH: 9.5” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $650 KNIFE TO KNOW: Brion Tomberlin is a master smith in the American Bladesmith Society MAKER: Brion Tomberlin (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Craig Brewer Slipjoint
BLADE LENGTH: 2.5” BLADE MATERIAL: Mike Norris stainless damascus in a Frequency pattern BLADE GRIND: Hollow SCALES: Mammoth ivory CLOSED LENGTH: 3” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,100 KNIFE TO KNOW: Craig Brewer is an apprentice smith in the American Bladesmith Society MAKER: Craig Brewer (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Quintin T. Hardtner IV Take-Down Frame-Handle Bowie
BLADE LENGTH: 8.25” BLADE MATERIAL: Feather damascus of 1084 carbon and 15N20 nickel-alloy steels BLADE GRIND: Flat SCALES: Curly koa FURNITURE MATERIAL: Same as blade SPACERS: Nickel silver OVERALL LENGTH: 13.5” KNIFE TO KNOW: Won Best Fixed Blade and Best of Show at the 2025 Louisiana Knife Show SHEATH: Leather; custom made by Bob Bobbitt MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $3,000 MAKER: Quintin T. Hardtner IV (Jocelyn Frasier image)
Spartan Blades Soter Carbon Fiber Edition
KNIFE TYPE: EDC folder BLADE LENGTH: 3.25” BLADE STEEL: CPM S35VN stainless ROCKWELL HARDNESS: 58-60 HRC BLADE FINISH: Satin HANDLE MATERIAL: Carbon fiber/G-10 composite LOCK: RaceLock™ POCKET CLIP: Machined from one piece of steel, PVD-coated in flat dark earth WEIGHT: 3.9 ozs. COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA MSRP: $310 KNIFE TO KNOW: Soter is the Greek mythological figure known as the “protector” COMPANY: Spartan Blades, spartanbladesusa.com
Tory Utt Arkansas Hunter
KNIFE TYPE: Slipjoint BLADE LENGTH: 4” BLADE MATERIAL: Feather pattern damascus forged by Bill Poor BLADE GRIND: Flat BLADE PATTERN: Clip point HANDLE FRAME: Nickel silver SCALES: Westinghouse Micarta® SHIELD: Mother-of-pearl BOLSTERS: Topo pattern damascus forged by Tory Utt CLOSED LENGTH: 4.25” MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,300 range KNIFE TO KNOW: Tory Utt has been making knives for 12 years MAKER: Tory Utt, sacredbearknives.com (SharpByCoop image)
Mace Vitale Bowie
BLADE LENGTH: 12.5” BLADE MATERIAL: W2 tool steel w/hamon BLADE GRIND: Flat SCALES: Tasmanian blackwood GUARD & FERRULE: Mild steel OVERALL LENGTH: 17.5” KNIFE TO KNOW: The design is inspired by early American knives; Mace Vitale is a journeyman smith in the American Bladesmith Society MAKER’S PRICE FOR A SIMILAR KNIFE: $1,750 MAKER: Mace Vitale (SharpByCoop image)
Bear & Son Cutlery 112A 4” Stainless Steel Framelock
BLADE LENGTH: 2 7/8” BLADE MATERIAL: Stainless steel BLADE PATTERN: Drop point BLADE OPENERS: Flipper and thumb stud OPENING MECHANISM: Assisted HANDLE MATERIAL: Stainless steel LOCK: Framelock POCKET CLIP: Yes WEIGHT: 3.8 ozs. CLOSED LENGTH: 3¾” COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA MSRP: $59.99 COMPANY: Bear & Son Cutlery, bearandsoncutlery.com
Camillus Explorer
BLADE LENGTH: 3” BLADE STEEL: 3Cr13 stainless BLADE PATTERN: Drop point HANDLE MATERIAL: Nylon glass fiber LOCK: Crossbar WEIGHT: 3 3/8 ozs. CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5” COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Offshore MSRP: $29.99 COMPANY: Camillus, camillusknives.com
5.11 Pryme Double Duty DP
KNIFE TYPE: Folder BLADE LENGTH: 3.25” BLADE MATERIAL: D2 tool steel BLADE GRIND: Compound BLADE PATTERN: Drop point BLADE OPENERS: Flipper and thumb stud HANDLE MATERIAL: G-10 on mark side/420J2 stainless on lock side BOLSTER MATERIAL: 420J2 LOCK: Framelock POCKET CLIP: Steel, deep carry, reversible WEIGHT: 5.3 ozs. CLOSED LENGTH: 5.125” SPECIAL FEATURES: Built-in, full-handle-length pry tool/screwdriver/optic COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: China MSRP: $85 CONTACT: 5.11, 5.11tactical.com
From GiantMouse’s GM line, these new drops continue a storied tradition.
GiantMouse’s GM line has an impressive pedigree. Not only has it produced a BLADE Magazine’s Knife of the Year—the GMX—it has also proven among the company’s most popular collections.
One of the aspects adding to the line’s intrigue is the limited aspect of the knives that compose it. Early on, only 400 pieces were produced for each design—300 of the standard and 100 of the P version; now, it’s 600 total knives—400 standard and 200 of the P version. But in either amount, once the run is done, so is the design. So, if you like a knife from this line, you’ll need to be quick on the draw to procure one.
With that in mind, GiantMouse fans might need to limber up their left-mouse-click fingers, because the company has two new GMs about to drop—the GM14 and GMP14. These are the first additions to the collection in a spell and are sure to be popular when they go live on the GiantMouse website Dec. 9.
As the name suggests, the knives are very similar in design. The GMP offers some premium features. At the quick, what are collectors getting in the GM14 and GMP14? A slick, sleek and modern design. These knives are as comfortable in a three-piece suit as they would be in a pair of casual jeans.
The liner locks teeter on the larger side, with the blades measuring in at 3.6 inches and an overall length of 8.6 inches. Even with the size, the knives are featherweight, with the heavier of the two—the GMP—tipping the scales at less than 5 ounces. Much of the weight savings is thanks to titanium handles, which do a number on the knives’ overall mass.
GiantMouse uses Vanax steel for the blade, a nitrogen-alloy offering some pretty desirable traits. Among the most notable are its corrosion resistance, toughness and edge retention. You find this steel in a lot of high-end fishing knives or blades bound for moist environments.
Where the GM14 and GMP14 split paths is the bling GiantMouse incorporated into each design. In particular, the GMP features a darker PVD titanium handle, PVD Vanax blade and rich bronze inlays. An interesting aspect of the use of bronze is that it will patina over time, making each knife unique to its owner.
As for price, the GM14 rings up at $395, while the GMP14 has an MSRP of $445. Both look like solid additions to a storied line.
Don’t let these blades’ swanky good looks lull you into thinking they aren’t up to the job. They’re not just gents, but workhorses.
Gent’s knife is a fitting name for a pocketknife that’s just downright handy. It’s a refined edged tool good to have for all types of small chores you encounter on a daily basis, from cutting cord to opening packages.
Fallkniven U2vi Virgo
The author used the Fallkniven U2Vi Virgo to score two tails of cord vertically and peel off the coating, leaving tails of bare wire ready to splice. The blade was plenty sharp and did the job well.
The U2vi Virgo is the latest in a long line of Fallkniven’s “U2” models that date back to 2004. I tested Fallkniven’s first U2 and it’s been in my pocket ever since. Back then I was highly impressed with the blade and the then-new Lamellar steel, and Fallkniven has used the U2 as a platform to showcase new steels ever since. The platform has a black Grilon synthetic handle with a cutout for a lockback release. There is no pocket clip—the knife is a pure pocket rider.
I tested the Virgo around the office. One task was stripping electrical cord for splicing—first by slitting the cord up the middle, then around the perimeter, separating the two lengths. I scored the two tails of cord vertically and peeled off the coating, leaving the two tails of bare wire ready to splice. The blade was plenty sharp and did the job well. The Virgo is a featherweight folding knife you don’t know is there until you need it.
U2vi Virgo Specs Blade length: 2.5” Blade steel: SGPS laminate Blade grind: Flat Blade type: Drop point Handle material: Black Grilon Lock: Lockback Carry: Pocket Pocket clip: No Weight: 1.4 ozs. Closed length: 3.38” Knife to Know: SGPS stands for Super Gold Powdered Steel Country of origin: China MSRP: $140
Spyderco Metropolitan Lightweight
The Spyderco Metropolitan Lightweight’s wide blade excels at prepping snacks and larger tasks, too.
The Metropolitan Lightweight is an all-new SLIPIT model by Spyderco, though you just might recognize it as an old friend. It was designed to fill a void between the company’s UK Pen Knife and Urban models and fit the gent’s knife size perfectly. Other than its size the Metropolitan looks identical to its fellow stablemates, from its wide blade and Spydie hole to its curvaceous, finely textured checkered scales with embossed company logo. The slipjoint action includes a notched-joint mechanism* for measured opening and closing. Those who like options will appreciate the tip-up pocket clip, reversible for southpaw carry.
The Metropolitan is not much longer than the Fallkniven Virgo but the configuration is quite different. The wider Spyderco blade is well suited for cutting food or snacks. It easily sliced up a link for summer sausage for lunch. In other words, the wider blade can tackle larger chores, something to consider if your routine calls for such. Each knife has its advantages.
Metropolitan Lightweight Specs Knife type: Slipjoint Blade length: 2.68” Blade steel: M398 stainless Blade grind: Flat Blade pattern: Spear point Handle material: Black FRN (fiberglass-reinforced nylon) Carry: Pocket or wire clip; ambidextrous, tip-up Special features: Slipjoint has a notched-joint mechanism Weight: 1.6 ozs. Closed length: 3.73” Country of origin: Italy MSRP: $110
GiantMouse Ace Farley V2
The GiantMouse Ace Farley V2 is an upscale example many enthusiasts envision when they think of a classic gent’s knife, from the satin-bolstered frame to the meticulous surfaces of the finely finished scales and understated blade.
The GiantMouse Ace Farley V2 is a gent’s knife to the extreme. It is the upscale example many knife enthusiasts envision when they think of the genre. It has all the right stuff, from its satin-bolstered frame to the meticulous surfaces of its finely finished scales and understated blade. It smacks of the good stuff and it is. This knife is very pocketable.
The Farley V2 is a decked-out gent’s knife much the same size as the Virgo, so I tested them together. The Farley proved a very good cutter and the handle is comfortable. It is a finely finished folder. The blade action is powerful and has a half stop. You may want to wear it by the pocket clip so your friends can ask about it. It’s a shame to hide it in your pocket and deny them the pleasure of seeing such an attractive gem.
Ace Farley V2 Specs Knife type: Slipjoint Blade length: 3.625” Blade steel: Elmax stainless Blade pattern: Drop point Handle material: Carbon fiber/titanium Carry: Pocket or reversible wire clip Weight: 1.9 ozs. Closed length: 3.75” Special features: Slipjoint outfitted w/a half stop Country of origin: China MSRP: $225
SOG One-Zero Automatic
The SOG One-Zero Auto has the same pull-down blade release on both sides, a boon to southpaws who often get—ahem—“left” out of the design equation. The wide cutting edge is quite utilitarian.
The SOG One-Zero Automatic is noticeably larger than the other three test knives but is a high-stepping gent’s knife in its own right. It drips with refinement and its technical features are every bit as impressive. First off, it fires its premium-steel blade with authority. An easy, indiscriminate pull-down thumb release deploys the blade from either side—a bonus for lefties. Finally, the killer frosted aluminum handle reeks of class, replete with a stamped chrome clip.
You might call the One-Zero Auto a gent’s fighter, but it’s much more usable thanks to the grind midway up the blade as opposed to a pure dagger style—and the blade is stout. There’s nothing flimsy about the knife; it is rock solid from stem to stern. If you need protection and a nice amount of utility to go with it, the One-Zero Auto will serve you well.
One-Zero Auto Specs Knife type: Automatic Blade length: 3.1” Blade steel: S35VN stainless Blade pattern: Drop point Handle material: Satin-finished aluminum Carry: Stamped chrome pocket clip Weight: 3.3 ozs. Closed length: 4.7” Special features: Auto equipped with pull-down thumb release Country of origin: USA MSRP: $300
*Editor’s note: Though the Spyderco Metropolitan Lightweight’s notched-joint mechanism operates similarly to a half stop, it is not a half stop. “The best way to think of it is a back lock with a fixed backspring instead of a rocker,” Spyderco’s Michael Janich explained. “Now, take the locking lug and round off the corners so it ‘snags’ more than a slipjoint but doesn’t mechanically lock. A half stop is a flat spot on the tang of a slipjoint that creates a stop midway through the blade’s closing arc as a safety feature so the blade doesn’t snap shut too aggressively.”
Get a gander at what’s on the slate for NSM in 2026.
According to a recent post by Niagara Specialty Metals (NSM) on BladeForums, NSM (nsm-ny.com) had several steels and materials available either now or that were “incoming” as BLADE was going to press.
The list includes: MagnaCut; CPM154; S30V; S35VN; S45VN; S90V; 3V; 4V; CruWear (aka NSM Wear); 154CM; 20CV; M4; CPM D2; D2; 440C ESR; 416; and 6-4 titanium. The new MagnaMax (page 66) should be available in 2026.
The post stated that all particle metallurgy grades are “coming in from Erasteel and Carpenter and the quality has been excellent.” All of NSM’s air-melt steels and 6-4 titanium are domestic.
The only grades off the list at press time were 15V, 110V and Rex 121. “They were Crucible exclusives,” the post noted of the three grades not on the list, “and we’re working with the mills to bring them back once production can be re-established.”
Since its advent in the 1990s, the crossbar lock has taken the knife world by storm. We look at a few top picks from this class of knives.
The crossbar lock has taken the folding knife industry by storm. Originally designed by knifemakers William McHenry and Jason Williams in the 1990s and released in 2000 by Benchmade Knife Co. as the Axis Lock, the mechanism offers strength and ease of ambidextrous operation. It is also safer to operate because you do not have to place your thumb or finger in the radial path of the closing blade to unlock it as with most other lock types.
Benchmade incorporated the Axis Lock in many of its folders that spanned the tactical, hunting, outdoor and EDC knife markets from the turn of the century forward. Finally, two decades after the patent was issued, it expired. This opened the door for many production knife companies to bring about their own versions of the Axis, now referred to generically as a crossbar lock, though it goes by other company-specific names as well.
Microtech RAM-LOK
The tactical version of the Microtech MSI polymer is black on black. As the author noted, “It’s definitely ‘murdered out,’ as they say, and it looks very slick, too.” The MSI polymer is also available in a choice of handle colors and blade finishes, including colored Cerakote®..
Microtech dubs its adaptation the RAM-LOK. The company ups the ante by using a rectangular-shaped lockbar as opposed to a round one, one of the major differences between Microtech’s version of the crossbar lock and others. The RAM-LOK is available only in such Microtech manual folders as the Stitch RAM-LOK, Amphibian RAM-LOK and the test knife: the MSI (Microtech Standard Issue).
One look at the MSI and you can tell it was designed and built for work. It is available in several different handle materials and colors, including the test knife’s polymer version in a molded thermoplastic.
The reverse tanto blade is 3.8 inches of flat-ground Bohler M390MK stainless steel, a special formulation of Bohler’s standard M390 available on Microtech knives only. The M390 was tweaked to get a bit more toughness and edge retention to arrive at the M390MK.
The straight-line cutting edge makes the MSI an excellent worker. Edge formats come in plain, part serrated and fully serrated. Blade finishes range from the basic stonewashed to the apocalyptic (acid wash), and Cerakote® available in an array of colors and, of course, black tactical. An oblong blade hole permits easy ambidextrous deployment.
Featuring all-Torx-screw construction, the handle has all the right contours and chamfers, making the knife very comfortable to hold and work with for extended periods. The gripping surface has what Microtech calls Tri-Grip texturing. The handle spacer is titanium. A fold-over deep-carry clip attaches the closed knife tip up.
The Microtech MSI polymer’s RAM-LOK release buttons are 3D milled in an “X” pattern that provides positive thumb purchase. Microtech uses the pattern on its out-the-front autos, too.
The RAM-LOK is extremely smooth and strong. The release buttons have an “X” stepped machining pattern found on all Microtech OTF autos. The machining helps you grip the lock button easily and pull it back to release and close the blade. The RAM-LOK also differs from other crossbar locks in that a coil spring provides the lock tension. Many other crossbar locks use a pair of Omega-shaped springs affixed to either end of the lockbar concealed beneath the handle. The coil spring is more durable than the Omegas. You can see the spring by looking down on the handle spine.
For integrity, within the scales are dual stainless steel partial liners. They are minimum sized to conserve weight. The polymer scales are unlike those on many lightweight folders. They have a high degree of rigidity so that flex is kept to an absolute minimum. For those of you who dislike thermoplastic-molded scales because they flex too much, the MSI polymer may change your mind.
At 5.1 inches closed the MSI is a formidable folder ready for most any cutting task. Pull cuts seem to fit the reverse tanto blade shape best, though it makes standard push cuts simple as well. The traction notches on the blade spine accept an index finger or thumb to put more pressure into the cut. The blade opens and closes very easily thanks to the pivot bearings, which facilitate inertia openings, too—simply hold the handle securely, pull back on the RAM-LOK release buttons, flick your wrist and the blade rotates out smoothly. It closes in the same manner so deployment and closing can happen seamlessly.
I like how well the MSI performs overall. It is a solid cutting tool that withstands the heavy use and abuse knife guys dish out. You can’t tell a difference performance wise between M390MK and M390, but if you are familiar with M390 you pretty much know what to expect—edge holding that goes the distance and a steel that nails heavy-duty cutting tasks.
For a great value in a USA-made folder, consider the MSI polymer. With an MSRP of $211, it is an excellent opportunity to dive into Microtech precision and reliability at a lower price point.
SRM Knives Mirage 239X-GB
The author stated he likes the extra relief milling done on the G-10 around the lock-release button to promote a better grip when operating the blade of the SRM Mirage.
The SRM Knives Mirage 239X-GB folding hunter is designed to be a high-tech knife that isn’t afraid to work. It incorporates some interesting technology I’ve never seen on a folder before.
The heart and soul of the Mirage is a 3.6-inch drop-point blade flat ground from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel. It’s a steel known for excellent edge holding as well as fairly affordable cost, which is why it is a favorite among entry-level-to-mid-range knives. An oblong blade hole permits easy ambidextrous deployment. Each blade comes in a fine ceramic bead-blast finish. Out of the box the edge is shaving sharp and ready to work immediately. The blade deploys smoothly on pivot bearings.
The handle features stainless steel liners and black G-10 scales. The G-10 has milled-in grooves and a prominent center channel for grip enhancement, along with the texture for which the popular synthetic handle material is known.
With the knife open, part of the tang and the front end of the handle form a finger groove for choking up for extra control. An integral guard prevents your hand from sliding forward during use.
SRM calls its crossbar variant the Ambi Lock. I like the extra relief milling on the G-10 around the lock-release buttons to promote a better grip when locking the blade.
The SRM Mirage folder’s integral liners comprise what the company calls the Mono Chassis. Instead of using two separate plates, the Mono Chassis is bent from one piece of steel, as evidenced by the integral backspacer. This results in a stronger handle design that also supports the knife’s Ambi Lock.
The steel liners comprise one of the more interesting aspects. Normally on a crossbar lock folder the liners are two separate plates joined together by a handle spacer and screws. On the Mirage, SRM uses what it calls a Mono Chassis design. Basically, the liners are integral. The handle spacer is created when the two halves of the liners are bent and formed. No assembly screws are used to hold the handle together. The SRM literature indicates the Mono Chassis results in a stronger handle design that better supports the Ambi Lock and makes it more stable. I have never seen this done on any folder before and must admit it does look cool. The almost full-length spacer also makes the Mirage feel more comfortable for prolonged use. This is pretty trick and impressive! I wish the innovation were used in more knives.
Country of origin: China. MSRP: $49.95. Built to go the distance, the Mirage is a highly useful folder for a plethora of cutting chores.
CobraTec Zebrawood Crossbar Lock Folder
Laser-engraved checkering promotes a nonslip grip on the CobraTec Zebrawood Crossbar Lock Folder. The zebrawood looks good, is warm to the touch and has an organic feel.
Known for its budget-friendly OTF autos, CobraTec also makes manual folders and the Zebrawood Crossbar Lock Folder is one of the latest. The EDC knife is as elegant as it is useful, sporting a 3-inch drop-point blade of D2 tool steel and a striking zebrawood handle. D2 addresses both cost and performance issues, being relatively inexpensive and offering well-documented edge-holding performance and impact resistance. Though not fully stainless, D2 has a bit more stain resistance than most carbon steels. It’s also easy to sharpen. Ambidextrous thumb studs open the blade quickly and easily. The blade shape is great overall, utilitarian and easily adaptable to a wide range of cutting tasks.
Deep-carry clips are in and the Cobratec Zebrawood Crossbar Lock folder has one to keep the knife close at your side. The fold-over clip carries the folder blade tip up.
The handle has double stainless-steel liners skeletonized to lighten the load. Laser-engraved checkering promotes a nonslip grip. The zebrawood not only looks good but like most woods is warm to the touch and has an organic feel. The blade rides on a pair of caged bearings for ultra-smooth opening and closing. It is a great EDC folder that won’t weigh you down nor break your budget.
Considering the straightforward design, the knife carries very comfortably. It is assembled in the USA with overseas parts. MSRP: $59.99.
CRKT Redemption Compact
The CRKT Redemption Compact’s blade features the symmetry of a true dagger. It has a single sharpened edge for legal reasons but still offers ease of penetration into tougher materials.
The CRKT Redemption Compact is a production version of BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-of-Fame® member Ken Onion’s Dead Man’s Hand custom folder. It emulates knives carried by Wild West outlaws—easily concealed and fast on the draw.
The Redemption Compact scales things down to a much more EDC-friendly 3.2-inch blade. The knife is sized right and still packs a punch. The dagger-style blade is CPM MagnaCut stainless steel and sharpened on one side only to remain legal in most jurisdictions. The coffin-shaped handle is accented by a double-fluted steel bolster and a deep-carry pocket clip. The scales are smooth black G-10.
Manufactured in the USA for CRKT by Hogue Knives, the knife boasts a crossbar lock that holds the blade open quite securely. The closed blade sits so deep in the handle that it’s almost impossible to attach thumb studs or a thumb disk to the blade to facilitate easy one-hand opening. To open, hold the knife in your dominant hand, pull back on the lock and use a circular motion to rotate the blade out from the handle. The blade rides on a pair of caged bearings that prompts ultra-smooth rotation open and closed. With a bit of practice you will get the hang of how far back to pull the lock to get the blade to swing out freely.
The CRKT Redemption Compact’s steel bolsters help make the crossbar lock stronger and add to lock integrity. The knife is based on the Dead Man’s Hand design of BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-of-Fame® member Ken Onion.
Carry wise, the Redemption Compact packs a lot of utility and character. Thanks to the deep-carry clip, the closed knife rides very low in the pocket; some might even complain there’s not enough handle sticking out to grab onto. That’s the trade out with deep-carry clips—you get the low visibility but some also have a degree of difficulty in retrieving the knife.
The double-ground dagger-style blade affords easy penetration, even with the single edge. The spear-point shape tackles most cutting chores with ease. The look plays into this particular design as it is nearly symmetrical in both handle and blade—sleek, compact and loads of character. MagnaCut is regarded by many as today’s best high-performance stainless. It holds an edge so you will be resharpening less and using the knife more. MSRP: $250.
