CRKT Triumph Folder

Everyone should have a good folding knife.  And it seems I am always looking for something that fills that bill.  Well I came across the Columbia River Knife & Tool (CRKT) Triumph non-assisted opening knife.  The Triumph is designed by knife maker Pat Crawford.  It seems that CRKT may be discontinuing the non-assisted version, because they are discounted on their website.  This particular knife may be on the large side for some people, weighing in at 6.3 ounces.  But with some of the features it has, I couldn't wait to try it out. The Triumph is a full featured knife.  Starting with the AUS 8 stainless steel blade.  It is a dual ground Tanto style with a false top edge.  The false top edge and tanto blade design give the knife good puncturing abilities.  You can get the Triumph with or without Veff serrations.  This one has no serrations.  The blade is held out with a single .100" locking liner and the knife also has CRKT's AutoLAWKS safety.  AutoLAWKS is a spring loaded lock that engages once the knife is fully opened.  This feature helps to keep the locking liner in place and supposedly makes it almost as strong as a fixed blade.  When closing the Triumph, one must first move the autolawk out of the way with a finger, and while holding the lock back, push the liner over, and then close the blade slightly.  Once the blade has moved, you can then release the lock and fold the knife in as normal.  It takes a little bit to get use to, but I don't even notice it anymore.

Another nice feature about the Triumph is its G-10 handles.  This handle offers one of the grippiest I have ever used.  Water, mud, and oil don't seem to make it any different either.  When inserting or removing the knife from your pants, it can be difficult because the texture of the grip makes it seem like you wrapped it in sandpaper.  The clip on the knife is removable, but it only has one position.  That position is tip down, so if you like tip up carry look elsewhere for your knife.  The clip is very strong and keeps the Triumph in place throughout the day.

Like I said previously, the knife is large.  Coming in at 5" closed and 8.5" open.  The Tanto style blade is 3.5" long and .14" thick at its spine.  The knife I have has a tiger stripe camo coating on the blade, with black handles.  Different blade designs and handle colors are offered.  CRKT also makes the Triumph in an assisted opening, or a fixed kneck knife.  I have cut many things with this knife and the edge seems to hold up very well and I am pleased with the quality.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Good tactical folder for everyday carry

Target Market: People looking for a good solid EDC knife

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

• AutoLAWKS locking system
• 3.5" Tanto blade
• G-10 grips
• locking liner
• Serrations optional

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

• Veff Serrated blade
• Plain Black Blade
• Assisted Opening

What others are saying?

CRKT Delivers

Reviewed by ApolloExx on Sierra Trading Post: 4/5 stars  - The triumph series means business, with its one side bevel, tanto point, and the serrations that are more like hooks then serrations, this knife is intimidating, aggressive, and very attractive. Crawford designs made this knife out of quality parts and materials, each knife is handmade and is all around a balanced, high quality knife. the grip on this knife is also very unique, feeling more like fine sandpaper this knife has a pleasing texture and you wont loose your grip even if you tried. downside of the blade is the effort it takes to sharpen it, with serrations like this it may be a challenge to sharpen but I believe that can easily be worked around,

Michael on CRKT.com  -  I have between 12-15 CRKT knives, and this being my most recent purchace has given me the chance to really get to use this thing quite a bit. In the past 3 weeks I've had my Triumph w/Veff serrations I've put the thing through absolute hell and have only had to sharpen it once completely and one quick time up This things a BEAST and I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND THAT you grab one if you happen to be lucky enough to come across one

Price point 

MSRP = $149.99 ($44.99 discount)

Retail = $99.99 on Amazon for the assisted opening

I need it now! Availability: Readily available on CRKT

Our Rating:

Pros: + G-10 handles - excellent grip + 3.5" Stainless Steel blade + Stays sharp + Strong .14" thick blade + AutoLAWKS Feature

Cons: - G-10 handles can be too course - Overall size at 5" closed and 8.5" open - AutoLAWKS takes some getting use to - Heavy at 6.3 ounces - Non USA made

Score: 7.5 Good

Chad's Favorite Link: Handgun Radio

Zero Tolerance ZT 0561 Knife Review

 

The Zero Tolerance ZT 0561 is an extreme duty knife.  The ZT0561 would be a great pocket knife for anyone needing a large, rugged folding style knife.  Due to its 3.75" blade, pocket carry can sometimes be cumbersome.  However, the knife does come with a pocket clip that can be located in any of four locations. The knife is fairly light for its size, coming in at 6.4 ounces.  This weight is made possible by one whole grip of the knife being made from titanium.  The other grip panel is made of G-10 in flat dark earth.  Both grips are textured with, what ZT calls, a "3-D machined," which is a type of scallop pattern and gives the knife a good texture to hold on to. The blade is made from an "Elmax" powdered steel, which gives the knife good corrosion resistance and good edge retention.  The blade runs on a set of ball bearings for smooth operation with an easy opening tang on the back side of the knife. This knife would make a great addition to anyone needing a tactical folder that might get abused.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Extreme duty folding knife

Target Market: First responders or anyone needing a rugged folding knife.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Made in USA
• Ball-bearing opening system
• Titanium frame lock
• Quad mount pocket clip
• Blade length: 3.75"
• Closed length: 5"
• Overall length: 8.8"
• Weight: 6.4 oz.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: None, what you see is what you get.

What others are saying?:

NOT A KNIFE..... IT'S A BEAST!

This edged weapon is something to behold. I've owned benchmade, kershaw, spiderco, ect.... This thing will be my last knife I'm sure. It holds an edge and looks good doing so. I've used mine for work and play and will never buy another cheap piece of junk knife again. You get what you pay for!!!

By Jo Oklahoma from ZT knives

Outstanding Knife

  After purchasing this knife, I have officially laid my Benchmades to rest. This is an absolute quality knife. The lock is rock solid and there is absolutely no play in the blade. The handle is very comfortable and grips the palm extremely well. I love how the flipper acts as a finger guard while open. The size is very intimidating at first for an EDC, but it is surprisingly thin and fits in the pocket well. The blade is incredibly sharp and super stout.

By  PFDR108 from Amazon

Price point

MSRP = $325 from ZT knives

Retail = $195.60 from Amazon

I need it now! Availability: Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Easy opening
• Strong blade
• Lightweight
• Pocket clip locations

Cons:

• Size
• Price

Score: 7.5

Havalon Piranta Knife Review

When it comes to skinning a deer, or any game for that matter... everyone seems to have their preferred way of doing things. There's many a man who stubbornly swear by the blade they carry on the hunt, and there's some futility to convincing them to try something different. Back in the pioneer days, men did most of their gutting and dressing with the blade of a hatchet, and smaller specialized tools for skinning the hide. Fast forward to nowadays, there's a plethora of choices from folding knives, fixed blade knives, gut hooks, and ungodly oversized daggers that really only belong under the glass counter at a medieval convention.

What myself and those I typically hunt deer and elk with carry is the Havalon Piranta knife. It's a small folding knife that uses replaceable blades. The blade's themselves are pre-sharpened and extremely, ridiculously sharp! Imagine using a scalpel. Now many hunters may scoff at such a minuscule blade, but I have seen it put to expert use. I've witnessed entire elk and deer gutted, dressed, skinned, and boned out using only a Piranta. I've even seen it used to sever limbs and the joint, and remove heads. The flexibility of the blade is its shining quality, as you can get closer to the bone and make cleaner cuts without repeated strokes like a standard buck knife.

There is a learning curve to using this knife well and not replacing the blade every 10 minutes. Its a very thin blade (at least my older ones are, Havalon has switched to a thicker blade to enhance longevity) and if bent or manipulated in any kind of prying motion the blade will snap. And of course with any other knife, if you cut through the hair you will drastically dull the blade. That being said, its a spectacular knife and used correctly will speed up the process of dressing an animal while doing it neatly. When we get an animal, we are pretty obsessive about how clean the meat stays... no hair, no dirt, and no sloppy cuts on those future steaks. You NEED to have a steady hand, as the Piranta is not forgiving and any poke or knick while you are rooting around the chest cavity by sense of touch alone will be a painful lesson. Based on my experience with the Havalon Piranta, the best way to dress an animal with the skills of a surgeon is with this knife.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Reduces the need to carry extra skinning knives, gut hook blades or whetstones. When the blade gets dull, just pop it off and replace it with a new one. You'll never lose your edge with Havalon.

Target Market:  Hunters & Outdoorsman

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• 12 additional stainless steel #60A blades, 2-3/4"
• Rugged ABS blaze orange handle
• Ambidextrous thumb studs
• Open back for easy cleaning
• Frame-lock construction
• Removable holster clip
• Overall length 6-3/4"
• Weighs only 3 ounces
• Includes nylon holster
• Fits #60A and #60XT blades

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Green, Lime Green, Blaze Orange, Brick Red, Zytel Black, Camo, and Engraved / Scrimshaw Models

What others are saying?: “I have owned it for more than 5 years and have used it on Brown bears, Dall sheep, Roosevelt Elk, Sitka Blacktail Deer, Caribou, Reindeer, Moose, Mountain Goat, Musk Ox, and fur bearers all in Alaska and a whole slew of different skulls to European mount. Each whole animal generally takes one occasionally two blades based on task. I have used 150+ blades and is my go-to hunting knife. The down side is it cannot be used in a pry type motion, the blades are too weak.If you know this then you generally don't have a problem. I have also had it close on me because the lock is wearing out. The other problem is the blades are so sharp there is no margin for error! I have sliced off several knuckle tips on my left hand cutting too fast with my right hand. I also poke my self several times every animal trying to reach into tight spaces or holding back meat/hides. There still is no better product out there period. As a previous biology student i always used to carry scalpel blades with me, this is just the evolution of a better product all around." - Review by Slammerdude on Havalon Website

Price Point: MSRP: $59.99 Retail: $33.74

I need it now! Availability: Havalon or Amazon or most online knife dealers

Our Rating: +_Comes with replacement blades and holster/sheath +_Blades are extremely sharp right out of each individual wrapper

-_No locking bar to prevent accidental opening (you don't want this little guy opening up in your ruck sack!) -_The plastic frame on my Piranta has already cracked where the pocket clip is, clearly a weakpoint

Score: 8.5 Great

Kershaw Blur Knife Review

By Bradley Johnson

I have every day carried a knife almost my entire life. My grandfather gave me a knife when I was 10. I'm 35 now, so I guess that's 25 years of EDC. I've tried many knives in that time. I have several Spyderco knives that I love, but not all of them are legal for concealed carry in my county. I also have some Benchmade knives that have served me well, but after handling a friends Kershaw knife I started to think it might be time for something new. I didn't think that a $60 knife could best a $130 one, but I was wrong. Here's a photo of the Benchmade Griptilian, and the Kershaw Blur side-by-side.

As you can see, they are very similar in size when folded, and also open...

However, that is the extent of the similarities. Unlike the Benchmade knife (composite handles), the Kershaw handles are made of aircraft aluminum. The difference in weight is negligible, but the durability isn't. The Kershaw Blur is also thinner. The Blur (like most of Kershaw's knives) features Speedsafe technology. It allows quick assisted one hand opening (see video). I'm pretty good at flicking open a non-assisted knife, but there's no way I could ever beat a Kershaw Speedsafe knife. This technology makes deploying the knife extremely quick, and is legal in all 50 states (at least for now).

The grip of the Kershaw is excellent. The Trac-Tec grip tape inserts in the handle  allow for excellent handling. The handle is pre-drilled for either tip-up or tip-down carry depending on your preference.

The carbide glass breaking tip was something that I wanted. You can purchase the knife without it, but I like the option (and like to be prepared for all situations). It doesn't affect the way I carry, but I would like to mention that the tip is fairly sharp, so if you're just going to toss it in your pocket then it may create a hole from bouncing around inside of your pants/shorts.

Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this knife. It's made in the U.S.A., and the quality for the money is excellent. I could buy two of them for the price of one Benchmade (and I plan to).

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: The SpeedSafe technology allows quick one handed opening. The textured grip provides great handling. The carbide tip breaks glass better than steel. Made in the USA!

Target Market: Law enforcement, Civilians, and Military

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• SpeedSafe Opening assist
• Carbide glass breaker
• Trac-tec grip tape inserts
• Aircraft aluminum handle

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The Kershaw Blur Knife is available in black, desert sand, olive drab, and red. It’s even available with a glass breaker

What others are saying?: “I find this to be a great everyday carry knife that has held up exceptionally well to the rigors of daily use. The Kershaw Tactical Blur has my vote for a practical, tactical and affordable folder.” - Dane Daiker, USCCA

Price Point:

• MSRP = $119.99
• Retail = $59.76

I need it now! Availability: You can purchase this knife from many retailers, including Amazon and Rifle Gear.

Our Rating:

• Handle
• Speedsafe assisted opening
• Made in USA

Score: 9.0 Amazing

CRKT M16-14SF Folding Knife Review

By Dustin Bornman

The CRKT M16-14SF, has become a staple in my collection of knifes. I rarely leave home without this in my pocket. I love the balance, the blade and the tactical capacity of this knife. The pocket clip can be moved to one of 4 locations depending on the users desired carry position. In the position that I prefer the clip to be in, the blade is up and facing rearward in the right front pocket. If you pull the knife straight up and slightly forward, the blade stays closed. But if pulled upward and slightly rearward, the blade automatically opens and is ready for use. This is by far, the best option from a tactical standpoint for me.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This is just an overall well built knife that carries well and holds an edge at an above average level.

Target Market: I think this is a great knife for anyone wishing to carry daily.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Tanto point
• Serrated blade
• It also has a double blade lock that basically makes the knife a fixed blade.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The CRKT M16-14SF folding knife is available in black and tan.

What others are saying?: “I purchased this knife as an EDC to add to my collection. It's extremely well made, easy to hold and open. Closing the blade is somewhat difficult which maybe a concern to some. The blade is very sharp with a thick back bone very strong. The LAWKS locking system makes this folder almost a fixed blade. The flipper is quite fast almost as fast as my assisted folders! I love this knife.” - Knife Center Customer Reviewer John D.

“This knife is amazing. It fits snuggly in my pocket, but is burly enough to chop tree branches for kindling. The dual flips act as a hilt, giving it the feel and balance of a full-tang blade. The handle is light aluminum with a durable coating, but the steel maintains its edge better than any knife I’ve owned, so the tip is always ready for fine cutting. The serrated base of the blade comes in handy for skinning game or cutting rope, and is easy to sharpen with the right tool.” - T.S. Wallace, The Adventures of Man

Price Point:

• MSRP = $135.00
• Retail = $71.44

I need it now! Availability: This knife is available from many retailers, including Knife Center, Amazon, and directly from CRKT.

Our Rating:

+ Tactical opening + Size + Balance

- Handle is slightly slick

Score: 9.0 Amazing

Spyderco Persistence Review

The Spyderco Persistence is the second smallest knife in Spyderco’s budget folder line.  It’s got a blade length of 2.75” blade and an overall length of 6.8” while open.  It has a 4-way clip that can be positioned for left or right-handed carry and tip-up or tip-down carry.  The blade has a very large hole positioned just right for quick opening. The G-10 grips and skeletonized liner keeps the knife relatively light.  The blade was very sharp out of the box and seemed to keep a good edge for a while. The width of the Spyderco knife helps fill your hand very nicely and is easy to control. The knife locks with a liner-lock that is easily released with the thumb of your hand and (with care) allows you to close it one-handed. This is a great, inexpensive knife that I would recommend to anyone.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: A value priced and good quality knife. 

Target Market: A budget minded person that wants a good carry knife.

FNB's: (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Small, but not too small
• Inexpensive
• Fast opening
• Light 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  The standard Persistence has black G-10 grip panels and there is a model with blue grip panels. There is also an all black version with a black blade and clip. There are partially serrated, fully serrated and straight blade versions available, to fit your preference.

 What others are saying?:  “Whether you are into knives or are looking to purchase your first blade, the Persistence is a must have.” -Operator Swag

Price point:

• MSRP = $64.95
• Retail = $34.46 

I need it now! Availability:  There are many retailers selling this knife including Amazon and BladeHQ. 

Our Rating:

+ Small + Light + Inexpensive + Pocket clip can be moved to any position + Mostly stainless blade + Ergonomic

Score: 9.0

Kershaw Funxion EMT

Devin Blystone

Oddly enough, the model I have is not easily located online.  However this knife was purchased in person at Walmart.  This model is a Walmart exclusive but the features are all the same except for the grips.  That being said, there are a few different models of the Funxion depending on what your needs are.  There’s the Funxion EMT, Funxion DIY, and Funxion Outdoor.  Looking at the DIY, I’d suggest getting the EMT because it has everything the DIY has plus a cord cutter and blade serrations.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  Key tools that can be vital in an emergency.

Target Market:  Every day carry and anyone who wants a little extra with their knife.

 FNBs:  (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Serrations
• Liner lock
• SpeedSafe assisted opening
• Deep carry pocket clip for secure and discreet carry
• Glass breaker
• Carabiner that locks blade in handle
• Multi-tool(cord cutter, hex bolt wrench, flat head screwdriver, and bottle opener)

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  It comes in black/charcoal.

 What others are saying?:  “One of the best knives I've ever had.” Amazon reviews

Price point:

•  MSRP = $59.95
•  Retail = $38.95

I need it now! Availability:  You can buy it at Walmart, the model pictured seems to be Walmart only. Other stores may have different models.  Check out Gander Mountain, Bass Pro Shops, etc.  You can also order it from Knife Center.

 Our Rating:

+ Quick opening + Easy to manipulate + Multi-tool accessory hidden in the grip + Carabiner that also locks the blade shut + Glass breaker + It just feels good in my hand + Weight is good for a knife of its size

- Pocket clip is single position - Made in China

Score: 8.5 Great!

Smith & Wesson S.O.R.T Knife

By Devin Blystone

Unfortunately this is a discontinued knife so there’s not a lot of availability. On the other hand, it’s a nice enough knife that I still carry it every day. With a quick application of a red and green sharpie to the safety so that its easy to tell if it’s engaged and it makes the knife and easy 8 or 9. If you need a pocket knife and don’t mind getting a discontinued model for cheaper, I’d recommend this knife.  

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Fast opening, comfortable and practical.

Target Market: Anyone who carries a pocket knife.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Safety, to keep it from opening in your pocket.
• Liner lock.
• Thumb stud and index finger for opening.
• Assisted opening.
• Removable pocket clip.
• Available with or without serrations.

Does it come in black? It comes in black and champagne(silver)

What others are saying? People seem to like it,  except that Amazon kept messing up their orders. Amazon reviews.

Price point (MSRP versus actual retail)

• MSRP = Discontinued
• Retail = $31.95 bladehq.com

I need it now! Availability: You can buy it at Blade HQ and there were some on ebay at the writing of this review. Local shops may also have old stock for sale.

Our Rating + Quick opening. + Easy to manipulate. + Nice grips. + Powerful pocket clip.

- Safety can fail if you try to open it hard. - Safe/unsafe is not marked, have to remember.

Score 7.5 Good

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