New Knives - Lanceur de l'âme CR04

That I am something of a Francophile when it comes to throwing knives is perhaps starting to become clear at this point. I have a weakness for small French enthusiast brands and now have knives from brands such as Throwingzone, Zitoon Knives, Pierre Cazoulat and not least Lanceur de l'âme. Behind that name hides a knife thrower, and also knife maker, and a blacksmith named Maxime Blanchet.

This model, called CR04, is one of the simplest in the range. But that was actually what attracted me. The lines are clean, and the dimensions and weight were exactly where they should be. In addition, there were a few details that were already in the picture that revealed to me that I will probably like them.

Lanceur de l'âme CR04

One such detail is the design of the tip in relation to the handle. When a knife looks like this, it gives a grip that feels more equivalent when the knife is thrown from the handle and the blade. In comparison, another model from Lanceur de l'âme, Dague du competition, can be put. They are, in turn, knives made to maximise results in competition from precision distances of three, five and seven meters. This means that having a wider blade is an advantage, as it increases the chances of higher scores. However, it also means that the handle is narrower in relation; in this case, the ratio is three to four centimetres, respectively.

With the CR04, it looks a little different as the handle is 26 mm wide and the grippable part of the tip is 38 mm, where my index finger ends up, but the part in front of it is much narrower. This provides good conditions for a rotational knife. Especially as it is neutrally balanced. In fact, the weight is slightly closer to the handle than usual. Much depends on it being quite short.

A little coffee before I try to test the knives despite the winter darkness and drizzle.

The total length of the knife is 32 cm, and the thickness is just under 6 mm, which gives a total weight per knife of 375 grams. Excellent proportions for a knife for Walk Back. It is possibly a bit too light to be completely optimal for long-distance throwing, but otherwise damn good.

In addition, there are several details that enhance the general impression. One is how well-rounded all the edges are, and another is the bevels. But above all, it is noticeable in how softly rounded the transitions between blade and handle are, approximately where the heel of a chef's knife would be.

The steel is, as is often the case with knives from France, Swedish, and here we find Hardox 450. It has proven to be an excellent steel for throwing knives. Tough, impact-resistant and easy to sharpen if misfortune strikes and a tip needs to be reprofiled.

I am really looking forward to inaugurating them properly, but for that, we need slightly better weather. 

/ J - eager to throw

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New Knife - Zitoon Tanto

It was only a matter of time before it would happen again.

What the heck is he talking about is a relevant question as a reflection on the cryptic statement. But it is, of course, about the acquisition of new knives from French Zitoon Knives. They have quickly become one of my favorite brands for throwing equipment. A high and consistent quality combined with many exciting models is the basis for this. In addition, the price level is not a deterrent.*

This time, the model is simply called Tanto. A very descriptive name!

Zitoon Knives Tanto

If there is something that distinguishes this knife apart from its particularly noticeable tip, it is that it feels light when you hold it in your hand. However, it is not exceptionally light; the weight is around 385 g with a leather grip and 370 g without. To get there, a 5 mm-thick and 33.5 cm long piece of Hardox 450 steel is used. On the outside, you will find two riveted leather pieces. Functional and stylish in my eyes.

The appearance is pure and simple, which means that if you like tanto tips, you are a fan; if you don't, you should probably choose another model. The finish is brushed and a bit raw, as usual with products from Zitoon.

The properties can be summarized as very neutral, which can be felt after a few throws. It is a very positive assessment in the throwing knife world, by the way. An extra plus is the carefully designed handle that gives a very nice "release" when throwing from the same.

Overall, a very interesting knife that I will return to, be sure!

Zitoon

/ J - throws himself further into existence


* Buying things from across the Atlantic is, as you know, significantly more expensive.

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