New Knife - Civivi Neurohaptic

"Big and substantial" might not be the first words that come to mind when thinking of Civivi  , yet they do occasionally release models that fall into the XL category. Perhaps not when compared to a certain "Cold Steel" brand, but certainly when measured against most others. I already own the Sentinel Strike, for instance—a fairly substantial piece—though it can't quite match the Buster FG, which is a true beast regardless of what it’s compared to. After all, we’re talking about a length of 245 mm and a weight of 175 g.

Today’s knife, the Neurohaptic, isn't quite *that* substantial, though it still ranks among the largest Civivi models I own.

A substantial knife from Civivi

In terms of actual dimensions, this translates to a total length of 225 mm and a weight of 122 g. The latter figure is particularly appealing, considering the blade measures a full 95 mm in length. It is a clip-point blade with a completely straight clip, giving it a distinctive, almost dagger-like appearance. Additionally, the blade features a substantial fuller, though this is not particularly visible on this black-coated version. The blade is 3 mm thick and made of Nitro-V steel; it features a flat grind with a 20 mm grind height.

The handle is 124 mm long—excluding the protruding lanyard loop—with a maximum height of 26 mm and a thickness of 13 mm. Combine these dimensions with the very straight handle profile, and you get a simple yet highly comfortable grip that suits all hand sizes—or so I believe—as well as every conceivable type of grip.

It is made of G10 and is available in a few different colors.

Civivi Neurohaptic

The Neurohaptic opens via a flipper tab, and in typical Civivi fashion, the action is tuned to perfection. This applies to both the opening mechanism and the button lock.

As usual, the blade rides on ceramic bearings—a standard feature rather than the exception in Civivi’s lineup these days.

All in all, this is a fairly large, lightweight, and very smooth-operating knife. It is a great choice for anyone wanting something substantial without carrying a boat anchor in their pocket. It is well worth a closer look, which is exactly what I intend to do.

Civivi Knives

/ J - browsing the Civivi catalog

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - QSP Coyote

It felt like time to feature some new knives from QSP here on the blog. In fact, these are the first ones of the year!

Most of the folding knives released by this brand are named after birds, but here they’ve broken with that tradition and named the model Coyote.

This knife is currently available in four different versions featuring handle materials that are both new to QSP’s catalog and quite rare in general. One of the options is Micarta—but not just any Micarta; it’s a "glow-in-the-dark" variant, something I’ve never seen with that base material before. That same feature is more common with G10, and that version is available as well.

If you’d rather not have a knife that looks slightly radioactive, a great alternative is the version with silver foil G10—or, in this case, copper foil G10. You can also choose the blade finish: black or satin.

That said, I’ve noticed that the collar around the pivot screw actually glows in the dark on this knife. So, you do get a bit of that radioactive look after all.

A knife with a handle material that is new to me: copper foil G10.

I chose this material for a change of pace. I own a knife with Silver G10 from another brand, so it is clearly a material that is currently popular—or perhaps even trendy. Maybe because it is relatively new?

Speaking of new features, this knife has a "button lock," which isn't the most common locking mechanism in QSP’s lineup. In fact, this is the first model I’m aware of that uses this design. However, it quickly becomes apparent that they have extensive experience in manufacturing with tight tolerances. The lock functions flawlessly—at least initially.

Furthermore, the blade action is exceptionally smooth. The ceramic ball bearings account for some of this, but not all of it; QSP has clearly succeeded in fine-tuning the lock resistance to an excellent level.

The knife measures 190 mm when open and 108 mm when closed. The handle is 13 mm thick, and the knife weighs 105 g.

The blade accounts for 82 mm of the total length. It is 3 mm thick, with a maximum height of 28 mm. It features a distinctive clip point profile and is made of Nitro-V steel—hardened to 59–61 HRC (at the higher end of that range for coated blades, and slightly lower for uncoated ones). The grind is a high flat grind with a substantial swedge, giving the blade a curved appearance—an effect further emphasized by the recurve.

The blade also features something I am not always fond of: a prominent forward finger choil. Such cutouts have both pros and cons, and in my opinion, the downsides outweigh the benefits.

 

QSP Coyote

My immediate impression is that the combination of shape and size makes the knife very comfortable to hold, regardless of the grip I use. It remains to be seen whether it is truly ergonomic—that is, whether it feels good to use while actually working with the knife.

The blade is very easy to deploy using the dual thumb studs; these also deserve praise for being well-placed and free of awkward shapes—they simply work well. As mentioned earlier, the lock is excellent, and the package is rounded off with a standard QSP-style pocket clip. It is nothing extravagant, but it is highly functional. Incidentally, this clip and the lock mechanism make the knife fully ambidextrous.

All in all, this is a knife that is simultaneously innovative and more traditional for QSP. The lock, handle material, and—to some extent—blade shape stand out coming from this manufacturer. Incidentally, copper-foil G10 isn't exactly common elsewhere yet, either.

In other words, it’s a new kind of knife for me, but also for QSP. A Coyote that howls at a pretty high pitch—and seems to have the substance to back it up.

QSP Knives

/ J - listening to a wolf song

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Civivi Over Yonder

It is well known by now that Civivi is a generally competent company that knows what it is doing. They are going from strength to strength regarding precision in every stage of manufacturing. The edges are sharp, whereas the edges and corners of the handle are not. The locks are smooth and easy to operate, and the knives often snap open with impressive speed. Overall, the technical aspects tend to be of a very high standard.

The criticism sometimes leveled at Civivi operates on a different level—namely, that new models are released too frequently. Sure, I understand part of that criticism, but you aren't obliged to buy them all, and there is no denying that it increases the chances of finding a favorite that suits you perfectly. However, for that to happen, the design still needs to be appealing or stand out in some way; otherwise, there is a risk of it getting lost in the crowd. In this particular configuration, this model managed to stand out enough to make me take a second look. Then, of course, there is another factor at play—one that regular readers of the blog can probably guess.

Civivi Over Yonder

As mentioned, the model is called "Over Yonder," and the reason I had high expectations is, of course, that I own—and have previously reviewed—its little brother, the "Yonder." Naturally, both knives were designed by Zac Whitmore, though in this instance, it might look a bit like simply printing out the original sketch and stretching it! Jokes aside, however, scaling existing models up or down isn't that simple. Finger grooves might no longer fit, a clip that didn't cause hotspots suddenly does, and so on—certain factors have to be taken into account.

The Over Yonder measures just over nineteen centimeters—specifically 191.2 mm, according to the website. I usually round off figures, but this means, roughly speaking, that it is a little over two centimeters longer than the original. The question I aim to answer is whether that extra bit makes a difference. The blade length has increased to 85 mm, yet the thickness remains an exemplary 2.2 mm. That is thin for a modern folding knife. Combine that with the thin grinds Civivi typically employs these days, and it is clear that this knife will cut exceptionally well. The blade steel is a capable budget option: the widely used 14C28N. For those unfamiliar with my writing, I should mention that this is one of my favorite steels among the more basic varieties. The blade features a flat grind and a satin finish, with a shape best described as a Spey Point. It is also worth noting that the blade is approximately three centimeters tall, which creates a well-balanced look.

The handle is the standout feature of this particular model. As is typical with Civivi, there are other options available, but I wanted something a bit more "flashy," so I was drawn to this material—G10 combined with aluminum foil. The effect is reminiscent of the shimmer found in genuine abalone or mother-of-pearl. Above all, it wasn't black. There’s nothing wrong with black, of course, but I already own quite a few knives like that.

On the new Over Yonder, the handle measures 106 mm in length, 11.6 mm in thickness, and a maximum of 25 mm in height. The differences compared to the smaller model aren't huge, but they transform it from a small EDC knife into one that leans more towards the medium-sized category. The result is a knife that sits better in the hand and feels more suited to slightly heavier tasks. At the same time, given its profile and thin blade, it isn't a heavy-duty workhorse; the weight reflects this too, coming in at just 87 g.

Over Yonder is what I believe will be another hit for Civivi

The blade deploys via thumb studs, and the locking mechanism is Civivi’s version of a cross-bar lock. The action—whether deploying the blade, the feel of the lockup, or the experience of closing it—maintains the brand's customary top-tier quality. If you have never tried a knife from this company, this is a great place to start. However, I am getting ahead of myself; I will save the final verdict for the full review. That said, much of the tactile experience comes down to well-designed and well-positioned ambidextrous thumb studs, combined with a lock that has just the right tension—its omega springs are finely tuned to provide a satisfying snap upon opening. It is also worth noting that the blade rides on ceramic ball bearings and that, naturally, alternative opening methods are available for those who prefer them. These include a "flick" with the index finger and, notably, disengaging the lock bar, which also secures the blade in the closed position.

There is no doubt that this is a highly capable knife, well-suited to a wide range of tasks. Then there is the design. I like it because the proportions feel harmonious; it has a look that is both practical and stylish, while the handle material adds a little something extra.

For me, this knife was a "no-brainer"—it was an easy decision to go for it. That was largely because I liked the original model but felt it was a bit too small. We’ll see if I still feel the same way later on.

Civivi Knives

/ J - convinced

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Civivi Incindie

It has been a while since I showcased something new from Civivi; I believe the last one was the Buster FG back in November of last year. Keeping up with their rapid production pace is impossible—the sheer number of new models is simply too great. However, here on the blog, I will be presenting a small but hopefully interesting selection of relatively new folding knives.

First up is this model, called the Incindie. What drew me to this particular knife was the combination of flair and function. The blade shape looks practical, and the handle appears comfortable. The fact that it features a Damascus blade paired with a light-colored handle was the icing on the cake; it was those contrasts that won me over.

For those who don't care for that level of extravagance, the knife is also available in all-black or with a green handle paired with either a black or stone-washed blade. The materials remain the same.

When you buy a Civivi, it comes with a pouch, a cleaning cloth, and a few other odds and ends.

Starting with one of the decorative elements, the Incindie features a spear-point blade made primarily of 14C28N steel. Its shape gives the blade a feel akin to a dagger. A prominent fuller runs along the length of the blade. A detail easily overlooked on this dark version is that the blade also features a false edge.

However, the most striking aspect is neither the shape nor the steel itself, but rather the fact that it is a laminated blade incorporating layers of 93-layer Damascus steel. Civivi has further enhanced this effect by pairing a dark blade finish with high-polish Damascus, creating a truly striking contrast.

The blade length is just over 88 mm, and the height is 35 mm; this gives you an idea that it is not exactly a small knife. The blade thickness is a relatively modest 3 mm. What might not be apparent from the photos is that the blade features a hollow grind. This results in a very fine, thin edge, even though the grind itself does not extend particularly high up the blade.

Civivi Incindie

The handle complements the blade through a combination of dark and light tones. The material used is G10, specifically in a color known as "ivory," and the result turned out exactly as I had hoped. I can also reveal right away that the handle is comfortable. It measures 114 mm in length, 13 mm in thickness, and has a maximum height of 26 mm. This results in a knife with a total length of 202 mm and a weight of 108 g.

The knife opens via a flipper tab, and—as is the case with most Civivi folding knives—the blade runs on ball bearings and is tuned to perfection. It features a "button lock," a locking mechanism that has recently gained significant popularity across many brands. Generally, these locks perform excellently and provide a secure lockup while remaining very easy to operate. However, I have actually encountered instances where they failed; after all, there are many small parts that must work in unison, and the tolerances are tight. This is precisely the area where Civivi excels; their fit and finish are second to none.

Overall, the Incindie feels just as solid as any other Civivi knife in that regard. There are no sharp edges or corners, and both the locking mechanism and the opening action work perfectly. Furthermore, the factory edge is excellent. Now, the main thing left to see is whether that praise holds up after some use.

How good does the Damascus blade look after some heavy cutting? Does the handle retain that creamy hue after use? Does the lock still function after being operated hundreds of times? As always, there are plenty of questions, and I’ll return with answers to most of them in a review!

Civivi Knives

/ J - fell for the look

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Focuser Outdoor FC133

Time for a hidden gem, or at least a brand that was completely unknown to me until recently. The name is Focuser Outdoor, and the name suggests what they intend to focus on now and in the future.

FC 133is the name of this knife, and I am very curious about how it would look and feel. With new brands, there is always something extra, as it can lean in both one direction and the other depending on what their background is and which internal/external designers they have or hire.

Focuser Outdoor FC133

When it comes to design, you don't have to worry in the least about the FC 133. It largely follows the template for what a good knife of this type can or perhaps even should look like. Although a few small deviations have been made, I will return to them in a later review.

The FC 133 is available in slightly different versions. If you want it with a higher saber grind instead of here as a classic "Scandi", there is model FC 134.

 

The FC133 comes with a Kydex sheath and has a G10 handle.

What I mean by template is a full-tang knife, here made from 3.5 mm thick steel with a 3D-shaped handle. It has a small built-in finger guard, is tapered towards the front, and ends with a discreet duckbill. In between, it swells in the middle. The material here is G10, which is screwed into place with two screws.

The total length is 220 mm, of which the blade is 110 mm. It is a drop point that can be obtained with slightly different blade steels. For the carbon steel enthusiast, there is 52100, and for those who want a slightly more wallet-friendly stainless alternative, 14C28N can be chosen. Two very viable steels, by the way. But you can also get it in a real top steel, like in this case. This variant has been provided with CPM 3V. The price level rises with the choice of steel, I can clarify. The recommended price from the factory is from 70$ and up.

This version has such noble steel as CPM 3V

It can also be added that the blade has a 90-degree back for the fire steel that is not included. On the website, they state that this is because the airlines refuse to send the knives then. Strange, as I just received a knife from Spain with a fire steel in the package. Also, as everyone knows, they do not catch fire on their own.

The package is rounded off with one of the small extravagances I hinted at, and it is a case in Kydex instead of the more traditional leather. The case has a built-in holder for the fire steel.

After having carried the knife on some occasion and done some testing, it can be stated that the FC 133 from Focuser Outdoor promises a lot. Late summer and autumn are good times for outdoor activities in Sweden, so there will probably be an opportunity to test it properly. When it is done, I will return with a review!

/ J - glances towards the forest

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Vosteed Raccoon

Then it was time to introduce one of those brands I referred to in my last post. A manufacturer that I have been eyeing for a long time and have been interested in, but for some reason do not have a knife from. Then it was just a question of which model would serve as an introduction.

But then something spoke to me. How many knives do you know that have doodles as a design element on their handle? The first one I came across is this one, and it comes from Vosteed.

One of their most successful models is this knife called Raccoon. For that reason, it can be added that it comes in extremely many variants, but this pattern is one of the latest additions.

This is a special edition called "Doodle Monster," where playfulness is the focus of the design.

The designer behind the model is Yue Wong, and here he has created what I think is a really classic model. There is nothing revolutionary about it, but it does offer something unusual, and above all, everything is very well made. This applies to both design and execution, as can be seen quickly.

Incidentally, this also applies to the packaging. It is not normally something I pay enormous attention to, but in this case it is consistently executed and thus follows the theme, which makes the whole thing a little more fun.

 

The pattern from the knife handle is reflected on the box

The Raccoon in Doodle Monster design, of course, offers the same dimensions as its cousins. This means a knife that measures 193 mm in total, with a G10 handle and an aluminum backspacer. It is also anodized in the same bright green color that is found on the thumb studs and which is also a part of the pattern on the handle.

The brand name is also cleverly hidden in the doodling. An unusually intelligent way to do it.

The length of the knife when folded is 111 mm, and the thickness is 12 mm, which gives a weight of around 113 g.

Vosteed Raccoon

The blade is a drop point with a length of about 83 mm and a thickness of 3 mm. The material is 14C28N, and it is basically completely flat ground. The finish is stone-washed, and the factory edge is really good; I can immediately tell.

My first impression is that it is a brilliant knife. It is comfortable to hold, and not least, it is exceptionally soft to handle. The blade runs on ball bearings, but the lock also contributes to the smooth feeling. It is a bit special as it is a "top liner lock," which is, however, released with the help of a button. A very effective and user-friendly lock.

After testing a few quick cuts in a few different materials and carrying it for a few hours, I can already say that I like this knife. But that's getting a little ahead of myself. A review will follow as soon as I've had time to carry and use it for real.

But in any case, it's a breath of fresh air among everything that is supposed to be black, "tactical," and look murderous. The Vosteed Raccon in doodle version looks the most playful, and I appreciate that.

Vosteed Knives

/ J - affirms his playful side

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Joker Bush Camp Knife

With the good first impressions from the Ranger I previously presented in the back of my mind, I felt that it was necessary to test at least one more knife from Joker's modern segment. And to continue on the path chosen, I aimed at another outdoor knife. One that could act as a complement or sometimes a replacement for the Ranger, I thought.

The choice fell on the Bush Camp Knife. Now it must be said that this is a knife that is, how should I put it, tangible! It is big and sturdy. A knife that does not apologise for itself. A knife that is intended to be used as a "camp knife", as it is called in English. Or instead of a small axe, one might think up here in the north. However, the idea is not new; even at these latitudes, the Sami have their stuorraniibi (a direct translation from Saami to English is "large knife"), for example.

The knife comes with a sturdy leather sheath and some extra paracord.

But this particular piece comes from Spain; it is both designed and manufactured in Albacete. It may be important to point out that today, when origin marking rules can vary.*

Bush Camp Knife measures 340 mm in total length, of which the drop point blade accounts for 200 mm. The knife is of full tang construction, and the thickness of the material is 6 mm. In other words, you are not likely to break it in the first place. Especially not as the blade is 45 mm high. The blade has a high flat grind or a high sabre grind if you prefer. The steel is Böhler N695. A slightly tougher relative of the N690 often used in folding knives.

Joker Bush Camp Knife 

The weight is 485 g, which gives it enough mass to be a good cleaver. At the same time, the knife is well balanced with the balance point just in front of the handle, so the knife feels nimble and lively despite its size.

To round off the package, Bush Camp comes with a sturdy leather sheath. The Spaniards know how to make one, it can be noted at this point. The sheath is made of strong, quality leather and is sewn with double seams. The knife is made to be worn both high on the belt or a little lower in an extra loop. Since the belt loop is attached with press studs, it is easy to switch between them or if you want to remove the knife from the belt without taking it off.

Just like the previous Joker knife, this one feels extremely solid. I'm thinking of build quality. The finish on the blade is well done, the factory edge is good, the transitions between the materials in the handle are excellent, and, not least, the sheath exudes quality. An extra bonus that can't be seen in the picture is that the knife is so well-balanced.

For these reasons and many more, I'm looking forward to testing this Spanish knife as well. A report will follow!

Joker

/ J - goes for a double

* The Bark River Knives scandal echoes in the back of my mind as I write this.

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Joker Ranger

- a new knife from Spain

It started with a folding knife a long time ago. My interest in knives has always been eclectic, and I tend to call my "collection" a reference library. This means that the focus and direction sometimes shift. That's why my first knife from Joker was a classic Spanish navaja, as I was into knives with a historical background. They still make such knives, but also so much more. It is in "much more" that we are starting now.

Today's presentation focuses not only on Joker's broader and more recent range but also on a trend, or perhaps rather a movement, depending on how you look at it, the one about "bush craft knives". I put the term in parentheses because I think the Swedish word "friluftskniv", directly translated into outdoorsknife, is so much better. Mostly because it is broader and does not focus solely on the technical aspect, but also includes cleaning mushrooms, cooking outdoors, or whatever you do with your knife.

In my eyes, this is exactly what this model, the Ranger, should be excellent for. It was released last year and is a knife with all the attributes a modern knife of this type should have. However, if you want to connect to the English expression, there are models in Joker's catalogue that are more refined, such as Nessmuk and Bush Lord, for example.

It's always fun to open a new knife box. Even if you know the model, it's not the same to see them in real life and feel them!

In this case, it means that the knife can be obtained with or without fire steel, for example. The necessity of fire steel can always be discussed.* It also means that this knife can be obtained in two different configurations. As a scandi grind for those who prefer it, or as in this case, with a full flat grind.

That I chose the latter does not mean that I do not like a good "Scandinavian" grind, but because a flat grind is so much better in my opinion as soon as you move away from cutting wood. In my case, outdoor life also means some cooking and the like in addition to cutting sticks and wood.

Ranger as a complete package with heavy-duty modular leather sheath, fire steel and extra line

Ranger is a knife that is sturdy without being bulky. Strong but still light, which in this case means a total length of 235 mm, of which the blade accounts for 110 mm. The weight is 185 g for the knife alone and a total of 328 g including the fire steel.

The shape of the blade is a drop point with a thickness of 3.8 mm and a height of 31.5 mm at most. I would have thought the thickness was almost too much if it weren't for the fact that the blade is partly completely flat ground and partly tapers towards the tip. The blade has no "choil", something I will discuss in more detail in a future review.

The steel used is a very familiar material to me. It is Swedish Sandvik 14C28N. A stainless steel with very good general properties. It is not extreme in any direction but is both stainless and relatively resistant to impacts while being easy to sharpen and holding its sharpness fairly well. The factory edge was good, I might add in passing.

The handle is stable and sturdy with a length of 120 mm and a width of 23 mm. The material is black Canvas Micarta with red liners as an accent. The surface is polished, and the sides are attached with two rivets along with a tube that also acts as a lanyard hole. The fact that the knife and handle feel stable is, of course, also because it is a full-tang knife. Furthermore, the handle has a small finger guard, a duckbill towards the back end and a relatively faint coke bottle shape. In other words, the sides are not completely flat.

A nice detail is that the fire steel's handle is made of the same material.

Joker Ranger

The whole package is rounded off with something that I have noticed that Spanish brands are often very good at, making leather sheaths. Here, that translates to a thick (3mm) leather of good quality that has also been double-stitched, which, of course, increases durability. The fit is good, and the knife is held in place without falling out, and it does not rattle. Only good first impressions, in other words.

The suspension device is very flexible as it consists of a loop attached with rivets, which means that the knife can be easily removed from the belt. It is just as easy to transform the sheath from a low-hanging dangler to a high ride by being attached with an easily detachable ring.

Overall, the Joker Ranger feels like a really solid build. The materials are well-chosen, and then it can always be discussed whether you want stainless steel or not in this type of knife. I am one of those who always prefer it. Modern stainless steels do not suffer from the disadvantages that carbon steel is said to eliminate.

The knife is clearly well-made with a sturdy sheath with several nice features. I am very much looking forward to carrying and testing this knife. As soon as it is done and there is a basis for a review, one will come.

Joker

/ J - looking south

* Nowadays, they are almost as much a must in bushcraft circles as a knife. Hardcore enthusiasts, of course, learn to make a bow drill. I don't belong there, I alternately use lighters and or matches, and then I carry a fire steel in case they don't work. The latter has happened to me.

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - TacticalEdged.Dojo The Spike DC

Återigen dags för ett första möte. Inte för världen men för mig. Det här är den första modell jag testar från TacticalEdged.Dojo eller som de oftast förkortas "TeDojo". Ett företag som på kort tid främst gjort sig känd för kinesiska kastknivar av klassiskt snitt med modeller som Storm, ZauChi och Duanhong.

Men där Storm är en mer klassisk kastkniv och Duanhong är en kinesisk dart så är den här nodellen, The Spike DC en fusion mellan en Bo-shuriken och en dolk. Resultatet är en mycket smal, relativt lättburen och extremt lättkastad sak. 

En ny bekantskap - TeDojo eller TacticalEdged.Dojo

Utseendet är mycket distinkt. Den långsmala profilen med sin skarpa spets gör ett starkt intryck. Den kräver liksom uppmärksamhet. The Spike DC är 260 mm lång och 8 mm tjock. De måtten ger en vikt av 210 gram även om den faktiskt känns tyngre när man håller i den för att den är så kompakt. 

Kniven är CNC-fräst ur ett stycka DC53 verktygsstål och hårdheten uppges vara så hög som 61 HRC. Det skal  bli mycket spännande att se hur det materialet uppträder och håller över tid. Särskilt när det är så hårt. Vanligen hålls kastknivar till under 50 HRC för att vara så sega som möjligt. Här ar TeDojo valt att gå en annan väg. 

The Spike DC

Ytan har i det här fallet fått en svart titan-behandling. Själva handtaget har tydliga rutor som båder hjälper till med indexering samt bättre grepp om man bara håller i det. Längs med hela kniven, hela vägen från spetsen till handtagets slut löper en skåra. Den ger  bättre fäste vid till exempel tekniker som Military Half Spin. 

Märkningen är mycket diskret och skall du hitta logotypen får du leta på sidan av kniven. 

TacticalEdged.Dojo The Spike DC kan fås med Kydex-fodral om så önskas

Vill du bära kniven så finns ett fodral i Kydex att köpa till. Ett alternativ jag valde för att kunna testa kniven optimalt. Fodralet passar kniven mycket bra. Den sitter på plats utan att låta men ändå löst nog för att kunna dras kvickt om andan faller på. Det är även försett med ett clip för att kunna bäras i en ficka, i byxlinningen eller på ett bälte. 

De första intrycken är extremt goda kan jag säga. The Spike upplevs mycket välgjord, proportionerna och detaljerna känns genomtänkta och balansen är utmärkt. Det skall bli intressant att stifta närmare bekantskap med den här kniven på kastbanan. 

Men jag kan redan säga att jag ångrar att jag inte köpte fler!

/ J - testsugen

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Karesuandokniven Tundran

It may not be a secret that I appreciate the Swedish brand  Karesuandokniven. I bought my first knife from them in the early nineties, and the model was Järven. A knife that is still in the range, thirty-five years later. Then I received an Uraka as a gift from my mother a few years later, a knife that is, for that reason, one of my most appreciated.

A couple of them have also been reviewed here on the blog, such as Galten, Pältsa, and most recently Bäver 10. It was a whole six years since I wrote something about the first one. Time flies as usual. Now, however, it is time for news, not just for me but for everyone, as this is a new knife from the world's northernmost knife manufacturer in Karesuando!

Welcome to the model called Tundran.

A box that makes me long for the mountains, you know what it contains

On their website, Karesuandokniven calls the Tundran an all-around knife. This is not misleading in any way, but at the same time, it should be added that this applies to most of their products. The difference between the blades on the different models is not very big from a broader perspective, and the handle is certainly different, but the difference is sometimes subtle.

Karesuandokniven Tundran

In this case, it specifically means a knife with a blade that is 100 mm long, with a height of 21 mm. Proportions that are quite common for this type of knife. The thickness is 3.2 mm.

The steel used is the classic Sandvik 12C27.* A steel that is perhaps somewhat simple but well proven. The hardness is stated at 58 HRC, which is quite soft. It will be interesting to see how it behaves during use. The grind is a classic "Scandi grind" as it is often called these days. It can also be said to be a low sabre grind with just an edge or a zero grind. As you know, it gives a specific set of properties that I intend to discuss more in a future review.

Tundran, a beautiful knife that hopefully performs as well as it feels good in the hand!

The handle is made of dark-stained masur birch with a brass front edge. What distinguishes the handle is that it is relatively narrow and slightly longer than usual, as well as strongly shaped. It is simply curved, with the noticeable stern being particularly noticeable. Even when you hold it for the first time, you can see that it fits very well in your hand.

Other impressions are that the knife is both light and well-balanced. The weight without the sheath is 95 grams, and the entire package, including the sheath, is 150 grams.

The sheath is made of cowhide and is of classic Scandinavian cut. It includes a pendant made of a leather cord, and it ends with a leather nib. The latter fulfils a function, but I will come back to that.

First impressions are that this is an equally beautiful knife in reality as in the picture. A classic Scandinavian knife with roots deeply rooted in the barren tundra or perhaps the lean Norrland soil. The materials are recognisable with wood, leather and Swedish steel.

Good choices that match both the appearance and hopefully the properties of the knife. I have some hopes for the latter, given my previous experiences with products from Karesuandokniven. Stay tuned for a future review of this knife! It just needs to be used first.

Karesundokniven

/ J - looking for his Norrland roots

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

* For example, these dimensions happen to be exactly the same as those found on the blade belonging to Bäver 10, as an example.

New Knife - SRM Twin

This may very well be the best-looking knife SRM has ever made. At least for those who appreciate the dagger format, that is. It doesn't get much more streamlined than this in the world of folding knives.

The model is called Twin and has the model designation 251MB, with the addition of GB for this version, with a dark blade and laminated handle sides.

Twin is currently available in four versions. In addition to this version, the knife is available in another striking combination with a completely black blade and a white G10 handle. In addition, there is also multi-colored G10 and, not least, Micarta.

SRM 251MB-GB Twin

This knife is 178 mm long overall, and the handle is 101 mm long. It is a real lightweight, and both the materials contribute to this, but not least the thin, slender blade. The weight is only 70 g.

Twin boasts a single-sided, sharpened dagger blade that is 76 mm long and 2.5 mm thick. The steel used is N690. The dark surface is a titanium coating.

The handle sides, found on the outside of a heavily drilled-out steel frame, are made of a laminate with G10/carbon fibre in this case. More unique is the opening method, or at least one of them. You can open the knife using the lock, as it is a "cross bar lock" which in SRM's version is called Ambi Lock. A technique that they incidentally master better than most. If the locking bolt is pulled back, the blade swings freely and can thus be folded both out and in. Something that facilitates the smooth action is, of course, ceramic ball bearings.

A more streamlined knife is hard to find. Elegant was the word!

But the main method of opening the knife is the most hidden and one of the most effective "front flippers" I've come across. Just slide your thumb or index finger over the top of the handle, and the blade flies out.

The package is rounded off with a wire clip that works great.

As a dagger nut like me, this is a "no-brainer", a model I just had to have. Especially when it's as elegant as it is. A review will be coming soon.

SRM Knives

/ J - dagger up my existence

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Artisan Cutlery Revel

I have already stated that Artisan Cutlery is a company that can manage a good design from Ray Laconico. Previously, I have tested and reviewed a knife called Prado from Artisan's sister brand, CJRB.

This time, the knife is somewhat more luxurious in its design with a titanium handle. The model is called Revel, and I can already reveal that I am positively inclined.

Artisan Cutlery Revel

Revel is a fairly sturdy piece with a clip point blade that I think is nice, measuring a full 90 mm in length. The thickness of the blade is 3.2 mm, which is not excessive given the size of the blade.

The steel used is a powder steel that Artisan developed themselves and is designated AR-RPM9. My experiences with this steel have been good so far. It can be compared to variants such as VG10 or 14C28N.

What distinguishes this knife, apart from the appearance and the rather bold blade shape, is that the handle is made of titanium. This, of course, makes the knife lighter, which in turn affects the balance. In this case, for the better. Revel feels very nimble in the hand.

Another lasting impression is that it is very easy to both open and close. In other words, it has good "action" as it is usually called in modern terminology.

The lock type follows almost naturally from the handle material and is therefore a frame lock. An exemplary one. 

Revel is the result of a collaboration with Ray Laconico

The entire knife is 205 mm long, but thanks to its relatively thin and open back, it weighs in at a low 113 g. In this version, it should be added. If you don't like titanium or just want a smaller price tag, Revel is also available with an FRN handle with the same blade steel. There is also a choice of several colours.

Then there are both titanium and FRN variants with such luxurious steel as S90V or even in Magnacut, in a limited edition for those who want a more advanced steel composition.

With Revel, Artisan Cutlery has achieved another good collaboration with Laconico, and it will be exciting to see what follows in the future, even though they have several knives signed by him at this point. An in-depth presentation will follow in the upcoming review of this knife.

Artisan Cutlery

/ J 

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

New Knife - Al Mar SERE Operator

- or there is a difference between Operator and Operator

Friends of order with a good memory probably feel that their fingers are itching and would like to point out that I have already presented a knife called the Al Mar SERE Operator 40. That is certainly completely correct, but look, it is not the same knife. The names are similar, and so is the knife, as they are based on the same basic model.

This particular numbered version came in a very special box

Just as the specifications differ slightly, so does the name. The correct name for this model is the Al Mar SERE Operator, or more accurately, the 4" Al Mar SERE Operator Knife. The latter is more of a  designation, I guess.

In addition to the knife, the box contained some other goodies.

There are a number of points on which these knives differ. In fact, there are so many that it is basically a different knife with similar characteristics. I therefore intend to present a comparison between them at a later date.

Simply put, it can be said that in addition to both knives having G10 in the grip, the materials are different, while all the dimensions have been changed. Overall, this knife is lighter and even more agile to handle than its predecessor. It can then be added that both models are slightly smaller than the original, which had a five-inch blade, which essentially makes them a "mini SERE".

Specifically, it means a knife that is quite modest in size with a blade length that the name suggests, four inches or just over ten centimetres. This gives a total length of 222 mm (8.75"). The blade has a material thickness of 3.3 mm (0.13"). The handle is also thin, smooth and lightweight, which gives the knife itself a weight of as low as 126g (4.5 oz).

The handle material is G10, which has a thin red line closest to the tang as decoration. Very stylish and alludes to Al Mars' black-red theme. 

The blade shape is Al Mar's classic "Talon" or, as most would identify it ", a quintessential spear-point". The steel used is the proven 154CM, which has been given a dark grey tumbled finish.

The knife is complemented by a Kydex sheath. It is noticeable that there is quality in it as well as it has just the right resistance to keep the knife in a firm grip while being easy to draw. In addition, the knife is completely silent when it is in the sheath. No rattle here!

The sheath has a swivel clip in spring steel that fits most belts. For the extra knowledgeable, this construction may reveal who manufactures this knife for Al Mar.

SERE Operator comes with a Kydex sheath equipped with TOPS's custom metal clip

I don't usually comment on how knives are packaged or how the boxes look, but in this case, it's something completely special! This particular copy happens to be a numbered edition (no. 10/500) and a press release variant and therefore comes in this very special box.

More specifically, it's an ammunition box where dimensions and specifications are written on the outside in the same way as if the contents were cartridges.

For once, the packaging doesn't feel exaggerated, as this knife really sparks. One of the things behind it is that, unlike the previous model, it is not made in China.

AL Mar SERE Operator made by TOPS Knives

Al Mar SERE Operator is instead made in the USA, more specifically in Idaho. That's where TOPS Knives is located, and they are the ones who are responsible for the manufacturing expertise in this case. For those who know their knives for outdoor use, military, police and other similar professional groups, there is hardly any need for an introduction. It can only be stated that they are of the absolute highest possible quality.

The same impression is immediately given by the SERE Operator. Especially since the restrained format paired with excellent balance gives a knife that literally radiates competence. This is underlined, as I said, by a build quality including the case that is of an exceptionally high level.

Therefore, it will be a true joy to carry, use and review this knife. SERE Operator invites to be carried and screams to be used.

Al Mar Knives

/ J - excited