One design that is never in short supply in the knife industry is the tanto, and while it’s always been a personal favorite the new STRICK9 from Krudo Knives takes it to the next level.
More than a run-of-the-mill tanto, the STRICK9 features something different: a hybrid blade design that begins with piece of 9Cr18MoV steel that’s an impressive 3/16-inch thick and 3¼ inches long. Further, the beefy blade boasts four separate grinds, which include a top grind, a blade grind, a tip grind and a spine grind for a look and feel that is symmetrically and aesthetically pleasing as it is practical. All those angles converge into an aggressive-looking tip that is open for whatever business may come its way.
Ceramic ball bearings foster smooth opening, while a frame lock keeps the blade deployed until the task at hand is complete. A thumb wedge along the rear of the spine aids in an ambidextrous means of rapid blade deployment. But should you want more variety, alternate flippers along the top and bottom of the blade permit lightning-fast opening in up to five different methods. (Videos on the Krudo website demonstrate the alternate methods of deployment.)
Meanwhile, carbon-fiber inserts add an elegant touch of class. Tipping the scales at slightly more than 7 ounces, the STRICK9 won’t weigh you down, either.
Whether you’re looking for a utilitarian cutter or something designed for double-duty defensive use, the STRICK9 is a cut above. MSRP: $145.40; krudoknives.com.
