In addition to honoring their heritage, Case have also been looking to the future with new opening mechanisms. To that end, they've introduced the Kickstart Series, essentially classic patterns now equipped with a pocket clip and an assisted opening mechanism. The TrapperLock pictured above pops open nicely with one hand while still maintaining that classic Case look. It even has a liner lock to help keep things secure.
As another way of blending the old and the new, the pictured model is part of the Sparxx series of handles, featuring synthetic material that's been jigged to emulate the look and texture of the bone versions.
There are a couple of models out right now equipped with this Kickstart opener but we expect to see even more in the future.
The Shark Tooth and the CG01
If you want something even more modern from Case then check out these two knives - the Shark Tooth flipper and their collaborations with Southern Grind, the CG01 series. Both feature crisp manual flipping action, aluminum handles, and a stonewashed S35VN blade. The Shark Tooth blade features a nice acute tip that will be great for piercing and for smaller cuts where intricate detail is needed. It also has G10 inlays and a liner lock to keep things secure. It has a really nice feel in the hand and is quite light, making it easy to carry with you every day.
The Southern Grind CG01 knives can be had either with tanto or drop point blades. Their frame lock is very sturdy and I'm really impressed by the colored finish. It looks great and it feels very durable. These are just the first of what we expect will be many modern flippers from Case. We love their slipjoints but we're glad to see them branching out at the same time.
Normally these new item round-ups stick to just the new knives that hit our shelves some time in the last week or so, but I've made an exception this time to share some big news about a long-awaited Benchmade that just became available for pre-order. In addition, we've also got an exciting new line of tactical knives from Hogue & Sig Sauer, plus a couple of Bestechs that were too cool not to share. Let's check 'em out!
Benchmade 945 Mini Osborne
two black Benchmade Osborne folding knives, one sitting open perpendicular over one folded, on a stone background
Your eyes do not deceive you: the Benchmade Mini Osborne is real and really happening! Measuring in at just 2.2 oz. with G10 handles and a 2.9” S30V blade, the 945 Mini Osborne is set to carry on the legacy of its older, bigger brother.
It seems like Benchmade fans have been suggesting this knife for almost as long as the original 940 has been around. And now, the Mini Osborne available for pre-order now and due here on November 19th!
This is like the knife guy equivalent of the must-have Christmas toy that has parents camping out in a Target parking lot. I can't think of a better gift to give (or receive) this year than this long-awaited version of one of the most popular folding knives ever made. Are you as excited about this as we are? What do you think of this new member of the growing 940 family? Let us know in the comments below.
Introducing the latest from Hogue Knives and Sig Sauer: the K320. Available as either a button-fired auto or an ABLE Lock-equipped manual, these knives feature comfortable polymer handles, S30V blade steel, and the impressive attention to detail we've come to expect from Hogue.
All told, there are variants coming soon: auto and manual versions in three color combinations with either a tanto or drop point blade. Having handled several of these in person, I can speak to how just how well thought-out these are. Everything from the carefully applied handle texture that smooths out where needed to save your pockets from being shredded, to the grippy pattern on the deep-carry clip, designed to help retrieve the knife from your pocket! The Bestech Platypus is just like its namesake: unusual-looking, yet highly-adapted. Its duck-billed D2 blade rides on ceramic bearings for a glassy smooth, drop-shut action. The version pictured here features handle scales made from tri-colored beige, orange, and black G10 scales,
Do any tactical knives work well in the outdoors? Steel Will has an option below. We've also got some sweet Vox-designed fixed blades, a new TOPS hatchet with an innovative handle, and much more.
Fox Core Voxnaes Folders & Fixed Blades
Hit the trail with the Core from Fox Knives, an Italian-made collection of fixed blades and pocket knives from the prolific Jesper Voxnaes. Underpinning them all is a comfortable and versatile synthetic handle that should fit hands large and small. The fixed blades are made with BECUT steel, providing tough, stainless performance at a very reasonable price, while the N690 steel on the folders will serve you well in any environment.
Steel Will Barghest Hard-Use D2 Flippers
While Steel Will was conceived the Barghest as a tactical knife, the traits that make it good in that role also mean it is a great companion folder when you head to camp. Large, comfortable, reliable, and quick to open with one hand, durable bronze washers in the pivot mean the knife will still flip nicely even in dirty conditions. Take your pick of 3.5” or 4” drop point blades and the D2 steel will not let you down.
TOPS Ucon Hawk
TOPS' latest battering ram of a hatchet has a trick up its sleeve. New Suretouch handles combine layers of G10 with black rubber, not only providing extra grip but also soaking up some of the shock when you are chopping away. The Ucon Hawk has everything else you need too. From the belt sleeve for easy carry to the tumble-finished 1095 construction with rounded edges on the haft for comfort, this may be their finest new axe to date.
Cold Steel S35VN Ultimate Hunter
The Ultimate Hunter from Cold Steel is one of those rare folders with a very comfortable grip, thanks to the use of contoured G10. Don't let the name “hunter” dissuade you from this knife though, even if you don't hunt. The drop point blade is a time-proven shape and the S35VN steel provides edge retention to last you through your adventure. Plus, the strength of the Tri-Ad lock makes this the next best thing to a fixed blade for standing up to abuse.
Condor Pocket Pike Fishing Spear Set
Nothing says “self-reliance” quite like spearing your own food! The perfect addition to your survival kit, these spear heads can help you procure wild game or fish in an emergency. The dual barbs are designed to work on a variety of game and have been tested in the jungles of Central America by Condor's main designer, Mr. Joe Flowers himself. Packing down into an included pouch, you will find them easy to stash and access when the need arises.
CRKT Mossback Hunters by Tom Krein
Searching for a great full tang fixed blade on a budget? These two knives from CRKT are an absolute bargain - a perfect gift for a young one - and will prove useful far beyond the low price would suggest. Tough SK5 carbon steel has the strength to endure while the G10 handles feel great whether your hands are big or small. The Bird and Trout is a great small utility knife for any purpose and the larger Hunter will prove a faithful companion on the belt for years to come.
Schrade Bolo Machete with Survival Sheath
With a reassuring heft, this Bolo from Schrade is a hard-chopping machete that you will be eager to swing, and the rubberized handle will help minimize vibrations from heavy hits. The 14” blade provides plenty of reach, and the nylon sheath comes equipped with a sharpening stone to maintain the edge in the field, plus a ferro rod for emergency firstarting. Available on closeout right now, these make a great gift for the budding outdoor enthusiast.