From cutting bread to self-defense: TOP 5 EDC class knives

The prototype for this knife was the ancient Greek sword kopis, which, in particular, was used by the Spartans. The shape of the blade is identical, the difference is only in size. That is why the Cold Steel Spartan is sometimes referred to as a folding sword. The blade length, equal to 114 mm, contributes to the same name, which is one of the largest indicators among all folding knives. The scope of the blade is appropriate - it is as effective as possible when applying chopping blows, it is a little worse for stabbing. But cutting something is not very convenient. And if the knife copes with soft materials, then difficulties arise with hard ones.

The purpose is clearly military - it shows itself best in self-defense. Especially given the similarity of the Emerson hook on the butt, which is needed to quickly open the blade when removed from the pocket. The die clings to clothes and pulls the blade from the handle, i.e. when you get the knife, it is already in working order. In order to clean an apple, such a system is not useful, but when attacked by hooligans, it turns out to be very useful. Also pay attention to the shape of the handle. When held, the palm is completely inside, closed on both sides by bends. This design does not allow the knife to slip out of the hand, and hardly anyone can pick it up on purpose.

The design makes this blade especially masculine. The whole structure is massive and inspires fear by its very appearance. It certainly looks impressive, but herein lies the problem. To manipulate the blade, you need to make an effort: both the hinge and the latch are quite rigid. On the other hand, this also prevents the blade from accidentally opening or closing. By the way, the proprietary TriAdLock lock can withstand pressure up to 212 kg, so even when striking, you should not be afraid that the knife will fold.

In fact, this knife is designed for self-defense, and is poorly suited for household tasks. But in the event of an attack by hooligans, it is able to both simply scare and effectively protect one's life and property.

The name of the model is a little strange, and it's not easy to make out what it means. But judging by the design of the knife, there are strong associations with reptiles. Indeed, outwardly it resembles a lizard or a snake. It should also be noted that the knife is absolutely not afraid of corrosion, suitable for stabbing and cutting various materials, and at the same time compact enough to carry in your pocket. And at first and second glance - the most versatile tool.

Attention is immediately drawn to the ring in the butt, reminiscent of the eye of the same reptile. Fortunately, this is not just a design feature. The ring is needed to open the blade, and you can even use it with one hand. And unlike most knives with pegs, the operation of this model is quite comfortable both with a bare hand and with thick gloves - the diameter of the ring allows you to hook it in any situation.

The shape of the blade also evokes associations with reptiles - the semi-serrated sharpening is very reminiscent of teeth. But you can’t call it superfluous or useless. The serrator expands the scope of the blade, allowing you to easily cut (or rather saw) ropes, fabric, wood, rubber, and even quickly clean fish from scales. The rest of the blade is universal: it copes quite well with cutting, and if necessary, can cause a lot of trouble with a stabbing blow. By the way, the AxisLock blade lock can withstand pressure up to about 150 kg, so you can safely forget the fear of breaking the knife.

An unusual and most functional knife for constant wear, able to help in a variety of situations.

The main feature of the model is the pads on the handle made of titanium alloy. This is the reason for the appearance of the Limited Edition prefix, i.e. limited edition, because the titanium in the composition of the knife can be considered a unique feature. Of course, such an element slightly increased the total mass, but it's definitely worth it. Damage to the handle is quite difficult. Neither mechanical damage nor harsh weather will leave marks. The knife can even be dropped from the balcony - the handle will not suffer. By the way, the anti-slip notches are made unusually (in the form of straight lines with clear angles), but they perform their role properly, and the blade does not slip from the hand even in water.

Another feature of the model was the hardness of the blade, equal to 61 units on the Rockwell scale. This ensures both good sharpening retention and the ability to work even with soft types of metal. For example, a knife opens tin cans without much resistance, not to mention wood carving - only shavings fly.

The blade opens with a flipper. One click is enough to bring the knife to working condition. It is fixed in this form with a classic framelock lock. On the one hand, the system is time-tested and performs well in a variety of conditions. On the other hand, it does not withstand strong pressure, although it perceives 100-120 kg normally, i.e. a grown man may well hang on a blade, doing extreme rock climbing. It's really not worth it to be in this position.

A high-quality product from a domestic manufacturer, which is the best fit for the definition of EDC (every day care), i.e. for daily use.

The Para-Military 2 model is a modification of the Military knife only in a smaller size, which brought it out of the category of edged weapons and greatly simplified carrying it in a pocket in an urban environment. However, the design has not undergone any special changes, so it is not difficult to recognize the original army version. And, as you know, what is done for the army is not bad by definition. Quality, of course, is beyond praise, but the cost upsets. The price still bites, and is not suitable for every budget, especially considering that the knife does not have any breakthrough technologies. Looks like just a brand surcharge.

The features include a wide ring on the butt, which serves to open the blade. Its diameter is as much as 14 mm, i.e. the indicator is one of the largest among folding knives of the EDC class. This was done to increase the comfort of opening: gloves, dirt, extreme situations - nothing will prevent you from quickly finding the ring and pulling it up, bringing the knife into working condition.

The cutting properties of the model are affected by the shape of the blade and straight slopes from the butt. The blade is best for cutting. Moreover, almost any materials, from bread to tin, given the high hardness of the blade (60 HRC). At the same time, there is an additional thumb stop to better control the knife during power cutting. Of course, he will cope with both punctures and cutting, but it is the cut that the blade can be considered a leader in among its competitors.

An important design nuance is the CompressionLock blade lock. Its principle of operation is based on a spring-loaded die that blocks the blade shank. The system is convenient, opens and closes gently, you can bring the knife into working condition even with a sharp movement of the brush. But reliability is also in question, because the spring can burst or weaken. and then the blade will close, having lost its support.

This model was originally developed for the military and law enforcement officers. Moreover, it is in service with the NATO army, which means that there can simply be no complaints about the quality and reliability. Stainless steel, diamond coating for increased strength, corrosion protection, lightweight fiberglass handle, universal blade with a convenient opening system - it is difficult for a knife to find a competitor. It is not easy to pick it up and for the price, because the cost of the blade is far from affordable for everyone. But it is worth saying that it is worth the money.

The manufacturer has focused on the rapid opening of the blade. There is a double-sided peg and a full-fledged Emerson hook. The first allows you to bring the knife into working condition by hand (by pressing lightly with one finger), and the second - by catching on clothes when removing it from your pocket. And in everyday life, and on a hike, and even in self-defense, the blade is ready for business within a second.

You need to pay attention to the blade itself. First, the SpearPoint form factor is designed to deliver effective stabs. This is also facilitated by the presence of a false blade, which improves penetrating properties. Secondly, the standard sharpening allows you to cut well, and the additional thumb rest improves knife control and pressure when power cutting. Thirdly, part of the blade is made in the form of a serrator, which allows you to work with viscous materials, such as rubber, fabrics, plastic. And, as a cherry on the cake, we note the glass breaker at the end of the handle, which makes the model useful in extreme situations.

Before you is a high-quality and reliable tactical knife, actively used by the military. Of course, it is also suitable for the role of a daily tool, but the cost is quite high for an EDC tool.