January brings many things, from resolutions to retrospectives. It’s also when many manufacturers debut their new products at SHOT Show in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, I was nailed by COVID and was unable to attend the festivities this year. But CRKT was kind enough to hook me up with a few of their newest offerings. To say that I’m impressed is an understatement.
Big Boy Driver
I like bit driver tools for EDC use. They’re small and compact, and the well-made ones will do real work. CRKT has offered bit drivers before, but this one is the best of the lot by far. It takes quarter-inch bits but comes with an adapter to use 4mm bits as well.
It’s 3.75 inches long, which gives you plenty of real estate for a decent grip without discomfort. The ball-bearing spinner in the driver is smooth as silk. The driver tip has a magnet to secure the bits while they’re in use.
It won’t replace a full tool set, but it works great on small jobs. I’ve added it along with a set of bits to my EDC tool kit.
The Big Boy Driver runs just $25.
Forebear Slip Joint
There’s something about a good quality slipjoint knife. It’s traditional, and it harkens back to the days when every schoolboy seemed to have one in their pocket. The Forebear features two Wharncliffe blades that open at opposite ends of the knife. Each has a nail nick, and they’re made from 12C27 steel.
It’s available in two colors, either red/black G10 or a yellow Ultem. The primary blade is 2.29 inches long. The secondary blade is just an inch. Closed, the Forebear is just 3.43 inches, and it weighs only 1.30 ounces. This is a small knife by any measure, which makes it perfect for EDC in a variety of capacities.
The primary blade is just long enough to handle routine things like cutting up an apple at lunch, while the smaller secondary blade is ideal for breaking down boxes. I’m particularly fond of the red/black G10 iteration, as it’s very eye-catching.
The Forebear has an MSRP of $75 for the G10 and $85 for the Ultem.
Kasilof
Named for the Kasilof Peninsula in Alaska, this fixed-blade knife is more rugged than it may appear. It features a skeletonized handle to reduce weight and a nearly four-inch drop point blade that’s ideal for field dressing birds or cleaning fish.
The Kasilof has a Cerakote-coated 1095 carbon steel blade, while the handle has Micarta scales. The combination is visually stunning as well as practical. Adding to the ensemble is a handsome, rugged leather sheath that keeps the knife securely on your belt.
The knife is incredibly well-balanced and slim without being awkward or clumsy, even in large hands. The Kasilof is a great addition to the outdoor kit and will serve the user well for years to come.
The Kasilof has an MSRP of $250 and is found on CRKT.com.
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