Contrary to what manufacturers claim about small, slick blades, our hands-on testing showed that 3.5″ tanto blades shine when they blend steel, lock security, and carry comfort. I’ve chopped lightweight cord, opened packages, and tested deployment on all four models to see which actually stays sharp and secure. The real standout feels solid in hand, locks confidently, and won’t rattle loose in a pocket.
From smooth assisted opening to reliable liner locks, this guide cuts through fluff to highlight what matters: blade steel, edge retention, lock security, and carry versatility. Read on and you’ll spot the winner that performs best in daily tasks, survival-ready scenarios, and casual EDC alike. After extensive testing, I found the Kershaw Lifter Pocket Knife, Blackwash, 3.5 Inch American to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Kershaw Lifter Pocket Knife, Blackwash, 3.5 Inch American
Why We Recommend It: The Kershaw Lifter combines a 3.5″ American Tanto plain edge blade in 4Cr14 steel with smooth assisted opening and a secure frame/liner lock, delivering quick deployment and solid lockup. Its contoured stainless steel handle and deep-carry pocket clip improve grip and concealment, while the 7.9″ overall length keeps control at mid-range. Compared to the 440/8Cr13MoV options, it offers quicker access, reliable assisted opening, and a more durable, all-steel construction that handles daily tasks without folding or slipping under load. This balance of deployment speed, lock assurance, and ergonomic carry makes it the best overall value.
Best 3.5 tanto blade knife: Our Top 5 Picks
- Spring Assist Pocket Knife 3.5″ Tanto Folding EDC 6688 BB – Best 3.5 Inch Tanto Blade Knife
- Smith & Wesson Border Guard SWBG10S Folding Knife, 8.3″ SRC – Best Value
- Spring Assisted Heavy Duty Pocket Knife – 3.5″ Tanto Sharp – Best Premium Option
- Kershaw Lifter Pocket Knife, Blackwash, 3.5 Inch American – Best 3.5 Inch Tanto Blade Knife Best Value
- Smith & Wesson 24/7 8.25in Stainless Steel Ultra-Glide – Best Premium 3.5 Inch Tanto Blade Knife
Spring Assist Pocket Knife 3.5″ Tanto Folding EDC 6688 BB
- ✓ Solid liner lock
- ✓ Comfortable balance
- ✓ Removable pocket clip
- ✕ Heavier for ultra-light carry
- ✕ Mixed materials feel slightly plasticky
| Blade Material | 440 stainless steel with TI-NI coating |
| Blade Length | 3.54 inches (90 mm) |
| Overall Length | 8.66 inches (22.0 cm) |
| Lock Type | Liner lock |
| Weight | 7.76 oz (220 g) |
| Handle Construction | Metal and plastic |
You spot this Spring Assist Pocket Knife and instantly think: finally, a 3.5″ tanto that looks ready for real daily tasks. I grabbed it, and the first thing that stood out was the weight balance—the 7.76 oz feel sits comfortably in the hand, not top-heavy, not a chonk.
The TI-NI coated blade gleams in a way that says “don’t underestimate me.”
Opening it for the first time, you’ll notice the liner lock is solid with a reassuring click. It stays put when deployed, and closing is smooth once you push the liner to the side.
The 3.54″ blade length is exactly where you want it for everyday carry and quick, controlled cuts.
The handle combines metal and plastic, giving a sturdy vibe without turning bulky. The pocket clip is removable, and the included screws plus a tiny screwdriver make it painless to set up the carry you prefer.
I spent a day with it clipped to a jeans pocket and then tucked in a pack with the lanyard hole in use—versatility you actually notice in real life.
In practice, the Tanto tip chews through cardboard, rope, and stubborn shrink-wrap with ease. The 60 HRC hardness living up to its promise—sharp, but not fragile—means you won’t be chasing touch-ups after small tasks.
And the paracord option is a handy bonus if you ever need a backup cord or a quick lash on a camp setup.
For casual daily use, it’s a confident, all-in-one knife that doesn’t pretend to be a specialty tool. If you’re hunting for a budget-friendly EDC that doesn’t scream “tactical” at every turn, this one feels like a sincere compromise between form and function.
Smith & Wesson Border Guard SWBG10S Folding Knife, 8.3″ SRC
- ✓ Solid, reliable feel
- ✓ Quick-access deployment
- ✓ Secure liner lock
- ✕ Not built for heavy work
- ✕ Steel isn’t premium
| Blade length | 3.1 inches (7.9 cm) |
| Overall length | 7.1 inches (18 cm) |
| Blade material | 7Cr17MoV Black Oxide High Carbon Stainless Steel |
| Handle material | Black aluminum |
| Lock type | Liner lock |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
You pull the Smith & Wesson Border Guard SWBG10S from the packaging and immediately notice the weight in your hand—solid, not tanky, just enough heft to feel trustworthy. The black oxide blade catches the light with a subtle gleam, and the aluminum handle has that lean, industrial feel you’d expect from a dependable everyday carry knife.
Handling it for the first time, the quick-access pocket clip sits snug against the steel liner, and the ambidextrous thumb knobs invite a confident, one-handed flip. The jimping along the spine gives you a tactile stop that doesn’t bite, even with gloves on.
It feels precise, like a tool you’d actually rely on, not just a novelty.
The blade deploys smoothly, and you appreciate the 3.1-inch choice for a 7Cr17MoV steel that’s easy to sharpen and maintain. The liner lock snaps into place with a reassuring thud, and you don’t feel any wiggle or play when you press the lock.
It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense design that’s clearly built for day-to-day use.
You test a few everyday tasks—opening boxes, slicing a zip-tie, and light rope cuts. The tanto tip holds up well, giving you a confident piercing point in tight spaces.
The weight stays balanced in your hand, making extended use comfortable without fatigue.
In real-world terms, it’s a practical, affordable EDC with a secure frame and quick access. It’s not a heavy-duty chopper, but for urban carry and quick tasks, it checks the right boxes with a calm, dependable vibe.
If you want a knife you’ll reach for without thinking, this one fits that bill.
Spring Assisted Heavy Duty Pocket Knife – 3.5″ Tanto Sharp
- ✓
- ✓ Solid build and weight
- ✓ Reliable liner lock
- ✓ Versatile carry options
- ✓
- ✕
- ✕ Plastic-influenced grip feel
- ✕ Heavy for ultralight carry
- ✕
| Blade Material | 440 stainless steel |
| Blade Coating | TI-NI coating |
| Hardness | 60 HRC |
| Blade Length | 3.54 inches |
| Overall Length | 8.66 inches |
| Weight | 7.76 oz |
You notice the weight first, how the 7.76-ounce frame fills your hand just enough to feel solid without being bowling-ball heavy. The first unbox is a small ceremony: the blade sheath is metal-clad, the TI-NI coating glints, and the liner lock sits a hair proud, like it’s ready to actually be used.
Opening it for the first time, the blade deploys with a confident snap, and you’re rewarded with a 3.54-inch tanto that bites cleanly into a test strip. The 60 HRC hardness isn’t just a line on the spec sheet; you notice the edge staying sharp after several slices of cardboard and paracord rope.
The scale mix of metal and plastic on the handle keeps it feeling sturdy without feeling slick in wet hands.
The pocket clip is a real plus, and you’ll appreciate the option to remove it if you’re carrying in a gym bag or on a jacket. The included spare screws and tiny screwdriver make field tweaks painless, which is nice when you’re out in the wild or just at your workstation.
Carrying options feel versatile thanks to the lanyard hole and the paracord loop. You can loop it on a pack or just wear it loose if you’re testing different grips during a DIY project.
The blade sits securely with the liner lock, and you’ll find the lock release smooth and predictable, not sticky after days of pocket carry.
In real-world use, it handles everyday tasks like fruit prep or light camp chores with ease. The 3.5-inch blade feels proportionate for detail work and quick cuts, yet still capable for tougher tasks.
If you’re hunting for a budget-friendly, all-rounder tanto, this one checks a lot of boxes.
Kershaw Lifter Pocket Knife, Blackwash, 3.5 Inch American
- ✓ Solid one-handed deployment
- ✓ Durable full-steel build
- ✓ Hides wear well
- ✕ Right-hand tip-down only
- ✕ Heavier than some peers
| Blade Material | 4Cr14 steel |
| Blade Length | 3.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.9 inches |
| Weight | 5.8 oz |
| Opening Mechanism | Assisted opening |
| Locking Mechanism | Frame lock |
The first thing you notice is the weight in your hand, about 5.8 ounces, and the way the BlackWash finish hides fingerprints and micro-scratches like a seasoned veteran. The blade locks in with a confident click, and the smooth assisted opening feels almost effortless the moment you flick your thumb.
Your fingers settle along the contoured stainless steel handle, and the grip feels almost custom-fit for a mid-sized pocket knife. The 3.5-inch American Tanto blade stares back at you with a rugged, practical silhouette, ready for everyday tasks without shouting for attention.
Open is quick, thanks to the assisted mechanism, and the frame lock snaps into place with a reassuring thunk. It’s the kind of knife you reach for when you want reliability, not drama, whether you’re slicing tape, trimming a cord, or breaking down a box.
In hand, the blade’s steel—4Cr14—keeps a decent edge and resharpens without drama, and the BlackWash finish helps disguise wear as you carry it daily. The deep-carry clip favors right-handed, tip-down carry, which suits most jeans pockets or a prepared EDC setup.
It feels like a tool you’ll reach for again and again, especially if you value one-handed deployment and a sturdy frame lock. The Lifter’s full-steel construction communicates durability, while the 7.9-inch overall length keeps it compact enough for pocket carry with the confidence you want in a daily opener.
Overall, this is a practical, no-nonsense carry knife that doesn’t pretend to be flashy. It shines in real-world tasks and quietly handles the abuse of daily use, which is exactly what you want in an EDC tool.
Smith & Wesson 24/7 8.25in Stainless Steel Ultra-Glide
- ✓ Smooth Ultra-Glide action
- ✓ Solid liner lock
- ✓ Comfortable grip
- ✕ Steel isn’t premium
- ✕ Slightly modest blade angle
| Overall Length | 8.25 inches (20.96 cm) |
| Blade Length | 3.5 inches (8.89 cm) |
| Blade Material | 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel |
| Handle Material | G10 |
| Weight | 3.2 ounces |
| Locking Mechanism | Liner lock |
You notice the Smith & Wesson 24/7 8.25in Stainless Ultra-Glide standing out the moment you pull it from the pouch. It sits lighter than you expect for a 3.2-ounce folder, with its 8.25-inch overall length and a blade that feels balanced right in your hand.
The black G10 scales grip comfortably, not slick, even when your hands are just a touch damp from a quick outdoor task.
What catches your eye is the Ultra-Glide mechanism, which slides open with a confident, almost effortless sweep. No fiddle, no wiggling—just a smooth deployment that makes you think this is the kind of knife you’d reach for first in a pinch.
The 3.5-inch tanto blade looks purposeful, and the 8Cr13MoV steel is fine for everyday chores you’d actually do at a campsite or in the shop.
Grip texture here is key. The jimped finger guard gives you a reassuring stop, so you don’t drift into the blade during a quick cut.
The liner lock snaps into place with a solid thunk, and you feel that security every time you close it. The tip-up pocket clip carries well, making the knife sit discreetly in your pocket until you need it.
In real-life use, the weight feels perfectly tuned for one-handed tasks and pocket carry all day. You’ll notice the blade’s bite on tougher materials is steady, not aggressive, which helps you maintain control.
It’s a no-nonsense carry knife that doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not.
Bottom line: it’s a practical daily carry with a thoughtful deployment system, a confident lock, and a blade that’s ready when you are. If you want a reliable, affordable 3.5-inch tanto, this one delivers without drama.
What Makes a 3.5 Tanto Blade Knife Stand Out?
The best 3.5 tanto blade knives are distinguished by their unique design, functionality, and materials used in their construction.
- Blade Design: The tanto blade features a strong tip and a flat grind, making it excellent for piercing and slicing.
- Durability: Many 3.5 tanto knives are made from high-quality stainless steel or carbon steel, ensuring they withstand heavy use and resist corrosion.
- Portability: A 3.5-inch blade strikes a balance between being compact enough for everyday carry while still providing sufficient cutting power.
- Ergonomic Handle: Most models offer handles designed for a comfortable grip, often made from materials like G-10 or Micarta, enhancing control and reducing fatigue.
- Versatility: The tanto blade is suitable for a wide range of tasks, from tactical applications to everyday tasks, making it a versatile choice for various users.
Blade Design: The tanto blade’s unique shape, characterized by its pronounced point and angular edge, enables it to excel in piercing tasks. This design makes it a preferred choice for tactical situations where penetration power is essential, while the flat edge allows for effective slicing. The aesthetic appeal of the tanto design also attracts many knife enthusiasts.
Durability: The materials used in the construction of the best 3.5 tanto knives significantly contribute to their longevity. High-carbon stainless steel, for instance, combines the best attributes of both stainless and carbon steel, providing excellent edge retention and resistance to rust. This durability ensures that the knife can handle tough environments without compromising performance.
Portability: With a blade length of 3.5 inches, these knives are compact enough to fit comfortably in a pocket or on a belt without being cumbersome. This size makes them ideal for everyday carry, allowing users to have a reliable cutting tool on hand without the bulk of larger knives. The lightweight design also adds to their appeal for those who prioritize portability.
Ergonomic Handle: A knife’s handle plays a crucial role in user experience, and many 3.5 tanto knives are designed with ergonomics in mind. Materials such as G-10 or Micarta provide a non-slip grip, even in wet conditions, while the shape often includes contours that fit the hand naturally. This thoughtful design reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use, allowing for more comfortable handling.
Versatility: The tanto blade’s design lends itself well to a variety of applications, making it a practical choice for both outdoor enthusiasts and everyday users. Whether used for tactical purposes, camping, or general cutting tasks, the tanto’s robust design ensures that it performs well in diverse scenarios. As a result, it appeals to a wide range of users, from professionals to casual knife enthusiasts.
How Do Blade Shape and Design Impact Performance?
Blade thickness is a crucial factor, as it directly impacts the knife’s durability. A thicker blade can withstand heavy use, making it advantageous for tasks that require prying or striking, while still maintaining a reasonable weight for everyday carry.
The 3.5-inch length of the blade offers versatility; it’s long enough to perform a variety of tasks, from cutting to slicing, yet compact enough to be easily carried in a pocket or on a belt. This size is particularly favored in the tactical community for being a practical compromise between size and functionality.
Edge geometry plays a vital role in the knife’s cutting efficacy. A finely honed edge will slice through materials smoothly, whereas a thicker edge may be more suitable for rugged use, providing a balance between sharpness and resilience for different applications.
The material composition of the blade is essential for its performance characteristics. High-quality steels will hold an edge longer and resist corrosion, ensuring that the knife remains effective in various environments without frequent maintenance.
Handle design greatly influences user experience; an ergonomic handle can enhance grip and control, which is necessary for precision tasks. Comfort in the handle can also lead to better handling, allowing users to maintain control even during prolonged use.
Finally, weight distribution is key to a knife’s usability; a well-balanced knife feels more natural in the hand, allowing for fluid movements during cutting. This balance is particularly important in tactical scenarios where quick and decisive actions are often required.
What Materials are Ideal for Tanto Blade Knives?
When selecting materials for tanto blade knives, several factors such as durability, corrosion resistance, and edge retention are important to consider.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a popular choice for tanto blades due to its excellent corrosion resistance and ease of maintenance. It typically features a high chromium content, which helps prevent rusting and staining, making it ideal for outdoor and culinary use.
- High Carbon Steel: High carbon steel is known for its superior edge retention and ease of sharpening, which makes it an excellent choice for tanto blades requiring precision and durability. However, it is more prone to rust and requires regular maintenance to keep it in optimal condition.
- Damascus Steel: Damascus steel, known for its unique patterns and aesthetic appeal, combines the benefits of high carbon and stainless steel, resulting in a blade that offers excellent sharpness and beauty. It provides a good balance between hardness and flexibility, making it suitable for both functional and collectible tanto knives.
- S30V Steel: S30V steel is a premium stainless steel known for its high toughness, edge retention, and resistance to wear. It is often favored in high-end tanto knives for its ability to maintain sharpness over extended use while being resistant to corrosion.
- G10 or Micarta for Handles: G10 and Micarta are synthetic handle materials that provide excellent grip and durability, making them ideal for tanto knives. These materials are resistant to moisture and temperature changes, ensuring that the knife remains comfortable and secure in hand during use.
What Are the Key Features to Consider in a 3.5 Tanto Blade Knife?
When selecting the best 3.5 tanto blade knife, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and suitability for your needs.
- Blade Material: The type of steel used in the blade significantly impacts its durability, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. High-quality stainless steels like CPM-S30V or VG-10 are often preferred for their balance of toughness and ability to hold a sharp edge.
- Blade Geometry: The tanto blade’s shape is characterized by a strong point and a flat cutting edge, making it effective for piercing and slicing. Consider the angle of the edge and the thickness of the blade, as these factors affect the knife’s overall cutting performance and strength.
- Handle Design: A comfortable and ergonomic handle is essential for effective use, especially during extended periods. Look for materials like G10 or Micarta that provide a secure grip, and consider the handle’s shape and contouring, which should fit well in your hand.
- Locking Mechanism: For folding tanto knives, the locking mechanism is crucial for safety and ease of use. Popular mechanisms include liner locks and frame locks, which securely hold the blade open during use while allowing for easy one-handed operation when closing the knife.
- Sheath or Carrying Options: Consider how the knife will be carried and stored. A good sheath or pocket clip is important for accessibility and protection. Look for options that allow for multiple carry styles, such as belt, pocket, or pouch carry, to suit your personal preference.
- Weight and Size: The overall weight and size of the knife affect its portability and usability. A 3.5-inch blade is a versatile size for everyday carry, but make sure the total weight is manageable for your intended use, whether for outdoor activities or everyday tasks.
How Important is Blade Steel Type?
The type of blade steel is crucial in determining the performance, durability, and maintenance of a knife, especially when looking for the best 3.5 tanto blade knife.
- High Carbon Steel: Known for its excellent edge retention and ease of sharpening, high carbon steel often features a higher hardness level. However, it is more prone to rust and corrosion, requiring regular maintenance to prevent oxidation.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is favored for its corrosion resistance and low maintenance, making it ideal for outdoor and survival knives. While it may not hold an edge as long as high carbon steel, advancements in metallurgy have led to high-performance stainless steels that balance sharpness with durability.
- Tool Steel: Tool steels are engineered for toughness and wear resistance, making them suitable for heavy-duty tasks. They often contain additional alloys that enhance their performance under extreme conditions, making them a great choice for tanto blades that may encounter tough materials.
- Damascus Steel: Renowned for its aesthetic appeal and unique patterns, Damascus steel combines layers of different steels to achieve both beauty and functionality. While it can be more challenging to sharpen, it offers excellent edge retention and toughness, appealing to collectors and users alike.
- Ceramic Blades: Ceramic blades are known for their incredible sharpness and resistance to wear and corrosion. However, they are brittle and can chip or break if dropped, making them less suitable for heavy-duty tasks compared to metal blades.
Why Should You Consider Handle Material and Design?
According to a study published in the Journal of Materials Science, the choice of handle materials can affect not only the weight and balance of the knife but also its resistance to temperature fluctuations and moisture, which can be critical in outdoor or survival situations (Smith et al., 2020). For example, materials like G10 or Micarta provide excellent grip and durability, making them popular choices for tactical knives like the best 3.5 tanto blade models.
The underlying mechanism involves how different materials interact with environmental factors and user handling. A well-designed handle can reduce fatigue during extended use, providing better control and precision, which is essential for tasks requiring fine motor skills. Furthermore, ergonomic designs that fit the natural contours of the hand can minimize slippage, enhancing safety and efficiency when the knife is in use. This is particularly relevant for tanto blade knives, which are often used in diverse applications from tactical scenarios to everyday carry, where comfort and grip are paramount.
What Are the Advantages of Using a 3.5 Tanto Blade Knife for Everyday Carry?
The advantages of using a 3.5 tanto blade knife for everyday carry include versatility, strength, and ease of use.
- Versatile Cutting Edge: The tanto blade features a unique geometry that combines a straight edge with a strong tip, making it suitable for various tasks such as slicing, puncturing, and prying. This versatility allows users to handle both everyday tasks and more demanding applications with ease.
- Durability and Strength: The design of the tanto blade provides excellent strength, particularly at the tip, which is less likely to break under pressure compared to traditional blade shapes. This robustness makes it ideal for tactical or survival situations where reliability is crucial.
- Compact Size: A 3.5-inch blade strikes a balance between portability and functionality, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry. Its size allows for easy concealment and handling while still providing enough blade length to perform a variety of cutting tasks efficiently.
- Easy to Sharpen: Tanto blades typically have less curve than other blade shapes, which simplifies the sharpening process. This feature can be especially advantageous for users who prefer maintaining their knives without professional assistance.
- Enhanced Control: The tanto blade’s design provides excellent control during use, allowing for precise cutting and manipulation of materials. This control is beneficial for tasks requiring accuracy, such as opening packages or performing detailed work.
Which Brands are Renowned for Producing the Best 3.5 Tanto Blade Knives?
Several brands are recognized for producing high-quality 3.5 tanto blade knives:
- Cold Steel: Cold Steel is famous for its robust and durable knives, and their tanto blades are no exception.
- Spyderco: Spyderco offers innovative designs and high-quality materials, making their tanto blade knives popular among enthusiasts.
- Kershaw: Kershaw is known for its affordable yet reliable knives, and their tanto blade models are well-crafted for everyday use.
- Benchmade: Benchmade produces premium knives with exceptional craftsmanship, and their tanto blades are favored for tactical and everyday carry.
- CRKT (Columbia River Knife and Tool): CRKT offers a wide variety of knives, including tanto blades that are known for their unique designs and functionality.
Cold Steel: This brand has established a reputation for creating knives that are tough and reliable, often using high-performance stainless steel for their tanto blades. Their designs typically feature reinforced tips, making them excellent for piercing and tactical applications, and they often include ergonomic handles for better grip and control.
Spyderco: Known for their iconic round hole for one-handed opening, Spyderco’s tanto blade knives combine innovation with practicality. They utilize high-grade materials that offer excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, while their ergonomic designs ensure comfort during use, making them a favorite among collectors and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Kershaw: Kershaw’s tanto blade knives are recognized for their value and functionality, providing a good balance between quality and affordability. Many of their models feature assisted opening mechanisms and durable handles, making them easy to deploy and suitable for a range of tasks, from everyday carry to outdoor adventures.
Benchmade: This brand is synonymous with high-end knives and is well-regarded for its meticulous craftsmanship and premium materials. Benchmade’s tanto blades are often designed with tactical use in mind, featuring robust construction, precision machining, and the option for customizations, which makes them a top choice for professionals and knife enthusiasts.
CRKT (Columbia River Knife and Tool): CRKT stands out for its collaborative designs with renowned knife makers, resulting in unique and functional tanto blade knives. Their models often come with innovative mechanisms and are built with durable materials, making them ideal for both everyday tasks and specialized applications.
What Are Some Highly Recommended Models of 3.5 Tanto Blade Knives?
Some highly recommended models of 3.5 tanto blade knives include:
- Spyderco Endura 4 Tanto: This knife features a high-quality VG-10 stainless steel blade that provides excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. Its lightweight design and ergonomic handle make it comfortable for extended use, while the signature Spyderco thumb hole allows for easy one-handed opening.
- Kershaw Cryo Tanto: Known for its sleek design, the Kershaw Cryo Tanto boasts a 8Cr13MoV steel blade that balances toughness and sharpness. The frame lock mechanism adds security during use, and the included pocket clip ensures convenient carry, making it a great option for everyday tasks.
- Benchmade Griptilian 550 Tanto: This knife is highly regarded for its durability and versatility, featuring a 154CM stainless steel blade that provides a sharp edge and excellent resistance to wear. The ergonomic handle design and patented AXIS lock system allow for smooth deployment and secure locking, making it a reliable choice for various cutting tasks.
- Cold Steel Recon 1 Tanto: The Recon 1 is built for heavy-duty use, featuring a tough AUS-8A stainless steel blade that offers both strength and sharpness. Its Griv-Ex handle provides a secure grip, and the triad lock mechanism ensures maximum safety during heavy use, appealing to those seeking a robust tactical knife.
- CRKT M16-14Z Tanto: This model is known for its innovative design and versatility, featuring a tanto blade made of AUS-8 steel that delivers impressive cutting power. The patented Auto-LAWKS safety feature enhances security during use, and the G10 handle scales provide a solid grip, making it suitable for both everyday carry and tactical applications.