A good pocket knife can be one of those useful tools in your arsenal, but it can also be one of the most expensive. Luckily, that doesn’t have to be the case. When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck few knives did it like the CRKT M16. Designed by the late Kit Carson, the M16’s tactical looks, ergonomic handle, and game-changing flipper open mechanism made it an instant EDC classic. The new M16-02KS follows in those same footsteps with upgraded materials and features at an affordable price point, just like the original.
This time around the M16-02KS features a tanto blade made of 12C27 Sandvik steel with a black oxide finish (a step up from the original’s 8Cr15MoV), making for a stealthy look that goes hand in hand with its tactical design. The blade itself is roughly 3 inches in length which is perfect for everyday tasks, and the plain edge makes it easy to get the precise cut you want.
A knurled and easy to reach thumb stud allows for one-handed deployment, but also has a Carson flipper opening in honor of the knife maker. The blade now locks with a frame lock mechanism instead of the original’s locking liner. The handles get upgraded to 2Cr13 stainless steel, complete with weight-saving holes for a durable knife that won’t weigh your pockets down at 3.7 ounces.
And if you’re looking for versatility, the pocket clip can be mounted in four different positions. So whether you prefer to carry tip-up or tip-down this knife has you covered. For a fresh take on a classic pocket knife, the CRKT M16-02KS is a solid option for anyone that wants a practical blade for EDC but doesn’t want to break the bank.
