It’s a big EDC market out there, and tons of awesome gear is released all the time. We made The Drop to help you discover the latest and greatest essentials worth a spot in your EDC.
American muscle cars were a symbol of strength, toughness, and performance in the late ‘60s and ‘70s, so it makes perfect sense that the folks at DFCO designed a knife that takes inspiration from the timeless aesthetic of that era. The DFCO McQueen pocket knife combines style, performance, and durability with a sleek and minimalist design that belies incredible toughness, thanks to its CPM-4V steel blade and durable handle.
CPM-4V steel is a premium powder tool steel you don’t often see in pocket knives, as it’s usually reserved for high-end fixed blades. It’s best known for its superior edge retention and overall toughness compared to other steels, which makes it capable of handling any cutting task you throw at it. The blade is sharpened in-house to a 25° continuous edge, which is ideal for a utility knife, further enhancing its cutting performance. The blade’s compact length of 2.5” is great for most tasks and is friendly to carry in many locales.
The McQueen’s handle is made from 17-4 stainless steel: a strong, corrosion-resistant material that can withstand harsh environments. It features a CAM LOCK locking mechanism to secure the blade, a system similar to the iconic AXIS lock with some improvements and refinements. One thing I love about the CAM LOCK is that it’s ambidextrous so that you can open and close the knife with either hand. Its deep carry pocket clip is also made from 17-4 steel, reversible to further its usability from either orientation or preference.
What we like: High-quality CPM-4V steel and ambidextrous functionality are qualities you don’t usually find in pocket knives, making this a true gem.
What to watch out for: We would have preferred titanium handles instead of stainless steel, but we understand they had to keep costs manageable. We can dream, though.
Final verdict: The DFCO McQueen folder is a near-perfect fusion of form and function and a classy daily companion fit for any occasion. It is proudly manufactured and assembled in the USA too, and comes with a lifetime warranty.
