Some knife historians will tell you that the first folding knives were friction folders made by the Romans. I’m sure those were decent knives but I can tell you that they didn’t have TOPS Knives’ differential heat treated 1095 steel blades and grippy G-10 scales with their Cryptic Cyber texture pattern. So… Sorry, Romans. This round goes to TOPS Knives.
The TAC-Raze friction folder from TOPS Knives has a lot going for it. As mentioned above, it sports a 1095 steel blade – a steel that TOPS works with extensively and knows how to maximize. It’s black G-10 handle scales feature TOPS Knives’ futuristic Cryptic Cyber texture pattern. The knife comes with a very nice belt sheath which is a huge plus as friction folder users will tell you that pocket carry isn’t always a great idea.
Friction folders, for those who may not know, have no locking mechanism which makes them a great choice in jurisdictions that prohibit locking knives. The knife blade has a tang protrusion that nests into the handle when the blade is open and is held in place by the user’s hand. The knife can not close as long as the knife is being held. This lack of locking mechanism along with their simplicity and a sense of nostalgia has lead to a recent resurgence in the popularity of friction folders.
Check out the TAC-Raze at TOPS Knives.
| Knife Type | Folding |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 7.63″ |
| Blade Length | 3.25″ |
| Cutting Edge | 2.88″ |
| Closed Length | 5.75 |
| Blade Thickness | 0.130″ |
| Blade Steel | 1095 RC 56-58 |
| Blade Finish | Tumble Finish |
| Handle Material | Black G10 |
| Handle Style | Cryptic Cyber Scales |
| Knife Weight | 2.7oz |
| Weight w/ Sheath | 3.5oz |
| Sheath Included | Yes |
| Sheath Material | Brown Leather |
| Sheath Clip | Belt Loop |
| Designer | Leo Espinoza |
