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CRKT Ken Onion Outrage Folding Knife  We have to admit that we are partial to Ken Onion designed knives. We have never had one of his designs fail us or not live up to his reputation. The model that stands out most for us is the Ken Onion Skinner, which we tested and reviewed in 2014. We dressed out and skinned two whitetails and a 300 pound feral hog without stopping to re-sharpen. It so impressed our guides that they literally begged us to sell it to them. No sale, as it was Mary's favorite field knife. When we saw Ken's Outrage at the 2016 Shot Show, we had to have it. This is a large folder, too big for normal pocket carry. It is about 4-11/16 inches long when folded and 7-7/8 inches long with the blade open. It has a one-position pocket clip for carrying and it rides deep in a pocket, but it does not come with a belt pouch. (After market suppliers, such as Uncle Mikes, can help with that.) The Outrage utilizes the IKBS ball bearing pivot system, the flipper for blade deployment is smooth and fast. The IKBS was invented by Flavio Ikoma and his friend Rick Lala of Korth. The "I" stands for Ikoma and the "K" for Korth. The satin finished, drop point, deep hollow ground blade is made from Chinese 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, which is tough, corrosion resistant and holds a good edge, yet is easy to re-sharpen when needed. Properly heat-treated for use as a knife blade (HCR 58-60), 8Cr13MoV is approximately equivalent to Japanese AUS-8 stainless. Like other Ken onion designs, the cutting edge of the blade is straighter at the tip with a curve that increases toward the hilt. (See photo above.) This shape is the reverse of most knife blades. The blade was sharp out of the box. The handle scales are dark gray aluminum with lines and stippling for a more positive grip. The handle incorporates a large finger notch for the index finger of the strong hand and two wide, gentle dips for the remaining fingers. The back of the handle has a gentle rise in the middle to fill the palm of the hand. This is a subtle, ergonomic shape and the index finger notch serves as a guard to keep it off of the sharp edge of the blade. Okay, enough about the particulars of this knife. The specifications are below. Specifications
What impressed us about this blade is that it is a "pure" Ken Onion design. It is a solid, well-designed and efficient blade, great for everyday carry, or as a field knife. A final comment: Two years ago, our son-in-law "appropriated" Ken's Ripple 2 as his daily carry folder. He is not going to get this one. Jim has laid claim to it. Period! |
