8. COLD STEEL KRIS BLADES

Cold Steel, a manufacturer and innovator of purpose-built knives and blade tools for everyday carry, tactical, and hunting applications, has expanded its popular Ti-Lite series of carry folding knives with the introduction of three new Kris blades. (A Kris knife is an asymmetrical dagger of Asian origin with distinctive blade-patterning achieved through alternating laminations of iron and nickel-iron alloy.)

The Ti-Lite series was developed by famed knife maker Phil Boguszewski in the classic style of 1950s switchblades. These knives are sized for comfortable pocket carry and utilize a strong stainless-steel leaf spring lock able to withstand up to 145 pounds of pressure.

Constructed of AUS 10A steel for strength and edge performance, the new Kris Ti-Lite blade models come in either fouror six-inch blade lengths with a standard edge or a 6-inch-long blade with a serrated edge. The fourand six-inch blades are 3mm and 4mm thick, respectively.

Further distinguishing the Kris Ti-Lite knives are their Griv-Ex handles in flat dark earth. These handles provide a sleek, positive grip with additional retention courtesy of a slight pommel swell. Each knife includes an unobtrusive steel pocket clip. Blade deployment comes via thumb studs or blade-integrated quillons, which can be used to open the blade on draw by snagging the edge of the carry pocket. SRP: $89.99 to $114.99.