Let’s start by saying: this is a great looking knife. It really is. The CRKT (Columbia River Knife and Tool) M16-10KZ is the kind of knife that non-knife junkies would be drawn to. Simply for looks. But the M16-10KZ is much more than that.
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CRKT Brand Name
CRKT, though fairly young compared to many juggernauts in the industry, and has quickly built a reputation of quality knives. The M16-10KZ is no exception. As an EDC knife, it’s capable of handling a good many everyday tasks and then some. Seemingly, it stands monument to the innovation that has shaped CRKT.
Established in 1994, Columbia River Knife and Tool have proven that they are capable of making good small knives. They’re known as being innovative, with several patented inventions under their belt. They’ve worked with many respected knife-makers to produce some great knives.
Key Specs of the CRKT M16-10KZ
- Blade Length: 3 inches
- Overall Length: 7.125 inches
- Closed Length: 4 inches
- Blade Steel: 8Cr15MoV
- Blade Style: Tanto
- Handle: Zytel
- Weight: 2.3 ounces
- Price Range: $30
Our Impressions of the CRKT M16
The M16-10KZ sports an opened length of 7.125 inches which folds to a length of 4 inches. Weighing a measly 2.3 ounces, it disappears in the pocket. These dimensions fit within an EDC range easily. It’s balanced relatively well, and feels good in hand. The light weight does not compromise with handling – and it doesn’t feel flimsy either.
The 3 inch blade is made from 8Cr15MoV steel which is beautifully finished with EDP. The steel holds its edge well and can be very very sharp. The blade has hollow grinds with a Tanto designed point which is great for more intricate work. It also has aggressive serrations. The blade, as a whole, is great-looking, especially with the EDP finish. With a Carson “flipper” deployment is quick and easy. CRKT have made use of their brilliant AutoLAWKS locking system for the M16-10KZ.
The M16-10KZ’s handle matches the blade in aggressive looks. Made from sturdy glass-filled nylon, coupled with its slim design, the handle compliments the blade well, making for a well-balanced knife. The ergonomics of the knife are great. As an EDC knife that demands regular usage, handling is paramount, and CRKT have certainly designed a comfortable knife.
How Does the CRKT M16 Stand up to Competition
If you were wanting an EDC knife, I’d recommend some of CRKT’s competitors like Spyderco and Kershaw. The Kershaw Leek is a good option and more than suitable for EDC needs. If you were wanting to stay with CRKT, there is the Pazoda which is a great knife – or even the Drifter. Spyderco, Kershaw and CRKT are all respected companies that manufacture great EDC knives.
With that being said, the M16 holds it own against the others. It’s more than capable of being an EDC, and can be relied upon without questions. For the budget minded pocket knife enthusiast the M16 is a nice addition to any collector’s arsenal.
Final Thoughts on the CRKT M16-10KZ
CRKT’s M16-10KZ is perfectly sized for an EDC knife. As mentioned earlier, it’s a really good-looking knife. The black EDP finish especially makes for an angry look.
The 8Cr15MoV steel is mid-tier quality, it has good edge-holding capabilities. I’ve used this knife for quite some time now and it holds a nice edge. It’s not perfect, but in this class range it’s not going to get much better.
The Tanto design makes for a fine point meaning small detail jobs are easy completed with a blade style like this.
Thanks to the AutoLAWKS locking system, you can have confidence the blade will not fold back into your fingers while working. And with a Carson “flipper” deployment is fast and simple.
Whether used for an EDC for around the house or for tougher jobs, the M16-10KZ has all it’s bases covered.
