The folks at Tactile Knife Co. picked a heck of a name for its first fixed blade: Dreadeye. Dread eye. Drrreadeye … Sounds futuristic, or at least reminiscent of a comic book character.
But the knife itself is no joke. Packing Richlite Micarta, MagnaCut steel, and the option of a KYDEX or formed leather sheath, the Tactile Knife Co. Dreadeye ($199) is an impressive piece of craftsmanship. This company is an offshoot of the folks at Tactile Turn, which built a wildly successful business with its precision-machined pens.
GearJunkie hailed one of the group’s previous knives as the best slipjoint on the market. And now, Tactile is going full tang.
“The Dreadeye has a small form factor that carries well without being obtrusive yet still packs plenty of cutting potential for a variety of tasks,” the company’s press materials stated. “Crafted entirely in-house from the blade to the hardware, we’re proud to offer the Dreadeye in collaboration with Christensen Knifeworks.”
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So, let’s check the boxes: a strong design, an outstanding maker, and materials at the cutting edge of the industry. When the company agreed to send a loaner my way for review, I felt like Babe Ruth calling his shot.
In short: The Dreadeye is an outstanding first fixed blade from the folks at Tactile Knife Co. Designer Matthew Christensen has come up with an attractive, cyberpunk blade shape, with the comforts of near-future luxury. The choice of MagnaCut steel helps justify the price, and the overall package is a good one. Just don’t go stabbing at logs with its semi-fine tip, and you’ll be fine.
- OAL: 5.12”
- Blade length: 1.96”
- Blade steel: MagnaCut
- Blade shape: Reverse Tanto
- Grind: Flat
- Hardness: 60-62 HRC
- Lock type: Button Lock
- Carry: Right hand, tip-up, deep carry
Pros
- Excellent grip and look
- Solid cutting performance
- Quality sheath options
- Magnacut!
Cons
- Tip is unsuited to hard use
- Middling food prep
- Leather sheath sheds a bit
Tactile Knife Co. Dreadeye Review
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A Slippery Slope: Downsides
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Conclusion
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