Spotlight: CRKT Minimalist series by Alan Folts

The CRKT Minimalist series, designed by Alan Folts, is a collection of compact, lightweight, ergonomic fixed knives that are perfect for EDC use and minor outdoor tasks. These knives are known for their excellent grip, versatility and use of solid materials. In this Spotlight, we discuss the different blade shapes within this series and their characteristics.

Features of the CRKT Minimalist series

A distinctive feature of the CRKT Minimalist series is its versatility. This collection of knives contains a diversity of blade shapes, each designed for specific cutting tasks. CRKT uses sturdy steel types like 5Cr15MoV or 8Cr13MoV steel. These are stainless types of steel that are easy to sharpen.

Each knife in the series has an ergonomic handle with three distinctive finger grooves. These grooves ensure that you get a nice grip on the knife, regardless of its small size. This makes the knives in the Minimalist series extremely comfortable and safe to use. CRKT often chooses micarta or G10 for the handles. Both materials are known to be very grippy and durable.

Each knife comes with a sheath, usually made of a thermoplastic material. With the included sheath, you carry the knife around your neck with the neck cord, or on your belt, with the included belt clip. There is a lanyard at the end of the handle of each knife, providing extra grip and ease of use.

The weight is also similar among the knives of this collection. Most knives from the Minimalist series weigh between 45 and 55 grams. This is a nice weight that won't bother you during your activities.

Specific models and blade shapes

Within the CRKT Minimalist range there are several models with different blade shapes, each suitable for specific tasks.

Drop point

The Minimalist Drop Point is the most popular blade shape in this series and designed with a versatile drop-point blade. This design is ideal for various cutting tasks and EDC use, thanks to the knife's versatility and friendly appearance.

Bowie

The Minimalist Bowie features a classic bowie-style blade. This design is great for everyday cutting tasks and precision work. The pointy tip, for example, is very suitable for piercing through thick materials. And it looks cool too!

Cleaver

The Minimalist Cleaver has a wider blade reminiscent of a miniature cleaver. This design is ideal for chopping and cutting small objects, making it perfect for food prep and other camping tasks.

Persian

The Minimalist Persian features a hollow-ground blade, giving the knife excellent cutting properties. Ideal for everyday cutting tasks and minor outdoor tasks, this knife is also at home in a hunting setting.

Katana

The Minimalist Katana is more evocative and has a slightly longer blade than the other knives in this series. The blade has a compound grind; the base of the blade near the handle is hollow ground, and towards the tip you'll find a flat grind.

Spear point

The Minimalist Spear Point has a flat-ground blade with excellent cutting capabilities and a super tough point. Another defining feature of this model is the groove in the blade. The knife, like the other models, is versatile in use thanks to its excellent ergonomics.

The premium CRKT Minimalist Drop Point

For fans looking for a more luxurious version, a premium version of the Minimalist Drop Point is also available. CRKT has equipped this knife with a handle made of Black Canvas Micarta and 154CM steel, which stays sharp for a long time and is easy to sharpen. The hollow grind of the blade ensures fantastic cutting capabilities. The plastic sheath with neck cord has been replaced by a leather sheath with belt loop, allowing you to attach the sheath to your belt or a backpack. The end of the sheath is equipped with a lanyard eye, so you could still attach a cord and carry this Minimalist as a neck knife. A leather loop with press stud ensures that the knife stays in place.

Conclusion

In short, the CRKT Minimalist range is an excellent choice for anyone looking for compact, versatile and reliable fixed blade. With its thoughtful design and excellent performance, it will undoubtedly be a valuable addition to your collection, whether you are an avid outdoorsman or just looking for a functional and stylish EDC knife.

Want to learn more? Check out all CRKT Minimalist knives here!