KNIFE UPDATE PART 1

2021 isn’t all bad. Take a look at some of this year’s great new blades.

Just when you thought you were quite content with the knives you own, the major companies introduced their latest models to pique your interest. Some are new designs, while others are updated versions of old favorites with better steel or different handle options. In Part 1 of our roundup, we look at the new offerings from five manufacturers. We’ll present more in the next issue along with some in-depth reviews of select models.

GERBER

Last year, Gerber introduced its Reserve Program that will feature small-batch American-made knives that the buyer can customize on the Gerber website. The first introduction was the Terracraft fixed blade. Now, Gerber has added the Sedulo, a folding knife with pivot lock and S30V steel. Prices start at $100.

With the hunter in mind, Gerber is now offering its Downwind series. Initial models will include drop-point, caper, and ulu fixed blades. Prices will be $42, $37, and $52, respectively.

For the outdoorsman, there’s the new Bushcraft Hatchet, 15 ¼ inches overall, and the Bushcraft Axe, 26 ¼ inches overall. Both feature hollow handles with a removable, waterresistant storage compartment for small survival gear. These will be $63 and $84, respectively. The unique Doubledown unveiled last year should finally be available. This is a folding machete that opens in a similar fashion as a butterfly knife. It is priced at $129.

If you’re a fan of narrow blades, you’ll like Gerber’s new affordable EDC folders, including the Affinity, Fuse, and Zilch. The Affinity features a frame lock and is available with either a gray aluminum ($37) or very attractive copper ($50) handle. The Fuse ($32) with liner lock features glass-filled nylon scales, while the lightweight Zilch ($21) has a liner lock and plastic scales.

The Gerber Hyperflip ($62) is an assisted opener with flipper deployment. It offers a somewhat thicker grip and Micarta scales.

You can’t mention Gerber without thinking about multitools too. There’s the new Armbar Slim-cut with knife, scissors, and bottle opener; and the Armbar Slim-drive, with knife, bit driver, and bottle opener. Each is $32. Also new are the pocket-sized Lockdown Drive and Lockdown Pry, each featuring several useful tools and selling for $51.

Above: The Buck Pro Series 100 knives are new versions of Buck’s long-popular hunting knives now with updated steel and handles.

Above, from Top to Bottom: The Gerber Sedulo is the latest in the Gerber Reserve Program that features limited edition American-made knives with options. The Gerber Downwind series of fixed blade hunting knives includes a drop-point (shown), caper, and ulu. The Gerber Armbar Slim—cut (shown) and Armbar Slim—drive are two pocket-sized, minimalist multitools. The Gerber Affinity is an attractive, narrowbladed EDC knife at an attractive price.

Top, Right and Below: The Gerber Doubledown is a packable, machete-like tool that folds and opens like a butterfly knife. It features a built-in safety mechanism so that the user won’t lop off a finger or two when closing the tool.