Sometimes it takes a unique combination of circumstances to result in unique innovation, even in the world of knives and everyday carry. And that’s exactly what happened with TOPS Knives’ general manager Craig Powell — who designed the brand’s new Poker fixed blade based on both the Japanese kiridashi and Indonesian karambit.
You see, Powell had been working on a leatherworking project when it struck him that the kiridashi knife, with a chisel-ground blade and fine tip, was perfectly suited to cutting leather and other household EDC tasks. Around the same time, he had attended a few classes concerning the creation of self-defense blades, like the ever-popular karambit. In a moment of inspiration, he realized he could combine the two into one extremely versatile fixed blade and, thus, the Poker was born. It’s also built with reliable 1095 steel, canvas Micarta handle scales, and it comes with a Kydex sheath for easy and discreet carry. Get one now for $95.
