Bestech’s latest knife, the Shrapnel, has been unveiled just ahead of Blade Show. The Shrapnel continues to add range to the new company’s growing lineup, and is among the first from a batch of releases planned for the second half of 2018. Bestech says to expect the total number of incoming new models to hit the double digits.
The Shrapnel plays into all of Bestech’s developing strengths, showcasing a look that blends utility with unconventional blade design. Its 3.46-inch blade falls under the drop point classification, but tapers at the forward end into a very fine needle point. It’s not the most radical blade shape the company has come up with, but does specialize a little more than a by-the-books drop point would. According to Bestech’s Salina, this edge configuration was conjured up to maximize use of the entire edge length from tip to tail. “[It] excels in general cutting tasks which involve slicing and the use of the complete cutting edge,” she says. “[It’s] also very suitable for tactical usage.”
An angular handle with detailed millwork develops the Shrapnel’s technical appearance while maintaining a simple overall ergonomic profile. A secondary chamfer on all the sharp lines counteracts potential hotspots, too. Bestech’s solid design is married to materials and mechanics that place the Shrapnel in quality territory: titanium frame lock, flipper tab, ceramic ball bearings. These large and small details come together to make a knife that functions both as a statement piece and a hardcore everyday user. Solina describes the ideal Sharpnel user as someone “who likes to carry a lightweight, high-end production knife for general EDC tasks, but also wants a tactical backup knife in his pocket.”
New high-end knives seem to roll out every day, and getting attention in this crowded market is a growing challenge. Bestech’s experimentation with blade shapes helps diversify its offerings by targeting smaller, specific niches of customers rather than hoping every new design appeals to every customer. Knives like the Hornet, Scimitar, or Toucan may not cater to all tastes, but will satisfy specific users’ needs more directly. “We pay much attention to different styles of blades, and want to develop more new designs for different customers’ uses,” Solina explains.
Knife featured in image: Bestech Knives Shrapnel
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