The karambit is a knife originating in Southeast Asia and was used by Filipinos. The knife has a curved blade which makes it unique from most knives. In addition, it is typically held with an index finger placed along the ring on the back of the handle, giving you better control over your cuts and stabs. This is why many people choose to use this as their favourite EDC (Everyday Carry) Knife or for self-defence.
Karambit knives are designed for self-defence, but you can use them to make other tasks easier. If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact knife to fit in your pocket, this post will give you the pros and cons of some of the best karambit knives today. Before purchasing one of these knives, we cover everything you need to know, from features like blade length to handle materials.
Top 5 Picks
This article will go over the best Karambit knives on the market today. It will also cover some of the most important information you need to know about these knives before buying one. Hopefully, this article will help you find the best Karambit knife for your needs!
Detailed Review
COLD STEEL BLACK TALON II
COLD STEEL BLACK TALON II
This collection, launched by the American manufacturer, has been designed in collaboration with Andrew Demko, one of the most prominent karambit knife makers in the world of current cutlery.
This is the second version of the classic Talon knife, and it is equipped with an American CPM-S35VN steel blade, so the metal has been sprayed in liquid to maximize its cutting capacity.
The Black Talon II Smooth incorporates a large straight edge to increase deep cuts in leather, surfaces or textures. Like the Black Talon Serrada, it has a Hawkbill blade style, which has that shape finished in a really powerful end and simulates the claw.
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As we have said before, the two Black Talon II knives share the steel of the Hawkbill blade, which has been produced by Crucible Industries in the United States and has a great structural relationship between chromium and carbon, molybdenum and vanadium.
These four materials will allow the karambit knife a variety of cuts in all environments since it will be stainless and high-end.
Like the smooth-edged one, the Black Talon II Serrated has a back lock at the back of the handle, so it will not close during technical tricks, maximizing user safety.
Likewise, they have grips made of G-10, a fibre resistant to all kinds of impacts due to its multilayer structure.
SPYDERCO TASMAN
SPYDERCO TASMAN
The four pieces that make up this collection, designed and developed by the giant Spyderco in Golden (Colorado), have an H1 steel blade and Hawkbill style,
This is why they have been designed to withstand extreme salinity and ocean immersion.
Likewise, they all have a one-hand opening system to reduce usage times as much as possible. There are two Tasman models with FRN scales in yellow, which differ in their edge since one of the two knives incorporates a smooth edge and the other is serrated, so that it will be one more model.
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Useful in tears on fibres. All these elements are also included in the two black knives, the Tasman Black Lisa and the Tasman Black Serrada.
These two pieces have FRN scales finished in black with Back Lock, similar to their sisters in yellow. Due to their dimensions, Hawkbill blades in the shape of a hook and varied edges represent a real alternative to a karambit knife.
TOPS DEVILS
TOPS DEVILS
The blade of the two Devil Elbow knives is spearhead-shaped, featuring two similar edges concentrated on one sharp end.
The three knives in the Tops Devil’s collection are one of the most spectacular alternatives to the karambit knife. They have a structure almost identical to the traditional weapons of Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines.
The blade of the two Devil Elbow knives is spearhead-shaped, featuring two similar edges concentrated on one sharp end.
The Tops Devil’s Elbow incorporates a one-piece body made of carbon steel type 1095 phosphate in black. Its hardness will exceed 58HRC, making it a strong, resistant karambit knife with a brutal cutting and puncture capacity.
Likewise, it has several holding rings on the handle to perform tricks in various modern martial arts. The next version of the Devil’s Elbow is the XL-size, which features a 6-centimetre Spear Point blade and will be an effective model for performing tricks and skills.
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It also has a handle made of Micarta, a fibre grouped in thousands of layers that is waterproof. The third knife in the Tops Devil’s Collection is the claw, a variant similar to the karambit, with a black phosphate Hawkbill blade and 1095 carbon steel.
This model is similar in size and weight to a karambit knife, including small paracord holes in the G-10 handle. These three models are incredible since they also meet the quality standards of the manufacturer Tops.
The combination of carbon steel, the structure of the knives and the character of a fixed blade with clamping rings on the handle make it an ideal version for karambit knife lovers.
SPYDERCO MATRIARCH
SPYDERCO MATRIARCH
According to their creators, the three knives in the Matriarch Series culminate years of evolution and structural improvement.
It is inspired by the revolutionary Spyderco Civilian and features VG-10 steel blades, offering infinite deep cuts on all types of hard skin or extreme fabrics. All three pieces share a back Lock.
The Spyderco Matriarch 2 Serrated is the first knife in this collection. It has a Hawkbill serrated blade with a one-hand opening system, making it a model eminently used for personal defence. In addition, its FRN grips will guarantee prolonged use without structural weakening.
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A similar model is the Matriarch 2 Emerson, the second version of this alternative tactical knife to the karambit knife, which incorporates the double Emerson opening system into the external structure, ideal for opening the knife from the pants in seconds.
This model also has a more tactical version called Spyderco Matriarch 2 Emerson Black. It has a particularly large serrated edge with a VG-10 steel blade treated with a black layer of carbonitride titanium (TCN). This steel blade adds to the toughness and resistance of the razor.The three Matriarch knives are a renewed version of the traditional karambit knife so that the user can perform tricks similar to those with classic Asian weapons. Likewise, they incorporate a hole for a securing cord in the handles, facilitating the tying of the knives to rope or paracord.
KA-BAR TDI LAW ENFORCEMENT
KA-BAR TDI LAW ENFORCEMENT
If we talk about a self-defence collection that is a true legal alternative to the widespread karambit knife, we cannot stop talking about the TDI Law Enforcement tactical knives.
These pieces have been designed by John Benner, founder and owner of the Tactical Defense Institute. Hence they are ideal for use in martial art, as well as for self-defence and tactical operations.
The five pieces Ka-Bar TDI have a compact size and a functional structure that fits the hand in a truly impressive way, so their stability is incredible in all kinds of circumstances.
They are very manageable pieces, similar to the touch offered by the normal karambit knife. Their versatility resides mainly in the different styles of blades and types of edges.
The Ka-Bar TDI Tanto knife is the most exotic in the collection since it combines an external structure similar to the karambit but uses a Tanto-type blade profile. Hence it is a weapon with a clear combat origin. It also has a mixed edge with a pointed back, similar to traditional Japanese weapons.
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his TDI collection originates with smooth and serrated blades. They are made of Austrian AUS-8 steel, which produces powerful cutting edges with good maintenance. Likewise, their hardness exceeds 57HRC, and they are classified as stainless.
The handle of all these knives has been manufactured in Zytel, a thermoplastic polyamide that has absolute protection against impacts, friction and shocks, and abrasion conditions.
In addition, it performs well in harsh environments with high relative humidity. It is designed with a natural curve to fully ergonomically fit any user’s hand, whether right or left-handed, making it an ideal knife to use in a constant. The Ka-Bar TDI Coyote is the only knife in this series with a desert colour finish.
The last model that makes up this fantastic Ka-Bar TDI Series is the Large TDI Law Enforcement knife, which significantly differs from the rest. First, it is the size of the blade since it can reach 9.2 centimetres, increasing its penetration and combat power.
These five knives represent today’s most widespread alternative to replacing illegitimate karambit knives. Its versatility of blade styles, as well as its edges and its great value for money, make it a safe and effective choice. In addition, they all have a fantastic cover incorporated with a Molle anchoring system, the one used by all armies and special forces.
These are the most outstanding collections in our catalogue about the sale of legal products that resemble kerambit or karambit in dimension, structure and tactical quality.
Buying Guide
BUYING GUIDE
The material of the blade
Karambit knives are often made of stainless steel, carbon steel or iron. However, it would be best to avoid iron models at all costs since they are more difficult to maintain than other materials. Moreover, they will not hold up well in an everyday situation where you might need your blade for defence against pressing foes like glass bottles, abusive people, etcetera.
However, if strength matters most, this option may be perfect- the edge will be smooth every few minutes because of regular use. For example, cutting vegetables without worrying about them flying into someone else eye because they’re too fat (or thin) and killing game humanely with no blood spurting everywhere. These are among many possible when using tools designed specifically by ergonomic experts who know human muscle tension inside.
Karambit knives are a mix of materials but always have steel as their base. Stainless steel is the best option for those on a budget and lightweight Karambits, while carbon steels serve those who want something more robust or durable with less upkeep due to their strong nature.
Handle
A handle is the part of any knife you use to grip it, and many handles are available. The main rule for choosing one should be whether or not your skin will stick out against its surface! Rubberized plastic models offer excellent levels of grip at all times, while metal ones ensure they won’t slip and avoid injury in case something goes wrong with how sharp it may already be because steel itself can bite back.
This means nylon-reinforced glass would likely provide better durability over time, but only choose these kinds since plastics usually don’t feel welcoming due to their texture. In contrast, ergonomic textured polymers allow some level of control even when slick liquids have been applied directly onto them without being.
The handle is important because it gives the user an excellent grip level. Consider several types, including plastic handles (which should be avoided), steel which can be strong and reliable or nylon reinforced by the glass for its best option. Whichever material the manufacturer chooses will depend on what they want their knife’s durability to look like.
Length of the blade/knife
A blade is an important part of your knife. You can find it in most knives, and it’s how you make cuts with the food or whatever else may need cutting! The 3″ length blade translates that if all goes well- this will allow for 5 -6 inches total length when measured from tip to base (or handle).
When it comes to blades, the most common length is 3 inches. However, this can be misleading as many knives with shorter lengths also exist and may better meet your needs for certain tasks or purposes- it may be because you are looking specifically at whittling wood jobs.
The total size will depend largely on what type of knife one buys; however, if they plan on using their tool in an occupation where prevention from accidental cuts would come into play, then 4″ could make sense since that’s about average when measuring both handles.
Protrusion ring
Regarding the karambit, you can find a protrusion ring on its back. This feature enhances stability and grip for better handling your knife and completing various missions under pressure; 97% per cent of these knives have this important part too! Make sure that whichever model or style (straight handled vs recurved) fits YOU best before buying any type – they’re all great because each has a unique personality that will help them perform exceptional moves on command.
There is a ring at the back of your karambit knife. This protrusion also called an “Excalibur” or “protruding blade”, enhances stability and grip for better performance in any task you might be facing. You’ll be able to cut through tough enemies like butter (literally!)
Blade colour
The blade colour of your karambit can be anything you want it to be. You may know that these blades are the most popular around, with black being one option, but there are silver and rainbow colours too! They come in rare hues for those who prefer them more uniquely than basic steel Damascus steel handles offer.
And no matter which choice you make-quality stays consistent across any type, so don’t worry about getting something dinky just because it’s different from what everyone else is using. Karambit knives are the most popular knife in any colour you want. You may know that these blades dominate when it comes to the colours of a blade, with black being one of them, but they also come in silver (which has its benefits), rainbow colours or even rare hues like green which gives off an earth glow effect.
This doesn’t mean there is no difference between various types – some have stronger handles, while others can be found without steel inserts on both sides for more comfortable griping during usage. Regardless if your choice falls under “basic”.
Sheath
The sheath is an important part of any karambit knife. You may believe it’s easy to find one with your blade, but they are hard to find because different blades require unique sheaths for protection and safety purposes.
A common misconception about Karambit knives ̶ also known as “suites” or “fighting knives”, ̶ is their ability to match up well together simply through matching aesthetics; however, this isn’t always true.
Finding a compatible pair requires more than just looking at colour schemes–you need precise fitting dimensions too! That’s why getting both weapons included by purchasing them at once can be seen as beneficial rather than waiting until you have an issue later.
Cord
The cord may be present on the sheath, or it can simply attach to your belt. Be sure to purchase one made from synthetic material because they are stronger than natural fibres, making them more durable for everyday use. And if cords aren’t enough, try matching up different types of metal chains with knives – silver works well against steel.
A blade with a cord is complete. It allows you to carry your knife around, and some models have this feature while others do not. The best bet would be finding one made from synthetic material due to its strength/ affordability combo – it can even match chains made of steel or silver.
Wrapping Up
The Karambit knife is a unique and versatile blade that you can use for self-defence, hunting, fishing, camping, gardening and more. So if you’re looking to get your hands on one of these blades today but don’t know where to start the search process from there’s no need to worry because we’ve compiled an easy guide with all the information you’ll need to find what might be the best karambit knife for your needs. To learn about some of our favourites or if you want help narrowing down which model may work best for you, please reach out.
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