Kansept’s fall lineup is packed full of new and returning design talent. One in the former group is Matthew Christensen of Christensen Knifeworks, who has created the Tarkin, a slick and sturdy front flipper.
Every element of the Tarkin blends brawn with elegance, starting with the blade. Here Christensen has given us his take on the classic, Japanese-style tanto. The gentle transition between primary and secondary edges allows the 3.42-inch blade to retain a smooth, graceful shape but still gives it some extra attitude and brawn behind the tip.
The Tarkin opens exclusively with a low-profile front flipper. It doesn’t stick out more than is necessary and helps this mid-sized knife keep a footprint. Like many premium Kansept knives, the Tarkin’s blade is made from CPM-20CV, a high-performance stainless that is probably at its peak of popularity in the production scene right now. If you prefer, there are two different variations rolling out with damascus blades instead of the super steel.
Christensen’s handle design for Tarkin is slim and simple, comprised of two lightly chamfered titanium slabs; in the CPM-20CV version of the Tarkin, these scales have been flamed for that tiger stripe look. Holes drilled into the front scales add a bit of visual interest, but if you prefer your Tarkin without, there is a damascus variation with solid handle scales. All versions of the Tarkin have a sculpted titanium pocket clip and a steel capped frame lock.
The Tarkin was slated for September, but has yet to land. Here’s hoping its soon.
Knife in Featured Image: Kansept Knives Tarkin
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