CRKT’S Finest Gentleman’s Knife Is Unlike Any Other — and It’s Deeply Discounted Right Now

Don’t snooze on the unique design, super blade steel and premium handle of the A.P.C., especially when it’s 29% off.

Published February 14, 2025

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Updated February 15, 2025

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When we give something only a passing glance, we often miss fine details that make it stand out from the pack for those who know.

I am so guilty of that with CRKT’s A.P.C. (Always. Pocket. Carry.), a gentleman’s folder designed by veteran Pennsylvania-based knife maker Ken Steigerwalt.

crkt apc beauty — The true quality of the A.P.C.’s materials and design only comes to light with a closer look.

Because while it might look like a pretty standard slip joint, the A.P.C. boasts a number of uniquely compelling qualities.

In case you needed another reason to give it a closer look, it’s also significantly discounted at the moment.

Premium ingredients meet a thoughtful design

On the materials side, the A.P.C. begins to justify its original cost with the quality it brings to the table.

The 2.88-inch blade is made of Böhler M390, a super steel with the super power of superior edge retention.

crkt apc off side — While the A.P.C. does not advertise its blade steel the way many other knives do, Böhler M390 will serve you well.

As a gentleman’s folder, this knife probably won’t get too much hard use, meaning you will likely be able to go months or even years without sharpening it.

Not to be outdone, the handle is made of Fatcarbon Dark Matter. A small, six-year-old outfit based in Lithuania, Fatcarbon has quickly built a name for itself with stylish, sturdy and lightweight handle production, and the A.P.C’s scales are no exception.

Still, the detail you really miss without close examination is the slip-joint mechanism, which Steigerwalt has quietly improved. Rather than using the back spring, this knife uses the lock springs in the liners.

crkt apc folded — Fatcarbon Dark Matter handle scales add a distinctive look while providing a durable home for the 2.88-inch blade.

This approach drops the knife’s weight (to a slim 1.7 ounces). It also leaves more room for the blade in the frame and jettisons the protruding ledge that hangs up many a slip-joint knife in your pocket.

The A.P.C. does not entirely part with tradition, however, as the opening mechanism is the classic nail nick. Even a modern gentleman wouldn’t have it any other way.