Despite his untimely death in 2014, Kit Carson is still a titan of the knifemaking industry. His tactical and EDC designs are as beloved as they are enduring.
But perhaps none is as instantly recognizable as the M16. As part of the brand’s huge new product launch in early 2025, CRKT has unveiled a new version of the M16 with a stronger lock. This seemingly minor change makes this already spectacular tactical-inspired EDC knife even better.
Lock it up
As mentioned, the big change for this new version of Kit Carson’s M16 is the lock. Instead of its traditional frame lock — a sturdy, reliable, classic option — this edition sees it swapped for a Crossbar lock.
Operable with a small slider toward the knife’s spine right behind its pivot, this lock engages with the blade’s tang, making it exceptionally strong. Because it goes through both sides of the handle, it’s also ambidextrous, making it more accessible and easier to use overall. The pocket clip adds to its ambidexterity, as it can be swapped for either left- or right-handed carry.
The lock swap is a seemingly small change that makes the knife even more formidable and EDC-friendly.
