MSI S/E STONEWASHED PART SERRATE TRI-GRIP POLYMER RED BACKSTRAP (210T-11PMBK-A5)

I carried a ZT Sinkevich 4.1 inch S35VN blade with a titanium-carbon fiber deep pocket carry clip for over seven years and decided it was time to add another long bladed pocket folder into the rotation.

As a former Army infantry reconnaissance platoon and now a retired federal agent, I can’t tell you how many knives, fixed and folders, I have purchased over the last few decades. Couple of hundred?

I have purchased several MTK auto knives in the past, but decided to give their manual folders a try so after extensive research, I settled for the MSI…with assurance that the RAM-LOK was now good to go.

After receiving the knife I carefully examined it and found no signs of defects. I put some anti cut Kevlar gloves on and gave it a reverse spine whack…it passed with flying colors. I watched a YouTuber demonstrate a spine test while wearing a leather glove…the Ram Lok failed (2023 video) and the MSI sliced right through the guy’s leather glove like butter so I used a specialty glove for a “just in case” scenario.

For the last 10 years or so I came up with a parameter for choosing knives. For folding pocket knives I want the following;

Must have at least a 3.75 to 4 inch blade.
Width of the handle no thicker than 1/2 inch.
A deep pocket carry clip that’s adjustable for configuration to right or left carry.
Ease of opening and closing one handed while wearing shooting type gloves.
Be made of high quality material that can withstand heavy usage.
And not be made in CHINA or any adversary country of origin.

The MTK MSI has passed all my requirements and I am more than happy with this rugged knife. Oh, it is very sharp because It gave me a “knife kiss” while practicing one handed opening and closing…the knife has a wicked edge so be mindful and pay attention lol.