Deception lies at the core of CRKT’s aptly-named Swindle pocket knife. Closed, the Swindle appears to be a fairly typical folder with a thumb stud opening. But the stud isn’t mounted to the knife’s spine; in fact, it isn’t part of the blade at all. The actual knife blade betrays conventional designs, deploying with a flipper tap from the other side to produce what CRKT describes as an “uphill curve.” The decoy stud isn’t just that either — that bit of protruding steel is an equally-unique, spring-assisted pocket clip that leaves the Swindle’s handle smooth.
Designed by revered knife maker Ken Onion, the Swindle won the award for “Most Innovative Imported Design” at the 2013 Blade Show and has continued in CRKT’s production line since. The blade is just over three inches long and comes in two versions — one made of high-carbon steel, and a premium version with Sandvik stainless steel and a milled handle. Both are currently on sale at Amazon, the premium version for 46 percent off and the basic version for 53 percent off, which brings it down to its lowest price ever.
Gear Patrol also recommends:
Case Knives Texas Toothpick ($37+)
Kershaw Leek ($39)
The James Brand Chapter ($295)
Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.
