Last month, some 50,000-plus people traveled to Las Vegas, not to hit the slots or attempt to relive their favorite moments from The Hangover but to attend SHOT Show. SHOT is the largest annual trade show for the shooting, hunting and firearms industry (SHOT stands for “Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade”). But the convention isn’t solely about guns and ammo; it’s also where many knifemakers provide a first glimpse of the blades they’re planning to release over the coming year. SHOT isn’t open to the public, so here’s an inside look at seven of the best 2020 knives from the show.
Benchmade Tengu Flipper
Typically, one of designer Jared Oeser’s custom knives can go for $2,000 or more. But for 2020, Benchmade worked with him to create a production version of his Tengu design. It sports his trademark handle inlay and will only cost $220 when it comes out in March.
Gerber Doubledown
Among Gerber’s lineup for the year is something unique: a folding machete. The Doubledown’s handles swivel open like a butterfly knife to sheath its 6.75-inch blade when not in use.
SOG Ultra XR
SOG used the Ultra XR’s predecessor, the Terminus XR, to debut its sturdy and straightforward XR lock. The Ultra uses that mechanism, but comes in a smaller size than the Terminus and boasts an ultralight carbon fiber handle and S35VN blade steel.
Spyderco Chaparral Sun & Moon
The Sun and Moon versions of Spyderco’s well-known Chaparral are all about the handles. One version has white G-10 scales with a circular red G-10 inlay while the other sports black G-10 with a mother-of-pearl inlay. Both have 2.8-inch blades and a lockback design.
Kershaw Hub
Designed by Jens Anso, the Hub is another welcome entry into Kershaw’s collection of miniature EDC knives. This one is small enough to travel on a keychain — with an oversized lanyard loop to accommodate that carry style — and has a 1.7-inch blade.
Kershaw Brandywine
Kershaw also revealed a small collection of old-school lockbacks to contrast with its typically contemporary collection. The Brandywine shines among the new group with three blades: a clip point, spey and Wharncliffe.
Fox Knives Nauta
Another slip joint reveal came from Fox Knives. The Italian company has a history of winning innovation awards, so it’s notable to see it drawing inspiration from the past instead of the future. The Nauta’s lineage traces back to a seaman’s knife that Fox supplied to the German Navy years ago.
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