Typically here at Pro Tool Reviews, we just cover EDC style knives. We all carry some form of blade whether it’s a folder, multi-tool, utility knife, or even the occasional fixed blade. While I personally like to carry something tactical that can double as an EDC, our niche isn’t necessarily the defensive/tactical market. If I’m being completely honest though, I’m always looking for a reason to talk about that sector and the CRKT Forged By War Program has given me a great reason.
Whether you love tactical knives because of their style, for a collection, or genuinely need their function, there’s a big difference between the haves and the have nots. The CRKT Forged By War Program starts with two knives and an axe designed by military veterans so you know there’s real function behind the design. Each designer has chosen a veteran’s charity to support from sales of their designs and CRKT is sending 10% of the profits to those charities.
If you’re looking for something tactical, defensive, or in case of SHTF, consider these knowing that you’re also supporting the veterans that have fought for our rights, including the freedom to carry tools designed to protect ourselves and our families.
CRKT Forged By War Series
CRKT Sangrador
- Designer: Darrin Sirois
- Service Branch: U.S. Army
- Tours: Panama, Desert Storm, Balkins, Bosnia, Afghanistan, Iraq
- Charity: Purple Heart Homes
- Blade: Length: 5.540” (140.7 mm)
- Edge: Dual Combination
- Steel: SK5, 54-56 HRC
- Finish: Black Powder Coat
- Thickness: 0.183” (4.6 mm)
- Overall: 10.500” (266.7 mm)
- Weight: 7.4 oz. (210.0 g)
- Handle: G10
- Style: Fixed Blade Knife w/Sheath
- Sheath: Material: Nylon w/Polypropylene Insert
- Weight: 2.6 oz. (73.7 g)
- MSRP: $150
The Sangrador —which means “bleeder” in Latin—features a 5.5” dual-edged SK5 steel dagger-style blade with a black powder coat finish, non-slip G10 handle and MOLLE-compatible sheath. Its designer, Darrin Sirois of Fayatteville, North Carolina, has seen his fair share of knife fights as a Special Ops fighter, but his best feedback still comes from teammates. Darrin’s charity is Purple Heart Homes.
CRKT Clever Girl
- Designer: Austin McGlaun
- Service Branch: U.S. Army
- Tours: Iraq
- Charity: Green Beret Foundation
- Blade: Length: 4.600” (116.8 mm)
- Edge: Plain Steel: SK5, 54-56 HRC
- Finish: Black Powder Coat
- Thickness: 0.158” (4.0 mm)
- Overall: 10.125” (257.2 mm)
- Weight: 6.3 oz. (179.0 g)
- Handle: G10
- Style: Fixed Blade Knife w/Sheath
- Sheath: Material: Glass Reinforced Nylon
- Weight: 1.6 oz. (45.4 g)
- MSRP: $125
The new Clever Girl fixed blade tactical knife, designed by Austin McGlaun of Columbus, Georgia, features a black, powder coated upswept blade with a tough, injection molded, glass-reinforced nylon handle that sits comfortably in a sheath that’s MOLLE-compatible for multiple carry options. It aligns with Austin’s philosophy that in a fight you want something you can grab quickly, use if necessary, and then go home to your family. Austin’s charity is The Green Beret Foundation.
CRKT Birler
- Designer: Elmer Rousch
- Service Branch: U.S. Air Force
- Tours: Vietnam
- Charity: Green Beret Foundation
- Blade: Length: 5.165” (131.2 mm)
- Edge: Axe Steel: 1055 Carbon, 50-55 HRC
- Finish: Silver Clear
- Thickness: 1.113” (28.3 mm)
- Overall: Length: 16.000” (406.4 mm)
- Weight: 10.3 oz. (292.0 g)
- Handle: Tennessee Hickory
- MSRP: $89.99
The Birler tactical pack axe won’t go AWOL on you when you need to break down doors, bust floors, or take down trees to rescue a fallen soldier. Designed by Elmer Roush of Brasstown, North Carolina, a blacksmith and Vietnam vet, the blade is forged from 1055 carbon steel and features a hickory handle. It cuts down pack weight and anything in its way. Elmer’s charity is The Green Beret Foundation.
