Alan Folts is a knifemaker and metalworker in Greenville, N.C., who makes a remarkable range of custom objects, including titanium chopsticks. His Minimalist neck knives have proven to be very popular, so CRKT is no offering it in three different production versions.
They are very small and lightweight knives which give surprising comfort and control, thanks to the unusual geometry of the full-tang blades, aided by three finger choils, friction grooves for the thumb, hand-contoured green-black resin impregnated fiber scales, and a braided fob. Unlike many small neck knives, this handle is really functional for a wide variety of daily cutting tasks.
Each Minimalist comes with a custom-fitted glass filled nylon sheath and neck paracord for inverted carry as a neck knife. The knife is held securely in place by a positive detent which locks the base of the blade in place for maximum safety.
Because the knife and sheath weigh about two ounces together, it is a personal carry you will barely notice.
Minimalist Tanto. The 2.125" Tanto blade shape is very strong because of the strong central spine of metal which extends nearly to the tip. This version has a straight Razor-Sharp front edge, which allows push cutting, and a concave main edge which feeds material into the edge for fast cutting.
True to their name, these really are minimal fixed blades, but they are also the most useful for their size that we have seen. And they are certainly a great value, which explains why the Minimalist family continues to grow.
Features
- The Minimalist fits the hand perfectly, giving a surprising level of comfort and control in a lightweight fixed blade.
- The Minimalist Bowie blade is an ideal short skinning blade for the hunter, as well as an outdoor utility knife.
Specifications
- Blade Length: 2.13"
- Cutting Edge: 1.97"
- Handle Length: 3.03"
- Overall Length: 5.13"
- Blade Material: 5Cr15MoV Stainless Steel
- Blade Thickness: 0.108"
- Blade Hardness: 55-57 HRC
- Blade Style: Tanto
- Blade Finish: Bead Blast
- Handle Material: Green Micarta
- Sheath Material: Thermoplastic
- Weight: 1.6 oz.
- Weight with Sheath: 2.7 oz.
- Made in China
About the Designer
Alan Folts of Melbourne, FL, has been making knives since 1992. During his college career, he entered knives in art shows, winning "Best of Show" and honorable mentions. He was also awarded a scholarship based on his artistic/design abilities. Upon moving to North Carolina in 1995, Alan joined the North Carolina Custom Knifemakers Guild. Alan won "Best Fixed Blade" at the 10th Annual Southeastern Custom Knife Show. Alan is adamant about teaching and passing on the skills of custom knife making to others. Alan has been teaching knife enthusiasts and assisting other makers with their craft for many years. Alan specializes in both limited production small fixed blades and one-of-a-kind fixed blades and linerlock folders. He is best known for small carriable blades, such as the CRKT Folts Minimalist, that both function well, have proper ergonomics, and a sleek and often futuristic design. He also makes custom neck knives, kitchen knives, swords, and art collectibles.