new CRKT “desert” hissatsu

December 27th, 2005

Another evaluation knife we just got in is the Columbia Rive Knife and Tool (CRKT) “desert hissatsu”. A hissatsu is a specialized form of Japanese tanto, the all-purpose knife of the samurai. Here it is, next to the Camillus BK2:

The hissatsu is strictly a combat knife, although it looks like it would make a quick job out of opening a stubborn MRE pouch. The blade is long, thin, and pointed, with plenty of sweep. That allows for impressive slashing and penetrating capability. The traditional tanto has a wider, less-swept blade with a chisel point for piercing armor.

As you can see from the picture, the CRKT desert hissatsu comes with a hard plastic sheath, and a belt adapter that can be attached in many different ways, to a belt. It leaves something to be desired when trying to hang it on MOLLE gear.

The Blackwater MOLLE adapter comes to the rescue again, as it did for the CRKT “First Strike”. With the generous amount of velcro tape provided, it allows the sheath to be mounted on MOLLE equipment.

The soft plastic handle provides a secure grip, and the flared front of the handle provides sufficient security for the knife’s intended use.

This is a very specialized combat knife, but if you feel that it’s just what you’ve been looking for, just ask. As with all our evaluation items, it goes to the first troop that asks.

Entry Filed under: Hobbit Hole Knives, Troop Tech