CRKT Drifter Review

The Drifter is a high-quality, basic folding pocket knife. We found it to be excellent for everyday carry and basic utility use. CRKT markets it as a "good logo knife." You can have it imprinted or engraved with branding, monogram, or other personalized messaging. It is good for this because of the relatively large and relatively flat areas on the handle and blade. We did not personalize our test model but can vouch for the presence of areas suitable for marking up.

Performance Comparison

Blade and Edge Integrity

CRKT blades are well regarded. This particular one is 8Cr14MoV steel, coated with titanium nitride and shaped to a modified drop point and a narrow edge angle. The factory grind is razor-sharp and readily re-tuned at home on all but flat stones. The main part of the blade is concave. Other online reviewers point out that this looks cool, but they and we found that the concavity complicates sharpening on a flat stone. The blade is relatively thin overall, and the edge is cut at a low angle. It "feels" sharp but could be fragile in heavier tasks. Understand this, adapt, and you shouldn't have a major problem.

Ergonomics

The Drifter is what we'd call a "compact full size" pocket knife. Yeah, that doesn't make a ton of sense on its own. A handle length of around 3.5 inches is just enough to fill most adult fists. A knife handle in a full fist gets all the fingers in on cutting tasks. This is good for heavy use. Up closer to 4 inches lends even more support. Longer than 4 inches is required to house a longer blade but doesn't dramatically increase handle power.

The Drifter opens with one thumb, locks with a tight liner lock, and pivots smoothly between all the potential positions. A bit of jimping low on the back of the blade lends further traction for your thumb. Our only wish for the ergonomics of the Drifter is that the handle was a little more rounded. An oblong, rounded handle cross-section is what we've found to be the most comfortable for extended heavy use.

Portability

The Drifter weighs 2.3 ounces and is 3.5 inches when closed. These measurements are appropriate for everyday carry in almost any setting. The pocket clip closes a little low on the handle, leaving more of the knife exposed than other options. The pocket clip is fixed and optimized for only right-pocket, tip-down carry.

Construction Quality

The materials are strong, the construction is tight, and all the parts are joined with user-serviceable hardware. This is good news for the construction quality of the CRKT. Compared to some, the blade hinges open easily. We never had any problems with it, but it isn't impossible to imagine the blade hinging open in your pocket. The tip-down arrangement leverages gravity to keep that blade closed when clipped to a pocket rim.

Other Features

There are no other features on the Drifter. It is a basic, single-blade pocket knife.

Should You Buy the CRKT Drifter?

CRKT seeks a unique market niche and advertises the Drifter as a billboard for your message or brand. Although it is an excellent knife, it is much more expensive than similarly customizable options available through certain channels. But the quality is infinitely better, and for what you get, this is a good value. If you want to make a statement to discerning users, the Drifter is a top-notch customizable gift or promotional item.

What Other Pocket Knives Should You Consider?

If you are considering the Drifter for its intended "logo" purpose, you are on the right track. Otherwise, there are better options, even at this price point. The Ontario Knife Company RAT II] includes a higher quality blade on an otherwise similarly designed knife. But if you're seeking an outstanding value, it is well worth investing in a knife like the Kershaw Leek.