Download - CRKT ARGUS™ - a Matthew Lerch EDC
FOG HORN 2015
Twobirds Flying Publication
Copyright 2015, Towbirds Flying Publication. All Rights Reserved.
CRKT ARGUS™
CRKT ARGUS™ - a Matthew Lerch EDC 2015
Copyright 2015, Twobirds Flying Publication, All Rights Reserved
CRKT ARGUS™ - a Matthew Lerch EDC
By: Sal Palma
Matthew Lerch’s signature is his combination of
innovative mechanisms with relatively
elaborate carvings; his knives combine art with
function. A native of Sussex, Wisconsin, he
started out life as a jeweler and watchmaker
before graduating to manufacturing and
toolmaker.
In this review, I take an in-depth look at his
ARGUS folder, a collaborative effort with
Columbia River Knife and Tool.
The ARGUS has several things to like, many of
which compete for the number one spot in my
mind; however, its weight is what does it for
me. In spite of its 6061 aluminum handle, the
ARGUS weighs a mere 4.2 ounces, which makes
carrying a joy and imperceptible.
Tied for the number two spot, on my list, is
ARGUS’ pocket clip and blade profile. CRKT has
done a magnificent job of implementing the
pocket clip, which lets the knife sit deeply and
inconspicuously in the carry pocket while
remaining very gentle on your garments.
Carrying the ARGUS with dress wool or
gabardine slacks is nothing to be concerned
over. Its wide and softly flared clip slides gently
over fabrics without compromising retention -
very well done is the least I could say!
Consistent with several Lerch designs, the
ARGUS sports a drop point blade that simply
rocks. Although this knife is a welterweight, its
flat ground 3.55 inch blade provides enough
tool strength to handle tasks that under most
circumstances would be assigned to a more
corpulent tool.
The assisted opening mechanism, marketed
under the trade name Outburst™, is very lively;
putting the blade into action with a distinctive
snap. The spring takes over the opening process
after approximately 15°of blade travel. Opening
the blade happens by pressing down and out on
the ambidextrous thumb disc. Once open, a
hefty liner lock keeps it securely and safely in
CRKT ARGUS™ - a Matthew Lerch EDC 2015
Copyright 2015, Twobirds Flying Publication, All Rights Reserved
place. Accidental blade openings are prevented
with CRKT’s Fast Fire safety mechanism.
Matt’s watchmaker background seeped into
ARGUS’ design and is readily observable in the
thumb disc, which is held on the blade spine by
a “miniscule” torx bolt and rotates back and
forth; very much like a watch movement. It’s
this rotation along with some delicate
machining that makes opening this blade so
smooth.
Although very creative; I see the possibility of
the thumb disc coming loose with extended use
so caveat emptor, and once you decide on
which side to use the thumb disc, apply a small
amount of blue Loctite on the fastener. I’m also
going to lobby CRKT to include an appropriately
sized torx wrench as part of their product
packaging. This is certainly not a deficiency but
simply an opinion based on my years of
experience with anything that can go wrong will
go wrong - usually at the worst possible times.
The ARGUS handle features removable scales
made from 6061 Aluminum and textured to
provide a very positive grip. This knife has a
very nice balance centered about an inch aft of
the axis point so its blade tip is very nimble. The
abundance of finger coils along the handle gives
ARGUS a very comfortable feel. It just sits in the
hand very nicely!
My review sample is a black finish and CRKT
also offers this exceptional folder in a satin
finish.
ARGUS is a gentleman’s knife offering a brilliant
balance between a very sexy look and
exceptional tool quality. AUS 8 is the perfect
steel for this quality EDC folder; perfectly suited
for edge retention, corrosion resistance and
price.
The CRKT ARGUS is an import of first-rate
quality, handsome looks and outstanding
features at a price you can afford. Check it out
at your favorite dealer or take my word for it;
ARGUS is a great little folder you’ll want in your
pocket. -SP
Manufacturer Specifications
Dimensions Open Overall Length 8.13 inches
Closed Length 4.56 inches Weight 4.2 ounces Blade
Length 3.55 inches Thickness .12 inches Material AUS 8 Blade-HRC 57-58 Finish Satin Grind Flat Grind Style Drop point Edge Plain Edge Handle
Material 6061 Aluminum Lock
Type Locking Liner Safety System FireSafe Carry
Carry System 1 position clip (tip down) M.S.R.P. $130.00