CRKT Jettison Review

This model is one of the most unique knives we have ever tested. The dimensions are the real distinguishing characteristic. Given the overall size, the handle is quite small, and the blade is very large. Between weird proportions and a few unexpected signs of wear and tear, the CRKT Jettison didn't thoroughly impress us.

Performance Comparison

Blade and Edge Integrity

Blade and edge integrity is a multi-faceted feature to assess. Materials, design, and final finish inform the blade integrity. Within a design, different attributes must be balanced. Thick blades are stronger, while thinner blades feel sharper. Softer steel is easier to sharpen but doesn't “hold an edge” for as long. The blade of the Jettison is thick and made of relatively soft steel. The thickness lends support and strength that will hold up to the most robust of tasks. The edge itself will reward those who take an active role in the maintenance of the cutting surface.

The best knives in our test balance the competing “interests” mentioned above quite well. In our few months of use, the blade of the CRKT Jettison shows more nicking and dulling than almost any other blade we have tested, in years now of assessment.

Ergonomics

How do you deploy the blade of the knife, how does the handle support heavy tasks, and how precise can you be with the blade? These are the “ergonomics” questions we ask. You activate the blade by either pulling it open with two hands or by a one-handed index finger flick. The handle of the Jettison is small, with squared off edges. For pushing hard, we wish the handle were twice the overall bulk. The heavy and thick blade, driven by that same narrow handle, isn't super well-suited to delicate tasks.

Our preferred deployment method is the assisted-opening, thumb-stud actuated action. The set up of the Jettison is different but is something you will get used to. The narrow handle, though, is likely a “non-starter” for you. For both heavy and precise tasks, a bulkier handle is better. The slender design of the Jettison handle is peculiar, especially considering that the overall closed profile isn't all that small. It's not like the designer wanted a narrow handle to make the knife carry smaller.

Portability

At 4.5 ounces, few knives we tested are heavier than the Jettison. With most of that weight in the blade, this weight is difficult for everyday carry enthusiast to justify. The pocket clip works great and allows the knife to hang deep in your pocket, virtually unnoticed. The external profile is largely smooth and relatively thin in cross-section.

Other Features

There are no other features to note on the Jettison. Few knives we tested have anything more than a simple blade. Consult our comprehensive Multi-Tool Review for more versatile pieces of equipment.

Construction Quality

The super-structure of the Jettison is very confidence inspiring. We used this knife for almost three months (as is typical for our reviews; we don't mess around with short test periods. You deserve better.), and only liked the big-picture construction quality more and more. The hinge works very smoothly, and the all-metal construction will be tough to wear out. However, near the end of our test period, we began to notice little signs of wear. Fading and chipping of the stamped logos and discolored staining, all on the blade, suggest inferior materials, inattention to rigorous quality control, or both. As noted in the blade section above, we also noticed chipping of the edge.

Value

For the price, we are a little disheartened by the blade deformities, staining, and logo degradation. These are things we might be inclined to overlook (in final assessment… we overlook as little as possible in testing) on less expensive products. At this price point, the fit and finish of something like the Best Buy Kershaw Leek stand out above that of the Jettison.

Conclusion