Zero Tolerance 0450 Sinkevich Carbon Fiber Review

The absolute best (and most expensive) pocket knives are made by small boutique outfits and are available in extremely small production runs. We don't review them here, as our findings might be different with the next production run, or you might not be able to purchase a new knife like that anywhere. When you eliminate pocket knives that are not readily available at retail, the ZT 0450CF and just a couple of others (that often win awards with us, incidentally) top the market. The 0450CF is made with premium materials, close attention to detail, and sells for a price that reflects all this. We like the 0450CF a lot. At this price point, though, we like others a little more. This ZT doesn't win any of our awards, but that doesn't mean it isn't just as good as virtually any pocket knife we've ever tested.

Performance Comparison

Blade and Edge Integrity

S35VN stainless steel is the best steel we know of for mass-produced, widely-available knives. Zero Tolerance shapes it into a nearly-perfect configuration. We can't think of how we'd improve this blade. Our cutting experience has been flawless. It holds an edge better than most of the other knives we tested. The blade and edge geometry that ZT uses is carefully tuned and balanced for precise cutting and longevity. Every millimeter of the edge is usable. No thumb stud, hinge hardware, or blade “tang” protrusions interfere with using the edge. This is an easily overlooked blade attribute that affects your use.

Ergonomics

The Zero Tolerance 0450CF is a full-length pocket knife with a relatively narrow (in both dimensions) handle. Its pocket clip can be configured for either right or left pocket carry (tip-up only). It locks open with a frame lock. The 0450CF opens with two hands or one. ZT designed a “finger flip” style deployment to open it with one hand.

The handle isn't as bulky as we'd like for optimum ergonomics. The carry options are nice. The frame lock works every time. Finger flip opening isn't for everyone. If you like it, you like it. However, most of our test team prefers thumb-stud opening. Some knives open with a finger flip or thumb stud. ZT committed to the finger flip mode.

Portability

The ZT 0450CF knife is about average in bulk and mass compared to other options in this review. The pocket clip is fairly standard; some of the knife's handle will show above the edge of your pocket. The semi-sharp exterior angles of the knife and handle will exert some wear on the inside and edge of your pants pockets, but not a lot.

Construction Quality

You expect a knife at this price point to have the best materials and for those materials to be assembled immaculately. You get that, for sure, with the ZT 0450CF. The carbon fiber scale, for instance, saves just grams and adds significant cost. This is a no-compromise tool. The frame lock has a reinforced, presumably replaceable working surface. The pocket clip is so tight that it pulled threads from the fabric of our pants pocket, which brings us peace of mind that this expensive tool won't slide out unintentionally. This is a well-made product.

Should You Buy the Zero Tolerance 0450CF?

Generally, it seems that connoisseurs of high-end pocket knives like to source them from boutique, one-off manufacturers. Those consumers have little need for our reviews. If you want the best but don't want to bother working with the manufacturer, your options are more limited. In those limited options, the Zero Tolerance 0450CF is a top contender. You don't choose a knife like this for its value. You choose a knife like this for optimum performance, durability, craft, and “flash.” The carbon fiber alone is a showy choice. It lends little to no performance advantage but lends great appeal nonetheless.

What Other Pocket Knives Should You Consider?