CRKT M16 Deadbolt Series

Although some of our readers are probably too young to remember this, Kit Carson really kicked off the flipper trend when he released his original M16 folder back in 1999. While Kit passed away in 2014, his legacy lives on with his many remarkable designs that are still being carried by cops, soldiers, and sportsmen today.

For 2022, CRKT is freshening up the M16 series while still keeping the design true to Kit’s style and vision.

The most obvious outward change was the switch from a liner lock to Flavio Ikoma’s Deadbolt locking mechanism. It’s a very strong and very simple lock that allows you to disengage without putting your fingers in the blade’s path.

When you go to flip it open, you’ll find that it snaps out thanks to a combination of Ken Onion’s assisted opening technology and the IKBS ball bearing pivot developed, once again, by Flavio Ikoma.

Blade shapes and handle design remain true to Kit’s original designs but use D2 steel blades and aluminum handles over steel liners. A reversible deep carry pocket clip is set up for tip up carry. The Deadbolt series consist of three knives: the 3.12-inch tanto-bladed M16-02DB, the 3.58-inch spear point M16-03DB, and the 3.89-inch tanto M16-04DB.

Specs: 

CRKT M16-04DB 

  • Style: Assisted folding knife w/deadbolt lock
  • Blade Length: 3.89 inches
  • Edge: Plain
  • Steel: D2
  • Finish: Stonewash
  • Thickness: 0.14 inch
  • Closed: 5.34 inches
  • Open: 9.31 inches
  • Weight: 6.8 ounces
  • Handle: Aluminum
  • HRC: 58-60
  • MSRP: $120 to $140 depending on model

CRKT.com 

Editor’s Note:

A version of this article first appeared in the May/June 2022 print issue of Knives Illustrated.