Penned by noted designer David C. Andersen, this all-around folder is a follow-up and sibling to one of his fixed-blade designs.
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Some time ago, my colleague Steve Mazzucchi wrote about the CJRB Maximal, a knife designed to be the best all-around starter knife on the market.
That knife was penned by David C. Andersen, a noteworthy EDC designer best known for his work over at KnifeCenter.
Now, he’s launched another knife that reminds me a lot of the Maximal, albeit through a much more refined, performance-focused lens. It’s called the MKM Bolero.
Two to tango
As mentioned, the Bolero reminds me a lot of the CJRB Maximal, partially because both knives boast Andersen’s design hallmarks. For instance, they have similarly rounded handles and relatively similar blade shapes (although the Bolero is more bulbous and rounded, kind of like the WESN Allman).
However, it is actually related to a different MKM knife, also penned by Andersen. The Bolero is a folding follow-up to the MKM Tango, as their dance-themed names would suggest.
That said, their similarities aren’t quite as obvious. Still, a closer glance illustrates the point:
Take the tail, for instance. Both knives have a lanyard hole with a pointed tip, ideal for emergency impact use, as in glass breaking. They also both share a similar handle curve and, more importantly, a finger grip.
KnifeCenter also has a pair of exclusives for both knives that really drive the point home, with matching handle scales made from Red Burlap Micarta and MagnaCut steel blades.
Jack (and master) of all trades
It might be best to consider this knife without making any comparisons, however, as it genuinely needs no correlation. In fact, this knife stands alone, regardless of its providence.
That starts at the blade. A somewhat bulbous drop-point shape crafted from S30V, it’s a sturdy, dutiful performer. The extended, gently curved edge makes for excellent long cuts, while the blade’s thickness allows for plenty of power to be exerted on it. And yet it still has a solid point for piercing tasks.
The Bolero reminds me a lot of the CJRB Maximal, partially because both knives boast Andersen’s design hallmarks.
That’s made all the better by its ergonomic, curved handle. Crafted from either carbon fiber or titanium, depending on the configuration, it offers a sturdy grip and comfortable contours.
It also has a reliable crossbar lock, dual thumb studs for easy deployment and a reversible pocket clip. That also means it is fully ambidextrous, so it’s friendly to righties and lefties, making for a truly versatile, spectacular all-around package.
Availability and pricing
The MKM Bolero is now available at KnifeCenter and Blade HQ, starting at $225.
MKM Bolero
Designed by David C. Andersen, a noted designer and mainstay over at KnifeCenter, the Bolero is actually a companion knife and follow-up to another dance-themed knife of his, the Tango. While the Tango is a fixie, the Bolero is a folder that actually has more in common stylistically and functionally with the CJRB Maximal, another Andersen design. Put plainly, this knife is an outstanding all-arounder with a wide, strong blade great for both long cuts and detail work, as well as an ergonomic handle and a solid crossbar lock. Unlike the Maximal, however, this one goes big on premium materials, like S30V steel and a handle made from either carbon fiber or titanium. read more
About the Author: Sean Tirman is an associate editor at Gear Patrol who specializes in EDC, cannabis and outdoor gear.
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