What we think:

    Having been a CRKT fan since I first held one in 1999 anytime they claim to have a new and better design I have to check it out.   The M1 Lightfoot was no exception to this curiosity.  My first glimpse of this knife, I was honestly not impressed.  My first thought was there is no way this is going to feel good in my hands.  The design involves an asymmetrical handle and blade.  This concept was perfected by Greg Lightfoot and can be found in greater detail with his notes on the CRKT website.  As I looked closer I noticed that the blade resembled a tanto blade ever so slightly.  The handle is injection molded Zytel scales that are textured with an “operator’s grip” hexagonal pattern.  Intrigued I picked up the knife, and from the first time I flipped the blade open I knew that I must have one.  

    The entire package is designed to be tough and withstand the torture of duty use.  The handle and blade are both on the thick side.  The fasteners for the handle as well as the blade are visible, and it is apparent that the construction is rugged.   The M1 also has a “paddle clip” design that is wider than normal.  This allows it to be carried on straps and other gear as well as comfortably in a pocket.  The unusual thing about this clip in relationship to the knife is the fact it comes with two of them.  The M1 also has multiple connection and mounting points for it to provide a way to carry this knife no matter what you are doing with it.

 The Lightfoot M1 comes in 3 models and two colors.  The model I chose was the 13D.  This model has a desert tan handle, paddle clip, and blade.  All of the finishes are non reflective and bead blasted on.  This model also has the razor edge combined with the triple point serrated edge.  I am partial to this edge because it allows the knife some versatility on what its performance.  In short to me it is a better blade, but in case you are not like me it also comes in a straight razor edge blade as well.

The Lightfoot is my primary folder while on duty.  This knife has been tortured to the full extent that I have the ability to torture a knife.  It has been covered in everything from blood and mud to extended periods in salt water.  With all of CRKT knives a little care when done and this knife is ready to go again.  The blade has been used as a prying too (I do not recommend this), cutting metal surfaces, as well as everyday things.  The blade sharpness is still impressive; it has held its edge well all things considered.  The only negative thing I can say about this knife is in the desert finish on the blade.  After much abuse on my part the finish has developed dark “water spots” on the blade.  These spots do not hinder the performance of the knife at all and do not seem to be corrosion.  Yet they will not come off, a strange occurrence yet for what it has been through easily overlooked.  This knife is one that I have recommended to all of my friends and crewmembers as a knife that they need to have.  A few have taken my advice and gotten one but all have been impressed by the M1’s ruggedness and reliability.