When Ernest Emerson created the CQC-7 in the 1990s, he defined and popularized the tactical folder that we all know today. The CQC-7 is still going strong, but it’s the CQC-8 that Emerson considers one of the best combat designs he’s ever produced.
A while back Emerson teamed up with Kershaw to bring his iconic designs to the masses, which is why the Kershaw Emerson CQC-8K is so affordable for being such an icon.
This version of the tactical folder has a 3.5-inch tanto blade with black coating and two methods of opening: the classic Emerson Wave and the thumb disk.
The blade locks open with a liner locking mechanism between two textured G-10 scales. It also features a reversible tip-up pocket clip, so you can engage the knife with one swift pull from the pocket.
This design is an all-time classic with the bells and whistles you can expect from an Emerson knife but without the premium price tag.
If you want a tactical folder optimized for close quarters combat or simply need a powerful EDC, the Kershaw Emerson CQC-8K is your knife.
October 15, 2024 at 9:21 pm
How to use it?
May 19, 2025 at 8:30 am
This article is a valuable contribution to the field and a pleasure to read.
August 12, 2025 at 11:19 am
The Kershaw Emerson CQC-8K is a tactical folding knife that blends Emerson’s renowned design with Kershaw’s manufacturing expertise. It’s part of the CQC series, which stands for Close Quarters Combat, and is designed for both everyday carry and tactical applications.
August 25, 2025 at 12:12 pm
This Kershaw Emerson CQC-8K review is excellent—the breakdown of Ernest Emerson’s iconic design and how Kershaw made it accessible to the masses shows the perfect balance between tactical functionality and affordability, making this classic combat folder available to everyday users.