Kershaw Emerson CQC-8K

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.