New Knife Reveals at the 2025 Blade Show

Blade Show 2025 is in the books. Held June 6-8 at the Cobb Galleria in Atlanta, Georgia, Blade Show is the largest knife show in the world. And from the size of the crowds, its popularity is not slowing. I had a single-minded task for this year’s show.

Front view of Cobb Galleria Centre on June 6, 2025, home to Blade Show Atlanta. The convention center’s glass-and-brick exterior welcomes exhibitors and attendees from around the globe.

In the knife world, many new knife models are introduced by their companies every January at the SHOT Show. The Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade Show is a massive affair in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is an industry trade show and not open to the public. Still, some 55,000 attendees will descend upon the Venetian Expo Hall.

This photo shows the author standing at the entrance of the 2025 Blade Show in Atlanta, Georgia. The entrance to the Cobb Galleria is visible, with banners and signs indicating the event and its dates. There are groups of attendees and visitors gathered near the doors, many holding bags or passes, ready to enter the venue. The setting is busy, capturing the excitement and anticipation of opening day at the world’s largest knife show. The author is clearly visible, possibly holding a badge or ticket, and is dressed casually for the event. Large glass windows and modern architecture are part of the background, and there may be promotional posters or Blade Show branding displayed nearby. This image helps set the scene for an article focused on the 2025 Blade Show and the new knives featured at the event. — Outside the doors of Blade Show 2025, the author gets ready to check out the latest knives and gear. This annual event in Atlanta brings together knife makers, collectors, and fans from across the country.

It has been about six months since SHOT, and I’m sure you have seen those new knives. My goal on the Blade Show floor was to ask this question at the booths. “What do you have here at Blade Show 2025 that was not introduced at SHOT?” A few reps had to think back.

This image shows a group of Blade Show 2025 attendees standing and walking throughout the main convention hall. The crowd is diverse, including people of various ages and backgrounds, many wearing lanyards or event badges. Some attendees are carrying tote bags, backpacks, or notebooks as they move between booths. The mood is lively, with groups stopping to chat, take photos, or discuss products with exhibitors. Bright overhead lighting fills the hall, and there are visible banners and booth signs in the background. The scene captures the social and community aspect of the Blade Show, highlighting how the event brings together knife enthusiasts and industry professionals. — Attendees at Blade Show 2025 gather in the main hall, talking with vendors and each other. The event draws a diverse crowd of knife collectors, makers, and fans every year.

As result of this digging, I was able to round up some brand-new products for your consideration. We will go in alphabetical order and not play favorites.

Benchmade Knife Company

At the Benchmade booth, I met Joe. When I asked the question, he unhesitatingly went into his pocket and pulled out a sweet slip joint knife, the Benchmade 315 Successor. This was classic knifery brought into today’s market.

This image shows the Benchmade Successor slip joint knife displayed open on a tabletop at the 2025 Blade Show in Atlanta. The knife’s drop point blade, crafted from M390 steel, is fully extended to highlight its satin finish and precise grind. The handles are anodized crater blue with ash gray bolsters, giving the knife a distinctive modern appearance. A black leather sheath with a carry clip is placed beside the knife on the display surface. The background includes other knife models or branded materials from the Benchmade booth, but the Successor is the clear focus. The lighting in the exhibition hall brings out the metallic and anodized colors, making the knife’s details easy to see. This close-up view allows readers to appreciate the craftsmanship and features of Benchmade’s newest slip joint release. — Benchmade’s new 315 Successor is shown fully open at the company’s booth during Blade Show Atlanta. The classic design and premium materials were highlights among new releases.

The Successor brings M390 steel, an ash gray bolster, anodized crater blue handles and a well-engineered slip lock with a half stop. This half-stop gives the user feedback on where the blade is in its opening sequence. The black leather sheath had a carry clip. Nothing tactical here. Just a really nice pocketknife.

Benchmade Successor Specs:

Overall Length: 6.26″ (159mm)
Closed Length: 3.7″ (94mm)
Blade Length: 2.56″ (65mm)
Blade Thickness: 0.09″ (2mm)
Blade Steel: M390
Blade Style: Drop Point
Blade Finish: Satin
Handle Material: Aluminum
Handle Thickness: 0.432″ (11mm)
Sheath: Black Leather
MSRP approximately $300.00

Case Knives

Jordan at the Case booth had a new upscale variation of the popular Sod Buster Jr. line, which was released at this show. Known as the Crossroads, Case aimed for this to be a precision build, featuring a stone-washed S35VN blade steel and premium handles crafted from smooth canvas laminate.

This image features the Case Crossroads slip joint knife fully open and resting on top of a glass display case at the 2025 Blade Show. The knife’s drop point blade is made from stone-washed S35VN stainless steel and is positioned to show its flat grind and clean edge. The handles are made from smooth blue denim canvas laminate with white G-10 liners, offering a modern, eye-catching appearance. Reflections from the display case glass subtly highlight the contours of the knife. Other Case products or show items are visible inside the case below, but the Crossroads is the primary focus of the photo. The lighting inside the convention hall emphasizes the blue tones of the handle and the finish of the blade. This close-up shot allows viewers to see the details and craftsmanship of Case’s new model. — The new Case Crossroads model drew attention at the Blade Show with its blue denim laminate scales. This precision-built slip joint was one of Case’s significant introductions.

The model I examined had blue denim scales to match a trusty pair of jeans and white G-10 liners. It was another great slip-joint, but a polar opposite of the Benchmade offering.

Case Crossroads Specs:

Overall Length: 6.45″
Blade Length: 2.80″
Cutting Edge: 2.50″
Blade Material: Stainless Steel
Blade Style: Drop Point
Blade Grind: Flat
Finish: Stone Wash
Edge Type: Plain
Handle Length: 3.625″
Handle Thickness: 0.44″
Handle Material: Denim Laminate
Color: Blue
Frame/Liner: G-10
Weight: 2.19oz.
Opener: Nail Nick
Lock Type: Slip Joint
MSRP approximately $70.00

Cold Steel Knife Company

Luke and Keith were fine hosts at the Cold Steel display and were jazzed about some new entries. The first they showed me was the Recon 1 XL. I am a fan of the Recon series mostly because they are just plain intimidating.

This photo shows the author holding the Cold Steel Recon 1 XL knife at the 2025 Blade Show in Atlanta. The author grips the large folder with both hands, demonstrating the impressive length of the 5.25-inch CPM XHP blade. The open knife clearly displays its clip point blade and textured G-10 handle, making the scale and construction of the Recon 1 XL obvious. The background includes the Cold Steel booth, with display tables, branded signage, and possibly other knives visible. The author appears focused on the knife, emphasizing its weight and ergonomic grip. The lighting is bright and the setting is busy, reflecting the excitement and engagement typical at Blade Show. — The author handles the Cold Steel Recon 1 XL at Blade Show 2025, showing off its impressive blade size and rugged build. This oversized folder drew plenty of attention on the show floor.

With a 5¼” CPM XHP blade and an open length of more than a foot, it is easy to see why you would command attention when swinging the XL to the Tri-Ad lock slamming shut! Talk about a hand and a half of handle. Funny thing is that despite its sheer size, it slid into my pocket and carried easily. Yeah, I gave it back.

Cold Steel Recon 1 XL Specs:

Blade Length: 5.25″
Blade Steel: XHP w/ PVC Coating
Blade Thickness: 3.8mm
Handle Length: 7″
Handle Material: G-10
Overall Length: 12.5″
Ambidextrous Pocket / Belt Clip
Knife Type: Folder
Steel Family: CPM
Blade Shape: Clip Point
Locking Mechanism: Tri-Ad Lock
Weight: 8.0oz
MSRP $329.99

Another Cold Steel knife to be introduced at Blade was the Hatamoto. This Tanto blade folder — it is Cold Steel, after all — is an update of a previous, more expensive model.

This image shows the Cold Steel Hatamoto folding knife on display at the Cold Steel booth during the 2025 Blade Show. The knife is laid out with the blade open, revealing a 4-inch tanto blade made from CPM 20CV steel, which has a polished finish. The handle is crafted from full carbon fiber, giving it a lightweight yet high-end look. The knife rests on a branded display surface, and there may be a product card or label nearby with specifications. Other Cold Steel products and booth signage are visible in the background, but the Hatamoto is the clear focus of the shot. Lighting from the convention floor highlights the blade’s shape and the texture of the carbon fiber handle. — The Hatamoto sits on display at the Cold Steel booth during the 2025 show. This new folder features CPM 20CV steel and full carbon fiber scales.

The original had San Mai steel and wore titanium bolsters. The new version has CPM 20CV steel, still no slouch, and full carbon fiber scales. This is designed as an everyday carry piece. Since a Hatamoto was a high-ranking Samurai warrior, this should serve you with distinction.

Cold Steel Hatamoto Specs:

Blade Length: 4″
Blade Thickness: 3.8mm
Blade Steel: 20CV
Handle Length: 4 1/2″
Handle Material: Carbon Fiber
Overall Length: 10.0″
Additional Features: Pocket / Belt Clip
Knife Type: Folder
Steel Family: CPM
Blade Shape: Tanto
Locking Mechanism: Liner Lock
Weight: 6.7oz
MSRP $349.99

Finally, new from Cold Steel is their Swift III. Luke and Keith told me that this new knife was super popular and had sold out both online and at this Blade Show. The Swift III is an assisted opener, 4” CPM M4 tool steel blade, and features Cold Steel’s Atlas lock.

This photo features the Cold Steel Swift III knife displayed open at the Cold Steel booth during the 2025 Blade Show. The knife’s 4-inch CPM M4 tool steel blade is extended, showcasing a drop point shape with a stonewashed finish. The handle is made of textured black G10, and the unique Atlas lock mechanism is visible near the pivot. The knife is set on a branded mat or display surface, with product cards or specs possibly placed nearby. Cold Steel signage and other knives are visible in the background, but the Swift III is in clear focus. The lighting highlights the blade’s grind and the handle’s texture, allowing viewers to see key details of this popular assisted-opening model. — The Cold Steel Swift III sits on a branded display, showing off its G10 handle and robust locking mechanism. This model quickly sold out during the show.

If you have not checked out this lock, it has a sliding lock bar supported by two large pins for strength. Cold Steel has a video where the Atlas lock does not fail even when 630 pounds of weight is suspended from the open blade. Atlas was an apt name.

Cold Steel Swift III Specs:

Blade Length: 4”
Blade Thickness: 3.4 mm
Blade Steel: M4
Handle Length: 5 3/8”
Material: G10
Overall Length: 9 3/8”
Additional Features: Ambidextrous Pocket / Belt Clip
Knife Type: Folder
Blade Length Range: 3”-5”
Steel Family: CPM
Blade Shape: Drop Point
Locking Mechanism: Atlas Lock
Weight: 5.5oz
MSRP: $209.99

Columbia River Knife and Tool

For Blade Show 2025, Bryce at CRKT showed me his display with three new models in the Redemption Series. Designed by Ken Onion, these knives are based upon his Deadman’s Hand customs. This refers to the poker hand Wild Bill Hickok was holding when he met his demise in Deadwood, Dakota Territory in 1876. A pair of black Aces and a pair of black 8’s, if you’re interested.

The CRKT booth showcased a wide variety of knives and fresh models. On the extreme right is a new version of the CRKT Provoke that received high marks from the author.

While visually resembling a frontier coffin-handled dagger, the materials and build are anything but Old West. The MagnaCut blade swings open with the Crossbar lock buttons slid back. It is a gravity knife, so check your local laws. A stainless-steel bolster and G-10 scales make up the handle. The new renditions are a full sized all black Redemption and two compacts, one blacked out and one standard like the original.

This image shows the CRKT Redemption Series knives arranged on a display table at the 2025 Blade Show. Three models are visible: a full-size all-black version and two compact versions — one blacked out and one with a traditional finish. All knives are laid out side by side with their MagnaCut blades open, revealing the unique coffin-handled shapes inspired by Ken Onion’s Deadman’s Hand customs. Product tags or information cards are visible near each knife, and the CRKT booth’s branded table covering sets the scene. The lighting accentuates the finishes on the knives, from the matte black Cerakote to the polished edges, while the modern, tactical styling is clear. This focused display lets attendees compare the Redemption models up close. — The CRKT Redemption Series is displayed at Blade Show 2025, featuring both the full-size and compact versions designed by Ken Onion.

I like the way the blade smoothly pivots open on ceramic ball-bearings. The USA-made Redemptions are a collaboration between CRKT and our next maker, Hogue.

CRKT Redemption Specs — Full Size Black

Blade Steel MagnaCut
Blade Edge Plain
Blade Finish Cerakote
Blade Length 4.06″ (103.20 mm)
Blade Thickness 0.15″ (3.84 mm)
Overall Length 9.19″ (233.38 mm)
Closed Length 5.10″ (129.46 mm)
Weight 4.90oz (138.91 g)
Handle Material G10 w/Stainless Steel Bolster
Style Folding Knife with Crossbar Lock
MSRP: $275.00

Hogue, Inc.

There was a sense that blue knives were dominating the new releases this year. Hogue’s entry was an interesting take. Gary at the booth was proud of the new Mysto Water, which, according to their banner, is “a vision derived from the deep ocean-tones of the natural element water.” The handle scales have a laser-engraved topographical map of the seafloor in the Central California area of their company.

The open Mysto Water knife is shown to the author at the Hogue display, with its clip point blade and seafloor-inspired handle details clearly visible.

Richlite, a phenolic laminate made from 100% recycled paper, comprises the handle scales. Richlite has a pleasing warmth in the hand and the Mysto Water’s pattern is equally attractive. With a 3.4” blade and a feathery 2.4 ounces, this knife would be a pleasure to carry.

Hogue Mysto Water Specs:

Blade Length: 3.4”
Closed Length: 4.4”
Overall Length: 7.8”
Weight: 2.4 oz
Profile: Clip Point with Blue Anodized Titanium Thumb Studs
Material: CPM MagnaCut Stainless Steel
Thickness: 0.115”
Hardness: 62-64 HRC
Treatment: Cryogenically Heat Treated
Finish: Stone Tumbled
Flat Grind — Hand Honed Edge
Locking Mechanism: Manual ABLE Lock (Ambidextrous Bar Lock Enhanced)
Frame: Blue Canyon Richlite
Deep Carry Pocket Clip (Right- or Left-Handed, Tip Up Carry)
Blue Anodized Titanium Hardware & Backspacers
Lanyard Hole
Includes Bruhns Design Water Element PVC Patch

Ka-Bar Knife Company

Joe at Ka-Bar had two knives to show me. The first was a State & Union folder variant, Made-in-the-USA with German 1095 Cro-Van steel. This is a more budget-friendly version of the S & U lockback with non-stainless steel and a fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle.

This image shows a Ka-Bar representative handing the State & Union folding knife to the author at the 2025 Blade Show. The knife is open, displaying its drop point blade made from German 1095 Cro-Van steel with a black oxide coating. The handle is constructed from fiberglass-reinforced nylon (FRN), offering a textured and lightweight grip. The author holds the knife while listening to the rep’s explanation, and the booth’s branded materials, display stands, and informational cards are visible in the background. The interaction takes place in a well-lit section of the trade show floor, surrounded by other Ka-Bar products. The image highlights the knife’s accessible design and the hands-on experience typical of the Blade Show. — At the Ka-Bar booth, the author examines the State & Union folder. The folder is a U.S.-made knife with FRN handles and a black oxide-coated blade.

The steel is black oxide coated, if that concerns you. The changes knock the MSRP back about a hundred bucks from the previous State & Union models.

Ka-Bar State & Union CV

Blade Length: 3.25”
Blade Steel: S90V Steel
Blade Thickness: 0.16”
Blade Type: Folding Knife
Blade Width: 0.85”
Color: Multiple Colors
Edge Angle: 20 degrees
Grind: Hollow
Handle Material: FRN
Lock Style: Lockback
Overall Length: 7.35”
Rockwell Hardness: 60-62
Shape: Drop Point
Tang Stamp: State & Union
Weight: 0.2 lb
MSRP $80.00

Joe also brought out…well, a Ka-Bar. This large, fixed blade hit all the high points of a traditional Marine Fighter, except for its full tang construction. No stick tang and stacked leather washers here. Joe said different handle scales will be available to dress up your knife. Knife steel was a coated 1095.

The author got a look at the new Ka-Bar “Slabby” knife featuring a full tang and robust handle scales. This yet-unnamed fixed blade attracted interest for its modern take on a classic design.

The new USA-made knife was not on their website, and the boys at the booth did not have a name for it yet. Joe just called it “Slabby” in honor of the slab scales and stabby demeanor.

But I was really excited about the secure sheath that came with the Ka-Bar. Few knives on the market are truly secure, as in “gun holster safe.” This injection-molded sheath had a double lock, including a crossbar safety and a thumb-break. It had multiple mounting points. Obviously right for the military and law enforcement users.

Kershaw Knife Company / Zero Tolerance

Brandon at the Kershaw Knives / Zero Tolerance booth had some products not seen at SHOT as well. First was the Kershaw 7106 Launch 21, an automatic folder in anodized flat dark earth aluminum with black G-10 inserts.

This image features two Kershaw knives displayed on a table at the 2025 Blade Show, with the Launch 21 automatic folder positioned at the top and the Bel Air clip point knife placed directly below. The Launch 21 has a flat dark earth anodized aluminum handle with black G10 inserts and a drop point CPM M4 blade with a black PVD coating. The Bel Air, beneath it, features olive canvas micarta handle scales and a CPM MagnaCut blade in a working finish. Both knives are shown open, highlighting their blade shapes, handle textures, and overall profiles. Branded display mats and Kershaw product cards may be present in the background, while booth lighting brings out the color contrasts and finishes. The arrangement makes it easy to compare these two new models side by side. — At the Kershaw booth, the Launch 21 automatic folder is shown above the Bel Air clip point, contrasting their differences. These two new models drew strong interest from visitors at the show.

It is a variation of the Launch 16, but instead of a Tanto blade, the 21 sports a drop point. This is a fast-firing auto with oversized jimping on the spine, choil and pommel for the necessary solid grip. Kershaw wants the Launch 21 to be “a high-performing workhorse.”

Kershaw 7106 Launch 21 Specs:

Blade Length: 3.45” (8.8 cm)
Blade Material: CPM M4
HRC: 60-62
Blade Finish/Coating: Black PVD coating
Blade Thickness: 0.16” (4.1 mm)
Closed Length: 4.95” (12.6 cm)
Handle Material: 6061-T6 aluminum, G10 inserts
Handle Finish/Coating: FDE anodized
Handle Thickness: 0.55” (1.4 cm)
Overall Length: 8.4” (21.3 cm)
Weight: 4.1oz (116 g)
MSRP $259.99

The second knife Brandon brought out was the new Kershaw 6106 Bel Air Clip Point. This is another model in their Bel Air line, and the words “clip point” delineate the difference. I found this to be a nice little EDC with grippy olive canvas micarta handle scales. The CPM MagnaCut blade rides open on KVT ball bearings. The lock is Kershaw’s crossbar Duralock action. Kershaw’s “working finish” is something of a stonewash to my eye. Kershaw says the finish will develop a nice patina when used.

Kershaw 6106 Bel Air Specs:

Blade Length: 3.05” (7.7 cm)
Blade Material: CPM MagnaCut
HRC: 62-64
Blade Finish/Coating: Working Finish
Lock type: Duralock
Blade Thickness: 0.09” (2.3 mm)
Closed Length; 4.2” (10.7 cm)
Handle Material: Olive Micarta
Handle Thickness; 0.44” (1.1 cm)
Overall Length: 7.25” (18.4 cm)
Weight: 2.6oz (74 g)
MSRP $249.99

The final offering was the Zero Tolerance Knives Model 0203. ZT and Kershaw are both owned by KAI USA, Inc. The 0203 is a no-nonsense tactical folder with heavy duty construction. The black PVD coated M4 blade deploys on phosphor bronze washers and ends in a Duralock.

The Zero Tolerance 0203 features robust construction and leaf-shaped drop point blade. This model was one of the most eye-catching tactical folders at the show in the author’s opinion.

This might have been the most rakish folder I saw at any booth. I think the drop point blade on the 0203 is more of a leaf-shaped blade, which I very much like. Combined with the angular lines of the textured G-10 handles, it makes for a unique profile.

Zero Tolerance Model 0203 Specs:

Blade Steel: CPM M4
Blade Length: 4” (10.2 cm)
HRC: 60-62
Blade Finish/Coating: 5.25” (13.3 cm)
Handle Material: G10
Handle Color: Olive
Handle Thickness: 0.69” (1.7 cm)
Overall Length: 9.25” (23.5 cm)
Weight: 6.6oz (187 g)
MSRP $370.00

Spyderco Knife Company

Rounding out our selection of new knives at Blade Show is the Spyderco Yojimbo 2 in Cobalt Blue. Jordan at the booth showed me the knife. The Yojimbo was designed by Martial Blade Concept’s founder, Michael Janich. He is a big proponent of Wharncliffe-style blades for self-defense, and the Yo was made for this specifically.

This image shows the Spyderco Yojimbo 2 Cobalt Blue folding knife on display at Blade Show 2025, with its Wharncliffe blade open. The blade is made from CPM SPY27 steel, and its straight cutting edge and fine tip are clearly visible. The handle is crafted from cobalt blue G-10, giving the knife a striking appearance that stands out among other models. The compression lock mechanism is visible near the pivot, and the pocket clip is attached to the handle. The knife is set on a Spyderco-branded display mat, with other Spyderco models and promotional materials nearby. Booth lighting brings out the vivid blue handle and the satin finish on the blade. The photo highlights the design details and materials of this new Yojimbo 2 release. — The Spyderco Yojimbo 2 Cobalt Blue features its signature Wharncliffe blade and cobalt blue G-10 handle. This version uses CPM SPY27 steel for enhanced edge retention.

This new Yojimbo has a blade made from Spyderco’s proprietary steel CPM SPY27. A blend of elemental metals, the SPY27 has the signature addition of cobalt into the steel. Spyderco said this steel has improved edge retention, toughness and corrosion resistance.

Cobalt comes up twice in this knife, since the box says, YOJIMBO 2 COBALT BL G10. So, it’s in the steel and the handle color. I also find this a throwback to Janich’s original Spyderco Yojimbo, which had blue handle scales that Janich felt would blend in well with blue jeans.

Spyderco Yojimbo 2 Cobalt Blue Specs:

Overall Length: 7.69” (195mm)
Closed Length: 4.49” (114mm)
Blade Thickness: .145” (3.7mm)
Tip Carry Position: Four-Position
Sheath: N/A
Blade Length: 3.2” (81mm)
Edge Length: 3” (76mm)
Handle Material: G-10
Lock Type: Compression
Steel: CPM SPY27
Knife Weight: 4.1oz (115g)
Clip Position: Ambi
Grind: Hollow
MSRP $264.00

Conclusion

My trip to Blade Show 2025 seemingly went by in a flash. I saw some old friends and met some new ones. This collection of knives is by no means all the new releases since January. My goal was to visit most of the major manufacturers and examine what has been released in the last few months.

This image captures a wide view of the 2025 Blade Show floor at the Cobb Galleria in Atlanta. Rows of exhibitor booths line both sides of the main aisle, each showcasing knives, tools, and accessories. Dozens of attendees move through the aisles, some stopping to handle knives or talk with booth representatives, while others walk and browse. Booth banners, branded displays, and informational signs are visible throughout the scene. The crowd is a mix of collectors, makers, and industry professionals, many wearing lanyards or event badges. The lighting is bright and even, emphasizing the scale and busy atmosphere of the world’s largest knife show. This image highlights the hands-on, interactive nature of the event. — Attendees explore the busy show floor at Blade Show 2025, moving between booths and checking out the latest knives. The event’s scale and energy are on full display in the main exhibit hall.

The question I asked at each booth, “What do you have here at Blade Show 2025 that was not introduced at SHOT?” also drew an answer I had not considered. Some manufacturers’ reps said, “We don’t go to SHOT Show anymore.” They explained that Blade Show is about meeting the buyers, the users, the aficionados and the knife lovers. That, I felt, was a terrific explanation.

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