By: Mariah Brooks
The Nano-Shark™ – 20CV – G10 by Demko® Knives is a compact, high-performance folding knife meticulously engineered for durability, precision, and everyday carry (EDC) convenience. Crafted with premium materials and innovative design elements, this knife aims to meet the rigorous demands of EDC enthusiasts, survivalists, and collectors alike.
Blade Material and Design
At the heart of the Nano-Shark™ is its 2.125-inch cutting edge, forged from CPM 20CV steel. This high-grade steel is celebrated for its exceptional wear resistance and edge retention, ensuring the blade maintains its sharpness over prolonged use. The stonewashed finish not only enhances the blade’s aesthetic appeal but also adds a layer of protection against scratches and corrosion, contributing to its longevity.
Handle Construction and Ergonomics
The knife’s handle is constructed from black G10, a fiberglass-based laminate known for its robustness and lightweight properties. Measuring 5.875 inches in overall length, the Nano-Shark™ offers a balanced feel in hand. The textured G10 scales provide a secure and comfortable grip, even in challenging conditions, reducing the risk of slippage during use. The ergonomic design ensures that the knife fits naturally in the hand, facilitating extended use without discomfort.
Locking Mechanism
A standout feature of the Nano-Shark™ is its innovative Shark Lock mechanism, situated on the spine of the knife and operated with a ramp-like ‘fin.’ This spring-driven lock arm moves into a notch in the tang upon opening, securing the blade firmly in place. The design allows for ambidextrous operation and ensures that fingers remain clear of the blade’s path during engagement and disengagement, enhancing user safety.
Performance Testing
To evaluate the Nano-Shark™’s capabilities, a series of performance tests were conducted:
- Hair Shave Test
The blade cleanly shaved hair from the forearm with minimal pressure, indicating a finely honed edge suitable for precision tasks.
- Denim Cut Test
The knife sliced through heavy denim fabric with ease, requiring minimal force, which speaks to its sharpness and edge geometry.
- Hardened Plastic Cutting Test
When cutting through hardened plastic materials, the blade maintained its sharpness and showed no signs of chipping or dulling, highlighting the durability of CPM 20CV steel.
- Wood Shaving Test
The knife performed admirably in carving and shaving wood, producing consistent curls and demonstrating control, making it a reliable tool for outdoor and survival applications.
- Cardboard Cut Test
Extended cutting through layered cardboard showed the blade’s excellent edge retention, with no noticeable decrease in performance, underscoring its suitability for repetitive tasks.
- Nylon/Rope Cut Test
The knife efficiently cut through both synthetic and natural fiber ropes, requiring minimal effort, which is essential for emergency and utility situations.
- Paper Cut Test
The blade produced clean, straight cuts on standard paper, indicating a keen edge ideal for detailed tasks.
- Can Test
In testing against aluminum cans, the blade punctured and sliced without sustaining damage, showcasing its toughness and resilience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
• Superior Blade Material: CPM 20CV steel offers outstanding edge retention and wear resistance.
• Robust Handle Construction: G10 scales provide a durable, lightweight, and secure grip.
• Innovative Locking Mechanism: The Shark Lock ensures safety and ambidextrous operation.
• Compact Design: Ideal size for everyday carry without compromising functionality.
Cons:
• Price Point: The premium materials and craftsmanship come at a higher cost, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
• Availability: High demand and limited production runs can make the Nano-Shark™ challenging to acquire.
Potential Improvements
While the Nano-Shark™ excels in many areas, potential enhancements could include offering additional handle color options or materials to cater to user preferences. Additionally, incorporating a reversible pocket clip could further accommodate left-handed users, enhancing the knife’s ambidextrous appeal.
Final Verdict
The Nano-Shark™ – 20CV – G10 stands out as a meticulously crafted compact knife that seamlessly blends durability, precision, and practicality. Its high-quality materials, innovative design, and exceptional performance make it a valuable addition to the collections of EDC enthusiasts, survivalists, and knife collectors. Despite a higher price point, the investment is justified by the knife’s superior craftsmanship and reliable performance.
For those interested in acquiring the Nano-Shark™ or learning more about its specifications, visit the official Demko® Knives website
Sin City Press 