M25 – DLC BLACK/KYDEX SHEATH: A High-Performance Fixed Blade Built for Combat and Survival

By: Victor Caplan

In the realm of tactical knives, the ACTA NON VERBA (ANV) M25 stands out as a paragon of precision engineering and functional design. Developed in collaboration with the 25th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment from Strakonice, this knife embodies the ethos of “deeds, not words,” delivering performance that speaks volumes.

Unboxing the M25

Upon receiving the M25, the attention to detail is immediately evident. The knife arrives securely housed in a sleek, black Kydex sheath, accompanied by MOLLE clips for versatile attachment options. The packaging exudes a sense of readiness, reflecting the knife’s military heritage.

Design and Craftsmanship
The M25 boasts a robust 4mm thick blade crafted from cryo-hardened Sleipner steel, renowned for its exceptional edge retention and toughness. The blade is further enhanced with a Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating, providing a smooth, non-reflective surface that minimizes friction and resists corrosion.

The handle is precision-milled from a solid block of black Micarta, offering a durable and ergonomic grip. Stainless steel screws and solid weld-on bushings secure the handle, ensuring structural integrity under rigorous use. Notably, the spine of the blade features a series of notches calibrated to a 1:25,000 map scale, facilitating quick distance measurements up to 5 kilometers—a testament to its thoughtful design for field operations.

Adding to its multifunctionality, the handle’s end is equipped with a tool designed for securing the RBS missile system, which doubles as a bottle opener—a practical feature for both military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the choil of the blade has a sharpened edge, allowing for effective use with a firesteel, enhancing its utility in survival situations.

Specifications at a Glance
• Category: MILITARY
• Weight: 0.4 kg
• Blade Style: Drop Point
• Lock Type: Fixed blade
• Blade Material: Sleipner steel
• Blade Hardness: 60 HRC
• Handle Material: Micarta
• Sheath Material: Kydex
• Blade Color: DLC Black
• Handle Color: Black
• Sheath Color: Black
• Overall Length: 240 mm / 9.5 inches
• Blade Length: 110 mm / 4.3 inches
• Blade Thickness: 3.5 mm / 0.13 inches
• Knife Weight: 145 g / 5 oz
• MOLLE Clips: Included

Ergonomics and Handling
The M25’s handle design prioritizes user comfort and control. The contoured Micarta scales provide a secure grip, even in wet conditions, reducing the risk of slippage during intensive tasks. The knife’s balance point is strategically positioned, allowing for precise maneuverability, which is crucial in both tactical and survival scenarios.

*Thoughtful design elements enhance user experience and functionality.*

Performance in Cutting Tests
To evaluate the M25’s performance, a series of cutting tests were conducted, assessing its sharpness, durability, and versatility.

1. Hair Shave Test – Assessing sharpness by shaving arm hair.

*The M25 effortlessly shaved hair, indicating a razor-sharp edge straight out of the box.*

2. Denim Cut Test – Evaluating slicing efficiency through thick denim fabric.

*The knife glided through multiple layers of denim with minimal resistance, showcasing its sharpness and edge geometry.*

3. Hardened Plastic Cutting Test – Testing the ability to cut through rigid plastic materials.

*The M25 performed admirably, slicing through hardened plastic without chipping or rolling the edge, a testament to the toughness of Sleipner steel.*

4. Wood Shaving Test – Determining carving and shaving capabilities for outdoor applications.

*Carving wood was a breeze, with the knife producing fine, consistent shavings—ideal for tasks like fire-starting or crafting.*

5. Cardboard Cut Test – Measuring edge retention and slicing ability through multiple layers of cardboard.

*After numerous cuts, the M25 maintained its sharpness, reflecting excellent edge retention properties.*

6. Nylon/Rope Cut Test – Testing precision and required force to cut through tough nylon ropes.

*The knife sliced through thick nylon rope cleanly in a single motion, demonstrating both sharpness and ergonomic efficiency.*

7. Paper Cut Test – Examining fine edge sharpness by slicing through paper.

*The M25 produced clean, effortless cuts on paper, highlighting its finely honed edge.*

8. Can Test – Assessing blade durability by cutting or puncturing a metal can.

*The knife punctured and cut through a metal can without sustaining noticeable damage, underscoring its robustness.*

Pros and Cons
Summarizing the strengths and potential drawbacks of the M25.
Pros:
• Exceptional Build Quality: High-grade materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensure durability.
• Versatile Design: Features like the map scale notches and firesteel-compatible choil enhance functionality.
• Outstanding Performance: Excels in various cutting tasks, maintaining sharpness and integrity.

Cons:
• Corrosion Resistance: While Sleipner steel offers many benefits, it is not stainless and requires regular maintenance to prevent rust.
• Sharpening Difficulty: The high hardness of the steel can make sharpening more challenging, necessitating proper tools and techniques.

Final Verdict

The ACTA NON VERBA M25 is a meticulously crafted tool that seamlessly blends form and function. Its thoughtful design, influenced by military collaboration, results in a knife that excels in both tactical and survival applications. The use of Sleipner steel ensures a balance between toughness and edge retention, while the DLC coating enhances durability. The ergonomic Micarta handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, making prolonged use manageable.

Through rigorous testing, the M25 proved its mettle, handling everything from fine precision work to heavy-duty cutting with ease. Its multi-functional design, including a map-scale spine, RBS tool, and firesteel compatibility, adds further value.

For those in need of a reliable, high-performance knife for tactical, survival, or everyday carry purposes, the ACTA NON VERBA M25 stands as a worthy investment. Its combination of durability, cutting efficiency, and ergonomic comfort makes it a standout choice in the world of fixed-blade knives.

For more details, visit the official website: anvknives.com