By: Clarke Jeffreys
Havalon has long been known for its razor-sharp replaceable blade systems favored by hunters and outdoorsmen. With the introduction of the Havalon REDI™, the brand takes a bold step into the everyday carry market, delivering a knife that blends replaceable-blade convenience with long-term usability. The REDI™ isn’t just another EDC knife—it is engineered to become a dependable companion for years of real-world use.
The Orange REDI™ model combines practical design, innovative mechanics, and rugged materials into a lightweight yet capable folding knife built for daily cutting needs, outdoor adventures, and professional tasks alike.
First Look & Design Concept
The REDI™ marks a departure from traditional disposable-blade systems. Instead of ultra-thin, single-use scalpel blades, the REDI™ features two semi-permanent AUS-8 stainless steel blades designed to be sharpened and reused. This makes it more economical and environmentally friendly while maintaining the sharp performance Havalon users expect.
The bright orange handle ensures high visibility in outdoor environments, making it easy to spot if dropped in grass, dirt, or low light conditions—an important feature for hunters and field users.
Innovative REDI™ Lock System
At the heart of the knife lies Havalon’s patented REDI™ Lock system, which allows quick blade changes without tools. The process is intuitive and secure:
- Press the release button.
- Slide the blade holder forward to unlock.
- Swap blades and slide back into position.
The system locks securely, ensuring safe operation while allowing rapid blade switching when needed.
Assisted Opening Convenience
Unlike earlier Havalon knives that required two hands to open, the REDI™ introduces spring-assisted opening, making deployment fast and effortless. With a simple thumb push, the blade snaps open smoothly, making one-handed use practical for work environments and outdoor tasks.
The knife is also fully ambidextrous, thanks to a reversible pocket clip that accommodates both left- and right-handed users.
Blade Configuration
The REDI™ includes two interchangeable blade options:
- 3-inch AUS-8 Drop Point Blade
- 3-inch AUS-8 Partially Serrated Drop Point Blade
Both blades offer excellent versatility, with the plain edge ideal for slicing tasks while the partially serrated version excels at cutting fibrous materials like rope, straps, or webbing.
AUS-8 stainless steel provides a good balance between edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it practical for everyday users.
Handle Construction
The military-grade polymer handle keeps weight low while providing durability and grip. Its ergonomic shape fits comfortably in hand and offers reliable control in wet or dirty conditions.
The lightweight construction makes it easy to carry all day without fatigue.
Specifications
Model: Havalon REDI™ Orange
- Blade Length: 3 inches
- Blade Material: AUS-8 Stainless Steel
- Blade Types: Plain Edge Drop Point & Partially Serrated Drop Point
- Handle Length: 4.25 inches
- Handle Material: Military Grade Polymer
- Opening Mechanism: Spring Assisted
- Lock System: Patented REDI™ Lock
- Pocket Clip: Reversible (Ambidextrous)
- Included Tool: T5 Torx Bit for clip adjustment
Performance Cut Testing
To evaluate the REDI™ as a true everyday carry knife, several practical cutting tests were conducted.
Paper Cutting Test
The factory edge sliced through paper cleanly with minimal resistance. Cuts were smooth and precise, confirming excellent initial sharpness.
Comment: Razor-like slicing performance straight out of the box.
Cardboard Cutting Test
The knife handled repeated cardboard slicing without edge degradation, showing consistent performance.
Comment: Excellent for packaging and warehouse tasks.
Rope Cutting Test
Using both blade versions, the plain edge sliced rope cleanly while the serrated blade tore through thicker rope with ease.
Comment: Serrated option shines in heavy-duty fibrous materials.
Plastic Cutting Test
The blade cut through plastic packaging and thicker plastic materials smoothly without slipping.
Comment: Strong control and reliable slicing capability.
Wood Shaving Test
The REDI™ produced fine wood shavings, showing good edge control and slicing precision.
Comment: Suitable for light outdoor tasks and campsite prep.
Hair Shaving Test
After extended testing, the blade still shaved hair, indicating impressive edge retention.
Comment: Maintains sharpness well through extended use.
Denim Cutting Test
To simulate cutting through thick fabric commonly encountered in workwear or outdoor gear, the REDI™ was tested on folded denim material.
Comment: Handles heavy fabric cutting efficiently, making it useful for emergency situations, gear modification, or cutting through heavy clothing materials when needed.
Everyday Carry Experience
The REDI™ balances portability with strength. Its assisted opening makes deployment fast, while the lightweight handle prevents pocket fatigue. Blade swapping adds versatility, letting users tailor the knife to specific tasks without carrying multiple tools.
Whether opening boxes, preparing game, or tackling field work, the REDI™ feels reliable and capable.
Who Is the REDI™ For?
This knife is ideal for:
- Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts
- Workers needing quick blade swaps
- EDC users wanting a durable, resharpenable blade
- Anyone wanting Havalon precision in a long-term knife
Final Thoughts
The Havalon REDI™ Orange represents a smart evolution of the brand’s cutting technology. By combining replaceable convenience with long-term blade durability, Havalon has created a knife that bridges the gap between disposable systems and traditional folding knives.
Its assisted opening, ambidextrous design, secure locking system, and versatile blade options make it a strong contender in the everyday carry market.
For users seeking a dependable, practical, and innovative EDC knife, the REDI™ stands out as a smart and reliable choice ready for years of service.
For more information, visit:
https://www.havalon.com/
Sin City Press 