By: Tyler Adcox

Tekto Knives expands its performance-driven lineup with the release of the F4 Echo, a collaboration folding knife created alongside Zastava Arms USA. The design blends modern knife engineering with subtle cues drawn from classic rifle components, resulting in a tool that looks distinctive while remaining practical for everyday carry.

Rather than focusing purely on appearance, the F4 Echo is built around control, reliability, and user confidence. Every element—from deployment to materials—supports real-world cutting performance.

Collaboration Rooted in Function and Heritage

The F4 Echo brings together Tekto’s modern knife-making approach with design influences inspired by Zastava’s iconic rifle platforms. Visual elements in the handle echo the vented patterns found on rifle handguards and barrel vents, creating a recognizable connection without compromising ergonomics or usability.

Despite the heritage inspiration, this knife remains thoroughly modern in construction. It is not a display piece but a practical everyday tool designed to be carried and used.

Manual Flipper with Button-Lock Precision

The F4 Echo operates as a manual flipper, allowing users to deploy the blade quickly and intentionally through the flipper tab. The knife locks securely using a button-lock mechanism, ensuring the blade remains stable during use.

Closing the knife is equally simple. Pressing the button disengages the lock so the blade can fold back smoothly and safely.

This system provides quick and reliable one-hand opening, solid blade lockup, smooth controlled closing, and mechanical simplicity without automatic deployment. It offers speed while maintaining user control, making it ideal for everyday carry.

CPM S35VN Blade Performance

At the heart of the F4 Echo is a blade crafted from CPM S35VN steel, a premium stainless steel widely praised for its performance balance.

This steel offers excellent edge retention, strong toughness, good corrosion resistance, and easier sharpening compared to many high-end steels. The blade geometry supports clean slicing, efficient utility cutting, and strong tip performance, making it adaptable to both everyday and outdoor tasks.

Lightweight Yet Strong Handle Design

The handle is machined from T6 aluminum, keeping weight low while maintaining structural strength. G10 inlays improve grip and add visual depth, enhancing control even when hands are wet or gloved.

Handle cutouts inspired by rifle venting also help reduce weight while reinforcing the knife’s visual identity. The result is a handle that feels solid and comfortable without becoming bulky in the pocket.

Style Options with Functional Appeal

The F4 Echo is available in three color variations: Serbian Red honoring Zastava’s roots, American Walnut inspired by traditional rifle stock aesthetics, and Tactical Black for a low-profile everyday option. Each version delivers the same performance with different visual personalities.

Everyday Carry Capability

The F4 Echo balances strength and portability, making it well suited for daily carry and utility tasks such as opening packages, cutting rope and cordage, food preparation tasks, outdoor work, and emergency readiness use. It carries comfortably while deploying quickly when needed.

Alternative Performance Testing: Tekto F4 Echo x Zastava

To further evaluate the F4 Echo’s real-world capability, the knife was subjected to another round of performance testing focused on both precision and heavy-use scenarios. The goal was to see how the blade and lock system hold up after repeated cutting tasks.

Paper Slice Precision Test

The knife easily performed long, smooth push cuts through standard paper sheets. The blade showed excellent control, producing clean cuts without tearing.

Comment: Edge geometry and factory sharpening provide reliable precision cutting right out of the box.

Cardboard Breakdown Test

Several thick shipping boxes were cut down continuously. The blade maintained cutting performance without noticeable drag or dulling.

Comment: Ideal for warehouse, office, or home package breakdown tasks.

Rope & Cordage Test

Both nylon rope and paracord were cut repeatedly. The blade bit cleanly and cut efficiently with minimal force.

Comment: Strong slicing capability makes it reliable for camping, utility, and emergency tasks.

Denim and Fabric Test

Multiple folded layers of denim and canvas fabric were sliced cleanly without snagging.

Comment: Effective for cutting heavy materials or work gear.

Plastic Container Test

Rigid plastic packaging and bottles were cut and pierced smoothly.

Comment: Blade tip strength and control perform well in tougher cutting situations.

Wood Feathering Test

Dry wood was shaved into fine curls for fire-starting simulation. The blade maintained control and bite.

Comment: Shows the knife’s versatility beyond urban EDC use.

Hair Shave Retention Test

After completing all tasks, the blade still shaved hair cleanly from the arm.

Comment: CPM S35VN demonstrates impressive edge retention even after demanding cutting sessions.

Aluminum Can Cut Test

The blade punctured the surface easily and sliced through the thin aluminum walls with controlled pressure. The edge maintained stability without rolling or chipping during the process.

Comment: While cutting metal containers is not typical knife use, the F4 Echo handled the task well, demonstrating blade toughness and solid edge retention.

Overall Performance Impression
The F4 Echo proves itself as a dependable everyday carry knife capable of handling both routine and tougher cutting demands. Its balance of smooth deployment, comfortable handling, and durable steel makes it suitable for both daily utility and outdoor tasks.

Built to Be Carried and Used

The F4 Echo isn’t simply designed to look good—it is intended to function reliably in daily situations. Tekto and Zastava created a knife that merges recognizable heritage styling with dependable modern performance.

For knife users seeking a blend of smooth action, durable materials, and distinctive design, the F4 Echo stands out as both practical and visually unique.

F4 Echo Specifications

• Model: F4 Echo
• Collaboration: Tekto Knives x Zastava Arms USA
• Knife Type: Manual flipper folding knife
• Lock Type: Button-lock
• Blade Steel: CPM S35VN
• Handle Material: T6 aluminum with G10 inlays
• Inlay Colors: Serbian Red, American Walnut, Tactical Black
• Deployment: Flipper tab or button release
• Design Inspiration: Zastava rifle handguard and barrel vents

Final Thoughts

The Tekto F4 Echo successfully bridges classic firearm-inspired styling with modern folding knife engineering. Smooth action, solid materials, and everyday practicality make it a reliable companion for both enthusiasts and users who depend on their gear.

For more details, visit:
https://www.tektoknives.com/