Coast- Cuts like a Knife

January 20, 2012

One of the new things I liked that I saw was the Coast Rapid Response® blade-assist knives.

The knives are just one element of a new line-up of professional LED flashlights, multi-tools and knives that COAST introduced at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 17-20.

It was designed by world-renowned custom knife maker, Ron Lake. The Rapid Response folders may be the best blade-assist knives ever manufactured. Combine that with patented ease-of-use and safety features – and an amazingly affordable price – and this knife sets new standards that won’t be matched anytime soon.

It starts with the completely re-imagined SAT™ (Smooth Assist Technology™) system that’s unlike anything ever made before. The patented system features a roller-cam built into the blade that the assisting spring rides on. Just give the thumb stud a nudge and the blade snaps to attention, fast and effortlessly.

Rapid Response knives provide a new level of safety too. COAST’S patented Max-Lock™ system completely secures the blade when it is closed, and double locks the blade when it is open. Built to last a lifetime and covered by the COAST limited lifetime warranty, these knives have fiberglass-filled nylon handles for maximum strength, a perfect hand fit and great looks. Heat-treated, stainless-steel liners make the knives very strong and corrosion resistant, while the open-frame design lowers weight and makes cleaning easy.

The Rapid Response blade is finely crafted from 400-series stainless steel that’s rigorously tested to ensure top-quality heat treatment, and each blade is tested for sharpness. They have ambidextrous thumb studs and pocket clips that are easily reversed to the other side of the handle or removed.

Rapid Response knives are available in 3-inch and 3.9-inch blade lengths, which close to 4 and 5 inches, respectively. Both blade lengths are available with a full-edge satin/glass-beaded finish, or with a black blade that’s partially serrated. Retail price for the larger knife is expected to be under $50; the smaller one under $40.

I liked it a lot.