SOG KIKU XR - The Knife That Changed My Perspective on Carry Knives

Published on December 9, 2020
Duration: 5:45

Colion Noir reviews the SOG KIKU XR Blackout, a knife that shifted his perspective on carry knives. Despite initial reservations about its size and weight compared to the SOG Ultra XR, he found the KIKU XR to be exceptionally well-designed, featuring excellent ergonomics, a visually appealing aesthetic, and robust CTS XHP steel. While preferring the Ultra XR for urban EDC, the KIKU XR is now his go-to for wilderness applications, demonstrating a perfect blend of form and function.

Quick Summary

The SOG KIKU XR Blackout is a versatile knife with an elegant ruggedness, suitable for both outdoor and city carry. It features CTS XHP steel for durability and edge retention, and its XR lock mechanism offers exceptionally smooth operation, making it a standout choice for those seeking a blend of form and function.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: SOG Ultra XR & Initial Thoughts
  2. 00:14Introducing the SOG KIKU XR Blackout
  3. 00:22Test Environment: Low-Light Carbine Course
  4. 00:46KIKU XR's Impact on Carry Knife Perspective
  5. 00:59Reviewer's Approach to Knife Reviews
  6. 01:09KIKU XR Design and Aesthetic Appeal
  7. 01:29Ergonomics and Blade Aesthetics
  8. 01:45CTS XHP Steel: Material and Performance
  9. 02:12Versatility and Ideal Carry Size
  10. 02:35Confident Grip and Functionality
  11. 02:50Opening Mechanism: XR Lock vs. Ultra XR
  12. 03:11Clip Design: Functionality vs. Aesthetics
  13. 03:29Weight and Pocket Presence
  14. 03:46Preferred Use Cases & Final Verdict
  15. 04:15Availability and Community Input
  16. 04:37Second Amendment Advocacy & Merchandise

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the SOG KIKU XR Blackout a unique carry knife?

The SOG KIKU XR Blackout offers an elegant ruggedness, making it versatile for both outdoor adventures and daily city use. Its 'Goldilocks' size is ideal, being large enough for tasks yet comfortable for everyday carry, and its CTS XHP steel ensures durability and edge retention.

How does the SOG KIKU XR's opening mechanism compare to other SOG knives?

The KIKU XR's XR lock mechanism provides an exceptionally smooth opening and closing experience, which the reviewer found vastly superior to the SOG Ultra XR, describing the Ultra XR's action as feeling like 'sandpaper' in comparison.

What are the key features of the SOG KIKU XR's blade?

The SOG KIKU XR features a blade made from CTS XHP steel, known for its high hardness, corrosion resistance, and excellent edge retention. The blade's shape and compound grind lines are also noted for their visual appeal.

What is the reviewer's preferred use case for the SOG KIKU XR?

While the reviewer still prefers the SOG Ultra XR for urban everyday carry, the KIKU XR has become his go-to knife for nature and wilderness excursions due to its robust build, excellent ergonomics, and versatile functionality.

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