
As a fan of tanto blades for defensive use and was excited to see the T4000 C introduced with a fat high aspect ratio tanto point angle. From a comparison perspective, the Shrapnel delivers a modified 4.3” drop point blade and the T4000 C delivers esthetically the same knife with a marginally shorter 4.1” Tanto blade.
I formed a custom deep concealment carbon fiber kydex appendix sheath which does allow me to conceal the knife. The concealment challenge is the rather large but extremely comfortable handle.
As an EDC knife, this would not be the blade or blade shape I would reach for first for utility tasks or bushcraft. The Tanto blades do an excellent job at excelling at penetrating jabs and slashes, however the shape is less versatile for than a typical drop point blade. Conversely I would rather have a historically proven tanto blade shape than a drop point for a defensive knife that bites and cuts deep.
The blade contours are consistent and edge grind is perfect with very minor casting seams on the Forprene handle. The Austrian N690 steel is a cobalt based stainless steel similar in performance to the expensive VG-10. Notably the blade is wicked crazy sharp.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If the Extrema Ratio T4000 C had a slimmer overall handle profile for to allow for more discreet concealed carry it would be “the” perfect knife.
After a few months carrying T4000 and I did round off the pommel and of the handle to make the knife conceal a little better. Sure Extrema Ratio knives are expensive, however the knife is the most essential and basic of survival gear and I believe you should always buy the best knife available when your life may depend on it.
SHRAPNEL SPECS
Weight g.:196.0
Weight oz.:6.9
Blade Length (mm):104
Blade Length (in):4.1
Total Length (mm):208
Total Length (in):8.2
Blade Thickness (mm):4.0
Blade Thickness (in):0.16
Blade Material:BöHLER N690 STEEL (58HRC)
Blade Finishing:MIL-C-13924 BURNISHING
Main Grid:FLAT
Handle Material:FORPRENE
STREET: $208 (XTREME KNIVES)
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