A classic story with three new chapters.
When CRKT® decided to reimagine the late Kit Carson’s popular M16® design, it was either go big or go home. And so the M16®-03DB was born. Combining three revolutionary innovations, Deadbolt®, Assisted Opening, and IKBS™ ball bearing pivot system, this redesign doesn’t hold back in performance or functionality. Just like the beloved classic, this contemporary variation gets the job done right—only now, it excels in three more ways.
Strong And Simple: Deadbolt® lock provides incredible strength and it's easy to useAssisted Opening: Flipper deploys the blade fastSmooth Opening: IKBS™ ball bearing pivot deploys the blade smoothSuperior Performance: D2 blade steel for excellent edge retentionStrong and Lightweight: aluminum handle combines strength with minimal weightLow Profile: pocket clip provides secure carry
Renowned knife designer Kit Carson’s legacy lives on through his many contributions to the knife community, including the fan-favorite M16® design that popularized the flipper. And while a classic will always remain a classic, inspiration struck the CRKT® team to take one of Kit’s most iconic knives and reinforce it with three other revolutionary innovations.
Working in tandem, Ken Onion’s lightning-fast Assisted Opening seamlessly matches Flavio Ikoma’s IKBS™ ball bearing pivot system, achieving quick deployment action that’s impressively smooth. Apart from just being fast, it’s also made to tackle the test of strength. Thanks to Flavio’s Deadbolt® technology, once the 3.58” D2 constructed blade is locked into place, you can trust it to triumph over challenging moments of hard stress.
Checking the boxes of speed, endurance, and strength, it’s also designed with a lightweight aluminium handle for added strength and easy gripping—making it a true hard-tested everyday carry that’s ready to face the most challenging or common everyday chore.
Rediscover the M16®, the classic lives on.
How Assisted Opening Works
It's held securely closed in your pocket, but initiate the deployment, and part way through the rotation the blade opens at impressive speed for simple, powerful, one-handed opening.
How Deadbolt® Works
Steel bolts interlock with the blade when it’s deployed to yield incredible strength. A prominent button sits at the pivot point for simple, intuitive disengagement without fingers crossing the path of the blade.