In its early years, CRKT focused on developing products that reflected a commitment to ingenuity and user-focused design. One of its first major successes was the K.I.S.S. (Keep It Super Simple) knife, designed by Ed Halligan and introduced at the 1997 Shot Show. With its minimalist design and exceptional functionality, the K.I.S.S. became an instant hit, earning CRKT widespread recognition.

CRKT's reputation grew through its collaborations with renowned knife makers, resulting in innovative designs and proprietary technologies. Notable among these are the AutoLAWKS safety system, which enhances folding knife safety; the OutBurst assisted opening mechanism for rapid blade deployment; and the M16 series, a versatile line of knives by Kit Carson that remains one of CRKT’s most iconic product families.

A cornerstone of CRKT’s success is its collaboration with independent designers. By partnering with industry greats like Ken Onion, Jesper Voxnaes, and Lucas Burnley, CRKT has consistently introduced fresh, innovative designs. Each knife reflects the unique vision of its creator while adhering to CRKT’s high standards for quality and functionality. For instance, Ken Onion’s Homefront series brought a revolutionary field-strip technology to the market, allowing users to disassemble and clean their knives without tools easily.

CRKT K.I.S.S.