CRKT Michaca Review
Published: April 15th, 2025
The CRKT Michaca is one of the more distinctive folders to come out of the brand’s American-made lineup. Designed by custom knifemaker Philip Booth, it’s a sleek, well-built knife with premium materials, a clean profile, and a locking system that’s unlike anything else in CRKT’s catalog. The name “Michaca” comes from a blend of Booth’s hometown and state, Ithaca, Michigan. It’s a simple mashup, but it gives the knife a name with personal meaning, and it fits the bold, no-nonsense style of the design.
MagnaCut Blade with Scale Release Lock
The blade is made from CPM-MagnaCut stainless steel, a steel that has quickly earned a reputation for its outstanding performance. Known for offering an excellent mix of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness, MagnaCut is a material that serious knife users appreciate. The Michaca’s drop point blade measures 3.30 inches and features a stonewashed finish that looks clean and refined while helping to conceal scratches from regular use. It excels at a wide range of cutting tasks, from opening packages to more demanding jobs like cutting rope or carving wood.
One of the most interesting elements of the Michaca is its locking mechanism. Rather than using a standard liner or frame lock, CRKT opted for a scale release lock. This mechanism is built directly into the handle scale, allowing the user to disengage the lock by applying pressure on the side of the scale near the pivot. It is a subtle and clever design that gives the knife a clean profile while offering secure and reliable lockup. Once you get used to the motion, it feels natural and fluid, making opening and closing the knife a satisfying part of the experience.
CRKT Michaca Blade & Lock
Jade G10 Handle with Deep Carry Comfort
The handle scales are made from natural jade G10, which gives the knife a modern and slightly translucent appearance. This material is both strong and lightweight, offering a firm grip and excellent durability. The handle is contoured for comfort, with gentle curves that make it feel secure and stable during use. At 5.10 ounces, the Michaca has a solid, confident feel in hand without being overly bulky or heavy.
When it comes to carry, the knife features a deep carry pocket clip set up for tip-up right-hand use. It sits low in the pocket for discreet carry and quick access. The closed length is 4.60 inches, while the overall open length is 7.81 inches. This size strikes a comfortable balance, offering enough blade for serious work while remaining compact enough for everyday carry.
CRKT Michaca Jade G-10 Handle
The CRKT Michaca is not just another folding knife. It is a modern, well-executed design that reflects careful attention to detail and a willingness to try something different. From the high-performance MagnaCut steel to the inventive Scale Release Lock and standout jade G10 handle, everything about this knife feels deliberate and refined. It is the kind of knife that appeals to both enthusiasts and practical users alike. Whether you are looking for a dependable everyday carry option or a unique addition to your collection, the Michaca delivers with style, substance, and craftsmanship that speaks for itself.
Featured Knives
CRKT Michaca
The CRKT Michaca is a USA-made out-the-side automatic knife designed by Philip Booth. It features a 3.30-inch CPM-MagnaCut drop point blade with a bead blast finish for a rugged, low-reflection look. The unique scale release mechanism enables fast, one-handed deployment and secure lockup. Its natural jade G-10 handle provides a modern, translucent appearance with excellent grip and durability. A stainless steel deep carry clip allows for discreet tip-up right-hand pocket carry. Weighing 5.1 ounces and measuring 4.60 inches closed and 7.81 inches overall, the Michaca delivers premium materials, innovative design, and reliable performance in a compact package.