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SOG’s new XR series of knives is perfect for EDC chores. You can choose the one that suits your needs best, whether it’s the Vision XR (Pentagon XR) or the SOG-TAC XR.
A knife is an essential part of every everyday carry (EDC), kit. There are almost as many options today for your EDC knife as there are guns. It can be overwhelming, especially when you consider how important that little stabby tool is in your pocket. A knife is a tool to open a package or to open a letter. But, the EDC folks will tell you that the same knife can be used as a survival tool. SOG makes it easy with knives like the XR EDC line.
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EDC Knives, such as the SOGXR Series, can perform many tasks
My pocketknife can be used as a letter opener and box cutter, prybar, screwdriver, survival tool, self defense device, and sometimes even a lunch-time last ditch chef’s knife.
I know that the last one is gross because of all the others. But what doesn’t kill makes you stronger. A pocketknife is much more than a box opener. It can sometimes be difficult to decide which pocketknife is right for you.
When choosing an EDC knife for my collection, I look for a strong blade. A knife made of weak or cheap steel will not withstand the abuse of carrying. In an attempt to survive an attack you might plunge the blade into something. You are now in a worse situation if the steel breaks.
A strong locking mechanism is another important feature that I look for in a folding knife. I don’t want to cause injury to myself by using my own blade. A blade lock failure could mean that you are out of the fight. It can also cause severe damage to your hand.
Enter SOG
A knife that is easy to use with one hand and comfortable to hold is essential. I’ve had to deal with many knives that didn’t make sense. It’s not worth having a knife that requires two hands to open or feels like it is a boat anchor. It may be able to cut some things, but it is not a good choice for an EDC kit.
I was looking for a new pocketknife and came across a line of SOG knives. I ended up buying three new models to test out in the real world: the Vision XR (the Pentagon XR) and the SOG–TAC XR (the SOG-TAC XR).
I highly recommend SOG to anyone who is not familiar with them. SOG has been making high quality knives since 1986. The company was founded with the mission of recreating the iconic Bowie knife and paying tribute to the highly classified U.S. special ops unit MACV-SOG in Vietnam. The knife was also carried by unit members in special combat versions.
The original model was a commemorative knife, but soon the line expanded to include a variety of innovative tools. These innovative tools were field-proven by elite U.S troops and won the honor of being the knife of choice for U.S Navy SEALs. It’s a simple decision to place SOG at the top when you are looking for a new carry-knife.
Vision XR
The SOG Vision XR knife is the ideal tool for professionals. This knife features a 3.36 inch cryogenically heated CTS-XHP stainless-steel tanto-style blade, G10 ultra-grip handles, and an ambidextrous design. The blade is extremely strong and durable thanks to the cryogenically tempered steel.
The SOG Vision XR is a stealthy blade that can be hidden in your pocket. SOG’s XR lock allows for a smooth, controlled, one-handed opening that only works when the user intends it to be opened. There are many ways to open the knife. You don’t need to practice a lot. The knife can be opened with a kick opener, thumb stud, holding the lock back, and flicking the blade.
The XR locking mechanism provides the ultimate blade-locking security when opened, able to withstand 1,500 lbs of force so you can use it with the confidence that it will not fail.
To avoid it being too flashy in my pocket, I chose the Blackout version. I carry a knife with me all the time and love it to be hidden. It’s easier to conceal a knife with a black finish. The knife is only 4.4 ounces in weight, so it can be carried around in your pocket or on your belt. The knife’s tanto blade design is available at a modest $150, making it the perfect choice for all your EDC needs.
Pentagon XR
The Pentagon XR is remarkably like the Vision XR, but it has a unique spear point blade design. The blade is certainly intriguing with its large stature, sturdy feel, and slight edge at the tip.
This tiny back edge creates a perfect area to do small, intricate cuts. It also creates a tip that looks more like a double-edged knife, even though it is not double-edged. The blade is made of the same cryogenically heated stainless steel as the Vision. This makes it extremely strong and retains its edge well.
The Pentagon has the same XR Lock system as the G10 grips and ambidextrous controls. These knives can be used right- or left-handed thanks to the reversible clip. The Pentagon XR is 4.9 ounces in weight and has a 3.61 inch blade length. This knife is perfect for concealed carry and everyday use.
This model is a great choice if you find yourself in a fight and need to use your knife to escape. While the Pentagon is slightly more expensive than the other models, it offers excellent performance and a MSRP of $175.
SOG-TACXR
The SOG-TAC XR is the third knife from SOG. The TAC XR EDC was designed by SOG with military and law enforcement personnel. This blade has the same XR Lock and ambidextrous operation as the other XR models. It also features a G10 grip. SOG took this knife to the next level by adding a full-steel inner skeleton.
The TACXR is a budget-friendly option and will fit into any pocket. SOG reinforced this knife with a full-steel inner skeleton to increase strength. However, it is incredibly easy to use. This folder opens easily due to its 3.39-inch blade. It’s almost unbelievable how smooth it is.
The blade is made from D2 stainless steel, cryogenically heated. D2 is a versatile, high-carbon tool steel that conforms to SOG’s specific performance specifications. D2 offers the perfect combination of durability and edge retention for long-term use, as well as ease of maintenance. The clip point blade works well and is more traditional than a traditional pocketknife.
This model came with an OD Green G10 grip, and a black blade. The SOG-TAC XR EDC is a more affordable model with an MSRP only $80. This will give you a very battle-ready blade at a reasonable price.
Selection of EDC Knife
It is important to choose an EDC knife that can withstand the abuse you will give it. Your pointy stabby tool is likely to be the most used tool in your EDC arsenal. You need to make sure it can handle whatever you throw at it.
SOG has the right model for you, no matter what your purpose is. You can find the entire line of SOG XR EDC knives on SOGKnives.com.
This article was originally published by Personal Defense World in the April/May 2021 issue. Subscription is available in print and digital editions at OutdoorGroupStore.com. Call 1-800-284-5668 or email [email protected]
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