The Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops knife looks tough, but you can do better for the same money

Skip the Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Tactical Knife — there are better options for the same money, and this one trades on the name more than the build quality. The brand recognition is strong, and it looks the part in the sheath, but the blade steel doesn’t hold an edge as well as comparably priced knives from companies that focus solely on cutlery. For the same twenty-five dollars you can get a Ontario Rat or a Mora Companion that will out-cut, out-last, and out-sharp this knife without the tactical branding tax. If you just want something that looks cool in a glove box, it’ll do. If you actually need a knife that works when you need it, spend the same money on something that prioritizes steel over style.