CRKT Pilar III (D2)

The Pilar III is the third evolution of Jesper Voxnaes's compact EDC for CRKT, and it's the version most people should buy. The original Pilar (5311) used 8Cr13MoV and stainless scales, fine for the price but outclassed by the Civivi Elementum on every metric. The Pilar III bumps the steel to D2 and swaps in G10 scales, which makes it competitive with the Elementum on edge retention while keeping CRKT's distinctive Voxnaes silhouette.

The 2.97" sheepsfoot blade is the polarizing feature. There is no piercing tip; the spine runs in a near-straight line down to a shallow curve at the edge. For slicing tasks, breaking down cardboard, opening blister packs, processing tape, the geometry is excellent because the cutting edge stays in contact with the work for longer. For piercing tasks, drilling through fabric, stabbing into orange peel, opening clamshell plastic packaging, you'll want a different blade. Match the tool to the work.

The liner lock and IKBS ball-bearing pivot give the Pilar III smooth deployment and positive lockup for the price. The thumb slot is the only deployment method (no flipper tab), which keeps the spine clean but means single-handed opening is slower than a flipper. At 3.8 oz it's heavier than the Elementum, that's the steel handle construction talking, and it feels reassuringly dense in a pocket.