Maserin AM4 Liner Lock M390 Folding Knife

I just filled in two holes in my collection: missing manufacturer and blade shape. I got a Cold Steel Code 4 Tanto. It’s been fun getting used to the Tanto. I’m finding the secondary “point” quite useful as a precision cutter. The Code 4 is a complete bargain blaster. For about $70 you get a large knife with choice of 3 blade shapes, a slim profile, aluminum handles, and S35vn steel. Plus it has the CS Triad back lock which they tout as the strongest design available. It compensates for wear with a trick pivot that lets it float fore/aft and always jam tight between the stop pin and blade notch. It is VERY solid. The Code 4 gets 4.5 stars from me. Back locks are one of my least favorite types because they’re not as close-flicky as a Benchmade Axis or Spyderco compression lock, or as convenient-closey as a liner or frame lock. I can usually close back lockers one handed by turning them over, depressing the lock with my thumb, and swinging the blade partially closed with either my index finger or a small flick. The Buck 110 is an exception due to the location of the release at the butt of the handle, but the 110 is an exceptional knife so we make allowance for it’s special place in history and cultural significance. The Code 4 lock has a VERY (correct spelling is always capitalized, right?) strong spring, requiring most of my thumb strength to depress it. Fortunately the Code 4’s conventional pivot with bronze washers is silky smooth and simply falls closed once the lock is released. Unfortunately I didn’t know this initially, so the first close was also first blood as the blade swung smoothly across the back of my index finger, testifying to the fine out-of-the-box grind and sharpness. So, bring on the Tantos! I’m a new fan.