CRKT M40-03 Deadbolt Folding Knife: A Legacy of Innovation for Everyday Carry

For enthusiasts and professionals alike, the name Kit Carson evokes a profound respect within the knife community. His iconic M16® and M21™ designs are not just tools; they are benchmarks of innovation and reliability that have shaped the modern folding knife landscape. The CRKT M40-03 everyday carry (EDC) folding knife continues this esteemed legacy, reimagining a classic design with contemporary advancements to deliver unparalleled performance and security. This isn't just a knife; it's a testament to enduring craftsmanship, built to be a trusted companion for daily tasks and unexpected challenges.

Why Choose the CRKT M40-03 for Your Everyday Needs?

Are you searching for a dependable folding knife that offers both robust strength and effortless operation? Do you need a versatile tool that can handle everything from opening packages to assisting in outdoor adventures? The CRKT M40-03 is engineered precisely for these needs. It masterfully blends Kit Carson's design philosophy with CRKT's cutting-edge Deadbolt® locking mechanism, creating a knife that is not only visually appealing but also exceptionally functional and safe.

This knife is ideal for:

• Everyday Carry (EDC): Its compact size and lightweight build make it an unobtrusive addition to your pocket, ready for immediate use.
• Outdoor Enthusiasts: Campers, hikers, anglers, and hunters will appreciate its reliable blade and secure lock for various outdoor tasks.
• Tradespeople & Professionals: From electricians to warehouse workers, those needing a sharp, durable utility knife will find it indispensable.
• Home & DIY Projects: Tackle common household chores, cut materials, or open tough packaging with ease and confidence.
• Emergency Preparedness: A reliable cutting tool is a critical component of any survival kit, offering peace of mind in unforeseen circumstances.

Unrivaled Strength and Security: The Deadbolt® Locking Mechanism

One of the most critical aspects of any folding knife is its locking mechanism, and the M40-03 elevates this standard with the innovative Deadbolt® lock. This proprietary system, developed by CRKT, is celebrated for its incredible strength and intuitive operation.

• How it Works: The Deadbolt® mechanism employs a solid steel "deadbolt" that slides into a precisely machined cutout in the blade, creating an incredibly strong and secure connection when the blade is open. This robust engagement virtually eliminates any blade play, ensuring maximum stability during use.
• Unparalleled Safety: For users who prioritize safety, the Deadbolt® offers immense peace of mind. Its formidable strength means the blade is far less likely to accidentally disengage, even under significant lateral or rotational stress. This makes it an ideal choice for demanding tasks where blade security is paramount.
• Simple, One-Handed Operation: Despite its robust nature, disengaging the Deadbolt® is remarkably simple and can be done with one hand. A prominent button on the handle, often textured for easy grip, allows the user to unlock the blade effortlessly, ensuring quick and efficient closing when the task is complete. This seamless operation contributes significantly to the knife's appeal as an everyday carry tool.

Effortless Deployment: Flipper Opening with IKBS™ Ball Bearing Pivot System

Speed and smoothness of deployment are vital for an effective EDC knife. The CRKT M40-03 excels in this area thanks to its combination of a flipper opening and the renowned IKBS™ (Ikoma Korth Bearing System) ball bearing pivot system.

• Flipper Advantage: The integrated flipper tab provides a quick and natural way to deploy the blade. A slight press on the flipper, combined with a flick of the wrist, sends the blade rotating out of the handle with remarkable speed. This intuitive action is favored by many users for its efficiency and ease of use, even with gloves on.
• IKBS™ Precision: The heart of the M40-03's smooth action is the IKBS™ ball bearing pivot system. This advanced pivot utilizes unsealed ball bearings, providing an incredibly low-friction surface for the blade to glide on. The result is a buttery-smooth, lightning-fast opening experience that feels precision-engineered and highly responsive. This system ensures consistent performance, allowing the blade to deploy rapidly and reliably every single time.
• Why it Matters: Whether you're in a hurry to open a package, prepare a campfire, or respond to an unexpected situation, the M40-03’s swift and reliable deployment means your tool is ready when you are.

Premium Materials for Durability and Performance

A knife's materials dictate its longevity, feel, and performance. The M40-03 leverages a thoughtful combination of high-quality components to achieve its balance of strength, lightweight design, and aesthetic appeal.

Blade Composition: 1.4116 Stainless Steel with Bead Blast Finish

• 1.4116 Stainless Steel: This German-made stainless steel is a popular choice for everyday and outdoor knives due to its excellent all-around properties.
  • Corrosion Resistance: It boasts a high chromium content, providing superior resistance to rust and corrosion, making it suitable for use in diverse environments, including damp or humid conditions. This is particularly beneficial for outdoor activities or in areas where the knife might be exposed to moisture.
  • Edge Retention & Sharpening: While not an ultra-premium super steel, 1.4116 offers good edge retention for typical EDC tasks and, crucially, is remarkably easy to sharpen. This means users can quickly restore a razor-sharp edge with minimal effort, ensuring the knife is always performing at its best.
  • Toughness: It also possesses good toughness, meaning it resists chipping and breaking, even when encountering moderate stress or impact.
• Bead Blast Finish: The blade features a bead blast finish, which creates a non-reflective, matte surface. This finish is not just for aesthetics; it helps to reduce glare and can offer some minor protection against scratches, contributing to the blade's understated yet robust appearance.

Handle Construction: Glass Reinforced Nylon and 6063 Aluminum Bolster

• 6063 Aluminum Bolster: The front bolster of the handle is crafted from 6063 aluminum. This alloy is known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and good corrosion resistance. The aluminum bolster provides a rigid, sturdy foundation for the handle, enhancing structural integrity and offering a reassuringly solid feel in hand.
• Glass Reinforced Nylon (GRN) Onlay: The handle scales, or onlays, are made from glass-reinforced nylon. GRN is a composite material that combines the strength and rigidity of glass fibers with the durability and lightweight properties of nylon.
  • Strength and Durability: GRN is incredibly tough and resistant to impact, abrasion, and chemicals, making it ideal for a working knife. It can withstand significant wear and tear from daily use and exposure to the elements.
  • Lightweight: Despite its strength, GRN is remarkably light, contributing to the knife's overall manageable weight of 4.20 oz. (119.07g). This keeps the M40-03 comfortable to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
  • Secure Grip: The textured surface of the GRN provides an excellent, non-slip grip, ensuring secure handling even in wet or challenging conditions. This ergonomic design prevents the knife from slipping during use, enhancing safety and control.

Dimensions and Portability: The Perfect EDC Companion

The M40-03's dimensions are meticulously calibrated for optimal everyday carry and utility.

• Blade Length: At 3.45 inches (87.71 mm), the blade strikes an ideal balance, offering ample cutting edge for most tasks without being overly large or cumbersome for daily pocket carry.
• Overall Length: When open, the knife measures 8.01 inches (203.35 mm), providing a full-sized grip for secure handling.
• Closed Length: With a closed length of 4.60 inches (116.87 mm), it tucks neatly into a pocket, backpack, or glove compartment, ensuring it’s always within reach without being obtrusive.
• Weight: Weighing in at just 4.20 oz. (119.07g), the M40-03 is light enough to forget it’s there until you need it, making it an excellent choice for minimalists or those who prefer lighter gear.

The Enduring Legacy of Kit Carson

The M40-03 is more than just a functional tool; it’s a living tribute to the late Kit Carson, a true visionary in knife design. His influence is deeply embedded in CRKT's DNA and continues to inspire generations of knife makers and users.

• Pioneer of Modern Folding Knives: Kit Carson was a prolific and innovative designer whose M16® and M21™ series knives became global bestsellers and set new standards for tactical and everyday folding knives. These designs were characterized by their distinctive flipper openings, robust liners, and utilitarian blade shapes that combined aesthetic appeal with practical functionality.
• Design Philosophy: Carson's philosophy was rooted in creating knives that were not only reliable but also easy to use and maintain. He believed a knife should be an extension of the user's hand, intuitive and efficient. The M40-03 embodies this spirit, offering a design that feels instantly familiar and exceptionally capable.
• Continuing the Tradition: The M40-03 is a direct descendant of his classic designs, updated with CRKT’s advanced Deadbolt® technology. This fusion of a cherished legacy design with contemporary innovation ensures that Kit’s enduring impact on the knife world continues to grow, providing modern users with a knife that respects its heritage while embracing the future. It stands as a powerful example of how classic form can be perfected with modern engineering.

Maintenance and Care for Your M40-03

To ensure your CRKT M40-03 remains a reliable companion for years to come, simple maintenance is key:

• Cleaning: After use, especially in dirty or wet conditions, clean the blade and handle with warm, soapy water. Dry thoroughly immediately.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a light film of high-quality knife oil to the pivot area to maintain the smooth action of the IKBS™ system and the Deadbolt® lock.
• Sharpening: The 1.4116 steel is easy to sharpen. Use a quality sharpening system (stones, rods, or a pull-through sharpener) to keep the plain edge razor-sharp. A sharp blade is a safe blade.
• Storage: Store your knife in a dry environment to prevent any potential moisture accumulation, even with its high corrosion resistance.

By investing in the CRKT M40-03, you’re not just acquiring a folding knife; you're gaining a precision-engineered tool that marries a legendary design with cutting-edge security. It’s a testament to innovation, durability, and the timeless utility of a well-crafted blade. Whether you’re a seasoned knife collector or simply seeking a trustworthy everyday companion, the M40-03 stands ready to exceed expectations.

CRKT M40-03 Technical Specifications

Feature	Detail	UPC Reference
Blade Length	3.45" (87.71 mm)
Blade Edge	Plain
Blade Steel	1.4116
Blade Finish	Bead Blast
Blade Thickness	0.14" (3.43 mm)
Overall Length	8.01" (203.35 mm)
Closed Length	4.60" (116.87 mm)
Weight	4.20 oz. (119.07g)
Handle Material	Bolster: 6063 Al / Onlay: Glass Reinforced Nylon
Lock Type	Deadbolt® Lock
Opening Style	Flipper w/IKBS™ Ball Bearing Pivot
Designer	Kit Carson
SKU	M40-03
UPC	794023002140	794023002140