You could called it a “Fox’d Blade,” if you want: this is the Audax, a hardcore tactical release from Maniago Italy’s Fox Knives. The Audax brings a lot to the table, including some unusual new design elements for the tactical genre and a platform for an uncommon powder metallurgy steel.
Many blade shapes can be molded into tactical pieces, but the drop point is one that needs very little finessing to justify the designation. The specimen used on the Audax is, in many ways, a textbook example, with its 4.72-inch length offering a straight edge, bit of belly, and a robust thrusting/piercing tip. One detail that is not so textbook is the fact that the Audax has a partially serrated swedge. It’s the kind of additional element that only makes sense on a self-defense/hard use tool like the Audax, but even then it’s not a common sight.
Also rarely seen is the Audax’s blade steel, which is Becut. Becut comes from German steel supplier Bestar, and, even in today’s world of online enthusiast-driven steel analysis, there isn’t a ton of info on the stuff. It contains some niobium, which will aid in wear resistance, and according to the Fox spec sheet it is kept at a lower hardness – circa HRC 56-58 – so, while it may get outstripped by other PM steels in terms of ultimate edge retention, it should be easy to care for and relatively resistant to chipping; there’s plenty of chromium on board too for anti-corrosion ability, not to mention a bronze PVD finish for even more resiliency to the elements.
The handle has a bean-esque shape behind the guard, with a flathead driver/prybar/lanyard attachment point extending beyond the back end of the scales, which are made from OD green Micarta and held in place with a trio of big screw bolts – also bronze PVD coated. A sand colored Kydex sheath will serve as the means of toting the Audax.
The Audax will be available with dealers soon.
Knife in Featured Image: Fox Knives Audax
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