Max Knives MK503 — Mini Dagger fixed blade, 50 mm 440C tanto

Overview

The MK503 is recognised at once by the angular drawing of its point. In a line where the other models take a drop point or a hawkbill curve, it is the only tanto. Its 50 mm 440C blade, 2 mm thick and stone washed, extends a 65 mm black G10 handle for a total of 114 mm and 64 g. The knife travels in a thermoformed kydex sheath that follows the profile of the piece and releases it with one firm pull.

The tanto profile in practice

A tanto gives up the continuous curve in favour of two distinct segments: a straight main edge, then a second section rising to the point at a clean angle. That break leaves plenty of material right behind the tip, exactly where a tapered blade thins out. The straight edge works well on a flat surface: it meets material lying flat along its whole length, without the rocking point a rounded belly introduces.

Technical specifications

440C steel blade, 50 mm long, tanto shape, plain edge, 2 mm thick, stone washed finish. Black G10 handle, 65 mm. Overall length 114 mm. Weight 64 g. Kydex sheath included. The MK503 therefore sits between the MK506, shorter by 28 mm, and the MK504 which shows 116 mm overall with a 45 mm hawkbill blade.

Care

Systematic drying is the best habit to adopt with this 440C: clean water, a soft cloth, then a drop of oil spread across the blade with the flat of the hand. The stone washed finish has the advantage of hiding the small marks of use, but it does not enjoy sand held inside the kydex, which you chase out by rinsing the sheath under running water. The G10 handle is happy with a soapy sponge and air drying.

Legal notice for international buyers. Carrying it in public without a legitimate reason is an offence in France and in most European countries. It is the buyer's responsibility to check the law that applies where the order is delivered before purchasing.