Max Knives P42 — Sheepfoot butterfly knife, stonewash, nylon sheath

Overview

At 105 mm closed and 193 mm open, the P42 is the most compact format in this selection of balisongs. Its 80 mm sheepfoot blade is cut from 3Cr13MoV and measures 3 mm thick. The steel handles are given a stonewash finish, the tumbled treatment that leaves metal with an uneven grey cast: the micro-scratches are already there, so the ones picked up in daily use blend into the pattern instead of standing out. A nylon sheath comes with the knife.

About the sheepfoot profile

A sheepfoot is recognised by its spine: it curves steadily down towards the end, where it meets the edge without forming a piercing tip. The edge itself runs perfectly straight along its whole working length. That geometry has a direct effect on what you do with the knife: you do not pierce with a sheepfoot, you cut. The straight edge bears down the same way everywhere, which helps when slicing on a board, opening a carton lying flat or cutting through a strap without catching whatever lies beneath. On the 80 mm of the P42, the profile gives a blade that is short, decisive and easy to read at a glance.

Technical specifications

The P42 takes an 80 mm sheepfoot blade in 3Cr13MoV steel, 3 mm thick. Its dimensions are 105 mm closed and 193 mm open. The two half-handles are steel with a stonewash finish, each mounted on its own pivot either side of the heel. A nylon sheath is included with the knife; it is the only model in this selection supplied with one.

Care

The stonewash finish forgives a great deal, but it does not excuse you from cleaning: a dry cloth over handles and blade after handling keeps the salt from perspiration away. 3Cr13MoV is stainless, and a simple film of care oil protects it during long spells in storage. As for the sheath, brush the nylon dry and let it air: never put the knife away inside it while still damp, as the fabric would hold that moisture against the steel. Two drops of light oil on the pivots finish the round.

Legal notice. Age-restricted item (18+). In France this knife is a Category D item: legal to sell but reserved for adults, with age verification at checkout. Balisong (butterfly) knives are restricted or prohibited in a number of countries — Germany, Canada and several US states among them — and customs will seize the parcel. Check the law that applies where the order is delivered before purchasing.