The Japanese Samurai were a force to be reckoned with. Their katana sword’s design was one of both beauty and effectiveness, culminating with its unique, yet practical tip used for powerful piercing action. Today, that tip design is found on tactical tanto knives. Let’s take a look at 10 standout options.
10 Tactical Tanto Knives with Purpose
These knives are widely used by military personnel, special operations members, and first responders who need a rugged tactical blade when it counts. Aside from these professionals, you too can enjoy this blade’s amazing performance.
Below is a cross-section of some of the finest tantos on the market today. With one of these powerful blades in hand, you can channel your own modern-day Samurai.
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01 – CRKT LCK+ Assisted Knife
The LCK+ reverse tanto knife can be your go-to blade for a myriad of tasks throughout your day. Constructed of 8Cr13MoV steel and featuring a highly durable, yet lightweight glass-reinforced nylon handle, this blade packs a powerful punch.
Its sharpened 3.24-inch blade slices through tape, cordage, rubber, cardboard, and more when deployed with its lightning-fast flipper opener. Smooth mechanics, one-hand operation, and a low-profile carry make the LCK+ a no-brainer for everyday carry.
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Specs
- Flipper assisted opener for fast deployment
- IKBS ball bearing pivot
- Highly durable, glass-reinforced nylon handle
- Easily closed with only one hand
- Deep carry clip offers low-profile carry
MSRP: $40.00
02 – CRKT K.I.S.S. Tanto Knife
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This K.I.S.S. (Keep. It. Super. Simple) tanto-inspired folder takes performance and reliability to the basics with its unique two-piece design and simple, no-fail operation. The knife features a chisel-point grind on the front and flat on the backside. This provides a precision fit and seals the cutting edge into the stainless steel frame.
Use this knife for everyday tasks or for personal defense when things go bad. No matter which, the K.I.S.S. will tackle the challenge head-on and succeed.
Specs
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- Blade steel: VG10
- Chisel-point grind
- Tanto-inspired design
- Titanium nitride-coated handle
- Frame lock for safety
MSRP: $45.00
03 – Ka-Bar Tanto Half-Serrated
When you need a knife that offers no-nonsense performance and overall awe, then this tanto by Ka-bar has you covered. This monstrous knife features an eight-inch blade with a serrated bottom half, ideal for sawing through persistent material. Its upper hollow grind edge can be used either for precision slicing or powerful hacking when needed.
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The tanto comes complete with a thermoplastic sheath with multiple attachment points for “anywhere” carry on your person or gear bags. Going big is the only way to go with this impressive tanto.
Specs
- Blade steel: 1095 Cro-Van
- Blade length: 8.00 inches
- Hollow grind
- Tanto-style blade tip
- Includes thermoplastic sheath
MSRP: $133.97
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04 – CRKT M16-02X Tanto Knife
With its military-inspired design, seamless mechanics, and prominent tanto blade, the M16-02X knife earns top scores in performance and daily dependability. The D2 steel blade excels at piercing and slicing through whatever stands in your way. Additionally, its lightweight Grivory handle provides a sure grip in any environment.
An integrated ball-bearing pivot allows for both rapid deployment and one-handed, ambidextrous closings. A convenient pocket clip, crossbar lock, and assisted thumb stud opener only add to this knife’s incredible attributes.
Specs
- Blade steel: D2
- IKBS ball bearing pivot
- Ambidextrous closing
- Stonewash blade finish
- Aircraft-grade thermoplastic Grivory handle
MSRP: $75.00
05 – CRKT M16-14XD Tanto Knife
Sporting the best of both worlds, the M16-14XD offers a razor-sharp straight edge integrated with useful Veff Serrations for versatility while cutting. Its numerous features include an ambidextrous crossbar lock, IKBS ball-bearing pivot, tough D2 blade, and an ambidextrous closing ability.
This tactical tanto tackles just about anything with a piercing punch that never lets up. It is ultra-lightweight and allows for daily deep-pocket carry when discretion is needed. Military-grade with a desert-clad aesthetic, the M16-14XD is definitely ready for action.
Specs
- Blade steel: D2
- Titanium Nitride blade finish
- Crosslock bar for safety
- Tanto-style blade tip
- Aircraft-grade thermoplastic Grivory handle
MSRP: $100.00
06 – Kabar TDI/Hinderer Hell Fire Tanto Knife
With its unique design, powerful tanto blade, and ergonomic Ultramid handle, you’ll be a force to reckon with when carrying this badass blade. Don’t let its stout blade and body deceive you; this Hell Fire is all about getting the job done the first time without fail.
An included sheath with integrated belt attachment allows discreet carry, all the while keeping it within arm’s reach when needed. Solid construction, a hollow grind, and superb, Made in the USA, craftsmanship make the Hinderer Hell Fire Tanto an easy choice.
Specs
- Blade steel: 1095 Cro-Van
- Blade length: 3.56 inches
- Overall length: 7.25 inches
- Hollow grind
- Includes sheath with belt clip
MSRP: $144.68
07 – Hogue EX-F01 Tactical Tanto Blade
This is a tanto that takes no nonsense from anyone or anything. The Ex-F01 offers both a stocky blade and beefy handle, giving you ultimate power and reliability with every use. The A2 Tool steel can stand up to rigorous tactical assignments. Likewise, its textured handle never lets you down even in the worst outdoor conditions.
Its other incredible amenities include its broad rear saw teeth, a cryogenically heat-treated blade treatment, and a grey Cerakote finish. Complementing the EX-F01 Tactical Tanto Blade is an Automatic Retention Sheath (ARS) with Torx Tool. It features hardcore durability and integrated lanyard holes for easy carry or attachment to gear.
Specs
- Blade steel: A2 Tool steel
- Overall length: 10.50 inches
- Blade length: 5.50 inches
- Black G10 scales with checkered texture
- Impact pommel
MSRP: $289.95
08 – Toor Knives Darter T Tanto Knife
When it comes to aesthetic style and a streamlined design, the Darter T tanto takes the top spot. This slender knife features M4 steel, a G10 handle, and an intimidating back serrated tanto blade that pierces, saws, and slices like an absolute boss. Its textured handle ensures a no-slip grip in any environment.
The Darter T offers full tang construction with a solid pommel end and integrated lanyard hole for cordage attachment or easy hanging when not in use. An included molded sheath with six lashing holes rounds out this amazing tactical tanto.
Specs
- Overall length: 8.50 inches
- Blade length: 4.25 inches
- G10 Textured handle
- Serrated back spine
- Integrated pommel hole
MSRP: $350.00
09 – TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Tanto Knife
Need a knife that feels right from the get-go and powers through most materials? Then the Steel Eagle Tanto from TOPS Knives is right up your alley. This stocky brute offers a quarter-inch, full-tang blade with linen Micarta handles for both durability and a hearty grip.
It offers dual pommel holes for multiple cordage attachments, a black traction blade coating, and a Kydex sheath with a rotating spring clip for extra security during your carry. This is a knife that won’t give up, no matter how much you put it through!
Specs
- Overall length: 10.50 inches
- Blade length: 5.13 inches
- Blade steel: 1095 RC 56-58
- Black linen Micarta handle
- Included black Kydex sheath
MSRP: $285.00
10 – TOPS Knives Taliban Take Down Knife
Ideal for the mountains, valleys, or dusty plains, the Taliban Take Down Knife is the ultimate tactical tanto. This knife, designed from troops’ input in the field, offers a simple yet direct design. Likewise, the powerful tanto tip penetrates deep into material, and the ergonomic handle fits your hand like a glove.
Its accompanying Kydex sheath can be secured just about anywhere on your body and holds the blade securely in place until you need it. Fast retrieval, efficient cuts and piercing, and pure tactical might, that’s the Taliban Take Down at its best!
Specs
- Overall length: 8.50 inches
- Blade length: 4.50 inches
- Blade steel: 1095 RC 56-58
- Black linen Micarta handle
- Kydex sheath with spring steel clip
MSRP: $215.00
