1TO10REVIEWS : Seek You? Try the CQC-7B from Emerson

I’ve wanted an Emerson for about 5 years now. Specifically, I wanted a CQC-7B with a partially serrated blade and a satin finish. I wanted one ever since Earl bought one for Joel as a birthday present, and I got a chance to play with it. On a scale from 1to10, my feeling is that the Emerson CQC is one of the best pocket folders ever made.

It’s been frustrating recently, because I finally decided to pull the trigger, and I’ve had a hard time locating one. I found a great price on one website, and they actually charged me for the knife, but then sent me an email saying they were back ordered for about 2 weeks. I called a couple days later to check in, and was informed that their “backorder email” is actually a form letter, and in fact has no actual bearing on the expected delivery time. They have no idea when Emerson will send them more, and they are not willing to call Emerson to find out. Davey no likely.

Fortunately, EDCKnives.com came through like champions and not only got me the knife I wanted, but in the exact model and finish I wanted and for a great price. They’re worth a visit.

So, now I’ve finally got one. I love it. The handles are black G10 with an exceptionally rough, textured grip. Some people may find the handles a little too abrasive, but I actually like the degree of friction it adds to the grip. The blade has a gorgeous, mottled finish (in the satin) that’s relatively recent. Obviously it features a tanto point (some people call it a chisel tip.) Emerson boasts that this knife was the inspiration for the modern tactical folder. I don’t have a really hard time believing it – it’s an amazing blade. Details and material below.

Materials:

Specifications:

Handles	Black G-10 epoxy / glass laminate
Lock	Aerospace grade Titanium
Blade	154 CM
Finish	Black or Satin Finish
Grind	‘B’ Blade – Chisel Ground Tanto Style

Overall Length	8.0 in.
Blade Length	3.3 in.
Handle Length	4.65 in.
Blade Thickness	.125 in.
Hardness	57-59 RC
Weight	3.8 oz.

I know this has been a relatively gushy review. And I am obviously grateful for the cogent and well-thought-out warning, courtesy of Emerson (see right.) Obviously, if I were to give this a numeric rating from 1to10, it would be a 10. I have only one qualm thus far. The blade sits a little too close to the right handle scale, and it rubs when I close the knife. I don’t know if this is intentional, or if this one is off spec. Anyone out there with a working knowledge of the CQC-7B have a suggestion on this? Video explanation below.