CRKT’s new out-the-front double-edge automatic, the Twist Tighe Compact, delivers a superior blade and easy-to-carry manners in a lean package
by Dexter Ewing; photos by Marty Stanfield, Marty Stanfield Photography
If you are one who pays close attention to the knife market, you may have noticed that Oregon-based knife manufacturer CRKT (Columbia River Knife & Tool) has taken an upward turn. The company is offering not only a wider selection of knives, but more higher-end knives made in the USA and Italy. They also have released some USA-made automatic openers, such as the new Twist Tighe Compact reviewed here.
Manufactured by Hogue Knives, the Twist Tighe Compact is based on a design by Canadian custom knife maker Brian Tighe. This knife is CRKT’s first OTF (out-the-front) automatic knife, and it’s a real winner. New for 2025, the Twist Tighe Compact ups the level of excitement in the CRKT line by bringing a very snappy, pocket-sized, double-edged OTF to the market. CRKT sent us the A1100 Twist Tighe Compact to test. This knife has a stonewashed finished blade and an aluminum handle with a green Fatcarbon top.
Premium Blade
The blade of the Twist Tighe Compact measures 2.6 inches in length and is of a symmetrical, double-edge configuration. Premium CPM MagnaCut stainless steel is the material of choice, offering excellent edge retention as well as superior corrosion resistance. That is pretty much the perfect high-end blade steel, or at least close to it. The edge-holding capability of MagnaCut is something that people are talking about. It is better than a lot of the well-known super steels like S30V, S35VN, 20CV, and others. The double-edged blade has a certain appeal to it. It presents perfect symmetry and not one but two cutting edges that are razor sharp right out of the box. It will cut coming and going. There’s a certain visual draw about double-edged blades that captures knife fans’ eyes.
Functional Handle…with Style
The handle frame is made of T6 6061 hardcoat anodized aluminum. The surface is machined with graceful, flowing machining patterns that help with handle traction as well as enhance aesthetics. The green Fatcarbon top adds a bit of visual contrast and excitement by offering a carbon fiber weave with color mixed in. This one has green in it. The Twist Tighe Compact is also available with a red Fatcarbon top, plus a carbon fiber top. The latter comes with a black PVD-coated blade. The former will have a stonewashed blade.
Built for EDC
The handle profile has subtle curves that allow the Twist Tighe Compact to fit in your hand comfortably. On the handle spine, you will find the dual ramped thumb switch that extends and retracts the blade. This is a double-action OTF, meaning the blade extends and retracts automatically under spring tension. To ensure discreet carry, the knife employs a deep carry pocket clip at the butt end of the handle. The knife carries comfortably deep inside the pocket. The closed length is exactly 4 inches, making this a lightweight and ultra compact OTF that carries exceptionally well. The Twist Tighe’s light weight makes it easy to carry in dress slacks or with casual wear.
This compact and slim OTF is smaller than a lot of other OTFs in its class, and that’s a good thing. The size of the blade allows it to take on more precise cutting jobs that a larger blade might not be able to handle due to the size. The double-edge configuration means you can cut effectively in both directions, further increasing its utilitarian value.
The point of the blade is very acute, so the blade penetrates thick or tough materials with relative ease. You can also use it as an effective scoring tool.
I think the size will appeal to a lot of people because of its pocket-friendly nature alone. I would never recommend a double-edged blade for heavy utility work because the symmetrical double edge lacks the backbone that a single-edged blade has for strength. Nevertheless, you must admit that the double edge looks pretty darn cool. Don’t get me wrong, this double edge can get a fair amount of work done when called upon. The MagnaCut blade steel holds an edge exceptionally well and resists stains easily.
As far as fit and finish are concerned, there isn’t any need to worry. Those of you who own a Hogue-brand knife will attest to the fact that their fit and finish is excellent — same with the CRKT Twist Tighe Compact OTF. Everything comes together nicely, and it’s engineered and made in the USA. The MSRP of the CRKT Twist Tighe Compact is set at $300.
