REATE Knives PL-XT

Reate Knives PL-XT Review: A Premium EDC with Unique Design Features

Introduction:

If you’re in the market for a high-quality, sleek folding knife with unique design features, then you’ve likely already heard of Reate Knives. Their craftsmanship has earned them a solid reputation in the world of premium EDC (everyday carry) knives, and today, we’re taking a close look at their latest release: the Reate Knives PL-XT. In this review, we’ll break down everything from its packaging to its performance, focusing on what makes this knife stand out among the competition.

Unboxing Experience:

Starting off with the unboxing, Reate Knives doesn’t cut corners when it comes to presentation. The PL-XT arrives in a sturdy, no-frills box, but once you open it, you’ll find that it’s packed with thoughtful extras. Included inside the box is a certificate of authenticity, a Reate cleaning cloth, a Reate sticker, and a small bag with extra screws and a spring. It’s clear that Reate takes pride in ensuring you have everything you need to maintain and personalize your knife right out of the box.

Handle and Ergonomics:

One of the first things that catch your eye about the Reate PL-XT is its green micarta handle. Not only does micarta give the knife a premium, textured feel in the hand, but it also provides a natural look that’s both elegant and functional. The green color gives it a distinct flair that stands out from other knives that typically come in more subdued, standard finishes.

The handle measures 3.90 inches in length, providing a solid, ergonomic grip that’s comfortable for extended use. There’s a reversible pocket clip that allows for tip-up carry, but it’s worth noting that the PL-XT does not come with a lanyard hole at the bottom of the handle, which could be a dealbreaker for those who like to add paracord or lanyards for extra utility.

What truly sets the PL-XT apart design-wise is the presence of four unique holes along the handle. This bold design choice not only makes the knife look visually interesting but also adds to its overall ergonomic appeal. It’s a small detail that doesn’t serve a functional purpose beyond aesthetics but certainly helps this knife stand out as a design-forward EDC option.

Blade and Performance:

The blade of the Reate PL-XT measures 3 inches in length and is made from Nitro-V steel—a stainless steel known for its impressive balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. The black PVD coating gives the blade a sleek, tactical look while also offering some additional protection against rust and wear.

The drop point blade style is versatile, making it suitable for a range of cutting tasks, from slicing to precision work. The blade is ground flat, which means it’s relatively easy to sharpen and maintain its edge.

One of the coolest features of this knife is the dual thumb studs—a small but significant design choice. The thumb studs are positioned on both sides of the blade, allowing for ambidextrous use. This makes the PL-XT a great option for both left- and right-handed users.

The button lock mechanism is another standout feature of the PL-XT. To close the knife, simply press the button and fold the blade in. This lock system is smooth and secure, providing a satisfying action each time you open or close the knife.

Dimensions:

For those who like to know the numbers, here’s a breakdown of the PL-XT’s key dimensions:

• Handle Length: 3.90 inches
• Blade Length: 3 inches
• Overall Length: 6.90 inches

This puts the PL-XT in the mid-sized range for folding knives, making it an ideal choice for daily carry while still offering enough blade length for most tasks.

Variants and Pricing:

As of the video release, there are 14 different variants of the Reate PL-XT, which include several handle material and color options. The newest variant, featuring the green micarta handle, is the one being reviewed here. The PL-XT is priced between $104.00 and $108.00 on our website, making it a reasonable entry in the premium knife category, especially considering the high-quality materials and craftsmanship involved.

Final Thoughts:

The Reate Knives PL-XT is an excellent addition to any knife enthusiast’s collection, offering a unique blend of style, performance, and practicality. Whether you’re drawn to its clean, modern aesthetic or its premium materials and functional design, this knife delivers on all fronts. The micarta handle, Nitro-V steel blade, and button lock mechanism make it a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable EDC knife that can handle everyday tasks with ease.

If you’re in the market for a new folding knife, the PL-XT is certainly worth considering. And with 14 variants available, there’s likely one that suits your personal style. Be sure to check out the full range on the Reate Knives website.

Pros:

• High-quality materials (Nitro-V steel, micarta)
• Unique handle design with four holes
• Button lock mechanism for smooth operation
• Ambidextrous thumb studs
• Variety of available variants

Cons:

• No lanyard hole
• Higher price point than budget options

If you found this review helpful, consider checking out our other reviews, and look at our YouTube page for more knife and Reate knives reviews! Thanks for reading, and have a good rest of your day!