SOG's engineers deserve a standing ovation for their weight-saving wizardry. They ditched the traditional steel insert for the axis lock components, instead milling pockets directly into the carbon fiber to house the springs and other essentials. The result? A knife that's as thin as a plot twist in a spy novel. Despite its svelte profile, it offers a comfortable three-finger grip—understandable given its size. While it's not designed for heavy-duty tasks, it handles everyday missions with aplomb. The open construction ensures no unwelcome pinching or sharp edges during use.
The Ultra XR comes with two clip options. Currently, I've equipped the mini clip, which nestles discreetly in my palm without causing any discomfort. The alternative is a larger clip that, frankly, could double as a billboard—it's that conspicuous. Ironically, given the knife's lightweight and slim design, either clip could serve as a money clip, adding to its versatility.
Now, let's talk about the XR lock—a nod to the axis lock, rebranded to keep the legal eagles at bay. The lock operates smoothly, with satisfying tension, and is easy to disengage. Unlike some knives, this tension isn't adjustable, which makes sense given the knife's minimalist design. Don't expect a gravity-assisted blade drop here; the Ultra XR opts for washers over bearings, prioritizing reliability and simplicity over flashy mechanics. It's a refreshing throwback in an era obsessed with bearing pivots.
The business end features a 2.8-inch blade crafted from CTS XHP steel that's been cryogenically treated. For the uninitiated, CTS XHP is like the love child of D2 and 440C—a high-performance steel that maintains its edge longer than a plotline in a daytime soap. Given the knife's compact size, you'll be slicing and dicing without frequent trips to the sharpener. The clip point blade sports a black TiNi coating, adding a dash of stealth to its appearance. The grind lends itself to decent slicing capabilities, tackling everyday tasks with ease. However, don't plan on field dressing a deer with this tool—though, in a pinch, who knows? One minor gripe: the blade shows some cosmetic scuffs where it contacts the carbon fiber scales. It's a small annoyance, but worth mentioning.
In summary, the Ultra XR lives up to its name in multiple facets: ultra-thin, ultra-lightweight, and ultra-stylish. While its compact size limits it to lighter duties, and the blade rub could use some fine-tuning, it stands as a commendable option for those seeking a discreet and efficient everyday carry knife.
