CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS
D2 tool steel is durable, resilient and takes a fine edge. Sandwiching that stonewashed steel between two slabs of extra thick titanium really puts the Carter Prime above and beyond in terms of build. This is a work knife, so it doesn’t need to be pretty, and you’ll notice that even though this knife is built solid, it does lack some attention to detail in manufacturing.

EASE OF USE
The first couple of flips with the Carter Prime were a little rough, but as the knife has broken in that has eased. The relatively flat edge on the blade really makes working through tough materials a breeze. The pocket clip is a bit of a chore on thicker pockets, and being that it’s titanium, it’s not so easy to train.

STEEL QUALITY/EDGE RETENTION
D2 has fallen, somewhat out of favor with the onset of premium, boutique steels like S35-VN and 154CM, but it’s an excellent choice of steel for a hard-working knife like the Carter Prime. D2 takes a razor-sharp edge, but that pristine edge won’t last long. That’s not to say the blade won’t be sharp—it just won’t be razor sharp. 

DURABILITY
You’re not going to find many knives on the market today built the way the Carter Prime is for the price being asked for it. Additionally, it’s got a reinforced liner lock that won’t give up on you, ever. It’s so effective you might think you’re using a fixed blade knife.