Police Product Test: Zero Tolerance ZT 0920 Titanium Knife

This flipper is lightweight yet strong and sturdy with slick, quick action.

Aj George Headshot

M Zt 0920 6 1

I have yet to come across a disappointing Zero Tolerance knife. In fact, the 0620 I reviewed several years ago still rides in my pocket and is solid as a rock despite all of the abuse I've put it through. I've sharpened it a few times but the blade is still strong and the action is still tight. The new ZT 0920 titanium folder is everything my trusty 0620 is and more.

Based upon the Les George Harpy knife, the new 0920 is an impressive 9 inches long when opened and 5 inches closed, yet only weighs a little over 5 ounces due to its ultra-light titanium handle. The blade is still made of CMP 20CV stonewashed steel and makes up the bulk of the knife's weight. The two halves are mated together with a super smooth KVT ball bearing system and the blade is locked open with a titanium and hardened steel liner-lock. The pocket clip is also reversible for us southpaws.

Right out of the box I was impressed with not only the fit and finish of this knife, but also how smooth the action was. Generally new knives (even the best ones) require a significant break-in period and maybe even a drop of good oil to get them to open quickly.

Not the case on the 0920. Although I prefer a very quick action, the 0920 was very slick and I have no doubt it will only get better with time. M Zt 0920 2 1

The weight and balance of the knife takes a bit of getting used to. The titanium handle is beautiful but is so much lighter than the blade that the knife becomes very front-heavy.

That said, the lack of balance is a small price to pay for the tremendous weight savings.

Zero Tolerance 0920 Titanium Knife
• Made in the USA
Opening: Flipper, KVT ball-bearing opening system
Clip: Reversible bent titanium clip (left/right, tip-up)
Lock: Titanium frame lock, hardened steel lockbar insert
Steel: CPM 20CV, stonewashed finish
Handle: Titanium, bead-blasted finish
Blade Length: 3.9 inches
Blade Thickness: 0.156 inches
Closed Length: 5.1 inches
Overall Length: 9 inches
Weight: 5.4 ounces
Price: $300

The finish of the titanium handle is bead blasted and there are linear serrations machined into the finish for grip. Although it looks fantastic, I have little faith you'd be able to get a good grip with wet hands.

The blade itself is a beast at 4 inches long and 0.15 inches thick. It has a scalloped design and clean edge as well as a partially serrated top spine for added grip. The "flipper" is easily found when closed and offers knuckle protection when opened.

The ZT 0920 is a lot of knife for the money. It isn't cheap, but compared to its Les George inspiration it is a steal. Is this going to replace your trusty work knife for everyday use and abuse? No, but if you're looking for a super sharp, very functional and downright pretty blade for those "off duty" days this is right up your alley.

www.ztknives.com

A.J. George is a sergeant with the Scottsdale (AZ) Police Department assigned to the Technical Operations Unit, Special Investigations Section. He has more than a decade of law enforcement experience in patrol, field training, and traffic enforcement.

About the Author
Aj George Headshot
Sergeant
View Bio
Page 1 of 281
Next Page