Knife Deep Dive: Bastinelli RED v2 Review
Knife Deep Dive: Bastinelli RED v2 Review
The RED v2 from Bastinelli Knives is a tactical fixed knife that combines functional cutting equipment with high-quality materials and a beautiful design. Or as Bastien Coves, owner and designer of Bastinelli knives calls it: "Tactical Art".
Is the Bastinelli RED v2 designed for the RAID?
One of the most interesting aspects of this knife is the purpose for which it was designed.
RAID (Recherche, Assistance, Intervention, Dissuasion), is a specialized counter-terrorism unit of the French National Police. It was created in 1985, because the police did not have a unit equivalent to the GIGN of the Gendarmerie. Currently both units operate on French soil.
Some of their more recent public appearances include ending the hostage-taking after the Charlie Hebdo shooting in January 2015 and various operations around and after the Paris attacks (including the Bataclan theater shooting) in November 2015.
Bastinelli designed this knife especially for the RAID unit, making it light, robust, easy to use with or without gloves, but above all comfortable to carry. The 118 gram, full tang, N690Co blade has a very slim profile and fits snugly in its flat kydex sheath. Since it takes up little space, it can be attached horizontally, vertically or diagonally to any belt, vest, bag, pocket or MOLLE pouch! It comes in a stonewash or black PVD finish.
The most frequently asked questions about this knife are:
What does RED stand for?
Report Extremely Dangerous
What is the difference between v1 and v2?
There are a few subtle differences in design and manufacturing, but here are a few notable ones:
- The swedge is slightly longer
- The edge is sharpened differently. It's not quite tanto, but there is a clear transition to the tip.
- The v1 is produced by Viper, the v2 is produced by Fox Knives, both from Maniago, Italy.
- The sub-hilt on the handle is slightly rounder and shorter.
Check out the other Bastinelli designs for more French design/Italian made tactical art!
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