Very Good Knife Company - Counter Strike - 4" Badlands Cerakote AEB-L Fixed Blade W/ Python Canvas Micarta Handle

The Very Good Knife Company Counter Strike is a compact, aggressive fixed blade that brings the fighter-inspired styling of the larger First Strike into a more manageable belt-carry format. Designed to balance utility, control, and defensive capability, the Counter Strike delivers a clean, refined profile while retaining the unmistakable character of its larger counterpart.

At the center of the design is a 4-inch AEB-L stainless-steel clip-point blade finished in Badlands Cerakote. The blade features a pronounced swedge and high saber-flat grind, creating a strong, capable tip while maintaining dependable slicing performance for everyday utility, outdoor use, and demanding cutting tasks. AEB-L is known for its toughness, corrosion resistance, fine edge stability, and ease of sharpening, while the Cerakote finish adds further surface protection and a rugged, earth-toned appearance.

A cleanly integrated double guard provides excellent hand security while allowing multiple comfortable grip positions. The deep choil creates a positive stop against the guard, while the upper guard serves as a natural thumb ramp whether the thumb is placed behind, on top of, or in front of it. Despite the added protection, the guard remains unobtrusive during a full grip, allowing the user to choke up and apply pressure comfortably.

This version is fitted with Python Canvas Micarta handle scales, giving the Counter Strike a distinctive patterned appearance with the rugged texture and secure grip associated with canvas micarta. The material performs well in wet or dry conditions and develops additional character through regular carry and use. The natural tones of the Python Canvas Micarta pair especially well with the Badlands Cerakote blade, creating a cohesive, hard-use look.

The gently contoured handle and VGKC’s signature bird’s-head pommel create a full, controlled grip while leaving enough room to accommodate larger hands. The Counter Strike includes a minimal taco-style sheath designed for practical belt carry and everyday use. It is compatible with common aftermarket attachment systems such as Tek-Lok and UltiClip and comes fitted with a rubberized nylon strap that supports multiple carry configurations.

Whether carried as a capable utility knife, outdoor companion, or defensive belt knife, the Counter Strike combines dependable materials, thoughtful ergonomics, and fighter-inspired styling in a compact, highly functional package.

Specifications

Blade Steel: AEB-L Stainless Steel
Blade Length: 4 inches
Blade Thickness: 0.156 inches
Blade Shape: Swedged Clip Point
Blade Grind: High Saber/Flat
Blade Finish: Badlands Cerakote
Maximum Blade Width: 1.2 inches
Width at Guard: 1.5 inches
Handle Material: Python Canvas Micarta
Handle Length: 4 inches
Handle Thickness: 0.7 inches
Minimum Handle Width: 0.81 inches
Maximum Handle Width: 1.1 inches
Overall Length: 8.5 inches
Overall Weight: 6.4 ounces
Sheath: Taco-Style Sheath with Rubberized Nylon Strap