A cross between a fixed-blade knife, a wood chisel and a scraper, the CRKT Razel Compact 4036Y packs several functions into a length of just 13.4 cm. Jon Graham devised this unconventional design after regularly using his knives for tasks for which they weren’t actually intended.

The D2 steel blade features a slightly curved main cutting edge for everyday cuts, a sharp front bevel for scraping or making deep cuts, and Veff Flat Top serrations along its upper edge. Rope, straps, packaging, seals and fibrous materials can thus be tackled with a cutting edge suited to each task.

This 4036Y version is instantly recognisable by its blue Cerakote finish and the yellow CRKT marking on the blade. The compact, high-visibility yellow G10 handle makes the knife easy to spot in a toolbox, a bag or out in the field. A finger loop extends the grip area and improves control despite the knife’s compact size.

The full-tang construction provides the rigidity required for utility work, whilst the thermoplastic sheath allows this small fixed-blade knife to be carried directly in a pocket. The Razel Compact thus offers an attractive solution for those who want the simplicity of a fixed blade without the bulk of a traditional belt knife.

Technical specifications for the CRKT Razel Compact 4036Y D2 Blue Yellow G10 fixed-blade knife:

Total knife length: 13.4 cm
Blade length: 5.9 cm
Handle length: 7.5 cm
Blade thickness: 3.2 mm
Blade steel: D2
Blade profile: Razel Chisel
Configuration: curved cutting edge, sharpened front bevel and upper serrations
Serrations: Veff Flat Top Serrations
Grind: flat
Blade finish: Ceramic Blue Cerakote
Blade marking: yellow CRKT
Construction: Full tang
Handle material: G10
Handle colour: high-visibility yellow
Wrist strap: included
Weight: 85 g
Sheath: black thermoplastic
Carry: in the pocket
Designer: Jon Graham
Manufactured in: China
Manufacturer’s reference: 4036Y

Tellknives review:
It would be an oversimplification to regard the Razel Compact as merely a mini-cleaver. Its true strength lies in the combination of several working areas: a cutting edge for slicing, a front face for scraping and serrations for tackling fibrous materials.

The very short handle will not suit those looking for a knife that fills the entire palm. However, the lanyard cleverly compensates for this limitation and ensures the knife remains extremely discreet. The 4036Y also boasts a particularly striking visual identity: the blue and yellow contrast fully embodies its role as a modern tool.

We see it more as a small, specialised work knife than as a versatile fixed-blade knife designed for hiking. Tucked away in a pocket, a technical bag or a toolbox, it can prove surprisingly useful in everyday life.