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Tools & Knives
REVIEW:

OPERATIVE by VARIANT ONE

09/24/2025By Hubert

"Designed for use, tactically oriented." This is the motto of the company VARIANT ONE, founded in 2016 and based in Las Vegas, which values humility. Initially, military and special forces were targeted as primary customers. However, in recent years, the offering has been expanded to the EDC market. VARIANT ONE has provided us with the OPERATIVE, which we introduce to you here.

The packaging already indicates that VARIANT ONE pays attention to details, as it includes not only the knife with a Kydex sheath but also a sticker, a clip with screws, a synthetic transport bag, and a Read-Me warning card.

Knife, sheath, coating, and clip are 100% made in the USA.

The blade length of the double-edged OPERATIVE is 82.5 mm, the blade thickness is 3.17 mm, the overall length is 184 mm, and the weight is 79 g.  

 

This full-tang variant uses CPM MagnaCut. The material is a special alloy developed specifically for knife manufacturing. CPM MagnaCut achieves a high hardness of 63 HRC without compromising toughness or corrosion resistance. Unlike many other high-strength steels, MagnaCut is characterized by its toughness. This makes it suitable for use in high-performance knives.

The OPERATIVE features a synthetic knife handle material made from woven fiberglass and epoxy resin known as G10. The product is characterized by high robustness and durability while being lightweight and easy to process. Torx screws ensure a secure grip of the handle on the knife and allow for easy assembly.

The handle and guard feature so-called jimpings. The texturing improves grip, especially with tactical knives. 

They prevent slipping and provide better strength and control, even in wet conditions.

This cutout is designed for the thumb. It allows for easy and secure handling of the knife.

The OPERATIVE can thus be easily and safely manipulated.

Jimping at the top of the handle. A hole is provided for a lanyard.

The Cerakote coating from C&B Quality Coatings enhances resistance to wear, abrasion, and scratches, while protecting against rust and oxidation.

The standard sheaths are available in black, with variants in Multicam Black and camouflage that visually match the knives. The blade can be drawn from either side of each sheath. This model of the  OPERATIVE was delivered with this sheath. Currently, there is a new variant of the sheath.

The knife is equipped with a clip from Discreet Carry Concepts. The necessary screws, stoppers, and washers are included.

The clip fits belts up to 45 mm wide and holds strongly to the fabric.

The name is the program; with the clip from Discreet Carry Concepts, discreet and angled carry is possible. The horizontal slot allows the clip to be mounted at an angle of 8° in either direction.

Multiple carry options are available. Inside-the-waist, on the belt, or in the pocket.

As backup or last ditch defense on the plate carrier. 

CONCLUSION

The OPERATIVE from VARIANT ONE  is a very high-quality knife with a fixed blade. The sleek and well-thought-out design, as well as the use of high-quality materials like MagnaCut steel and Cerakote, are highly appreciated. Thanks to its size and features, it is suitable for daily use and various tasks. The sheath and clip allow for smooth and efficient drawing with the supporting hand.

Please be aware of the legal regulations in your home country regarding the purchase and carrying of knives in public.

The OPERATIVE from VARIANT ONE is available from the manufacturer starting at 300 US dollars in the colors Black, Multicam Black, and Camouflage.

VARIANT ONE online

VARIANT ONE on Instagram

SPARTANAT is the online magazine for Military News, Tactical Life, Gear & Reviews.
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