Introduction
The Olitans G056 feels like the company’s way of saying, “We heard you, and we’re stepping things up.” It builds on the T024, which I was pretty impressed with at the time, but with some smart upgrades that address the shortcomings of its predecessor. From the improved blade steel to the ambidextrous cross-bar lock and G10 handle, Olitans has taken what worked, refined what didn’t, and delivered a tool that feels more accessible and versatile. Let’s take a closer look at how the G056 stands out.
Design and Ergonomics
One of the first things I noticed was how comfortable the G10 handle felt. While titanium on the T024 was a nice touch, G10 is more practical here. It’s got a smooth finish, not overly grippy, which means it’s easy on both your hands and your pockets. The handle curves feel dialed in, with the finger groove hitting just the right spot. Everything is chamfered nicely, so there’s no digging into your hand during use, and the clip placement is perfect—no poking or awkwardness when gripping the knife.
I’ll admit, I love the aesthetics of titanium, but I appreciate the focus on comfort and usability here. The G10 does the job without compromise, especially in wet or messy conditions.
Blade Options and Performance
The blade steel upgrade to 14C28N is a big win here. It’s a budget-friendly steel that punches well above its weight class, offering excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and razor-sharp performance. You’ve got three blade styles to choose from:
Drop Point: My go-to for general EDC use. Its centered tip and gentle belly make it incredibly versatile, whether I’m opening packages, slicing through materials, or handling random everyday tasks.
Sheepsfoot: This one shines for precision cuts and harder jobs. The low tip makes it great for controlled work, like cutting through rope or trimming a plastic sheet to fit perfectly. It’s my choice for outdoor projects where I need a little extra power and don’t want to risk puncturing anything accidentally.
Tanto: Not my first choice for EDC, but it definitely has its place. With excellent tip strength, it’s well-suited for tougher jobs or even tactical applications. I could see it being a good fit for someone in law enforcement or the military who needs that extra durability in their blade.
I’m also happy they ditched the serrated blade this time. Serrations have their fans, but they’re a hassle to sharpen. The blade-swapping system is clever too—just grab a flat driver or even a couple of coins to switch blades. No need to carry specialty tools, which is a nice touch.
Lock and Deployment
The cross-bar lock is a solid upgrade. It’s easy to use one-handed, no matter if you’re a righty or a lefty, and the action is buttery smooth, thanks to the ceramic bearings. The spring tension feels just right—light enough to be fidget-friendly but strong enough to keep things secure.
That said, the oversized thumb studs can be a bit of a double-edged sword. They’re great for getting a solid grip, but they tend to snag on my work slacks, occasionally leading to premature blade deployment. It’s less of an issue in jeans, but something to keep in mind depending on your wardrobe.
Everyday Usability
At just 3.7 ounces, the G056 is lightweight and easy to carry, but it doesn’t feel flimsy. The different blade options make it incredibly versatile, so it’s like having multiple knives in one. For me, the drop point gets the most use for everyday tasks, but the sheepsfoot really shines when I’m tackling heavier jobs or working outside. The tanto is there if you need it, but with the other two blades, it didn’t see much pocket time for me.
Blade deployment is smooth and fast, which is great for quick jobs, but the lighter spring tension on the cross-bar lock does mean you have to be mindful of accidental openings. It’s not a dealbreaker, just a trade-off you’ll want to be aware of.
Final Thoughts
The Olitans G056 feels like a knife that was designed with real-world use in mind. It’s comfortable, versatile, and packs some thoughtful upgrades that make it stand out from the crowd. The improved blade steel, ergonomic handle, and ambidextrous lock combine to create a tool that’s just as functional as it is easy to use.
If you’ve ever been curious about the Leatherman Garage “Parts” but couldn’t justify the cost or limited availability, this might be the perfect alternative. Olitans has taken that concept and made it more accessible, with their own spin on the design. For me, the G056 is a solid addition to any EDC rotation, and I’m excited to see what the brand comes up with next.
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