Since 2018, the C.A.C.® (Combat Assistance Campagne) knife has been the official issue of the French Army. Developed by TB Outdoor in partnership with military expert Philippe PEROTTI, it is the successor to the famous "Baroudeur". More than an evolution, it is a technological revolution. Designed to be a reliable tool in the most extreme conditions, it integrates major innovations.
But what makes this knife so special? Do its qualities make it relevant for civilian use, for outdoor or survival enthusiasts? This guide immerses you in the heart of this "Made in France" concentration of technology to understand why the C.A.C.® has redefined the standards of the modern tactical knife.
What are the key points to remember about the C.A.C.®?
- Official issue: The French Army's knife since 2018.
- Co-developed by an expert: Designed with Philippe PEROTTI, a former special forces member.
- Ultra-secure mechanism: Moving-axis locking system with an additional safety.
- Advanced materials: Nitrox® or MOX® steel blade, PA6 FV or G10 handle.
- Rescue functions: Integrates an effective glass breaker and strap cutter.
- French manufacturing: Entirely manufactured in Thiers by TB Outdoor.
What makes the C.A.C.® the benchmark tactical knife?
What is the history behind the creation of the C.A.C.® knife?
The history of the C.A.C.® is tied to the needs of the French Army, which was seeking a successor to its campaign knife. The specifications were exceptionally demanding. It needed to be a robust folding knife, reliable in all environments, perfectly ambidextrous, and integrating rescue functions.
To meet this challenge, TB Outdoor partnered with Philippe PEROTTI. A former special forces officer, his field experience was crucial in defining the knife's essential features. Development lasted several years, with drastic tests resulting in a true survival tool.
This knife is therefore not a marketing product. It is the result of a real need, formulated by professionals for situations where the reliability of a tool is a matter of life and death. Its official adoption by the French Army in 2018 established the C.A.C.® as the new reference for the French soldier.
What makes the C.A.C.® mechanism so robust and secure?
The confidence that the C.A.C.® inspires comes from its unique blade locking system. This mechanism locks the blade in the open position via a moving axis that firmly blocks the heel. It guarantees exceptional mechanical strength, preventing the blade from folding onto the fingers, even under heavy stress.
But the innovation goes further. TB Outdoor has integrated an additional locking system. A latch allows the unlocking mechanism to be blocked. The blade is then doubly secured, offering absolute passive safety. This is a considerable advantage in the field. Furthermore, the opening is designed to be fluid and fast thanks to the ambidextrous thumb stud.
What are its other major technical assets?
- Nitrox® blade: The C.A.C.® uses a robust version of this steel, sometimes replaced by even higher-performance MOX® steel. The edge can be plain or combo (plain + serrations) for maximum versatility.
- Ergonomic handle: Available in glass-fiber-reinforced PA6 (robustness and lightness) or G10 (exceptional grip even when wet). The scales are screwed onto a steel structure, providing foolproof rigidity.
- Rescue functions: It integrates a tungsten carbide glass breaker and a strap cutter with an interchangeable blade. These tools allow for emergency extraction without opening the main blade.
- Reversible belt clip: The clip is easily reversible to adapt to each user's carrying preferences (right-handed or left-handed).
What are the technical characteristics of the C.A.C.®?
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total length (open) | 238 mm |
| Total length (closed) | 145 mm |
| Blade length | 94 mm |
| Blade thickness | 3 mm |
| Weight | 195 g |
| Blade steel | Nitrox® (or MOX® as an option) |
| Handle materials | PA6 FV or G10 |
| Locking | Secure moving axis |
| Additional functions | Glass breaker, strap cutter, reversible clip |
Is the C.A.C.® a good choice for civilian use?
Absolutely. Its "overbuilt" robustness is a guarantee of durability for anyone looking for an "all-purpose" knife. For outdoor, bushcraft, or survival enthusiasts, the C.A.C.® is a choice companion. Its rescue functions also make it an essential safety item in a backpack or glove box.
TB Outdoor has successfully adapted the C.A.C.® into numerous versions to appeal to a wider audience. It exists in a multitude of colors and even with practical options like the corkscrew. This version perfectly fuses the tactical tool and the bivouac companion. This versatility proves that the C.A.C.® has transcended its primary function to become a reference for everyone.
In short, whether you are a professional, an adventurer, or someone who appreciates reliable objects, the C.A.C.® has solid arguments. It is the assurance of acquiring a piece of modern French cutlery history. Choose your version!
