SOG Ultra XR (Review)

Now available from Studies and Observations Group, the new Ultra XR exudes quality and refinement.

This compact reboot of SOG’s original Ultra C-Ti includes several upgrades. An improved XR locking mechanism, slimmer profile, TiNi coated parts, and a sharp new look.

After meeting with Studies and Observations Group in their hometown of Seattle this past fall, the Ultra XR was one of my favorite pieces in the new line-up. Perhaps due to its perfect complement to my Shadow Systems Glock 19.

Utilizing exotic materials like carbon fiber for the handle helps shed weight while deleting the finger grooves found on the previous model maintains a much cleaner and lower profile.

Additionally, the blade seats much deeper into the handle decreasing the overall width when folded helping keep a low profile in your pocket. A sculpted titanium pocket clip either keeps your knife secure or can be used as a money clip adding to the Ultra XR‘s versatility.

XR Locking Mechanism

SOG’s improved XR locking mechanism is another improvement from the previous iteration. This robust locking system is now ambidextrous. To me, the new lock feels more secure when the blade is deployed. And having the locking lever available on both sides of the handle allows me to use my thumb and index finger to simultaneously pull the locking button backward when stowing the blade.

While the previous model used VG10 blade steel, the Mark II opts for the very proven cryogenically treated CPM S35VN steel. Deployment with your thumb is simplified with a generous blade cut-out. Beveling that blade cut-out was a nice touch from SOG proving to be a bit easier on your thumb. A slightly less aggressive jimping on the back of the blade still has enough grip to maintain a good purchase on the knife during routine handling.

“CPM S35VN is a martensitic stainless steel designed to offer improved toughness over CPM S30V. It is also easier to machine and polish than CPM S30V. Its chemistry has been rebalanced so that it forms some niobium carbides along with vanadium and chromium carbides. Substituting niobium carbides for some of the vanadium carbides makes CPM S35VN about 15-20% tougher than CPM S30V without any loss of wear resistance. CPM S35VN’s improved toughness gives it better resistance to edge chipping. Because both vanadium and niobium carbides are harder and more effective than chromium carbides in providing wear resistance, the CPM stainless blade steels offer improved edge retention over conventional high chromium steels such as 440C and D2.” -crucible.com

SOG Ultra XR Features

• Series: Mark 2
• Weight: 1.2 oz. / 34 grams
• Blade Length: 2.8 inches / 71mm
• Closed Length: 3.61 inches / 92mm
• Overall Length: 6.4 inches / 163mm
• Blade Steel: Cryo S35VN
• Handle: Carbon Fiber
• Finish: Titanium Nitride
• MSRP $124.95 

Borrowing a high tech coating technology from the firearms industry, Studies and Observations Group is offering the Ultra XR with your choice of Gold or Gray Titanium Nitride coated blades and clip.

For me, it was the blingy Gold TiNi coating to pair with my Glock 19. For those looking to be a bit more subtle, the gray is a less overt option. I’ve found that the Gold TiNi pocket clip really stands out on my pocket so I tend to deep carry and use it as a money clip instead.

A New Look

Throughout the 2020 season, Studies and Observations Group will be rolling out several new models alongside updated knives as well.

New packaging and a simplified lineup of knives will help you navigate to the product that best suits your needs.

Whether it’s for recreational use, outdoor use or professional use, Studies and Observations Group has you covered.