In the Field with the Masters of Defense.

Masters of Defense (M.O.D.) introduced its Duane Dieter CQD[R] (Close Quarters Defense) Mk I tactical folder to the world at the Eurosatory 2000 show in Paris. Curiosity sufficiently aroused, the author managed to test drive this unique weapon and has discovered why many specialised military units, including the US Navy Seals, have chosen the CQD[R] to equip behind-the-lines forces. The first feature one notices is the twin-bladed utility cutter on the rear of the knife. Designed for rescue and extraction situations, the small blades cut harness, cord, seat belt, canopy and clothing without exposing a `live' blade and sharp tip. This hides within the expanded hilt which doubles as a pressure point and striking point tool. The main blade -- double-edged, precision hollow ground (half- or non-serrated options) with a modified spear point -- is of 154 cm high carbon stainless steel alloy showing a resilient non-reflective finish, carries a Rockwell hardness of 60 and includes ambidextrous steel milled thumb studs (for a full list of features, visit www.mastersofdefense.com). An automatic-opening version is available for military, fire/EMS and law enforcement organisations. Blade finish options include: satin polished, matte double head blast, satin glass black titanium carbonitride and stealth matte black titanium carbonitride. The handle is of a black anodised hardcoat finished to military specifications. It includes wing walk grip enhancement inserts for non-slip operation (very important since the blade is very, very sharp). The CQD[R] Mk I has been supplied to the US Navy Seals and Marine Recon squads, the US Coast Guard, the Mobile Security Division from the US State Department, Air Marshal Teams and the Land Warrior and Future Warrior programmes, and many Nato countries have voiced interest. M.O.D. is currently working with US military specialists to develop an optional, job-specific attachment for Ordnance and Breaching teams.