Tenable Goblin L B3016A4 Stonewashed 14C28N Blade Brown Micarta Handle Liner Lock Folding Knife

The Tenable Goblin L represents the evolution of compact knife design, inspired by the legendary 1984 U.S. Air Force XF-85 experimental fighter jet. This "biggest little knife" combines increased size and capability while maintaining exceptional portability. Featuring a broad sheepsfoot blade crafted from reliable 14C28N steel, the Goblin L delivers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. A premium Damascus option showcases a striking water ripple pattern for those seeking distinctive aesthetics. The blade's cutout groove enables quick one-handed deployment while reducing weight. The handle offers versatile choices: aluminum variants with amphibian-inspired geometric texturing for enhanced grip and modern appeal, or brown Micarta for classic understated elegance. Multiple color pairings elevate visual distinction. Deployment flexibility defines this knife. Three opening methods—front flipper tab with jimping, finger flick, and traditional thumb hole—deliver smooth, satisfying action. The liner lock mechanism ensures reliable security, while the bent pocket clip provides secure everyday carry. Designer Marshall's meticulous craftsmanship, honed since 2002 and full-time since 2015, emphasizes precision fit, premium materials, and the philosophy that form follows function. The Goblin L transcends mere utility, becoming a refined tool that balances powerful cutting performance with refined, carry-friendly proportions for discerning everyday users.

SPECIFICATIONS

Overall Length	7.61''/193.3mm
Blade Length	3.08''/78.2mm
Blade Thickness	0.118" / 3.0mm
Blade Material	14C28N
Blade Style	Sheepsfoot
Blade Grind	Flat Grind
Blade Finish	Stonewashed
Handle Material	Brown Micarta
Color	Brown
Lock Type	Liner Lock
Weight	4.34oz/123g
Hardness	58-60 HRC
Model Name	Goblin L
Model Number	B3016A4
Designer	Marshall Noble

Tenable Goblin L B3016A4 - The Biggest Little Knife

The Tenable Goblin L B3016A4 scales up Marshall Noble's Goblin concept - named for the 1984 XF-85 experimental fighter - into a 7.61-inch frame with a broad 3.08-inch 14C28N sheepsfoot blade. The signature deployment cutout groove thumbs the blade open one-handed, and the Brown Micarta handle carries an amphibian-inspired geometric texture for grip that survives rain and sweat. Three opening methods (front flipper tab, finger flick, thumb hole), a reliable liner lock and a bent pocket clip make it one of the most flexible Tenable Goblin L variants in the Tenable Knives range of folding knives.

Tenable Goblin L B3016A4 - Blade & Steel Selling Points

The 14C28N blade at 59-61 HRC is Sandvik's nitrogen-alloyed workhorse - excellent corrosion resistance, real toughness and the easiest sharpening in the store. The sheepsfoot profile keeps the rounded tip safe around pockets and parcels while the straight edge does the slicing - ideal for box duty, rope and kitchen backup. At 4.34 oz / 123 g with a full flat grind, the Goblin L cuts far above its size and remains a genuinely compact everyday carry knife.

Tenable Goblin L B3016A4 - Key Features at a Glance

• Broad sheepsfoot blade in 14C28N with flat grind at 58-60 HRC
• Deployment cutout groove - thumb-flick opening with nothing in the blade path
• Three opening methods: front flipper tab with jimping, finger flick, thumb hole
• Reliable liner lock with Brown Micarta scales at 4.34 oz / 123 g
• Bent pocket clip for a deeper, lower-profile carry
• Amphibian-inspired geometric texture for wet-hand grip
• One of four Goblin L variants from 14C28N to Damascus
• Backed by EDCMALL's tracked worldwide shipping and returns policy

Tenable Goblin L B3016A4 - Five Ways It Earns Pocket Time

• Warehouse and box duty - The sheepsfoot's blunt tip slices tape and breaks down cartons without puncturing contents.
• Camp kitchen prep - The broad straight edge chops vegetables and slices sandwiches like a mini chef's knife.
• Everyday pocket carry - At 4.34 oz / 123 g the Goblin L rides deep on the bent clip and vanishes until needed.
• Range bag and utility - Cut targets, cord and zip ties all afternoon; the textured scales grip even with gloved hands.
• Collector rotation - The Stonewashed finish and geometric milling make it a standout in any best-selling EDC display.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the cutout groove do?

It lets your thumb press directly on the blade spine to flick the knife open, and it removes weight from the blade so the action feels faster.

Which steel should I pick - 14C28N or Damascus?

Pick 14C28N for a low-maintenance working edge; pick Water Ripple Damascus for the one-of-a-kind pattern and accept a monthly oiling habit.

Is the aluminum handle slippery?

No - the amphibian-inspired geometric texture is milled deep and grips even with wet or gloved hands; the Micarta variant adds warmth.

How deep does the bent clip ride?

The bent steel clip seats the handle low in the pocket, leaving only the top spine visible - a genuine deep-carry profile.

14C28N & Damascus Steel Comparison Table

Steel	Typical HRC	Edge Retention	Corrosion Resistance	Toughness	Sharpening Ease
14C28N (this knife)	59-61	Good	Excellent	Good	Very Easy
Nitro-V	59-61	Very Good	Excellent	Very Good	Very Easy
154CM	58-61	Very Good	Good	Good	Moderate
D2	58-61	Excellent	Fair (oil it)	Good	Moderate (diamond)

Glossary of Key Terms

14C28N
Sandvik's nitrogen-alloyed stainless at 59-61 HRC: excellent corrosion resistance, real toughness and the easiest sharpening of any steel in the store.

Sheepsfoot Blade
A spine that curves down to meet a straight edge at a rounded, safe tip - maximum control for slicing with minimal risk of accidental punctures.

Deployment Cutout Groove
A milled groove over the blade that lets you thumb-flick it open one-handed while shaving weight off the blade.

Liner Lock
A spring bar of lock steel inside the handle that snaps behind the blade tang on opening - simple, proven, one-hand-close.

Anodized Aluminum
6061-series aluminum colored by a controlled oxide layer rather than paint - the color cannot chip off, only wear with honest use.

Micarta
Layers of linen or canvas soaked in resin and compressed under heat. It warms to the touch, grips even when wet and wears a natural patina.

Amphibian-Inspired Texture
Marshall Noble's geometric G10-style relief milled into the aluminum scales - real grip in wet hands with a modern, reptilian look.

Bent Pocket Clip
A curved steel clip that rides the knife deeper in the pocket and hugs the handle line for a lower-profile carry.

Tenable Goblin L B3016A4 - Who Should Buy It (and Who Should Skip It)

Who Should Buy

• Box-breakers and warehouse workers who want a safe blunt-tip slicer.
• EDC users who like three opening methods on one knife.
• Collectors chasing Marshall Noble's XF-85 fighter-jet inspired design.
• Campers who want a broad sheepsfoot for kitchen-style prep.
• Anyone who values textured metal scales for wet-hand grip.

Who Should Skip

• Anyone wanting a piercing point - the sheepsfoot tip is deliberately rounded for safety.
• Anyone wanting a metal-scale look - this variant is warm, natural Micarta, not aluminum.
• Ultralight minimalists: at 123-129 g the L version carries heavier than the standard Goblin.
• Users who need a deep-carry clip at gym-shorts depth - the bent clip rides medium.
• Anyone wanting an ambidextrous lock - the liner releases right-handed from the factory.

Tenable Goblin L B3016A4 - Care & Maintenance

1. Wipe the blade dry after every use - pocket sweat spots bare steel edges within days.
2. One drop of quality knife oil at the pivot monthly, then cycle the action to spread it.
3. Blow pocket lint out of the handle channel before oiling so grit never grinds in the pivot.
4. Check the lock bar contact area for lint so lockup stays tight and repeatable.
5. Sharpen on a diamond plate for carbide-rich steels, or a ceramic rod for quick touch-ups.
6. Use light, consistent strokes and finish on a leather strop for a hair-popping apex.
7. Rinse with warm water and mild soap after sticky tasks, then dry thoroughly before carry.
8. Never pry or twist the tip; folder blades are slicers first and chip under lateral load.
9. Re-torque clip and body screws periodically with the correct Torx driver.