When Bestech first introduced the Strelit folding push dagger, it turned heads across the everyday carry community. Designed by Ostap Hel, its sweeping lines and innovative ergonomics offered a fresh take on discrete utility. However, hardcore knife enthusiasts always want more out of their blade material.
To meet that demand, Bestech upgraded its ultra-compact folding push dagger with the holy grail of modern metallurgy: CPM MagnaCut steel.
If you love the specialized ergonomics of a backup blade but refuse to compromise on cutting power or corrosion resistance, this Bestech Strelit MagnaCut review explains exactly how this steel upgrade transforms a highly capable pocket knife into the ultimate small-scale workhorse.
The MagnaCut Advantage in a Micro Folder
To appreciate why this update matters, you have to look at how blade steels usually work. Traditionally, picking a steel involves a compromise. If you want extreme hardness and edge retention (like Maxamet), you lose corrosion resistance. If you want complete rustproof performance (like LC200N), you sacrifice long-term sharpness.
CPM MagnaCut breaks those rules. Developed by metallurgist Larrin Thomas, its specific chemical composition eliminates chromium carbides, allowing it to achieve:
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Exceptional Toughness: It resists chipping even along a thin, razor-sharp edge.
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Superb Edge Retention: It stays sharp significantly longer than standard utility steels.
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Virtually Rustproof Performance: Its corrosion resistance competes with dedicated saltwater steels.
For a tiny everyday carry tool like the Strelit, which frequently rides in a warm pocket absorbing moisture and sweat, having a rustproof steel that handles grueling box-cutting chores without dulling is a massive practical upgrade.
Anatomy and Technical Performance
Let's break down how the premium steel integrates with Ostap Hel’s specialized geometric design:
| Attribute | Specification and Performance Benefit |
| Blade Steel | CPM MagnaCut (Typically hardened to 60-63 HRC) |
| Blade Style | Aggressive Hawkbill / Modified Chisel Grind |
| Blade Length | 1.30 inches (33 mm) — Highly legal-friendly |
| Handle Options | Textured G10, Carbon Fiber, or Premium Titanium |
| Deployment | Ceramic ball bearing pivot with an integrated flipper tab |
Real World Cutting Utility and Ergonomics
The Strelit does not handle like a typical miniature pocket knife. Instead of gripping it with two fingers, the curved chassis drops down so the main handle scale sits securely inside your palm. Your index and middle fingers naturally wrap into the deep geometric choils.
This signature push dagger stance aligns the cutting edge directly with your arm's linear force. When you combine that rock-solid mechanical leverage with the aggressive, pulling geometry of a hawkbill tip, the cutting results are impressive.
Whether you are slicing through heavy double-walled cardboard, cutting thick nylon webbing, or scoring leather, the MagnaCut steel edge glides through materials effortlessly. The tip is robustly ground, allowing you to pierce tough surfaces without worrying about the apex snapping under lateral pressure.
Why the MagnaCut upgrade is worth it: Small blades dull faster than large blades because you repeatedly use the exact same small section of the cutting edge. Upgrading to MagnaCut means you spend less time sharpening your pocket tool and more time working.
Final Verdict
The Bestech Strelit was already an outstanding option for anyone seeking a discrete, legal-friendly backup folder. By introducing a CPM MagnaCut version, Bestech has elevated this compact tool into an elite category. It handles daily cutting chores with the resilience of a full-sized tactical folder while remaining small enough to disappear into your coin pocket. If you want top-tier modern metallurgy paired with futuristic design ergonomics, the MagnaCut Strelit is a stellar investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How easy is it to sharpen the MagnaCut blade on the Bestech Strelit
Despite its high wear resistance, CPM MagnaCut is surprisingly easy to sharpen compared to older super-steels like S90V or M4. Because the Strelit features a curved hawkbill profile, you will achieve the best results using a ceramic rod, a guided sharpening system with rounded stones, or fine-grit diamond files that track smoothly along the inside radius of the edge.
Is the Bestech Strelit MagnaCut completely rustproof
While no ferrous steel is 100% immune to staining under extreme laboratory abuse, CPM MagnaCut offers a level of corrosion resistance that matches dedicated diving steels. You can confidently carry it during hot summer days or in high-humidity environments without worrying about pocket sweat causing surface pitting or rust spots along the bevel.
What handle material is best for the MagnaCut Strelit model
The choice depends entirely on your daily carry style. If you want the lightest, most rugged grip for utility work, the textured G10 or carbon fiber versions provide excellent traction when wet. If you prefer a more premium, rigid feel with integrated frame lock security, opting for the titanium handle variant offers a sleek, modern look.
