Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder Review

Let’s Dive into Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder

The Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder is a budget-friendly everyday carry knife designed for general utility tasks. Made by Smith & Wesson, this knife boasts a 7Cr17 high carbon stainless steel clip point blade, textured black aluminum handle, and ambidextrous thumb knobs. It’s marketed as a practical and accessible option for those needing a reliable folding knife without breaking the bank.

I needed a backup knife for my hiking pack – something lightweight and functional, but not so expensive that I’d be devastated if it got lost or damaged. The Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder seemed to fit the bill perfectly. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the knife’s lightweight feel. The aluminum handle felt surprisingly solid, though the overall construction definitely reflected its budget-friendly price point.

Compared to my usual EDC, a Benchmade Griptilian, and a Kershaw Leek, the Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder felt noticeably less refined. I ultimately chose it over a similar Gerber Paraframe due to its clip point blade and the seemingly more substantial aluminum handle. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder on a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for food prep, cutting cordage, and opening packages. The knife performed adequately in dry conditions, but I noticed some slippage when my hands were wet from rain.

The thumb knobs were easy to use, even with gloves. After the first day, the liner lock felt a little stiff, but I attributed that to being brand new.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder has held up reasonably well, considering its price. There are some visible scratches on the blade coating and minor wear on the aluminum handle. The edge retention is decent, but it requires frequent sharpening with a basic sharpening stone.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and some oil on the pivot point is all it takes. Compared to my experience with higher-end knives, the Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder requires more frequent maintenance to keep it in optimal condition. It hasn’t outperformed any of my premium knives, but it has proven reliable for basic cutting tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder

Specifications

• Blade Material: 7Cr17 High Carbon Stainless Steel. This provides a decent balance of hardness and corrosion resistance for the price point.
• Handle Material: Textured Black Aluminum. Lightweight and provides a reasonable grip, though not as comfortable as G10 or Micarta.
• Blade Style: Clip Point. Versatile blade shape suitable for various cutting tasks.
• Locking Mechanism: Liner Lock. Simple and reliable locking mechanism, though potentially less strong than a frame lock or axis lock.
• Closed Length: 4.375 inches. Compact size for easy carry in a pocket or pack.
• Ambidextrous Thumb Knobs. Allows for easy one-handed opening for both left- and right-handed users.
• Pocket Clip. Provides a secure and convenient way to carry the knife.

These specifications combine to create an affordable and functional knife. The 7Cr17 steel is easy to sharpen, but it won’t hold an edge as long as premium steels.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder performs adequately for light to medium-duty tasks. The blade is sharp enough for basic cutting, and the clip point design allows for precise work. A major weakness is the steel type; it requires frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge.

The knife generally meets expectations for a budget-friendly option. However, it doesn’t excel in any particular area.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price. The aluminum handle is lightweight and provides a decent grip, but the overall feel is less refined than more expensive knives. There’s a slight learning curve to smoothly opening and closing the knife with one hand, but it becomes easier with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder should last for several years of occasional use. Regular cleaning and sharpening are essential to prevent rust and maintain its functionality. Repairs are generally not feasible due to the low cost of the knife; replacement is the more practical option.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder comes with a standard pocket clip, which is not ambidextrous, and a lanyard hole. There are limited customization options available due to its design and construction. While you could potentially replace the pocket clip with a universal one, major modifications are not recommended.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder

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Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder?

The Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder is perfect for casual campers, hikers needing a backup knife, or anyone looking for an inexpensive EDC option. It is also great for those who need a knife for basic tasks around the house or in the garden.

Those who need a knife for heavy-duty use, require exceptional edge retention, or prefer premium materials should skip this product. A basic sharpening stone is a must-have accessory for maintaining the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder

The Smith & Wesson 24-7 Folder is a decent budget-friendly option for basic cutting tasks. It offers good value for the price, but don’t expect premium performance or exceptional durability.

The low price is justified by its functionality and ease of use. I would recommend it to anyone needing an inexpensive and lightweight EDC knife for occasional use. For the price, it’s a reasonable tool to keep on hand, just don’t expect it to perform like a $100+ knife.