Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife is a compact, folding knife designed specifically for hunters and outdoorsmen who need a versatile tool for field dressing game. Manufactured by Outdoor Edge, this knife boasts two independent blades – a skinning blade and a gutting blade – along with the option for a bone saw, making it a compelling option for simplifying your kill processing in the field. I was intrigued by the “flip” design and the promise of a single tool to handle multiple tasks.

For years, I carried a fixed blade skinner and a separate gut hook; it was cumbersome. This design seemed to streamline the process without sacrificing blade quality. My initial impression was good; the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife felt solid in hand, though perhaps a little lighter than expected.

I considered the Gerber Vital Pocket Folder and the Buck Knives 0660 Pursuit Pro before settling on the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife. The Gerber felt flimsy, and the Buck lacked the dedicated gutting blade that I was specifically seeking. The independent locking blades of the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife were a key selling point for me.

Overall, my first impression was positive; the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife seemed like a well-designed tool, and I was eager to test its performance in the field. I appreciated the Blaze-Orange handle option, adding a measure of safety by making it highly visible.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife during a whitetail deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. Conditions were damp, with temperatures hovering just above freezing, offering a realistic test of the handle’s grip. Using the gutting blade was surprisingly easy and efficient; the curved edge allowed for a smooth, controlled cut.

The skinning blade proved equally capable, allowing me to efficiently remove the hide. The rubberized Kraton handle provided a secure grip even with wet, gloved hands. I did notice a slight learning curve in quickly switching between blades, but it became more fluid with practice.

Extended Use & Reliability

After two hunting seasons, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve processed three deer and a wild hog with it, and the blades still hold a decent edge. There’s some minor wear on the blade coating, but nothing that affects performance.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse with warm, soapy water is usually sufficient. I apply a thin coat of oil to the blades after cleaning to prevent rust. The knife is showing no signs of loosening or developing play in the blade locking mechanisms.

Compared to my previous setup of multiple knives, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife is a significant improvement in convenience and portability. It simplifies the field dressing process without sacrificing performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife

Specifications

• Knife Blade: 3-1/2 inches. This provides a good balance between control and cutting power for skinning tasks.
• Overall Length (Knife): 8-1/4 inches. Compact enough for easy carry, yet large enough to provide a secure grip.
• Saw Blade (if applicable): 4-3/8 inches. The optional saw blade is triple-ground for efficient cutting of wood and bone.
• Overall Length (Knife/Saw Combo): 9-3/8 inches. The added saw length increases overall utility.
• Blade Steel: 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel. This steel offers a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• Handle Material: Rubberized Kraton with Traction Slots. The Kraton handle provides a secure, non-slip grip, even in wet conditions.
• Sheath: Nylon Sheath with Vertical and Horizontal Carry Options. Offers versatile carrying options.

These specifications combine to create a practical and durable tool for hunters and outdoorsmen. The blade steel provides adequate edge retention, while the handle ensures a secure grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife performs admirably in its intended role. Both the skinning and gutting blades are sharp and well-shaped for their respective tasks. The optional saw blade is effective for processing bone and small branches.

The primary weakness is the steel used; while decent, 8Cr13MoV requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels like S30V or Elmax. However, it is easy to sharpen and more affordable. It meets my expectations for a mid-priced hunting knife, offering a good balance of performance and value.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid, with no noticeable blade play or loose components. The Kraton handle is comfortable and provides excellent grip, even when wet. The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife features thumb studs for easy one-handed opening of each blade.

The design is user-friendly, although it takes some practice to quickly switch between the blades. The blaze orange handle is highly visible, preventing accidental loss in the field.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife should last for many years. The 8Cr13MoV steel is reasonably corrosion-resistant, but it’s essential to keep the blades clean and oiled to prevent rust. Sharpening is straightforward using a standard sharpening stone or guided system.

Replacing parts, if needed, might be challenging, as Outdoor Edge does not sell individual components. However, the overall build quality suggests that major repairs will be unlikely.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife comes with a nylon sheath that offers both vertical and horizontal carry options. There are no direct customization options available from Outdoor Edge. However, aftermarket knife sheaths could be used, and some users may choose to replace the thumb studs with aftermarket options.

Compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited, as this is a self-contained tool. The included sheath is functional, but a higher-quality leather or Kydex sheath could be considered as an upgrade.

Pros and Cons of Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife

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Who Should Buy Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife?

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife is perfect for hunters who prioritize convenience and value in their field dressing tools. It’s also well-suited for outdoorsmen who need a versatile and reliable knife for general camp tasks. Casual campers and hikers who want a single, multi-purpose knife would also find this useful.

Those who demand premium blade steel and the absolute best edge retention should skip this product. Professional guides who process a high volume of game regularly might also prefer a higher-end option. A sharpening steel or portable sharpening system is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade edges in the field.

Conclusion on Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife is a well-designed and functional tool that offers excellent value for the money. Its versatile design, secure grip, and affordable price make it a compelling option for hunters and outdoorsmen. While the blade steel isn’t the highest-end, it provides adequate performance and is easy to sharpen.

The price is certainly justified for what you get. It’s a solid tool that will save you both weight and space in your pack. I would personally recommend the Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile hunting knife on a budget.

So, ditch the multiple knives, streamline your field dressing process, and pick up an Outdoor Edge Cutlery Flip N’ Blaze Knife today. You won’t be disappointed.