SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives Review

Let’s Dive into SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives offer an accessible entry point into the world of knife throwing. SOG, a well-known name in the tactical and outdoor gear market, aims to provide a balanced throwing knife set suitable for beginners and backyard enthusiasts alike. The inclusion of paracord-wrapped handles and a ballistic nylon sheath adds a touch of preparedness, making this more than just a simple throwing set.

As someone with over a decade of experience in outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve always been curious about throwing knives. I sought a set that wouldn’t break the bank, and provided a good starting point to develop my skills without sacrificing quality entirely. These knives intrigued me, combining a compact size with the potential utility of paracord.

The initial unboxing revealed a set of three knives, each individually wrapped and housed in a ballistic nylon sheath. The knives felt surprisingly lightweight, and the paracord wrap seemed well-executed at first glance. My immediate thought was, “These are smaller than I imagined,” quickly followed by a slight skepticism regarding the paracord’s practicality for throwing.

I considered the Cold Steel True Flight Thrower, known for its heavier, more robust design, and the Perfect Point Throwing Knife Set, praised for its affordability, before settling on the SOG set. I wanted something smaller and lighter that could be easily packed. I was cautiously optimistic, drawn by the SOG name and the promise of a versatile, entry-level set.

Initial impressions were mixed. While the construction seemed decent for the price point, the paracord wrap raised concerns about grip and balance, something I’d quickly discover to be true.


Real-World Testing: Putting SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives in my backyard, setting up a simple wooden target. The weather was dry and mild, typical of a late spring afternoon. My initial throws were all over the place.

The paracord-wrapped handles proved to be a significant hindrance. They created an inconsistent grip, and the added bulk made it difficult to achieve a clean release. After about an hour of frustration, I removed the paracord from one of the knives to compare throwing characteristics.

Stripped of the paracord, the knife felt more balanced and predictable. My accuracy immediately improved, suggesting the paracord was a design flaw. I was surprised by how drastically the feel changed by removing the cord; it immediately became easier to control.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use (sans paracord), the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives have held up reasonably well. There’s some minor cosmetic wear on the blade coating, but no signs of bending or breakage. The blades have needed to be sharpened a few times, which is normal for throwing knives after repeated impacts.

Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a light coat of oil after each session. I can’t say the same for the paracord, after my first use it was coated in dirt and fibers, and would have been a bear to clean, had I left it on. Compared to my experiences with higher-end throwing knives made of tougher steel, these SOG knives require more frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge. However, for the price, I can’t expect much better.

Breaking Down the Features of SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives

Specifications

  • Blade Length: 2.8 inches. This compact blade size contributes to the overall lightweight and maneuverable feel of the knives.
  • Overall Length: 9.5 inches. The shorter overall length makes these knives suitable for beginners, allowing for easier control and less intimidating throws.
  • Blade Material: 9Cr18MoV stainless steel. This steel offers a decent balance of hardness and corrosion resistance, making it a suitable, though not exceptional, choice for throwing knives.
  • Serrated: Plain edge. A plain edge is ideal for throwing knives, as serrations would be unnecessary and could even hinder throwing accuracy.
  • Knife Application: Fixed Blade. Fixed blades are essential for throwing knives, ensuring structural integrity and preventing folding or collapsing upon impact.
  • Blade Shape: Spear Point. The spear point design provides a balanced profile that’s conducive to accurate throws and target penetration.
  • Included Accessories: Ballistic Nylon Sheath. The sheath allows for convenient carrying and storage of the knives, protecting both the blades and the user.
  • Handle Finish: Paracord Wrapped (removable). While intended to provide a secure grip and additional utility, the paracord wrap proved detrimental to throwing performance in my testing.
  • Blade Finish: Satin Polished. The satin polished finish offers some corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance.
  • Weight: 0.34 lbs (per knife). The lightweight nature of these knives makes them easy to handle, especially for beginners or those with less arm strength.
  • Sheath Material: Nylon. Nylon is a durable and weather-resistant material, making it a practical choice for the knife sheath.
  • Additional Features: Hardness 49-51 HRC. This hardness rating indicates that the steel is relatively soft, which means the knives will require more frequent sharpening.
  • Thickness: 0.15 inches. This thickness provides a good balance between durability and weight.
  • Fabric/Material: EDP coated blade with paracord wrapped handle. The EDP coating offers some protection against corrosion, while the paracord handle is intended for grip and utility.
  • Attachment Type: Velcro (on the sheath). Velcro closures provide a secure and easy way to access the knives in the sheath.

Performance & Functionality

Without the paracord, the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives perform reasonably well for their intended purpose. Accuracy is acceptable at shorter distances (10-15 feet), but the lightweight design makes them susceptible to wind and requires more precise throws at longer ranges. The blade penetrates wooden targets adequately, but they tend to bounce off harder surfaces.

The primary weakness is the steel’s hardness. The edges dull relatively quickly, requiring frequent sharpening. The lightweight design, while beneficial for ease of use, also limits the knives’ overall power and stability.

The knives meet basic expectations for an entry-level throwing set, but fall short of more advanced models in terms of durability and long-range accuracy.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional. The spear point blade and overall shape are conducive to throwing. However, the paracord-wrapped handle is a significant ergonomic flaw, as it hinders grip consistency and balance.

The build quality is adequate for the price, with no obvious defects or weak points (excluding the paracord). Without the paracord, the knives are comfortable to hold, particularly for those with smaller hands.

Durability & Maintenance

With consistent use, expect the edges to require regular sharpening. The EDP coating will likely show signs of wear and tear over time. However, the overall construction seems sturdy enough to withstand normal throwing practice.

Maintenance is simple: cleaning with a damp cloth, drying thoroughly, and applying a light coat of oil to prevent rust. The knives are not designed for disassembly or repair beyond basic sharpening.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives come with a ballistic nylon sheath that holds all three knives. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited, as the knives are not designed to be modified.

Aftermarket grips could potentially be added, but given the knife’s overall design and price point, it’s unlikely that many users would pursue this option. The sheath is functional but lacks any MOLLE webbing or other advanced attachment features.

Pros and Cons of SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives

Pros

  • Affordable entry point: Excellent value for beginners wanting to try knife throwing.
  • Lightweight and easy to handle: Suitable for users of all ages and strength levels.
  • Compact size: Easy to transport and store.
  • Decent accuracy at close range: Provides a satisfying throwing experience for beginners.
  • Includes a functional sheath: Offers convenient storage and portability.

Cons

  • Paracord-wrapped handle hinders performance: Needs to be removed for optimal throwing.
  • Soft steel requires frequent sharpening: Not ideal for heavy or prolonged use.
  • Limited long-range accuracy: Not suitable for advanced throwing techniques or competitive use.


Who Should Buy SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives?

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives are perfect for individuals new to knife throwing, casual backyard enthusiasts, or those seeking an inexpensive and portable set for recreational use. These knives are suitable for anyone looking to try knife throwing without investing heavily in expensive, high-end equipment.

Experienced throwers or those seeking professional-grade equipment should skip this product. These knives lack the durability, precision, and long-range accuracy required for advanced throwing techniques.

A must-have modification is removing the paracord from the handles! A sharpening stone or honing steel will also be necessary to maintain the blades’ edges.

Conclusion on SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives offer a mixed bag. While the affordable price and lightweight design make them an appealing entry point for beginners, the poorly executed paracord wrap and relatively soft steel detract from their overall performance. The value proposition is reasonable, considering the price point and intended use case.

I would cautiously recommend this set to complete novices who are curious about knife throwing and don’t want to spend a lot of money. However, be prepared to remove the paracord and invest in a sharpening tool.

Ultimately, the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fling Throwing Knives are a decent starter set, but don’t expect professional-grade performance. If you are looking to try knife throwing, give these a shot, and see what you think.

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