Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife

The Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife is a tactical folding knife designed to be a reliable companion for everyday carry and more demanding situations. Manufactured by the reputable Smith & Wesson, this knife features assisted opening, a partially serrated blade, and a durable aluminum handle, making it a compelling option for those seeking a versatile cutting tool at a reasonable price. I was intrigued by its tactical design and the Smith & Wesson name, hoping to find a dependable knife for my outdoor adventures and everyday tasks.

My search began when I needed a reliable, easily accessible knife for hiking and camping. My old knife was dull, difficult to open one-handed, and lacked the features I needed for emergencies. The Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife, with its assisted opening and reputation for ruggedness, seemed like a perfect solution.

The knife arrived in a simple cardboard box, and upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by its solid feel and aggressive styling. The blue and black aluminum handle felt secure in my hand, and the blade was surprisingly sharp right out of the box. The assisted opening mechanism worked smoothly, allowing for quick and easy deployment.

Compared to my previous Gerber Paraframe Mini and a CRKT Drifter, the Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife felt more substantial and offered a more secure grip. While the Gerber was lightweight and compact, it lacked the robust feel of the Black Ops 3. The CRKT Drifter, though well-built, lacked the assisted opening and aggressive blade shape I desired for tactical applications.

My first impression was positive; the Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife felt like a capable and well-designed tool that could handle a variety of tasks. I was eager to put it to the test in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife was on a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling for the fire, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and food preparation. The partially serrated blade proved useful for quickly sawing through small branches and fibrous materials.

The knife performed well in dry conditions, but I also intentionally subjected it to a water test. I repeatedly submerged the knife in a stream and then used it to cut through some wet rope. The blade maintained its grip, and the handle remained secure, even when wet, which gave me confidence in its ability to perform in less than ideal situations. I found the thumb knob and finger actuator easy to use even with damp hands. However, I did notice the assisted opening was slightly slower when wet.

The assisted opening was smooth and reliable, although it required a firm push on the thumb stud to fully deploy the blade. I did not experience any failures to open or accidental closures.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife has held up surprisingly well. I have used it for everything from opening packages and cutting zip ties to more demanding tasks like clearing brush on hiking trails and processing firewood. There is some minor wear on the blade coating and a few small scratches on the aluminum handle, but overall, the knife remains in excellent condition.

The 4034 stainless steel blade has retained its edge reasonably well. I have only needed to touch it up a few times with a honing steel. The assisted opening mechanism is still functioning smoothly, and the liner lock continues to engage securely.

Cleaning and maintaining the knife is straightforward. I typically wipe the blade down with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth. The aluminum handle is easy to clean with soap and water.

Compared to a previous budget knife I owned, the Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife has significantly outperformed it in terms of edge retention, durability, and overall reliability. The Black Ops 3 gives me the confidence to handle a variety of cutting tasks while the other broke after several uses.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife

Specifications

• The Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife features a 3.4-inch blade made from 4034 stainless steel. This steel offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• The closed length of the knife is 4.375 inches, making it compact and easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt. This size is convenient for everyday carry without being too bulky.
• The handle is constructed from aluminum with a black and blue finish, offering a secure and comfortable grip. The textured handle enhances grip and control.
• The blade shape is a versatile combination of Tanto and Drop Point, suitable for piercing, slicing, and general utility tasks. This blade shape is well-suited for both tactical and everyday use.
• Other notable features include an assisted opening mechanism, ambidextrous thumb knobs, jimping for added grip, a blood groove, a safety lock, a lanyard hole, and a pocket clip. These features enhance the knife’s usability and safety.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife performs admirably for its price point. The assisted opening mechanism allows for quick and easy blade deployment with one hand, which is crucial in tactical situations.

The blade’s combination of a Tanto tip and a Drop Point provides versatility for various cutting tasks, from piercing to slicing. However, the edge retention could be better, requiring occasional sharpening with heavy use.

The knife meets expectations for a tactical folder in this price range. While it may not be a high-end, premium knife, it offers a reliable and functional cutting tool for everyday carry and outdoor adventures.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife is impressive for its price. The aluminum handle feels solid and durable, and the blade locks securely in place.

The handle is comfortable to hold, and the textured finish provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The knife is relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry all day without feeling cumbersome.

The knife’s design is generally user-friendly, although the assisted opening mechanism may take some getting used to. However, once mastered, it provides quick and reliable blade deployment.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife should last for several years of regular use. The 4034 stainless steel blade is relatively corrosion-resistant, and the aluminum handle is durable and resistant to impacts.

Cleaning and maintaining the knife is straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping down with a clean cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot point. Regular sharpening will also help to maintain the blade’s edge.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife comes with a standard pocket clip for convenient carry. There are no additional accessories included in the box.

There are limited customization options available for this knife. The handle scales are not easily replaceable, and aftermarket accessories are not widely available. However, the knife is compatible with standard lanyards, which can be attached to the lanyard hole for added security.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife

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Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife?

The Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable everyday carry knife. It is also a good option for those who appreciate tactical-style knives with assisted opening mechanisms.

This knife may not be the best choice for users who require a high-end, premium knife with superior edge retention or extensive customization options. Also, if a very lightweight or non-threatening pocket knife is desired, this wouldn’t be the top pick.

A must-have accessory would be a sharpening steel to maintain the blade’s edge. A quality knife lubricant would also be beneficial to keep the assisted opening mechanism functioning smoothly.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife

The Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife is a solid and reliable tactical folding knife that offers excellent value for its price. The assisted opening, versatile blade shape, and durable aluminum handle make it a practical choice for everyday carry and outdoor adventures.

The price is definitely justified, especially considering the Smith & Wesson brand reputation and the knife’s overall performance and durability. This knife offers a great balance between affordability and functionality.

I would personally recommend the Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable tactical folder. This knife is a worthy addition to any gear collection and provides a practical and reliable cutting tool for a variety of tasks. So, grab your Smith & Wesson Black Ops 3 Knife and be prepared for whatever adventure comes your way!