SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives Review

Let’s Dive into SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives is a recent addition to SOG’s renowned Fielder line, promising a blend of aesthetics and functionality. This knife boasts a stainless steel blade, a G-10 handle for a comfortable grip, and an ambidextrous opening mechanism, all at a very accessible price point. It’s designed as an everyday carry (EDC) knife aimed at filling a versatile role for a wide range of users.

I’ve been on the hunt for a reliable and stylish EDC knife that wouldn’t break the bank. I needed something that I could trust for daily tasks, but also wouldn’t hesitate to use on the trail or in a pinch. The Fielder G-10 caught my eye because it seemed to offer a balance between tactical utility and classic design, something that’s often hard to find at this price point.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive. The knife felt solid in hand, with a comfortable weight that suggests quality without being cumbersome. The G-10 handle felt grippy and well-contoured, and the blade deployed smoothly.

Compared to my Kershaw Leek, which is much slimmer and more suited for purely urban carry, or my Cold Steel Code 4, which is robust but decidedly tactical in appearance, the SOG Fielder G-10 seemed to offer a middle ground. I liked the SOG more than the Leek because it felt more robust. I chose the Fielder over the Cold Steel for the more refined appearance of the SOG.

I was excited, but also cautiously optimistic. The materials and price point suggest that the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives might be a good deal. I hoped that my excitement wouldn’t give way to disappointment after putting it through its paces.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test for the SOG Fielder G-10 was during a weekend camping trip in the Catskills. I used it for basic camp tasks, such as preparing kindling, cutting rope, and opening food packages. The knife performed admirably, and the blade retained its sharpness through these tasks.

Despite some light rain, the G-10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet. Opening and closing the blade was still easy, even with slightly muddy hands. I was impressed by the knife’s ability to handle these initial tasks without any signs of strain.

I did notice that the lock felt a little sticky at first, requiring a bit more force to disengage than I’d prefer. I didn’t think that the knife was going to fail on me, but the lock didn’t inspire confidence either. However, I hoped this would improve with break-in.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the SOG Fielder G-10 has become a regular part of my EDC rotation. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes and packages to food prep while grilling. The knife has proven to be a reliable and versatile tool.

The blade has held up reasonably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a sharpening stone. There are a few minor scratches on the blade and bolsters. However, the handle remains in excellent condition.

Maintenance has been simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use is usually sufficient. I’ve added a drop of oil to the pivot point every few weeks to keep the action smooth. It still wasn’t as smooth as I hoped it would be.

Compared to my older Buck 110, the SOG Fielder G-10 isn’t as robust or heirloom-quality, but it’s also significantly lighter and easier to carry. It definitely beats out any gas station knife I’ve owned. For its price point, the Fielder G-10 has been surprisingly dependable.

Breaking Down the Features of SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives

Specifications

• The SOG Fielder G-10 features a 3.3-inch blade made of 7Cr17 stainless steel. This grade of steel provides a good balance of edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for everyday use.
• The knife has a closed length of 4.375 inches and an overall length of 7.8 inches, making it a compact and easily pocketable option. This size makes the knife handy and unintrusive to carry.
• It weighs in at 0.28 lb (4.4 ounces), a comfortable weight that doesn’t feel too heavy in the pocket. This weight strikes a good balance between robustness and portability.
• The handle is constructed from G-10, a durable and lightweight composite material known for its excellent grip even in wet conditions. The G-10 handle ensures a secure and comfortable hold.
• It features a clip point blade shape, which is versatile for piercing, slicing, and general utility tasks. The clip point design enhances the blade’s versatility.
• The SOG Fielder G-10 uses a standard locking mechanism, ensuring the blade remains securely open during use. A simple and reliable locking mechanism is a must-have for safety.
• Additional features include a pocket clip for convenient carry and a hardness rating of 52-59 HRC. The pocket clip allows for easy and accessible carry, while the hardness rating ensures a decent level of durability.

Performance & Functionality

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives performs its primary task of cutting effectively. The blade’s sharpness and clip point design make it suitable for a variety of tasks. However, the steel grade is not exceptional.

Its strengths lie in its versatility and ease of carry. The knife is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for EDC. The locking mechanism isn’t world-class, but is good enough for the price.

However, the 7Cr17 steel requires more frequent sharpening compared to premium steels. Also, the locking mechanism could be smoother and more confidence-inspiring. I would have prefered to see a different kind of steel used, even if it meant paying more for the knife.

The SOG Fielder G-10 generally meets expectations for a knife in its price range. While it doesn’t outperform higher-end knives, it offers a solid and reliable performance for everyday tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

The SOG Fielder G-10 features a classic and understated design with polished stainless steel bolsters and a black G-10 handle. The materials feel durable and well-assembled, offering a good level of comfort and grip. The knife looks good, but doesn’t feel as solid as other knives I have.

The knife is relatively user-friendly, with an ambidextrous thumb stud for easy one-handed opening. There is a slight learning curve to smoothly disengaging the lock. Overall, this knife is easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction and materials, the SOG Fielder G-10 should last for several years with proper care. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the G-10 handle is highly durable. Even though this knife looks good, it wasn’t built to last a lifetime like other knives on the market.

Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are sufficient to keep it in good working order. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean if necessary. The knife can be disassembled with common tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SOG Fielder G-10 comes with a standard pocket clip, which can be repositioned for tip-up or tip-down carry. Beyond that, there are limited customization options available directly from SOG. However, some users may be able to modify the scales or clip with aftermarket parts.

While it may not support extensive customization, the Fielder G-10 is compatible with standard knife maintenance tools, such as sharpening stones and lubricants.

Pros and Cons of SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives?

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives is perfect for:

• Everyday Carry (EDC) Users: Ideal for those seeking a reliable and affordable knife for daily tasks.
• Campers and Hikers: A useful tool for basic camp chores and outdoor activities.
• Budget-Conscious Buyers: Excellent value for the money.
• People looking for a stylish knife: It’s a really good looking knife that doesn’t look tactical.

Who should skip this product?

• Those who require premium steel for exceptional edge retention.
• Users who prefer a smoother, more refined locking mechanism.
• Those looking for a heavy-duty knife designed for extreme tasks.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A good quality sharpening stone or sharpening system.
• Consider adding a small lanyard for easier retrieval from the pocket.

Conclusion on SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives offers a compelling value proposition for anyone seeking a reliable and stylish EDC knife without breaking the bank. While it might not boast premium materials or an exceptionally smooth action, it delivers solid performance and durability for everyday tasks. The knife looks good and feels pretty good in the hand.

At around $28, the price is certainly justified given its overall performance and features. You can’t really go wrong with a knife in this price range. The knife is great for just tossing in your backpack or throwing in your pocket.

I would personally recommend the SOG Fielder G-10 to anyone looking for an affordable and dependable everyday carry knife. The knife offers good value for the price.

So, if you’re in the market for a versatile and budget-friendly folding knife, give the SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Fielder Folding Knives a try. You might be surprised at how much performance you can get for the price.