Let’s Dive into Mtech Folding Blade MT-317
The Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 is an entry-level folding knife designed by Mtech. Priced at a mere $9.99, it promises basic utility with its stainless steel blade and aluminum handle. I’ve spent years in the field, from guiding hunting trips in the Rockies to instructing survival courses in the desert, and I’ve seen knives that cost hundreds fail when it mattered most. I’m always on the lookout for reliable, budget-friendly options.
My search for a dependable backup blade that wouldn’t break the bank led me to the Mtech Folding Blade MT-317. It’s meant to be kept in a pack or vehicle without worrying too much about wear and tear. Opening the package, my initial impression was one of… well, low expectations. The lightweight aluminum handle didn’t inspire confidence, but the blade seemed reasonably sharp.
Compared to my usual EDC, a Benchmade Griptilian, and a Gerber Strongarm fixed blade, the Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 felt significantly cheaper. However, the price difference is substantial. My others are tools I depend on, but this one I can lose without heartache. My first impression was a mix of skepticism and curiosity.
Would it hold an edge? Could it withstand basic cutting tasks? I was eager to find out if this budget blade could surprise me.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 to the Test
First Use Experience
I decided to put the Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 through its paces on a recent camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp, and I needed to gather firewood for the evening. I used the knife for basic tasks like cutting small branches and preparing kindling.
The Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 performed adequately in dry conditions. However, once the blade got wet, the grip became noticeably slippery. There was a definite need to be extra careful when cutting with wet hands.
The blade deployment was stiff at first, requiring some breaking-in. I also noticed a slight wobble in the blade lockup, which raised some concerns about its long-term durability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of sporadic use, the Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 has shown some signs of wear. The black finish on the aluminum handle is scratching easily. The blade developed a few minor chips.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; a simple wipe-down after use is generally sufficient. I applied some lubricating oil to the pivot point to improve blade deployment. Compared to my experience with higher-end knives, the Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 certainly doesn’t hold up as well in terms of edge retention or overall robustness.
It’s a basic tool designed for light-duty tasks. It is not a replacement for a more robust and reliable knife.
Breaking Down the Features of Mtech Folding Blade MT-317
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.5 inches; this makes it suitable for most everyday tasks. The length is a good compromise between portability and utility.
- Blade Material: Stainless Steel; a common choice for budget knives. Stainless steel offers decent corrosion resistance.
- Blade Thickness: 3mm; a thinner blade means it will slice well. This is a good thickness for a folding knife.
- Handle Material: Aluminum; lightweight but less durable than other options. It is a low-cost choice.
- Closed Length: 5 inches; this makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt. It is a good size for EDC.
- Additional Features: Pocket Clip; provides a convenient way to keep the knife readily accessible. Pocket clips are essential for convenient carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 performs adequately for light-duty tasks such as opening packages, cutting rope, and preparing food. However, it struggles with more demanding tasks like batoning wood or heavy prying. The stainless steel blade holds a decent edge initially.
The blade dulls relatively quickly with heavy use. The lockup is not as secure as I would like, and I noticed some blade play after a few weeks of use. Overall, it meets basic expectations for a knife in this price range but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum handle is lightweight and relatively comfortable to hold. The black finish provides some grip, but it can become slippery when wet. The pocket clip is functional but feels somewhat flimsy.
The folding mechanism is smooth enough after some initial breaking-in, and it is easy to deploy with one hand. There is a definite learning curve to trusting its lockup, given the blade play.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials used, the Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 is not designed for heavy-duty use. The aluminum handle is prone to scratching, and the stainless steel blade is susceptible to chipping if abused. Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning and oiling are sufficient to keep it in working order.
I wouldn’t expect it to last for years with regular hard use, but with proper care and limited use, it could serve as a decent backup blade. It does not seem easy to repair if the locking mechanism fails.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 comes with no additional accessories beyond the pocket clip. Customization options are limited due to its basic design and construction. There are no readily available aftermarket scales or blade replacements.
The Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 isn’t designed for modifications. It is what it is: a simple, budget-friendly folding knife.
Pros and Cons of Mtech Folding Blade MT-317Pros
- Extremely Affordable: At $9.99, it’s hard to argue with the price point.
- Lightweight and Easy to Carry: The aluminum handle makes it very portable.
- Decent Initial Sharpness: The blade comes reasonably sharp out of the box.
- Functional Pocket Clip: Keeps the knife readily accessible.
- Simple Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Questionable Durability: The materials used are not designed for heavy use.
- Blade Play: The lockup isn’t very secure and exhibits blade play.
- Slippery When Wet: The aluminum handle becomes slippery when wet.
Who Should Buy Mtech Folding Blade MT-317?
Pros
- Extremely Affordable: At $9.99, it’s hard to argue with the price point.
- Lightweight and Easy to Carry: The aluminum handle makes it very portable.
- Decent Initial Sharpness: The blade comes reasonably sharp out of the box.
- Functional Pocket Clip: Keeps the knife readily accessible.
- Simple Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Questionable Durability: The materials used are not designed for heavy use.
- Blade Play: The lockup isn’t very secure and exhibits blade play.
- Slippery When Wet: The aluminum handle becomes slippery when wet.
The Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 is perfect for anyone needing a very cheap, readily available knife. Those on a tight budget or needing a disposable backup knife would benefit from this product. It’s also suitable for casual campers who need a knife for light tasks.
Those who need a reliable, durable knife for serious outdoor activities should skip this product. It is also not suitable for professional users or those who require a knife for self-defense. A must-have modification would be textured grip tape to improve handling when wet.
Conclusion on Mtech Folding Blade MT-317
The Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 is a basic, budget-friendly folding knife that offers reasonable performance for its price. Its limitations in durability and lockup security make it unsuitable for heavy-duty tasks. However, it can serve as a decent backup blade or a tool for light-duty tasks.
The price is justified for what it is: a very inexpensive knife. I would recommend it to anyone needing a cheap, disposable knife for casual use.
Ultimately, the Mtech Folding Blade MT-317 serves its purpose as an ultra-affordable tool. But remember, you get what you pay for. If you need a knife you can truly depend on, invest in something more robust.