Let’s Talk About Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack
The Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack represents an accessible entry point into the world of everyday carry knives. Schrade, a brand with a long history, offers this set as a budget-friendly option for those needing basic cutting tools. This combo pack includes three lockback folding knives, each with a different handle color, providing a touch of variety while maintaining consistent functionality.
I was searching for a set of inexpensive, reliable knives to keep in my various go-bags and vehicles. I needed something that wouldn’t break the bank, but could still handle basic cutting tasks in a pinch. The Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack seemed like a good fit.
Upon unboxing, the knives felt surprisingly solid for their price point. The plastic handles, while not premium, felt sturdy enough. The lockback mechanism engaged with a reassuring click, and the blades had a decent edge right out of the package.
Compared to, say, a single, higher-end Benchmade or Spyderco knife at a similar price point, the Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack sacrifices premium materials for quantity and affordability. A single, quality folder might offer superior steel and ergonomics, but this combo provides three separate tools for different locations or purposes. I opted for the Imperial Schrade set because I prioritized having multiple, readily available knives over having one exceptionally high-end one.
My first impression was a pleasant surprise. I wasn’t expecting these knives to feel as substantial as they did for the price. They seemed perfectly suited for light to medium duty tasks where I wouldn’t want to risk damaging a more expensive blade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested these knives during a weekend camping trip. I used them for tasks like cutting rope, opening food packages, and preparing kindling. The knives performed adequately in these basic applications.
The handles offered a decent grip, even when wet from a light rain. The lockback mechanism held the blades securely in place. I did notice some slight blade play in one of the knives, but it didn’t significantly impact its functionality.
The blades required minimal sharpening after the first day of use. None of the knives failed, but they also didn’t particularly impress. They were simply serviceable tools for basic camp chores.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional use, the knives in the Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack have held up reasonably well. The blades have retained their edge adequately, requiring occasional honing. The handles show minimal signs of wear.
There are a few minor scratches on the blades from general use, but no significant damage. The lockback mechanisms still function reliably. Cleaning the knives after use is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to my experience with higher-end knives, these Schrade knives are definitely not as durable or refined. However, for the price, they’ve exceeded my initial expectations. They’ve proven to be reliable, inexpensive tools for everyday tasks.
Breaking Down the Features of Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack
Specifications
The Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack features three identical folding knives. Each knife has a 3.13″ closed length, making them compact and easy to carry. The 2.25″ satin finish stainless clip point blade offers a versatile shape suitable for various cutting tasks.
The smooth plastic handle provides a comfortable grip. A thumb pull allows for easy one-handed opening. A lanyard hole offers an additional carry option. The knives also feature a pocket clip for convenient carry in a pocket or on a belt.
The knives utilize a lockback mechanism for secure blade lockup during use. The handle colors are black, camo, and orange for easy differentiation. The set comes in a clam packed packaging for convenient storage and display. These specifications are important because they dictate the knife’s size, weight, cutting ability, and overall carry comfort.
Performance & Functionality
The Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. The blades are sharp enough to easily cut rope, cardboard, and other common materials. The lockback mechanism provides a secure lockup, preventing accidental blade closure during use.
The knives’ main strength lies in their affordability and versatility. Their weakness is that the steel is not of a high hardness, therefore will not hold an edge for very long with constant use. They meet expectations as inexpensive, reliable utility knives.
Design & Ergonomics
The Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack features a simple, functional design. The plastic handles are lightweight and comfortable to hold, though they lack the premium feel of more expensive materials. The thumb pull is easy to access and operate.
The pocket clip allows for convenient carry, and the lanyard hole provides an additional option. There is very little to no learning curve associated with this product.
Durability & Maintenance
The Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack is built to last for a reasonable amount of time, assuming it is not abused. The stainless steel blades are relatively resistant to corrosion. Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack comes with the three knives themselves. There are no additional accessories included. Customization options are limited, due to the knife’s simple design and construction.
The Schrade knives are not designed for significant customization.
Pros and Cons of Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Three knives offer versatility and redundancy.
- Lockback mechanism provides secure blade lockup.
- Pocket clip and lanyard hole offer multiple carry options.
- Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry every day.
Cons
- The plastic handles lack the premium feel of more expensive materials.
- The stainless steel blade may not hold an edge as well as higher-end steels.
Who Should Buy Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack?
The Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack is perfect for budget-conscious individuals who need a set of reliable utility knives for everyday tasks. It’s also a good option for those who want to keep a knife in their car, toolbox, or emergency kit.
Those seeking a high-end knife with premium materials and superior performance should skip this product. A must-have modification would be a quality knife sharpener, as these blades will require frequent honing to maintain a decent edge.
Conclusion on Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack
The Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack provides excellent value for the money. For under $20, you get three functional folding knives that are suitable for a variety of basic tasks. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable set of utility knives. If you need a few dependable blades without breaking the bank, grab an Imperial Schrade Imperial 3 Pc. Combo Pack. They’re a practical addition to any tool kit or emergency stash.