Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife

The Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife is an intriguing offering from Bear Edge, promising a blend of tactical utility and everyday carry convenience. This knife boasts an assisted opening mechanism, a lockback design, and a glass breaker, all packed into a relatively lightweight package. It appears designed for those seeking a reliable and versatile tool without breaking the bank.

I’ve been searching for a durable, assisted-opening knife that can handle a variety of tasks, from opening packages to acting as a backup tool in emergency situations. I wanted something with a sturdy lock, a comfortable grip, and a feature set that would justify carrying it daily. The Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife seemed to tick all those boxes on paper.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The aluminum handle has a reassuring weight, and the black powder coating on the blade gives it a sleek, tactical appearance. Initial impressions suggest decent build quality, but a closer inspection reveals some minor imperfections in the finish.

Compared to my Kershaw Blur (known for its speed and slim profile) and my CRKT M16-14SFG (a larger, more robust tactical folder), the Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife falls somewhere in between. The Kershaw is faster and more refined, while the CRKT feels tougher and more capable of heavy-duty tasks. I chose the Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife because I needed something that was not too expensive but still reliable for my outdoor adventures.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The assisted opening was snappy, the lockup felt secure, and the glass breaker seemed like a potentially valuable addition. However, I was eager to put it through its paces in the real world to see if it could live up to its promises.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The knife performed adequately in dry conditions.

The blade held its edge reasonably well during initial use, but it struggled a bit when slicing through thicker branches. The assisted opening mechanism worked reliably, even with slightly damp hands. However, the jimping on the blade and handle felt a bit too aggressive, causing some discomfort during extended use.

I was surprised by how easily the black powder coating on the blade scratched. After just a few hours of light use, several noticeable scratches appeared, detracting from the knife’s appearance. While purely cosmetic, it raised concerns about the long-term durability of the finish.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife has held up reasonably well. The lockback mechanism continues to function reliably, and the assisted opening remains snappy. However, the blade sharpness has degraded noticeably, requiring frequent sharpening.

The aluminum handle has proven to be durable, showing no signs of bending or cracking. The pocket clip, however, has loosened slightly, requiring periodic tightening. The blade finish, as expected, has continued to accumulate scratches, giving the knife a well-worn appearance.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward; a simple cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the blade pivot is sufficient. Sharpening the blade requires a bit more effort due to the 440 Stainless Steel, which is known for its moderate hardness. Compared to my SOG Seal Pup Elite, the Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife does not quite live up to the hype.

Breaking Down the Features of Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Bear Edge. This name is synonymous with affordability in the knife world.
• Blade Material: 440 Stainless Steel with a Black Powder Coating Finish. This material is known for its corrosion resistance but lacks the edge retention of premium steels.
• Knife Application: Folding Blade. This makes it highly portable and suitable for everyday carry.
• Handle Material: Aluminum. This keeps the knife lightweight yet provides a decent level of durability.
• Opening Method: Assist. Provides rapid deployment of the blade with minimal effort.
• Blade Type: Folding. This compact design is easy to carry and deploy as needed.
• The knife is built as a 4-7/8in Assisted Sideliner. This frame size sits nicely in most hands.
• The blade features a Hollow Ground. This design contributes to the slicing ability of the blade.
• The blade is engraved with the Bear Edge Logo. This branding is subtle and does not detract from the appearance.
• Features a Blade Trigger for fast action opening. This provides an additional method for deploying the blade.
• The Pattern features a Sideliner Lock that ensures the blade will remain firmly in place once opened. This provides a safe and secure locking mechanism.
• The handle is engraved with a Bear Edge Reversible Pocket/Boot Clip for Tip-Up Carry. This design feature is versatile and can be adjusted for left- or right-hand carry.
• The back of the blade features a Glass Breaker for use in emergency situations. This is a potentially life-saving addition.
• A lanyard hole is present for secure fastening and storage. This enhances portability and allows for easy attachment to gear.
• The knife weighs 3.9 ounces. This lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry all day.

These specifications position the Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife as a budget-friendly option for general utility and emergency preparedness. The 440 Stainless Steel blade offers decent corrosion resistance, while the assisted opening and glass breaker enhance its practicality. However, the lower-end steel and aluminum handle might not stand up to the rigors of heavy-duty use.

Performance & Functionality

The Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife performs its intended function adequately. The assisted opening is reliable, and the lockback mechanism provides a secure blade lockup. However, the blade steel is not the sharpest, requiring frequent sharpening to maintain a usable edge.

The knife’s strengths lie in its portability and ease of deployment. The assisted opening makes it quick to access the blade with one hand, while the lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry. Its weaknesses include the moderate blade steel and the somewhat aggressive jimping on the handle. The Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife mostly meets expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife is decent for its price point. The aluminum handle feels solid and provides a comfortable grip, although the jimping could be less aggressive. The weight is well-balanced, and the overall design is aesthetically pleasing.

The knife is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal time to get used to the assisted opening mechanism and lockback design. However, the liner lock can be a bit stiff at times, requiring some practice to disengage smoothly. The handle provides a good fit, but the jimping can cause discomfort over a period of time.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife is expected to last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. The aluminum handle and 440 Stainless Steel blade are reasonably durable. However, the black powder coating on the blade is prone to scratching, and the blade steel will require regular sharpening.

Maintenance is relatively simple, involving cleaning and oiling the blade pivot. Sharpening the blade will require some effort due to the properties of 440 Stainless Steel. Overall it is reasonably easy to maintain and repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife comes with a reversible pocket clip for tip-up carry. There are limited customization options available for this knife.

Due to its budget-friendly nature, there is not a large aftermarket of accessories specifically designed for the Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife. However, the lanyard hole allows for the addition of a paracord lanyard for enhanced grip and retrieval.

Pros and Cons of Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife?

The Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and everyday carry users seeking an affordable and reliable assisted-opening knife. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize affordability and functionality over premium materials and craftsmanship. The glass breaker also makes it a potentially valuable tool for first responders or anyone concerned about emergency situations.

Those who should skip this product include experienced knife users who demand high-end materials, superior edge retention, and exceptional durability. Those needing a knife that will take a consistent beating. Survivalists who depend on their tools for everything.

A must-have accessory would be a quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. Modifying the knife with a smoother handle or replacing the blade with a higher-quality steel might be considered by some users.

Conclusion on Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife

The Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife is a decent budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable assisted-opening knife. It offers a good balance of functionality, portability, and affordability, making it suitable for everyday carry and light outdoor use. However, the lower-end blade steel and aggressive jimping are drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.

The price is justified for what you get – a functional tool with some useful features. However, don’t expect the performance or durability of a more expensive knife.

I would recommend the Bear Edge Assisted Opener Lockback Folding Knife to those on a tight budget who need a basic assisted-opening knife for general utility purposes. If you are just getting started or only require a knife for short trips, then this knife is just right. Check it out and decide if it meets your needs!