Let’s Talk About TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife
The TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife is an affordable, everyday carry (EDC) option from TAC Force. It boasts a spring-assisted opening, a spear point blade, and additional features like a glass breaker and pocket clip, all for a surprisingly low price.
I needed a reliable backup knife for my hiking and camping trips, something lightweight and easy to deploy. I’ve been using high-end knives for years, but sometimes you need something you won’t worry about beating up or losing, making the TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife seem like a viable option.
Out of the box, the knife felt surprisingly solid for the price. The aluminum handle had a decent grip, and the spring-assisted opening was snappy, although not as smooth as some of my higher-end knives.
I considered the Kershaw Blur and the CRKT M16-01KZ, both popular EDC options, but they were significantly more expensive. The TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife seemed like a worthwhile experiment to see if a budget knife could still deliver acceptable performance.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The knife seemed well-built for its price point, and I was eager to put it through its paces in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for tasks like cutting rope, preparing kindling, and opening food packages.
The knife performed adequately in dry conditions, but the aluminum handle became slippery when wet. The spring-assisted opening was reliable, even with slightly muddy hands.
The blade required a little getting used to; it wasn’t as sharp out of the box as I would have liked. Initially, I had some minor difficulty controlling the blade during finer cutting tasks.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of sporadic use, the TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife has held up surprisingly well. There are some minor scratches on the blade and handle, but nothing that affects its functionality.
The blade has dulled slightly with use, requiring occasional sharpening. Cleaning is easy, and the knife requires minimal maintenance – just a quick wipe-down after each use.
Compared to my higher-end knives, the TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife doesn’t offer the same level of performance or refinement. However, for its intended purpose as a backup knife, it performs adequately and hasn’t disappointed me.
Breaking Down the Features of TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife
Specifications
The TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife features a 3.75-inch blade made of 3Cr13 steel. The overall length when open is 8.75 inches, and the handle is made of anodized aluminum with a length of 5 inches.
The knife includes a spear point blade shape, a black blade finish, and a red/black color scheme. Notable features include a spring-assisted opening mechanism, a glass breaker, a pocket clip, and a plain (non-serrated) blade edge.
The 3Cr13 steel is a budget-friendly stainless steel known for its corrosion resistance but not its edge retention, explaining the need for occasional sharpening. The spring-assisted opening allows for quick, one-handed deployment, a critical feature in tactical or emergency situations.
Performance & Functionality
The TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife performs reasonably well for its intended purpose. The spring-assisted opening is reliable and quick, and the spear point blade is versatile for various cutting tasks.
Its strengths lie in its affordability, ease of use, and portability. The weaknesses include the average edge retention of the 3Cr13 steel and the somewhat slippery aluminum handle.
The knife meets expectations as a budget-friendly backup option. It’s not a high-performance tool, but it’s reliable enough for basic cutting tasks.
Design & Ergonomics
The TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife features a lightweight design and a comfortable grip (when dry). The aluminum handle is durable and provides a secure hold, but the anodized finish can become slippery in wet conditions.
The knife is easy to use, and the spring-assisted opening requires minimal effort. There’s no significant learning curve, making it suitable for both experienced and novice users.
Durability & Maintenance
The TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife is reasonably durable for its price point. The 3Cr13 steel is corrosion-resistant, and the aluminum handle can withstand everyday wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward: clean the blade after each use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. Repairing it might not be worth the effort due to its low cost; replacement might be more practical.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife comes with a built-in pocket clip for easy carry. There are no specific accessories included in the box.
Customization options are limited due to the knife’s low price point. Aftermarket scales or specialized hardware are not readily available.
Pros and Cons of TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Reliable spring-assisted opening.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Durable aluminum handle.
- Useful glass breaker for emergency situations.
Cons
- Average edge retention with 3Cr13 steel.
- Aluminum handle can be slippery when wet.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife?
The TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife is perfect for campers, hikers, or anyone needing a reliable backup knife. It’s also a good option for those on a tight budget who need a functional EDC knife.
Those requiring a high-performance knife with superior edge retention or who prioritize a premium feel should skip this product. Law enforcement or military personnel may find it insufficient for demanding tactical situations.
A must-have modification would be applying grip tape to the handle for enhanced grip in wet conditions. A sharpening stone is also recommended for maintaining the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife
The TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife is a surprisingly capable budget knife. It offers a reliable spring-assisted opening, a durable construction, and useful features like a glass breaker, all at an affordable price.
The price is absolutely justified for what you get; it’s hard to find another knife with these features at this price point.
I would recommend it as a backup knife or for those who need a budget-friendly EDC option. If you’re looking for a reliable and inexpensive knife, the TAC Force TF-987 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife is worth considering; grab one and give it a try!