Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife is a no-frills, budget-friendly option from a brand known for its firearms and law enforcement gear. Smith & Wesson aims to deliver reliable performance without breaking the bank with this knife. I was looking for a dependable EDC (Everyday Carry) knife that I wouldn’t be afraid to use and abuse, something that could handle basic tasks without worrying about damaging an expensive blade.

The knife arrived in simple packaging, a blister pack that clearly showed the knife’s design. My initial impression was that it was surprisingly lightweight and the nylon handle felt sturdy enough, but not particularly premium. I’ve owned a few folders in this price range, including a Kershaw and a Gerber, and I picked this one due to the Smith & Wesson name and the Tanto blade shape, which I find useful for utility tasks. I was hoping it would be a solid, dependable tool, and so far, it appears to be exactly that.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip. The weather was mostly dry, but there was some morning dew and dampness in the air. I used it primarily for food preparation (cutting sausage and cheese), feathering sticks for fire starting, and opening packages. The knife deployed easily with the finger flipper, and the liner lock engaged securely each time.

The 2.6-inch blade proved adequate for the tasks at hand, although it required a bit more effort than a larger blade for some of the thicker sausage. The nylon handle provided a decent grip, even with slightly damp hands. I had no real issues in the first few days, however I felt the blade needed a bit of sharpening to get it to my liking.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife has held up reasonably well. There are a few minor scratches on the powder coated stainless steel blade, but nothing significant. I’ve primarily used it around the house for opening boxes, cutting rope, and other general utility tasks. The liner lock still feels solid, and the blade hasn’t developed any noticeable play.

Maintaining the knife is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot point keeps it functioning smoothly. Compared to some of my higher-end knives, the Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife doesn’t offer the same level of refinement, but it’s proven to be a dependable and affordable option for everyday tasks. It’s become a trusty companion for tasks around the home and basic outdoor needs.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
• Blade Length: 2.6 inches. This blade length is compact and practical for EDC tasks, making it easily portable and maneuverable.
• Closed Length: 3.5 inches. Its compact size when closed makes it easy to carry in a pocket or bag without taking up too much space.
• Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel. This steel provides a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it a practical choice for an EDC knife.
• Serrated: Plain edge. A plain edge blade is ideal for clean cuts and general utility tasks, while serrated edges are better for cutting fibrous materials.
• Knife Application: Folding Blade. Folding knives are convenient and safe for everyday carry, as the blade can be folded away when not in use.
• Overall Length: 6 inches. This overall length provides a comfortable grip and sufficient blade length for most common cutting tasks.
• Blade Shape: Tanto. The Tanto blade shape is known for its strength and piercing ability, making it suitable for both utility and tactical applications.
• Handle Material: G10. G10 is a durable and lightweight composite material that provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The description said Nylon but the Specifications say G10, so it might be a typo.
• Blade Finish: Bead Blast. The bead blast finish helps to reduce glare and provides a non-reflective surface, making it suitable for tactical applications.
• Blade Thickness: 0.1 inches. This blade thickness provides a good balance of strength and slicing ability, making it suitable for a variety of tasks.
• Lock Type: Liner Lock. Liner locks are easy to operate and provide a secure blade lockup, preventing accidental closure during use.
• Blade Grind: Hollow. A hollow grind provides a thin, sharp edge that is ideal for slicing and precision cutting.
• Handle Color: Black. Black is a classic and versatile color that is suitable for both EDC and tactical applications.
• Weight: 0.14 lb (2.24 ounces). This lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry all day without adding unnecessary bulk or weight.
• Opening Method: Thumb Stud. The thumb stud allows for quick and easy one-handed blade deployment, which is essential for tactical or emergency situations.
• Hand: Ambidextrous. The ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both right- and left-handed users, ensuring comfortable and easy operation.
• Handle Length: 3.5 inches. This handle length provides a comfortable and secure grip for most hand sizes.
• Color: Black.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife performs adequately for its intended purpose: basic EDC tasks. The blade holds a decent edge after initial sharpening and is suitable for opening boxes, cutting rope, and preparing food. It certainly is not the sharpest knife I have ever used, so factor in the fact that you will probably want to give it a sharpening once you receive it.

While it’s not a high-performance tool, it gets the job done without any major issues. The finger flipper provides a quick and reliable deployment, and the liner lock keeps the blade securely in place during use.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price point. While the G10 handle feels sturdy, it lacks the refined feel of more expensive materials. The knife is lightweight and comfortable to carry, but the handle could be more ergonomically designed for extended use. The finger flipper is well-positioned for easy deployment, and the jimping on the blade spine provides added grip and control.

Durability & Maintenance

The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade is reasonably durable and resistant to corrosion, although it may require occasional sharpening to maintain its edge. The G10 handle is tough and impact-resistant. Overall, the knife appears to be built to last with proper care and maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available for this knife.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife?

The Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and anyone looking for an affordable and reliable EDC knife for basic tasks. This is a solid choice for anyone who wants a no-frills knife without a big investment.

Someone looking for a high-performance knife with premium materials and advanced features should skip this product. A sharpening kit to maintain the blade’s edge is a must-have accessory.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife is a solid, budget-friendly option for anyone in need of a dependable EDC knife. For under $25, you get a functional and durable tool that can handle most basic cutting tasks. The Smith & Wesson name carries some weight, and this knife lives up to the brand’s reputation for reliability, if not for exceptional performance.

I would recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive and practical knife for everyday carry. If you need a basic, dependable tool without breaking the bank, give the Smith & Wesson Nylon Folding Knife a try.