Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife

The Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife is a budget-friendly, versatile folding knife from Camillus. It boasts a replaceable blade system, offering both standard and serrated edges, making it ideal for a variety of tasks. What immediately grabbed my attention was the promise of always having a sharp blade without the hassle of sharpening.

I was looking for a reliable EDC (Everyday Carry) knife that could handle basic cutting tasks without breaking the bank. My current EDC knife requires constant sharpening, and I wanted a solution that minimized maintenance. The TigerSharp Linerlock seemed like a perfect fit, offering a practical and cost-effective alternative to traditional sharpening.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon) handle felt durable, and the rubber insert provided a secure grip. The blade, while not a premium steel, appeared adequately sharp.

I considered the Kershaw Blur and the CRKT Squid before settling on the Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife. The Kershaw was more expensive, and the CRKT lacked the replaceable blade feature that I found so appealing. Ultimately, the TigerSharp’s unique design and affordability won me over.

My initial impression was positive. I was intrigued by the replaceable blade system and eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios. The knife felt comfortable in hand, and the liner lock engaged securely.


Real-World Testing: Putting Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The primary tasks involved food preparation, cutting rope, and general camp chores. The knife performed admirably, slicing through vegetables and paracord with ease.

The weather was damp, with occasional rain showers. The rubber handle insert provided excellent grip even when wet, preventing slippage. Opening and closing the knife was simple, even with slightly muddy hands.

The TigerSharp was easy to use right out of the box. The thumb stud provided quick and easy one-handed opening, and the liner lock disengaged smoothly. I didn’t experience any issues with blade deployment or lockup.

My only slight disappointment was the blade’s edge retention. While initially sharp, it seemed to dull relatively quickly after repeated use on tougher materials like hardwood kindling. However, this was easily addressed with the replaceable blade system.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily carry and use, the Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. The FRN handle shows no signs of cracking or chipping, and the liner lock remains secure. The pocket clip is still tight and functional.

Minor scratches are visible on the satin finish of the blade, but this is to be expected with regular use. The replaceable blade system has proven to be a game-changer, allowing me to maintain a consistently sharp edge without the need for sharpening. Cleaning is also straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous EDC knife (a Spyderco Delica), the TigerSharp doesn’t quite match the Spyderco’s edge retention or overall build quality. However, for its price point, the Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife offers excellent value and convenience, especially with its replaceable blade system.

Breaking Down the Features of Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife

Specifications

The Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife boasts the following specifications:

  • Blade Length: 3 inches. This is a practical length for everyday tasks and allows for easy carry.
  • Closed Length: 4.13 inches. The compact size makes it comfortable to carry in a pocket.
  • Blade Material: Stainless Steel. Offers good corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening (although, you can just replace it!).
  • Handle Material: Black FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon) with Brown Rubber Insert. Provides a durable and comfortable grip.
  • Lock Type: Liner Lock. A simple and reliable locking mechanism.
  • Opening Mechanism: Thumb Stud. Allows for quick and easy one-handed opening.
  • Pocket Clip: Yes. Provides convenient carry.
  • Lanyard Hole: Yes. Offers additional carry options.
  • Special Features: TigerSharp Replaceable Blade System (includes one standard edge blade and one serrated blade). This is the key feature that sets this knife apart.

These specifications are crucial for understanding the knife’s performance and suitability for various tasks. The stainless steel blade provides adequate sharpness for most EDC tasks. The FRN handle is lightweight and durable.

Performance & Functionality

The Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife performs its job effectively as an EDC knife. The blade is sharp enough for most cutting tasks. The replaceable blade system ensures that you always have a sharp edge readily available.

Its strengths lie in its affordability, replaceable blade system, and comfortable grip. The main weakness is the steel used for the blade, which doesn’t hold an edge as well as premium steels. The knife meets my expectations for a budget-friendly EDC option, particularly due to the convenience of the replaceable blades.

Design & Ergonomics

The Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife features a simple and functional design. The FRN handle is lightweight and ergonomic, providing a comfortable grip. The rubber insert enhances grip security, even in wet conditions.

The knife is generally user-friendly, with a straightforward liner lock and easy blade replacement. There is minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The FRN handle and stainless steel blade are reasonably durable for the price point. With proper care, the knife should last for several years. The replaceable blade system minimizes the need for maintenance.

Replacing the blade is simple and requires no special tools. Cleaning is also straightforward, usually just needing a wipe-down.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife comes with two blades: one standard edge and one serrated edge. There are no other included accessories. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories or customization options for this knife, as it’s designed as a budget-friendly, functional tool. The focus is on its replaceable blade system, rather than extensive customization.

Pros and Cons of Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife

Pros

  • Affordable Price: This is a great option for those on a budget.
  • TigerSharp Replaceable Blade System: Ensures a consistently sharp edge without sharpening.
  • Comfortable FRN Handle: Provides a secure and comfortable grip.
  • Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry in a pocket.
  • Two Blade Options: Includes both standard and serrated blades.

Cons

  • Blade Steel: Not a premium steel; edge retention could be better.
  • Limited Customization: Few aftermarket options are available.


Who Should Buy Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife?

The Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife is perfect for:

  • Casual campers and hikers looking for a reliable and affordable knife.
  • Everyday users who need a basic cutting tool and appreciate the convenience of replaceable blades.
  • Budget-conscious individuals who want a functional EDC knife without breaking the bank.

Who should skip this product?

  • Experienced knife users who prioritize premium blade steel and superior edge retention.
  • Those seeking a highly customizable knife with extensive aftermarket options.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Extra replacement blades are essential to maximize the benefits of the TigerSharp system.

Conclusion on Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife

The Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife is a solid, budget-friendly option for anyone seeking a practical and low-maintenance EDC knife. The replaceable blade system is a game-changer, ensuring a consistently sharp edge without the need for traditional sharpening. While the blade steel isn’t top-of-the-line, the convenience and affordability of the TigerSharp make it a worthwhile purchase.

The price is definitely justified, given the knife’s features and functionality. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife, especially those who value convenience and ease of maintenance.

If you’re tired of sharpening your knives and want a hassle-free solution, give the Camillus Knives TigerSharp Linerlock Folding Knife a try. You might be surprised at how much you appreciate its simplicity and practicality.

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