Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife

The Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife arrives, not with fanfare, but with a quiet confidence that speaks volumes about Schrade’s commitment to functional design. This cleaver-style folding knife boasts an AUS-10 steel blade, two-tone G10 handles, and Schrade’s UltraGlide bearing technology, promising a blend of aesthetics and practicality that has me intrigued from the moment I lay eyes on it. I was looking for a dependable everyday carry (EDC) knife that wouldn’t weigh me down, yet could handle demanding cutting tasks.

The unboxing experience was straightforward. The knife felt solid in hand, the G10 scales providing a secure grip and the cleaver blade shape hinting at robust cutting capabilities. I’ve owned and tested countless folding knives over the years, from budget options to high-end custom pieces, and this one immediately stood out with its unique blade geometry and surprisingly light weight given its size.

Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, which is a benchmark for EDC knives, the Schrade Lateral has a distinctly more aggressive look. It also feels slimmer in the pocket than my Spyderco Paramilitary 2. I chose the Schrade Lateral because I wanted to try a cleaver-style blade in a folding knife format, intrigued by its potential for food prep and heavier cutting tasks.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The knife has a unique look and feel, and the specifications suggest it should perform well. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it could live up to my expectations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, feathering sticks for fire starting, and cutting cordage. The knife handled these tasks with surprising ease, the cleaver blade making short work of chopping vegetables and slicing through thick rope.

The conditions were dry and mild during the day, but the nights were cool and damp. The G10 handles provided a secure grip even with slightly wet hands. The knife opened smoothly and locked up tight, inspiring confidence in its reliability. I was surprised by how comfortable the knife was to use for extended periods.

There were no immediate issues after the first use. The blade held its edge well, and the lock mechanism remained solid. The UltraGlide bearing system performed flawlessly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Schrade Lateral has proven to be a reliable and capable EDC knife. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to breaking down cardboard boxes to preparing meals. The AUS-10 steel has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a ceramic honing rod.

The G10 handles show no signs of wear, and the frame lock remains secure. The blade has developed a few minor scratches, which is to be expected with any knife that sees regular use. The knife is relatively easy to clean with soap and water, and a light coat of oil keeps the blade rust-free. It outperforms many other knives in its price range in terms of edge retention and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife

Specifications

The Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife boasts the following specifications: a 3.25-inch blade length, a 4.25-inch closed length, and a 7.5-inch overall length. It is constructed with AUS-10 stainless steel, renowned for its excellent balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance. The handle material is G-10, a durable and lightweight composite known for its superior grip even in wet conditions.

The knife features a frame lock mechanism for secure blade lockup and Schrade’s UltraGlide bearing technology for smooth and effortless opening. It weighs in at a surprising 4 ounces, making it comfortable to carry all day. These specifications contribute to the knife’s overall performance by providing a balance of strength, durability, and portability.

Performance & Functionality

The Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife excels at a variety of cutting tasks. The cleaver-style blade is particularly well-suited for chopping and slicing. It easily handles food preparation, cordage cutting, and light bushcrafting tasks.

The knife’s strengths lie in its blade geometry, comfortable handle, and smooth action. Its weakness is that the tip may not be suitable for piercing tasks. It meets and even exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife features a two-tone G10 handle that provides a secure and comfortable grip. The blade is a cleaver-style design with a stonewashed finish. The knife feels well-balanced in hand and the frame lock is easy to operate.

There is minimal learning curve. The smooth action and ergonomic handle make it a pleasure to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The AUS-10 steel blade and G10 handle are both highly durable. With proper care, the Schrade Lateral should last for many years. It requires minimal maintenance, with occasional cleaning and oiling being sufficient to keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife does not come with any specific accessories. There are no direct customization options from Schrade. However, the standard construction means it may be compatible with aftermarket pocket clips designed for similar frame lock knives.

Pros and Cons of Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife?

The Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife with a unique blade design. It is well-suited for:

• Outdoor enthusiasts
• Campers
• Hikers
• Everyday carry users
• Those looking for a unique and capable cutting tool

Those who primarily need a knife for fine detail work or piercing tasks may want to consider a different blade shape. A must-have modification would be a deep-carry pocket clip if you prefer discreet carry.

Conclusion on Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife

The Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife is a well-designed and capable EDC knife that offers excellent value for the money. The combination of AUS-10 steel, G10 handles, and UltraGlide bearing technology make it a pleasure to use. The price is definitely justified, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

I would personally recommend the Schrade Lateral Aus-10 Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile cutting tool. Its unique cleaver blade design sets it apart from the competition, and its overall performance is impressive. Go ahead, experience the Schrade Lateral for yourself and discover a new favorite EDC knife.