Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife

The Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife is a budget-friendly option from Schrade that promises tactical functionality with a unique “see-through” frame lock design. After spending over a decade working with high-end knives, my initial reaction was cautiously optimistic about this knife. The AUS-10 stainless steel blade and black tungsten DLC coating are features usually found on knives at a much higher price point.

I was specifically looking for a lightweight EDC (Everyday Carry) knife that I wouldn’t be afraid to use and abuse, something that could handle basic cutting tasks without breaking the bank. The Schrade Inert CLR seemed to fit the bill perfectly, promising decent steel and a sturdy build at an affordable price.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its weight of only 2.9 ounces. The aluminum handle with its black matte finish offered a comfortable grip, and the blade deployed smoothly. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian or my Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Schrade Inert CLR feels less refined, but its robust construction inspired confidence. I chose it over a similarly priced Kershaw because of the AUS-10 steel and the unique frame lock. Initial impressions were positive; I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for the Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. The weather was typical for spring in the Ozarks: wet, and unpredictable. I primarily used the knife for tasks such as preparing kindling, cutting rope, and opening food packages.

The Schrade Inert CLR’s blade handled the tasks with relative ease, maintaining a decent edge even after repeated use. The textured handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were wet. One initial surprise was the size of the opening created by the “see-through” frame lock; it did indeed offer a larger opening, making one-handed closing easier, but felt less secure than a standard frame lock.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of consistent use, the Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable, albeit not exceptional, tool. There are some minor signs of wear and tear on the black tungsten DLC coating, particularly around the blade tip. The edge retention of the AUS-10 steel is adequate, requiring occasional honing to maintain sharpness.

Maintenance is straightforward; a quick rinse with water and a drop of oil on the pivot point keeps it functioning smoothly. Compared to some of my other knives, the Schrade Inert CLR requires more frequent sharpening, but given its price point, this is an acceptable trade-off. I would say it performs adequately, if not outstandingly, for daily carry tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife

Specifications

The Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife boasts the following technical specifications:

• Blade Length: 3.5 inches, providing a good balance between cutting ability and portability.
• Closed Length: 4.5 inches, making it compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.
• Overall Length: 8 inches, offering a substantial grip when the blade is deployed.
• Blade Material: AUS-10 Stainless Steel, known for its good balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point, a versatile shape suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.
• Handle Material: Aluminum, keeping the weight down while maintaining decent durability.
• Weight: 2.9 ounces, exceptionally lightweight for its size.
• Blade Finish: Titanium Nitride, offering enhanced wear resistance and a sleek look.
• Blade Thickness: 0.125 inches, providing adequate strength for most cutting tasks.
• Blade Grind: Hollow, aiding in slicing performance.
• Liner Locking System, ensuring the blade stays securely in place during use, albeit with a “see-through” design.

These specifications are important because they dictate the knife’s overall performance and suitability for different tasks. The AUS-10 steel is a significant upgrade over many budget knives that use lower-grade steel. The lightweight aluminum handle makes it comfortable to carry all day, and the drop point blade is a versatile choice for various applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife performs adequately for everyday carry tasks. Its sharpness out of the box was acceptable, slicing through cardboard and rope with relative ease. Edge retention is decent, but it requires more frequent sharpening than knives with premium steels.

The knife’s strengths lie in its lightweight design and comfortable grip. The “see-through” frame lock provides easy one-handed closing, but does create a small feeling of instability as opposed to a fully enclosed frame lock. One area that could be improved is the smoothness of the blade deployment, as it occasionally feels gritty. Overall, the Schrade Inert CLR meets expectations for a knife in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife features a sleek and modern design with its black matte aluminum handle and titanium nitride-coated blade. The build quality is decent, but there are some minor imperfections in the finish. The knife feels comfortable in hand thanks to the ergonomic handle design and textured surface.

The “see-through” frame lock is a unique design element that adds visual appeal and facilitates one-handed closing. There is a slight learning curve to using the frame lock, but it becomes intuitive with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife is reasonably durable for its price point. The AUS-10 steel blade can withstand moderate use without chipping or breaking. The aluminum handle is resistant to corrosion and scratches, but it is not as impact-resistant as steel or titanium.

Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning and lubrication are sufficient to keep the knife in good working order. The blade can be easily sharpened using a sharpening stone or honing rod.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip for convenient carry. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited due to the knife’s unique design.

Aftermarket scales or clips may not be readily available. However, the knife is compatible with universal lanyards, allowing users to personalize it to their liking.

Pros and Cons of Schrade Inert CLR Folding Knife