Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife

The Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife arrives with a pedigree. Gil Hibben, a name synonymous with striking designs and functional blades, promises a knife that is both aesthetically pleasing and capable. As an outdoorsman with over a decade of experience using knives in various tactical and survival situations, I was eager to see if this knife lived up to the hype.

My search for a dependable EDC knife led me to this product. I needed something that could handle daily tasks, from opening packages to preparing food, while also being robust enough for more demanding outdoor use. I was specifically looking for a knife with a durable blade steel and a secure locking mechanism.

The unboxing experience was straightforward. The knife felt solid in my hand, its weight suggesting a robust construction. The handle design appeared ergonomic, and the blade’s D2 steel hinted at excellent edge retention.

Comparing the Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife to other knives in its price range, like the Kershaw Blur or the Ontario Rat Model 1, I chose the Hurricane for its unique design and the promise of Gil Hibben’s quality. While the others are excellent knives, the Hurricane’s aggressive styling and D2 steel made it more appealing. My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with cautious optimism. I was eager to put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife was on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The conditions were relatively dry, but the temperature fluctuated significantly between day and night. I primarily used the knife for food preparation, cutting cordage, and light wood processing for kindling.

The Hurricane performed admirably. It sliced through vegetables and meats with ease, and the D2 steel held its edge well even after repeated use. The handle provided a secure and comfortable grip, even when my hands were slightly damp. I had no issues deploying the blade, thanks to the well-placed thumb pull.

There were no immediate issues, but I did notice the liner lock required a deliberate push to disengage. This wasn’t necessarily a problem, but it was something I needed to get used to.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of carrying and using the Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife in various scenarios, I have a better understanding of its capabilities and limitations. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes to cleaning fish on a recent angling trip. Its performance has been consistent, and it has held up remarkably well.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The blade remains sharp, and the handle is still securely attached. I did notice some minor scratches on the blade coating, but this is purely cosmetic. Cleaning is easy with some warm water and a brush, followed by a light oiling of the blade.

Compared to previous EDC knives I’ve owned, the Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife definitely holds its own. It is more durable than some of the cheaper knives I’ve used in the past, and it offers better edge retention than knives with softer steel.

Breaking Down the Features of Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife

Specifications

The Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife boasts the following specifications:

• Blade Length: 3.13 inches, making it a practical size for everyday carry and various tasks.
• Closed Length: 5 inches, offering a compact profile when folded.
• Steel: D2 steel, known for its excellent hardness and wear resistance. D2 steel’s toughness translates to lasting edge retention, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
• Locking Mechanism: Linerlock, a common and generally reliable locking system.
• Handle Material: Unspecified, but appears to be a durable composite material.
• Features: Pocket clip, extended tang, and thumb pull.

These specifications are important because they directly influence the knife’s performance and usability. The blade length and steel type determine its cutting ability and durability. The locking mechanism ensures safety and reliability during use.

Performance & Functionality

The Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife performs its job effectively. The D2 steel blade is sharp and holds an edge well, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. The liner lock provides a secure lockup, and the thumb pull allows for quick and easy blade deployment.

The knife’s strengths lie in its durability, edge retention, and comfortable grip. The weaknesses are the slightly stiff liner lock and the lack of information about the handle material. The knife meets expectations for a mid-range EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife is striking and aggressive. The blade shape is eye-catching, and the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The build quality is solid, and the knife feels well-balanced in hand.

The knife is relatively user-friendly, though the stiff liner lock might require some practice. The pocket clip is functional, and the extended tang adds to the overall aesthetics.

Durability & Maintenance

The Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife appears to be durable and long-lasting. The D2 steel blade is resistant to wear and corrosion, and the handle seems capable of withstanding significant abuse. Regular cleaning and oiling will help maintain the knife’s performance and prevent rust.

The knife’s simple design makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair. Replacement parts are likely to be readily available, though specific Gil Hibben parts might require some searching.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife comes with a pocket clip for easy carry. Customization options are limited, but you could potentially replace the pocket clip or add a lanyard.

The knife is likely compatible with aftermarket sharpening systems designed for D2 steel. The absence of readily available aftermarket scales limits extensive customization.

Pros and Cons of Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife?

The Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Everyday Carry (EDC) enthusiasts: Its size, weight, and durability make it an excellent choice for daily tasks.
• Outdoor adventurers: Its D2 steel blade can handle various cutting tasks in the field.
• Knife collectors: The unique design and Gil Hibben pedigree make it a worthwhile addition to any collection.

Who should skip this product? Someone looking for a highly customizable knife with readily available aftermarket parts might be disappointed. Also, those who prefer assisted-opening mechanisms or flippers might find the thumb pull less appealing.

A must-have accessory is a good quality knife sharpener designed for D2 steel. A small bottle of blade oil is also recommended for maintaining the blade’s condition.

Conclusion on Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife

The Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife is a solid EDC knife that offers a good balance of performance, durability, and aesthetics. Its D2 steel blade provides excellent edge retention, and the liner lock ensures safe and reliable use. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as the stiff liner lock and limited customization options, the overall value proposition is strong.

At $66.00, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and the Gil Hibben name. The knife provides excellent value for the money.

I would personally recommend the Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable and stylish EDC option. It’s a well-built knife that is sure to impress. If you’re in the market for a new everyday carry knife, give the Gil Hibben Hurricane Linerlock D2 Folding Knife a serious look. You won’t be disappointed!