First Impressions of B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife
The B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife immediately catches the eye with its stonewash finish D2 tool steel blade and vibrant blue G10 handle. This knife promises a blend of durability, functionality, and aesthetics, making it a potential everyday carry (EDC) essential. The manufacturer, B’yondEDC, aims to deliver a reliable cutting tool suitable for a variety of tasks.
I was searching for a new EDC knife that could handle daily tasks while also being robust enough for occasional outdoor adventures. My old knife, a cheaper stainless steel model, was constantly losing its edge and felt flimsy in hand. I needed something with better steel and a more secure grip.
Upon unboxing the B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife, I was impressed by its solid feel and the smooth action of the blade. The stonewash finish on the D2 steel gives it a rugged, yet refined appearance, and the blue G10 handle offers a comfortable and secure grip. The weight feels balanced, and the extended tang adds a sense of security.
Compared to my previous EDC knife (a generic Smith & Wesson folding knife) and a slightly more expensive Kershaw model, the B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife felt like a significant upgrade. I chose this knife over the others because of the D2 steel, known for its edge retention, and the appealing blue handle, adding a touch of personal style. The Kershaw, while also using decent steel, felt too lightweight for my liking, and the Smith & Wesson simply didn’t inspire confidence.
My first impression of the B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife was definitely excitement. It felt like a substantial upgrade, promising better performance and durability than my previous knives. The aesthetics are also pleasing; it’s a knife I’d be proud to carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks such as preparing kindling, cutting rope, and food preparation. The knife performed admirably in all scenarios.
The weather was dry, but the early morning dew provided a slightly damp environment. The G10 handle offered a secure grip even when slightly wet, and the blade maintained its edge well when slicing through wood and rope. The knife was easy to deploy with one hand thanks to the extended tang.
The B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife was easy to use right out of the box. The smooth action of the blade and the comfortable grip made it intuitive to handle. I experienced no issues or surprises during my first use; the knife performed exactly as I had hoped.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to processing small game while hunting.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly some minor scratches on the stonewash finish. The edge retention of the D2 steel is impressive; I’ve only had to sharpen it once in the past few months. Cleaning and maintaining the knife is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the pivot point is all it takes.
Compared to my previous EDC knives, the B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife significantly outperforms them in terms of edge retention, durability, and overall reliability. It has exceeded my expectations and has become my go-to everyday carry knife.
Breaking Down the Features of B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.75 inches. This provides a good balance between utility and portability for everyday tasks.
- Closed Length: 4.75 inches. This compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket without being overly bulky.
- Blade Material: D2 Tool Steel with a stonewash finish. D2 steel is known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance, making it a great choice for a hard-use knife.
- Handle Material: G10, in a vibrant blue color. G10 is a durable and lightweight composite material that provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Weight: 0.32 lb (approximately 5.12 ounces). The weight is substantial enough to feel solid in hand, but not too heavy to be uncomfortable for everyday carry.
- Additional Features: Extended Tang, Lanyard Hole, and Pocket Clip. The extended tang aids in easy one-handed opening, the lanyard hole adds versatility for carrying options, and the pocket clip allows for secure and convenient carry.
These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall performance and user experience. The blade length is ideal for a variety of tasks, the D2 steel provides long-lasting sharpness, and the G10 handle ensures a comfortable and secure grip. The additional features enhance the knife’s usability and carry options.
Performance & Functionality
The B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife performs its job exceptionally well. It’s a reliable and versatile cutting tool suitable for a wide range of tasks.
Its strengths include excellent edge retention, a comfortable and secure grip, and smooth one-handed opening. A potential area for improvement could be the addition of jimping on the spine of the blade for enhanced control during finer cutting tasks. The knife meets and slightly exceeds expectations, delivering consistent performance and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife is excellent. The materials used are high-quality, and the knife feels solid and well-constructed. The weight is balanced, and the handle is comfortable in hand, even during extended use.
The design is user-friendly, and there is no significant learning curve. The knife opens smoothly and locks securely, providing a safe and reliable cutting tool.
Durability & Maintenance
The B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife is built to last. The D2 steel blade is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, and the G10 handle is virtually indestructible.
The knife is easy to maintain and repair. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the pivot point will keep it in top condition for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip. There are no included accessories beyond this.
Customization options are somewhat limited, but the pocket clip can be repositioned for left- or right-handed carry. The lanyard hole also allows for the addition of a custom lanyard or bead. While aftermarket scales may exist, the G10 is generally durable and aesthetically pleasing enough that most users will not need to change them.
Pros and Cons of B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife
Pros
- Excellent Edge Retention: The D2 tool steel blade holds its edge for a long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Durable Construction: The G10 handle and stonewash finish on the blade make this knife incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Grip: The G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Easy One-Handed Opening: The extended tang allows for quick and easy one-handed deployment of the blade.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The blue G10 handle and stonewash finish give the knife a stylish and attractive look.
Cons
- D2 Steel Can Rust: While D2 is great for edge retention, it is not stainless and may rust if not properly maintained.
- No Jimping: Lacking jimping on the spine may make fine cutting tasks more difficult for some users.
Who Should Buy B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife?
The B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable cutting tool. It’s an excellent choice for campers, hikers, and hunters who require a knife that can handle a variety of tasks.
Those who prioritize corrosion resistance above all else may want to skip this product and opt for a knife with a fully stainless steel blade. Someone who needs extreme grip and control for delicate tasks may be turned off by the lack of jimping.
A must-have accessory is a quality knife sharpening kit to maintain the edge of the D2 steel blade. Regular cleaning and oiling are also recommended to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Conclusion on B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife
The B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife is an excellent value for the money. It offers a combination of durability, performance, and aesthetics that is hard to beat at its price point.
The price of $43.99 is justified by the quality of the materials and the overall performance of the knife. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for a reliable EDC option.
I would definitely recommend the B’yondEDC Blue Arch Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable and versatile folding knife. Its blend of quality, functionality, and style makes it a standout choice. Get yours today and experience the difference!