CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife

The CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife immediately struck me as a capable and stylish EDC option at a very accessible price point. CMB Made Knives isn’t a household name, but the D2 steel blade, jade G10 handle, and included pocket clip suggested a well-thought-out design targeted towards everyday utility. This knife promised to be more than just a pretty face; it seemed ready for some serious work.

I’ve been searching for a reliable, budget-friendly folder to replace my aging EDC knife that had seen better days. The old knife’s lock was failing, and the steel wouldn’t hold an edge, making it unsafe and unreliable. I needed something dependable without breaking the bank.

Upon unboxing, the Jade Hippo felt solid in hand, the stonewash finish on the blade giving it a rugged, pre-worn aesthetic. The G10 handle offered a good grip, and the overall weight felt substantial without being overly heavy. The zippered storage case was a nice touch, adding a layer of protection for transport.

Compared to similar knives in the $50-$75 range, such as the Ontario RAT Model 1 or the Kershaw Leek, the Jade Hippo offered a unique combination of steel quality and aesthetics. While the RAT Model 1 is known for its robust build, the Jade Hippo’s D2 steel provided a potential edge in edge retention. I chose the CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife because it seemed to offer the best balance of quality materials, practical features, and unique style for the price.

My first impression was positive and slightly surprised. I wasn’t expecting such a well-made knife at this price point. The CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife exceeded my expectations, making me excited to put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for food preparation, cutting rope, and feathering wood for fire starting. The blade’s edge held up remarkably well when processing firewood and preparing meals.

The humid conditions didn’t seem to affect the grip of the G10 handle, even when my hands were wet. The thumb pull was easy to access and use, even with gloves on. I encountered no issues with the locking mechanism during that first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The stonewash finish on the blade effectively hides scratches and wear marks. The D2 steel has held its edge well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness.

I’ve noticed minimal wear on the G10 handle, despite constant pocket carry and occasional rough use. Cleaning the knife is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. This is an improvement compared to my previous knife, which required constant oiling to prevent rust.

Compared to my experiences with other budget-friendly knives, the Jade Hippo outperforms them in edge retention and overall build quality. It has become a trusted companion for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures.

Breaking Down the Features of CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife

Specifications

• The CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife features a 3-inch blade made of D2 tool steel with a stonewash finish. This steel offers a good balance of hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance for everyday tasks.
• The knife has a closed length of 108mm and a weight of 0.44 lbs. This makes it comfortable to carry in a pocket without feeling too bulky.
• The handle is made of Jade G10, a durable and lightweight material known for its excellent grip even in wet conditions. G10 is a popular choice for knife handles due to its strength and resistance to chemicals.
• Additional features include a thumb pull for easy one-handed opening, an extended tang for added strength, a pocket clip for secure carry, and a lanyard hole for attaching a lanyard or fob. These features enhance the knife’s utility and ease of use.

These specifications combine to create a practical and reliable folding knife suitable for everyday carry and light to medium-duty tasks. The quality materials and thoughtful design contribute to a positive user experience.

Performance & Functionality

The CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife performs admirably in a variety of cutting tasks. The D2 steel blade holds a sharp edge well, allowing for clean and efficient cuts through various materials, including cardboard, rope, and wood.

The knife’s main strength lies in its balanced design and ease of use. The thumb pull allows for quick and easy one-handed opening. One area for improvement would be a smoother action out of the box.

The Jade Hippo largely meets my expectations. The D2 steel and comfortable handle contribute to a satisfying user experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife boasts a well-designed and ergonomic build. The Jade G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even when wet.

The knife is very user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. The pocket clip is sturdy and provides secure carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife is built to last. The D2 steel blade is resistant to wear and corrosion, while the G10 handle is known for its exceptional durability.

Maintaining the knife is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening will keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife comes with a black synthetic zippered storage case. There aren’t many customization options available directly from CMB Made Knives, but the standard pocket clip can be replaced with aftermarket options.

The lanyard hole allows for the addition of custom lanyards or beads. The knife’s overall design is compatible with most universal knife accessories.

Pros and Cons of CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife?

The CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts, budget-conscious users seeking a reliable and durable knife, and those who appreciate a unique aesthetic. It is also suitable for light to medium-duty tasks such as opening packages, cutting rope, and general utility purposes.

This knife may not be ideal for users who require a heavy-duty, fixed-blade knife for demanding tasks, or those who prefer knives manufactured in specific countries. For those who require immediate super smooth action out of the box, this knife may disappoint.

A sharpening stone or steel is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. A quality knife lubricant can help smooth out the action of the folding mechanism.

Conclusion on CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife

Overall, the CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife is a fantastic value for the money. The combination of D2 steel, a G10 handle, and thoughtful design features makes it a reliable and versatile EDC option.

The price is definitely justified given the materials and build quality. You’d be hard-pressed to find a knife with comparable features at this price point.

I would highly recommend the CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, yet capable, EDC knife. It’s a great addition to any collection. Consider adding the CMB Made Knives Jade Hippo D2 Folding Knife to your everyday carry and experience its quality and performance for yourself!