CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife

The CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife immediately caught my eye with its aggressive karambit blade and tactical aesthetic. CMB Made Knives isn’t a brand I’ve worked with extensively, but the promise of AUS-10A steel and a G10 handle at this price point was intriguing enough to warrant a closer look. I’m a sucker for a good karambit, and the Falcon Black SW seemed to offer a unique blend of self-defense functionality and everyday utility.

I’d been looking for a compact, easily concealable knife for personal carry, something more specialized than my usual EDC folder. My current EDC, a Benchmade Griptilian, is a fantastic all-around tool, but sometimes I want something with a little more… bite. I’ve also been exploring more specialized edged tools for wilderness survival kits, and a karambit’s unique grip and cutting angle could offer an advantage in certain situations.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-constructed. The black stonewash finish on the blade gives it a rugged, tactical look, and the G10 handle provides a secure grip. It’s heavier than I expected for its size, which speaks to the quality of the materials.

Compared to a Fox Knives 599 Karambit, the Falcon Black SW is smaller and more budget-friendly, though the Fox boasts higher-end steel. A Cold Steel Tiger Claw is another competitor, but its larger size makes it less ideal for concealed carry. I chose the CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife because it seemed to strike a balance between affordability, size, and practical features.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios, but also aware that a budget-friendly karambit might come with compromises.

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Real-World Testing: Putting CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife through its paces on a weekend camping trip. I used it for various camp chores, including cutting rope, preparing kindling, and opening packages. The karambit blade design proved surprisingly useful for detailed work, offering excellent control and precision.

The knife performed well in slightly damp conditions, maintaining a secure grip even with wet hands. It took me a little while to get used to the karambit’s ring and reverse grip, but once I did, I found it to be comfortable and intuitive. The AUS-10A steel held its edge reasonably well, though it required a touch-up after some heavier use.

One initial issue I noticed was the pocket clip, which felt a bit stiff and difficult to use with thicker pants.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of carrying the CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife as part of my EDC, it’s held up reasonably well. The black stonewash finish is surprisingly durable and has resisted scratches and wear. The G10 handle remains grippy and comfortable.

I have noticed some minor wear on the blade near the pivot point, but nothing that affects performance. Cleaning is relatively straightforward; I simply wipe down the blade and handle with a lightly oiled cloth. Compared to my experience with other budget blades, the Falcon Black SW has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability.

Breaking Down the Features of CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 2.75 inches. This compact blade length makes it easy to conceal and maneuver.
• Closed Length: 4.63 inches. A small profile allows for comfortable pocket carry.
• Blade Material: AUS-10A Stainless Steel. AUS-10A is a decent, budget-friendly steel known for good edge retention and corrosion resistance.
• Handle Color: Black G10. G10 provides a solid, textured grip, even in wet conditions.
• Additional Features: Pocket Clip. The pocket clip allows for tip-up carry, though its stiffness can be a drawback.
• Weight: 0.42 lb (6.72 oz). It feels substantial in hand without being overly heavy.
• Finish: Black Stonewash. The stonewash finish hides scratches and gives it a tactical appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife performs admirably for its intended purpose. The karambit blade excels at pull cuts and offers excellent control for detailed tasks. While not designed for heavy-duty chopping, it’s more than capable of handling everyday cutting tasks and self-defense applications.

Its strengths lie in its compact size, comfortable grip, and reliable blade steel. The main weakness is the stiff pocket clip, which can be difficult to use with certain clothing. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly karambit folder.

Design & Ergonomics

The Falcon Black SW features a well-thought-out design, with a comfortable and ergonomic grip. The finger ring is perfectly sized and allows for secure retention. The build quality is surprisingly good for its price point, with tight tolerances and a solid feel.

While there is a slight learning curve associated with the karambit blade style, the knife is generally user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The AUS-10A blade steel and G10 handle should provide years of reliable service with proper care. Maintaining the CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. I expect it to last a long time with moderate use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife comes with a basic black nylon zippered storage case. Aftermarket customization options are limited due to its specific design, but replacement pocket clips might be available. The pocket clip itself is removable, but finding a direct replacement that fits perfectly could be challenging.

Pros and Cons of CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife?

The CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife is perfect for individuals interested in karambit-style knives for self-defense or those seeking a unique EDC option on a budget. It’s also a good choice for campers and hikers who want a compact and versatile cutting tool. Those who value a lightweight, easy to use pocket clip might want to skip this product.

A must-have modification would be a higher quality aftermarket pocket clip if one can be sourced that fits.

Conclusion on CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife

The CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife is a solid performer that offers excellent value for its price. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its compact size, durable materials, and ergonomic design make it a worthwhile addition to any knife enthusiast’s collection. The price is definitely justified given the quality and functionality.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable karambit-style folding knife. If you’re curious about karambits and want to try one without breaking the bank, the CMB Made Knives Falcon Black SW Folding Knife is an excellent place to start. Go ahead and give it a try – you might just discover your new favorite EDC.