ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife

The ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife immediately strikes you as a statement piece, a blend of utility and edgy design. ElitEdge is clearly targeting a specific aesthetic with this knife, moving away from purely practical designs and into something more visually assertive. As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’m often skeptical of knives that prioritize looks over functionality, but I’m always open to being surprised.

What drew me to this particular knife was the glass breaker and assisted opening features combined with its compact size. I was searching for a lightweight backup knife for my everyday carry (EDC) that could potentially serve as a last-ditch tool for emergency vehicle extrication. The skull artwork wasn’t a selling point; the functionality was.

Unboxing the ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife, I immediately noticed its light weight and the prominent skull artwork on the nickel silver handle. The assisted opening mechanism felt surprisingly snappy, and the blade locked into place with a reassuring click. The build quality appeared decent for the price point, though the materials didn’t scream “high-end.”

Compared to my trusty Benchmade Griptilian, the ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife felt much lighter and less robust. I also own a Gerber Paraframe, which is similar in price, but the ElitEdge offered a glass breaker and a more aggressive aesthetic, influencing my decision to test it. I picked this over others because I wanted something inexpensive and with assisted opening, prioritizing ease of use in a potential emergency.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife seemed like it could potentially fill a niche role as a backup EDC knife, but I had serious reservations about its long-term durability and overall reliability. I was curious to see how it would perform under real-world conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife through its paces during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I used it for various tasks, including cutting rope, preparing kindling, and opening food packages. The assisted opening was quick and easy to use, even with slightly damp hands.

The knife performed reasonably well in dry conditions, easily handling basic cutting tasks. The blade felt a bit thin for heavy-duty work, and I was hesitant to put too much pressure on it. I found myself using it more for convenience rather than relying on it for anything strenuous.

The knife’s ease of use was a major plus. The assisted opening mechanism allowed for quick one-handed deployment. I didn’t need any time to get used to the knife; it felt comfortable in my hand right away.

The only real issue I encountered during the first use was with the pocket clip. It felt a bit flimsy and seemed like it could easily bend or break. The pocket clip was a point of concern early on.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a couple of months of intermittent use, the ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife is showing some signs of wear and tear. The nickel silver finish on the handle has started to scratch and fade, revealing the base metal underneath. The assisted opening mechanism still works, but it’s not as smooth as it was initially.

The durability of the blade is a major concern. It has developed a slight wobble and requires frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge. The steel seems to be on the softer side, making it prone to dulling quickly.

Maintenance is relatively simple; I just wipe the blade down with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. Cleaning and oiling the pivot helps to somewhat improve the action of the assisted opening. However, the handle is difficult to clean thoroughly due to the intricate skull design.

Compared to my experience with higher-end knives like the Benchmade Griptilian, the ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife is a significant step down in terms of overall quality and performance. The ElitEdge disappoints with its quick wear, especially compared to models with higher quality steel. The difference in blade steel quality is very apparent.

Breaking Down the Features of ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife

Specifications

The ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife features a 3.5-inch two-tone finish stainless steel spear point blade with a false edge. Its closed length is 127 mm. The handle is made of nickel silver and features Western skull artwork. Additional features include assisted opening, a pocket clip, and a glass breaker. It comes as a single unit.

The 3.5-inch blade length is adequate for most EDC tasks, but the stainless steel construction raises concerns about edge retention and overall durability. The nickel silver handle adds to the aesthetic appeal, but it might not be the most practical choice for grip or long-term wear resistance. The glass breaker is a useful addition for emergency situations.

Performance & Functionality

The ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife performs adequately for light-duty cutting tasks. The assisted opening mechanism provides quick blade deployment, which can be useful in certain situations. However, the blade steel quality limits its overall performance and reliability.

The knife’s strengths lie in its affordability and ease of use. Its weaknesses are its questionable durability and the lower-grade materials used in its construction. It meets the basic expectations for a budget-friendly folding knife, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife boasts a distinctive design with its nickel silver handle and Western skull artwork. The weight is light, making it comfortable to carry in a pocket or on a belt. The ergonomics are decent, although the handle can feel a bit slippery, especially in wet conditions.

The assisted opening mechanism makes it user-friendly, even for those with limited hand strength. However, the liner lock can be a bit stiff and difficult to disengage at times. The liner lock is another element that demonstrates the lower quality build.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife is a major concern. The blade is prone to dulling quickly, and the handle finish is easily scratched. The pocket clip feels flimsy and could potentially break with repeated use.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. However, the handle’s intricate skull design makes it difficult to clean thoroughly. The durability concerns limit my confidence in its long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip, but there are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited due to the unique handle design and the knife’s overall construction. Aftermarket scales, for example, are unlikely to exist.

It is not particularly compatible with many accessories from other brands. The knife is designed as a standalone unit, and there aren’t many opportunities for customization. Due to its low cost and construction, replacing any components is unlikely to be cost-effective.

Pros and Cons of ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife?

The ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife is perfect for individuals who are looking for an inexpensive EDC knife with a unique aesthetic. It could appeal to casual campers or those who want a backup knife for light-duty tasks. It could also be a fit for someone who values the assisted opening feature and the glass breaker for emergency situations.

Someone who needs a reliable and durable knife for demanding tasks should skip this product. Professionals in law enforcement, emergency services, or outdoor guides would be better served with a higher-quality knife. Anyone who prioritizes long-term durability and performance should avoid it.

Must-have accessories or modifications are limited. Perhaps a higher-quality pocket clip would be a worthwhile upgrade if one could be found that fits. Blade oil to help with the action and prevent rust is a must-have.

Conclusion on ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife

The ElitEdge A/O West Skull Folding Knife offers an interesting blend of style and basic functionality at a very affordable price. The assisted opening and glass breaker are useful features, but the lower-grade materials and questionable durability ultimately limit its overall value. It prioritizes appearance over performance.

At $8.99, the price is certainly justified for what you get – a functional, albeit not particularly durable, knife. It’s a good option for those on a tight budget or for someone who wants a disposable knife for occasional use. However, it’s not a substitute for a high-quality, reliable tool.

I would cautiously recommend it to someone looking for a cheap EDC knife with a specific aesthetic and understanding its limitations. For those seeking a reliable, long-lasting tool, I’d suggest investing in a higher-quality knife from a reputable brand. Consider this knife for light tasks, but don’t rely on it for serious situations.