Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife arrives as a budget-friendly option in a market saturated with high-end tactical knives. Bear & Son Cutlery is known for its American-made knives that offer solid performance without breaking the bank. I was intrigued to see how this knife would hold up against more expensive options, especially considering its assisted opening mechanism and 440C stainless steel blade, promising quick deployment and decent edge retention.

I was specifically looking for a lightweight, reliable knife for everyday carry (EDC) that wouldn’t be too precious to use and abuse. I’ve got several high-end knives, but I often find myself hesitant to use them for dirty jobs. I needed something practical, affordable, and easy to deploy one-handed.

Upon unboxing, the Sideliner felt surprisingly solid for its price. The G10 handle provided a secure grip, and the blade’s black finish gave it a tactical look. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian and Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Sideliner felt a bit less refined, but it also cost significantly less. I chose this over a similar Kershaw model due to the Bear & Son Cutlery’s reputation for quality control and the overall design aesthetic.

Initially, I was pleasantly surprised. The assisted opening was snappy, the lockup felt secure, and the knife felt comfortable in my hand. I was cautiously optimistic that the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife could be a viable budget-friendly EDC option.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Sideliner to the test during a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, from cutting rope and preparing kindling to opening food packages. The blade performed adequately, although it required a bit more effort than my knives with premium steels.

The knife handled well even in damp conditions, thanks to the textured G10 handle. The assisted opening mechanism was a lifesaver when I needed to deploy the blade quickly with one hand while managing other tasks around the campsite. After some whittling, I noticed the factory edge wasn’t the sharpest and would need some attention.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular EDC, the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife has proven to be a dependable tool. The black blade finish has shown some wear, particularly around the tip, but the blade itself remains rust-free. The 440C steel, while not a super steel, holds an edge reasonably well and is easy to sharpen.

The lockup is still solid, with no blade play. The assisted opening remains reliable, though it requires occasional lubrication to maintain its snappy action. Compared to my Benchmade, the Sideliner requires more frequent maintenance, but its overall durability has been surprisingly good for the price.

Breaking Down the Features of Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.38 inches, which is a good size for EDC, providing enough cutting surface without being too bulky.
• Blade Material: 440C stainless steel offers a good balance of corrosion resistance and edge retention.
• Handle Material: G10 provides a durable and grippy surface, even in wet conditions.
• Blade Finish: Black provides a tactical look and some degree of corrosion resistance.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point is a versatile shape suitable for a variety of cutting tasks.
• Assisted Opening: Provides quick, one-handed blade deployment.
• Sideliner Lock: Ensures the blade stays securely open during use.
• Reversible Pocket Clip: Allows for ambidextrous carry.

These specifications matter because they determine the knife’s overall performance and suitability for different tasks. The 440C steel ensures the blade can withstand regular use without excessive wear, while the G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The assisted opening mechanism makes it easy to deploy the blade quickly in situations where one hand is occupied.

Performance & Functionality

The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife performs its primary function – cutting – reasonably well. The blade is sharp enough for most EDC tasks, though it may require occasional sharpening. The assisted opening mechanism works reliably, providing quick and easy blade deployment.

The knife’s strengths lie in its affordability, reliability, and ease of use. The main weakness is the blade steel, which isn’t as high-performing as premium steels. Despite this, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Sideliner features a simple yet functional design. The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even for extended periods of use. The knife is lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to carry and use.

There is a slight learning curve to get used to the assisted opening mechanism and the lock release, but overall the knife is user-friendly. The reversible pocket clip is a welcome addition, allowing for ambidextrous carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife is built to last, with durable materials and a solid construction. The 440C stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the G10 handle can withstand significant abuse. The assisted opening mechanism may require occasional lubrication to maintain its smooth action.

The knife is relatively easy to maintain and repair, with readily available replacement parts. A simple cleaning and sharpening routine will keep it in good working order for years to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife comes standard with a reversible pocket clip. There are limited customization options available directly from Bear & Son Cutlery. However, the knife is compatible with many aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards.

It is also possible to replace the handle scales with custom G10 scales from third-party manufacturers. These modifications can improve the knife’s aesthetics and ergonomics.

Pros and Cons of Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.38in Assisted Opening Folding Knife