SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife enters a crowded market of everyday carry (EDC) knives, promising a blend of functionality and affordability. SKIF Knives may not be a household name, but they’ve been quietly building a reputation for value. This particular model aims to be a reliable companion for urban and outdoor adventures alike, boasting a black stonewash finish, OD green G10 scales, and a framelock mechanism.

I was specifically looking for a durable, yet budget-friendly folding knife to add to my rotation of EDC tools. I needed something that could handle basic cutting tasks, from opening packages to light camp chores, without breaking the bank.

Upon unboxing, the SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife feels surprisingly solid. The G10 handle provides a good grip, and the stonewash finish on the blade gives it a rugged, utilitarian look. The weight feels balanced in hand, not too heavy, not too light.

I considered the Kershaw Blur and the Ontario RAT Model 1 before settling on the SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife. The Kershaw was more expensive, and the RAT 1, while a solid performer, felt a bit too large for my daily carry needs. The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife seemed to strike a good balance between size, durability, and price.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. It looked the part, but I was eager to see how it would perform under real-world use. The price point made me wonder if the materials or construction would be lacking, but first impressions were encouraging.

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Real-World Testing: Putting SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. This environment offered a diverse range of cutting tasks. These tasks ranged from preparing kindling to opening food packages.

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife performed admirably in mostly dry conditions. The G10 handle provided a secure grip even with slightly damp hands. The blade opened smoothly with the thumb stud and locked securely into place.

The knife felt relatively comfortable after prolonged use. I noticed no hotspots or discomfort during repeated cutting tasks. One minor issue was that the framelock, while secure, was a little stiff to disengage initially.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife has held up surprisingly well. The blade has maintained its edge reasonably well. The stonewash finish hides scratches and wear marks effectively.

I have noticed some minor wear on the G10 handle. However, there are no cracks or structural issues. The framelock has loosened up slightly with use, making it easier to disengage.

Maintaining the SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife is simple. After each use, I clean the blade with a damp cloth and apply a thin layer of oil to the pivot point. I have only sharpened the blade once with a ceramic rod, and it readily regained its sharpness.

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife has outperformed my expectations, especially considering its price. It is more durable and reliable than some other budget-friendly knives I’ve used in the past. It’s not a high-end, premium blade, but it’s a solid workhorse.

Breaking Down the Features of SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 10.16 cm (4 inches). This length strikes a good balance between utility and portability, making it suitable for a variety of tasks without being too cumbersome to carry.
• Closed Length: 127 mm (5 inches). The compact closed length makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
• Blade Steel: 9Cr18MoV stainless steel. This steel offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it a practical choice for an EDC knife.
• Handle Material: OD Green Textured G10. G10 is a durable and grippy material that provides excellent traction even in wet conditions.
• Lock Type: Framelock. A framelock is a strong and reliable locking mechanism that is known for its simplicity and durability.
• Additional Features: Lanyard Hole, Pocket Clip, Thumb Stud. These features enhance the knife’s versatility and ease of carry.

These specifications translate to a knife that is functional, durable, and easy to carry. The choice of materials and design elements reflects a focus on practicality and value. The 9Cr18MoV steel, while not a premium steel, is perfectly adequate for everyday tasks and is easy to maintain.

Performance & Functionality

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife performs well for its intended purpose. It cuts effectively. The blade is sharp enough to handle most everyday tasks.

The blade steel holds an edge reasonably well. I only needed to sharpen it once in several months of use. The framelock provides a secure lockup.

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife meets my expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife. It’s not a high-performance tool designed for extreme conditions, but it’s a reliable and capable companion for everyday cutting tasks. The framelock, while secure, could be smoother in its action.

Design & Ergonomics

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife features a straightforward and functional design. The OD green G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The black stonewash finish on the blade gives it a rugged and appealing aesthetic.

The knife feels well-balanced in hand, making it easy to control during use. There is a slight learning curve to disengaging the framelock, but it becomes easier with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife appears to be built to last. The materials used are durable and resistant to wear and tear. The G10 handle is particularly tough.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. The knife disassembles easily for more thorough cleaning if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard pocket clip. There are limited customization options available. You could potentially replace the pocket clip with a different style or color.

The lanyard hole allows you to attach a lanyard for added security and convenience. Aftermarket G10 scales are not widely available for this model.

Pros and Cons of SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife?

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. This could include casual campers, hikers, and general outdoor enthusiasts. It’s also a great option for people who need a basic cutting tool for everyday tasks.

This knife might not be the best choice for those who require a high-performance knife for demanding tasks or who prefer premium materials and extensive customization options. Those working in professions demanding extreme knife use should look elsewhere.

A must-have addition would be a small sharpening stone or ceramic rod to maintain the blade’s edge. A quality lubricant for the pivot point will keep the action smooth.

Conclusion on SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife

The SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife is a solid performer that offers exceptional value for the money. Its durable construction, reliable blade steel, and secure locking mechanism make it a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of a dependable EDC knife. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t have to break the bank to get a functional and durable tool.

The price of $45.99 is absolutely justified, given the knife’s quality and performance. It represents a significant value compared to other knives in its category.

I would absolutely recommend the SKIF Knives Urbanite BSW Olive Folding Knife to anyone seeking a budget-friendly and reliable EDC option. It’s a great choice for everyday tasks and light outdoor use. Consider adding this dependable tool to your collection – you won’t be disappointed!