SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife

The SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife arrives as a compact, unassuming tool. SKIF Knives might not be the first name that jumps to mind when you think of high-end tactical gear, but their Hamster model promises a functional blade at an accessible price point, and I was intrigued to see if it could deliver. I spend a lot of time outdoors, and a reliable folding knife is an essential part of my kit, whether I’m setting up camp, processing firewood, or just needing to open a pesky package.

I’ve been searching for a durable yet budget-friendly EDC (Everyday Carry) knife. My old knife, a no-name brand I picked up years ago, has finally given up the ghost, with a wobbly blade and a lock that no longer inspires confidence. I wanted something lightweight, easy to carry, and capable of handling a variety of tasks without breaking the bank.

Upon unboxing, the stonewash finish on the 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade immediately caught my eye. It gives the SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife a rugged, pre-worn look, which I appreciate. The OD green G10 handle feels sturdy and provides a decent grip, even with wet hands. The knife is light, and the pocket clip suggests it will carry well.

I was also considering the Ontario Knife Company RAT 2 and the Kershaw Cryo. The RAT 2 is a classic for a reason, known for its durability, but it felt a little bulky for EDC. The Cryo has a sleek design, but I was slightly concerned about its stainless steel handle being slippery in adverse conditions; the G10 handle of the SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife seemed a safer bet. For the price, the Hamster seemed to strike a nice balance between functionality and value.

My first impression was a pleasant surprise. I was expecting something cheap and flimsy, given the price point, but the SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife feels solid and well-made. I’m genuinely curious to see how it performs in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I put the SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife through its paces on a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. The weather was a mix of sunshine and light rain, providing a good test of its performance in varying conditions. I used it for everything from preparing food to whittling kindling.

The blade performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The stonewash finish seemed to offer a decent level of corrosion resistance. Opening and closing the blade was smooth, and the liner lock engaged securely. The SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife felt comfortable in my hand, even after extended use.

There was a slight learning curve getting used to the thumb stud. It is relatively small, and I fumbled with it a few times initially, especially with gloves on. After a few tries, it became more natural, but it’s something to be aware of.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for a variety of tasks, including cutting rope, opening boxes, and even some light yard work. It’s become my go-to EDC knife.

There are some minor signs of wear on the blade coating, but nothing significant. The G10 handle still looks and feels like new. The blade remains sharp, and the liner lock continues to engage securely.

Maintaining the knife is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use keeps it clean. I’ve also applied a small amount of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth. This knife outperforms my previous EDC knife by a significant margin, mainly due to the superior blade steel and more secure lock.

Breaking Down the Features of SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife

Specifications

• The SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife features a stonewash finish 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade. This steel is known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• The handle is made of OD green G10 material. G10 is a durable and lightweight composite known for its excellent grip, even when wet.
• The blade length is 8.89 cm (approximately 3.5 inches). This provides a good balance between cutting power and portability.
• The closed length is 11.43 cm (4.5 inches). This makes it compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.
• The lock type is a Linerlock. Linerlocks are generally reliable and easy to operate with one hand.
• Additional features include a thumb stud for easy one-handed opening, a lanyard hole for attachment options, and a pocket clip for secure carry. These features contribute to the knife’s overall versatility and EDC-friendliness.

Performance & Functionality

The SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife performs its job admirably. The blade holds an edge well, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. The liner lock is secure, providing confidence during use.

The knife’s main strength is its balance of affordability, durability, and functionality. Its weakness lies in the smaller size of the thumb stud, which might be difficult for some users to manipulate. This is something that could be improved.

The knife meets and slightly exceeds my expectations, given its price point. I wasn’t expecting it to perform this well, but it has proven to be a reliable and capable tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is surprisingly good for a knife in this price range. The materials feel solid and well-assembled. The SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife weighs very little and fits comfortably in hand.

The design is user-friendly. The liner lock is easy to access and operate, and the thumb stud allows for quick one-handed opening (with a little practice). There’s minimal learning curve involved in using this knife.

Durability & Maintenance

The SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife is built to last. The 8Cr13MoV steel is relatively tough, and the G10 handle is nearly indestructible. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s required. The stonewash finish also helps to hide scratches and wear marks, making it look newer for longer.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip. There aren’t many customization options directly from the SKIF Knives, although aftermarket pocket clips that fit standard hole patterns may be compatible.

I could see some users potentially swapping out the lanyard. Beyond that, the Hamster is pretty much good to go as is.

Pros and Cons of SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife?

The SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife is perfect for: casual campers, hikers, and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. It’s also a good option for beginners who are just starting to explore the world of knives.

Someone who needs a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks, like processing large amounts of wood or performing intricate carving, might want to skip this product. A higher-end knife with a thicker blade and a more robust locking mechanism would be more suitable. A sharpening stone or steel is a must-have accessory to keep the blade in top condition.

Conclusion on SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife

The SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife is a surprisingly capable and well-made knife for its price. It offers a good balance of durability, functionality, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable EDC option.

The price is definitely justified. The quality of materials and construction exceeds expectations, and the knife performs admirably in a variety of tasks.

I would definitely recommend the SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife to anyone looking for a budget-friendly EDC knife. It’s a great value and a solid performer. If you’re in the market for a reliable and affordable folding knife, give the SKIF Knives Hamster SW Olive Folding Knife a try – you might be surprised at how much you like it.