First Impressions of Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife immediately strikes you as a no-nonsense tool. Bear & Son Cutlery is known for producing affordable, American-made knives, and the Sideliner appears to continue that tradition. The black G10 handle and black tanto blade give it a tactical look, while the extended tang and lanyard hole hint at practical utility.
I was looking for a dependable, everyday carry (EDC) knife that could handle a variety of tasks without breaking the bank when I came across the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner. I needed something reliable for opening packages, cutting cordage, and general utility tasks around the house and outdoors.
Out of the box, the knife felt solid and well-balanced, despite being lightweight. The G10 handle provided a secure grip, and the blade opened smoothly with a satisfying click. The black finish on the stainless steel tanto blade seemed durable and resistant to scratches.
I was also considering the Ontario RAT Model 1 and the Kershaw Cryo. I chose the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner because I preferred the tanto blade shape and the simpler design. The RAT Model 1 is a great knife, but I wanted something a little more compact, and the Kershaw Cryo felt a little too heavy for everyday carry.
My first impression of the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a solid, affordable knife that could handle most everyday tasks, though I was eager to test its edge retention and overall durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The knife was used for food preparation, cutting rope for shelter building, and general camp chores.
The knife performed admirably in various conditions, from dry sunny weather to a brief but heavy rain shower. The G10 handle remained grippy even when wet, and the black finish on the blade showed no signs of rust or corrosion after being exposed to moisture. The blade cut through rope and vegetation with ease.
The knife was comfortable to use, requiring no learning curve. The liner lock engaged securely, and the blade remained firmly in place during use.
After the first use, I was pleasantly surprised by the edge retention and overall performance of the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner. It exceeded my expectations for a knife in this price range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I have carried it daily for various tasks, from opening packages to more demanding cutting chores around the house and in the garden.
After weeks of consistent use, the edge has started to dull slightly, but it still retains a decent working edge. There are a few minor scratches on the blade finish, but the G10 handle remains in excellent condition with no signs of wear. The G10 handle material has held up well.
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner is easy to clean and maintain. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional application of oil to the blade is all that’s needed to keep it in good working order.
Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner holds its own. It is not as refined as some higher-end knives, but it offers excellent value for the money and has proven to be a dependable and versatile tool.
Breaking Down the Features of Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife
Specifications
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife boasts a black finish stainless tanto blade. The blade length measures 3.5 inches (8.89 cm).
The closed length is 4.5 inches (11.43 cm). This knife uses a linerlock mechanism. The handle color is black. This knife includes a lanyard hole and a pocket clip for enhanced portability.
These specifications are important because they define the knife’s capabilities and suitability for different tasks. The tanto blade is strong and piercing, and the G10 handle offers excellent grip and durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife performs its intended function well. The tanto blade is well-suited for piercing and slicing, and the liner lock provides a secure lockup for safe use. The knife cuts through various materials.
The main strength of the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner is its durability and reliability. The blade is strong and holds an edge well, and the G10 handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip. The main weakness is that the blade steel is not a premium grade.
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner largely meets my expectations for a knife in this price range. It is a solid, dependable tool that can handle most everyday tasks.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner features a simple yet functional design. The black G10 handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip, and the tanto blade shape is both aesthetically pleasing and practical. The knife has a secure feel in hand.
The knife is user-friendly and requires no learning curve. The blade opens smoothly and locks securely, and the pocket clip allows for easy carry.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner is built to last. The stainless steel blade is resistant to rust and corrosion, and the G10 handle is extremely durable.
The knife is easy to maintain and repair. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional application of oil to the blade is all that’s needed to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner comes with a standard pocket clip. There are no other included accessories, but the knife can be customized with aftermarket lanyards.
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner is generally compatible with aftermarket pocket clips designed for similar-sized folding knives. Aftermarket G10 scales may be available from custom knife part suppliers.
Pros and Cons of Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife
Pros
- Affordable price point: Excellent value for money.
- Durable G10 handle: Provides a secure and comfortable grip.
- Strong tanto blade: Well-suited for piercing and slicing.
- Reliable liner lock: Ensures safe and secure blade lockup.
- Made in the USA: Quality craftsmanship and materials.
Cons
- Basic blade steel: Not a premium grade, may require more frequent sharpening.
- Limited customization options: Fewer aftermarket accessories compared to some other knives.
Who Should Buy Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife?
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife is perfect for:
- Everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts looking for an affordable and reliable knife.
- Outdoor adventurers and campers who need a durable and versatile tool.
- Tactical users who appreciate the tanto blade shape and rugged design.
This knife is not ideal for those seeking a premium knife with high-end blade steel or extensive customization options.
A must-have accessory is a sharpening stone or honing steel to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife
The Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife is a solid, affordable, and reliable tool that offers excellent value for the money. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end knives, it gets the job done and is built to last.
The price is definitely justified, given the quality of materials and craftsmanship. This knife offers a compelling mix of durability, functionality, and affordability.
I would definitely recommend the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner 3.5in Tanto Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable EDC knife that won’t break the bank. If you need a rugged, no-nonsense cutting tool for daily tasks or outdoor adventures, the Bear & Son Cutlery Sideliner is a great choice. Consider adding this USA made knife to your collection today!