First Impressions of CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife
The CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife immediately strikes you as something different. Its curved blade and sleek, dark aesthetic hint at a unique blend of artistry and tactical functionality. CMB Made Knives is not a name I was immediately familiar with, but the materials listed – S35VN steel, titanium, and carbon fiber – signaled a high-quality piece, demanding closer inspection.
I’ve always appreciated knives with a unique design, and the Kawanonagare’s curved blade promised enhanced slicing capabilities. My search was for a folding knife that was both visually appealing and exceptionally functional. The combination of premium materials and distinctive design pulled me in.
Unboxing the Kawanonagare, I was struck by its solid feel and impeccable finish. The black stonewashed titanium handle felt substantial in my hand, while the copper foil carbon fiber inlay added a touch of elegance. The blade’s curve was even more pronounced in person, hinting at its intended purpose.
Compared to my Benchmade 940 Osborne or Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Kawanonagare stands out due to its unique blade shape and the premium feel of its materials. While the Benchmade is a classic EDC and the Spyderco is a workhorse, the Kawanonagare felt more like a refined tool. I chose the CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife over other options because of its unique design and the promise of exceptional cutting performance.
My first impression was one of excited anticipation. The CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife appeared to be a well-crafted tool with a unique design that set it apart from other folding knives on the market. Its combination of premium materials and distinctive blade shape had me eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Kawanonagare was a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I utilized it for various tasks, including food preparation, processing kindling, and general camp chores. The knife felt comfortable during use.
The weather was a mix of damp mornings and sunny afternoons, providing a decent test of the knife’s rust resistance and grip. The black stonewash finish on both the blade and handle held up nicely. The curved blade was incredibly effective for slicing vegetables and meats during meal prep.
The framelock was easy to engage and disengage, and the knife felt secure in my hand during use. There was a short adjustment period in order to get used to the blade’s unique curve. My first use of the CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife was positive, its ergonomics providing a comfortable and secure grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Kawanonagare has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I have used it on several more camping trips, as well as around the house for various cutting tasks. The knife has held up well to repeated use.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the blade or handle, and the stonewash finish has resisted scratches and blemishes. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth has been sufficient to keep the knife in good condition. A drop of oil on the pivot occasionally keeps the action smooth.
Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Kawanonagare has outperformed them in terms of slicing performance and edge retention. Its curved blade design provides a more efficient cutting motion, and the S35VN steel has held its edge remarkably well. I feel the knife is a good addition to my collection.
Breaking Down the Features of CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife
Specifications
The CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife boasts impressive specifications. It features a black stonewash finish S35VN stainless steel curved blade, known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The blade measures 3.13 inches in length (7.95 cm), making it a practical size for everyday carry and various outdoor tasks.
The handle is constructed from black stonewash finish titanium with a copper foil carbon fiber inlay, providing a lightweight yet durable grip. The closed length of the knife is 4.13 inches (10.5 cm), making it easily pocketable. A framelock mechanism ensures secure blade lockup, and a pocket clip allows for convenient carry.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the knife’s overall performance and user experience. The S35VN steel blade offers exceptional cutting ability and durability, while the titanium handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The framelock mechanism inspires confidence in the knife’s ability to handle demanding tasks.
Performance & Functionality
The CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife excels at slicing tasks due to its curved blade design. The blade’s geometry allows for a smooth, rocking motion that makes quick work of fruits, vegetables, and meats. The knife’s sharp edge and comfortable handle also contribute to its overall usability.
The knife’s primary strength lies in its slicing ability and edge retention. The S35VN steel holds an edge for a long time, requiring less frequent sharpening. The blade is very sharp.
One area for potential improvement could be the pocket clip’s design. While functional, it could be made slightly more robust to ensure a more secure grip on the pocket. Overall, however, the knife meets and exceeds expectations for a high-end folding knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife is excellent. The materials used, including the S35VN steel and titanium handle, are of high quality. The knife feels solid and well-balanced in the hand.
The ergonomics of the knife are generally good, with the curved handle providing a comfortable and secure grip. The blade’s curve also contributes to its cutting efficiency. While there is a slight learning curve associated with the curved blade, it is easily overcome with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife is designed to last for years with proper care. The S35VN steel blade is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, and the titanium handle is virtually indestructible. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that is needed to keep the knife in top condition.
The knife is relatively easy to maintain and repair. Sharpening the curved blade can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools and technique, it can be done at home. The framelock mechanism is also relatively simple to disassemble and reassemble for cleaning or maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife comes with a black nylon zippered storage case for protection and storage. There do not appear to be any factory customization options available.
Given the standard 3.13in blade length, finding third party compatible accessories could be difficult. A user may be able to replace the pocket clip.
Pros and Cons of CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife
Pros
- Exceptional Slicing Performance: The curved blade design makes slicing tasks effortless and efficient.
- High-Quality Materials: The S35VN steel blade and titanium handle ensure durability and long-lasting performance.
- Elegant Design: The black stonewash finish and copper foil carbon fiber inlay create a visually appealing and unique aesthetic.
- Secure Framelock: The framelock mechanism provides a strong and reliable blade lockup, ensuring safe use.
- Pocket Clip: The attached pocket clip is convenient for daily carry.
Cons
- Sharpening the curved blade may require specialized tools or skills.
- The price point may be prohibitive for some buyers.
Who Should Buy CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife?
The CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife is perfect for knife enthusiasts who appreciate unique design, high-quality materials, and exceptional cutting performance. It is well-suited for everyday carry, food preparation, and general utility tasks. Collectors may appreciate the knife for its aesthetics.
This knife may not be the best choice for those who prefer a more traditional blade shape or who are on a tight budget. It also may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks that require a larger, more robust knife. Someone needing to baton wood regularly should skip this product.
A must-have accessory for this knife is a sharpening system designed for curved blades. A high-quality honing steel or ceramic rod will help to maintain the blade’s edge between sharpenings.
Conclusion on CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife
The CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife is an exceptional tool that combines elegant design with outstanding performance. Its curved blade, high-quality materials, and secure framelock make it a joy to use. The price tag is steep but justified.
The value proposition is strong for those who appreciate the finer things in life and are willing to invest in a top-tier knife. I would wholeheartedly recommend the CMB Made Knives Kawanonagare Black Curved 3.13in Folding Knife to anyone looking for a unique and high-performing folding knife. If you’re seeking a conversation starter that also excels at cutting, this is it.
