QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife

The world of folding knives is a crowded one, but every so often, a design emerges that piques interest. The QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife is one such design. Its button lock and Sandvik 14C28N steel blade promised a blend of modern convenience and reliable performance. I was looking for a lightweight, dependable EDC (everyday carry) knife that wouldn’t break the bank. The Swordfish seemed to strike a good balance between these factors.

I’ve been carrying and using knives in the field for over a decade. This included everything from simple slip joints to high-end automatics. My primary concern was finding something that was robust enough for daily tasks yet refined enough to carry discreetly.

Upon unboxing, the QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife felt surprisingly solid for its size. The action was smooth right out of the box. The blade centered nicely. It’s hard to judge ergonomics without putting it to use, but initial handling was promising.

I considered a Benchmade Bugout for its lightweight design and premium steel, but the price point was significantly higher. A Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight was another contender, known for its exceptional ergonomics. The QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife won out due to its unique button lock mechanism and appealing price. It offered something different.

My first impression of the QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife was one of cautious optimism. It certainly looks and feels the part of a reliable EDC knife. Time and use will tell if it lives up to its potential.

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Real-World Testing: Putting QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife on a week-long camping trip in the Pacific Northwest. This was a diverse environment, from damp forest trails to rocky riverbanks. My primary use cases were food preparation, fire starting (feather sticking), and general camp tasks like cutting cordage.

The Sandvik 14C28N blade performed admirably in wet conditions. It showed excellent corrosion resistance. The button lock was easy to operate even with slightly wet or muddy hands. I didn’t experience any slippage or accidental closures.

The knife required very little break-in period. The opening action was smooth and intuitive from the start. The only initial issue was getting used to the placement of the thumb stud. It was slightly further back than I prefer.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of near-daily use, the QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife has proven to be a dependable companion. The blade has retained its edge well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness. There are no signs of blade play or lock failure.

The anodized aluminum handle scales have held up well. There are only minor scratches from routine use. Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I’ve applied a small amount of lubricant to the pivot occasionally.

Compared to my previous EDC, a Kershaw Leek, the QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife feels more substantial and reliable. The button lock is a significant upgrade over the Leek’s liner lock. It provides greater peace of mind during demanding tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.63 inches. This provides a good balance between cutting power and portability for EDC use.
• Closed Length: 4.5 inches. Compact enough to comfortably fit in a pocket without being overly bulky.
• Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N Stainless Steel. Known for its excellent corrosion resistance, edge retention, and ease of sharpening.
• Serrated: Plain edge. Offers clean, precise cuts, suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• Knife Application: Folding Blade. Designed for convenient carry and quick deployment.
• Lock Type: Button Lock. Provides a secure and reliable lockup with easy, ambidextrous operation.
• Sheath Material: No Sheath (Pocket Clip). The pocket clip allows for tip-up carry, ensuring easy access.
• Manufacturer: QSP Knife. A company gaining recognition for producing quality knives at affordable prices.

These specifications translate to a knife that is well-suited for everyday carry. It’s capable of handling various cutting tasks while remaining comfortable to carry and easy to maintain. The QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife is a solid contender in its class.

Performance & Functionality

The QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife excels in everyday cutting tasks. These include opening packages, cutting rope, and preparing food. The blade geometry allows for smooth slicing and efficient cutting.

The button lock is a standout feature. It provides a strong and secure lockup. It’s also ambidextrous, making it suitable for both right- and left-handed users.

The only minor weakness is the thumb stud placement. Some users might find it slightly awkward to deploy the blade quickly. This can be overcome with practice.

Overall, the QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife meets and even exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range. It provides reliable performance and excellent functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife boasts a streamlined design with clean lines. The anodized aluminum handle scales provide a comfortable and secure grip. The knife feels well-balanced in hand.

The knife’s weight is reasonable for its size, making it comfortable for all-day carry. The pocket clip is well-designed and provides secure retention in the pocket. There’s no noticeable hot spot during extended use.

The button lock mechanism is intuitive and easy to use. There’s minimal learning curve. It allows for smooth and reliable blade deployment and closure.

Durability & Maintenance

The Sandvik 14C28N steel blade is known for its durability and corrosion resistance. With proper care, it should last for many years. The anodized aluminum handle scales are also resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot are all that’s needed to keep the QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife in top condition. Sharpening the blade is also relatively easy. This is thanks to the steel’s properties.

Accessories and Customization Options

The QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife comes standard with a pocket clip. This is reversible for left- or right-hand carry. There aren’t many official accessories available directly from QSP Knife.

However, the knife is compatible with aftermarket lanyards. The lanyard hole provides a convenient attachment point. The pocket clip is also replaceable with standard aftermarket clips.

While not explicitly designed for extensive customization, the QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife offers some basic options to personalize its appearance and functionality.

Pros and Cons of QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife?

The QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts: Its lightweight design and robust construction make it an ideal choice for daily tasks.
• Outdoor adventurers: Its corrosion-resistant blade and reliable lock mechanism make it suitable for camping, hiking, and fishing.
• Anyone looking for a high-quality knife on a budget: It offers excellent value for its price, without compromising on performance.

Who should skip this product?

• Those who prefer assisted-opening or automatic knives: The Swordfish is a manual-opening knife and requires more deliberate action to deploy the blade.
• Users who require extensive customization options: The Swordfish has limited aftermarket support for accessories and modifications.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A high-quality sharpening stone or strop: To maintain the blade’s edge and ensure optimal cutting performance.
• A lanyard: For added grip and ease of retrieval from the pocket.

Conclusion on QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife

The QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife is an impressive offering in the crowded EDC knife market. Its combination of quality materials, reliable performance, and ergonomic design make it a standout choice. The button lock mechanism is a significant advantage.

The price point is certainly justified. The knife offers excellent value for the money. The performance far exceeds what one might expect for its cost.

I would absolutely recommend the QSP Knife Swordfish 3.63in Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable EDC option. It’s a solid investment that will serve you well in a variety of everyday and outdoor tasks. Grab one today and experience the quality and performance for yourself!