First Impressions of Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife
The Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife is a gravity knife that immediately grabs your attention with its unique design and included trainer. The Reate brand is known for high-quality materials and innovative designs, and the EXO-K seemed to push the boundaries of what a folding knife could be. I needed a knife that was easy to deploy one-handed, and the gravity deployment mechanism promised just that, while also serving as a potential conversation starter.
Unboxing the EXO-K, I was struck by the weight and solid feel of the aluminum handle and the sharpness of the hawkbill blade. The stonewash finish gave it a tactical, yet stylish look, and the inclusion of a trainer was a thoughtful addition. It felt like a premium product, exceeding my initial expectations.
I had been considering a few other options, primarily assisted-opening knives from Benchmade and Kershaw. I ultimately chose the Reate EXO-K because of its innovative gravity deployment system, its unique hawkbill blade, and the overall futuristic aesthetic. The trainer was a significant selling point, allowing me to practice deployment without risking injury. I was definitely excited by the unique design and the potential for a new and fun carry option.
Real-World Testing: Putting Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip. I primarily used it for food preparation, such as opening packages and slicing vegetables, and general camp tasks like cutting rope. The knife performed admirably in these tasks, though the hawkbill blade took a bit of getting used to for some tasks.
The green aluminum handle provided a secure grip, even with slightly damp hands from washing dishes in the stream. The gravity deployment took a few practice runs to master, but once I got the hang of it, it was incredibly smooth and fast. The pivoting frame felt secure in my hand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife has proven to be surprisingly durable. The stonewash finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor signs of wear. The aluminum handle, while lightweight, feels incredibly sturdy and shows no signs of loosening or damage.
Maintenance is relatively simple; I wipe down the blade after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point. The N690 steel has proven to be resistant to corrosion, requiring minimal effort to keep in top condition. It has outperformed my expectations given the somewhat complex-appearing gravity lock mechanism.
Breaking Down the Features of Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife
Specifications
- Blade Material: Bohler N690 Stainless Steel. This steel provides a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
- Blade Finish: Stonewash. The stonewash finish not only looks good but also helps to hide scratches and wear.
- Blade Style: Hawkbill. The hawkbill blade shape is ideal for slicing and cutting with a pulling motion.
- Handle Material: Green Textured Aluminum. The aluminum handle is lightweight and durable, with a textured surface for enhanced grip.
- Lock Type: Reverse-Positioned Button Lock. This unique lock design allows for gravity deployment and secure blade lockup.
- Overall Length: Unavailable from details provided, requires knife in-hand measurement for full details.
- Blade Length: 3.13 inches. This blade length offers a good balance of portability and cutting ability.
- Weight: Unavailable from details provided, requires knife in-hand measurement for full details.
- Pocket Clip: Yes. The pocket clip allows for convenient and secure carry.
- Finger Ring: Yes. The finger ring provides added grip and control.
- Includes: Trainer with tan handle and unsharpened blade. This allows users to practice deployment without risking injury.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the knife’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The steel, blade shape, and handle material are all key factors in its functionality, while the lock type and inclusion of a trainer contribute to its unique appeal.
Performance & Functionality
The Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife excels at tasks that require precise slicing and cutting, thanks to its hawkbill blade. The gravity deployment mechanism is fast and smooth once mastered. It’s a showstopper that consistently gets people asking about the mechanics.
The knife’s main strength is its unique deployment system and its ability to quickly and efficiently slice materials. A potential weakness is that the hawkbill blade shape may not be suitable for all tasks, such as piercing or heavy-duty cutting. It meets and generally exceeds my expectations for an EDC knife due to its unique design and solid build.
Design & Ergonomics
The EXO-K boasts exceptional build quality, with high-quality materials and precise manufacturing. The aluminum handle is comfortable to hold, and the textured surface provides a secure grip. There is a slight learning curve associated with the gravity deployment mechanism, but once mastered, it becomes intuitive and natural.
Durability & Maintenance
The Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife is built to last, with durable materials and a robust construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s required to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife includes a trainer with a tan handle and unsharpened blade. Due to the unique design, customization options may be limited compared to more traditional folding knives. The pocket clip is removable, allowing for different carry configurations.
Pros and Cons of Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife
Pros
- Unique and eye-catching gravity deployment system.
- High-quality materials and excellent build quality.
- Sharp and efficient hawkbill blade.
- Includes a trainer for safe practice.
- Secure and comfortable grip.
Cons
- Hawkbill blade shape may not be suitable for all tasks.
- Gravity deployment requires practice to master.
Who Should Buy Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife?
The Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife is perfect for knife enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone looking for a unique and innovative EDC knife. It is also well-suited for those who appreciate a stylish and well-built tool. Those who need a knife for heavy-duty tasks or prefer a more traditional blade shape should consider other options.
A must-have accessory is a good quality knife oil for maintaining the pivot point. No specific modifications are necessarily needed, but some users may explore aftermarket pocket clips or handle scales to further personalize their knife.
Conclusion on Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife
The Reate Knives EXO-K Green SW 3.13in Folding Knife is an impressive piece of engineering that combines innovative design with high-quality materials and construction. At $167.00, the price is justified given its uniqueness, quality, and included trainer. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a standout EDC knife that is both functional and a conversation starter. It is a testament to Reate’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of knife design and manufacturing. Pick one up and experience the future of folding knives!