Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo Review

First Impressions of Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo

The Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo promises a versatile cutting solution for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday users alike, offering both the strength of a fixed blade and the convenience of a folding knife. Schrade is a brand that has a long history in the knife industry, known for producing affordable tools that can take a beating. This combo aims to provide users with a reliable set of knives without breaking the bank, making it an attractive option for those on a budget or just starting their collection.

I was looking for a backup knife set for my bug-out bag. I wanted something durable and functional, without investing a fortune, in case the primary set got lost or damaged.

The packaging was simple and functional, showcasing both knives clearly. My initial impression was positive, noting the classic look and feel of the Schrade “Uncle Henry” series with its staglon handles. The weight felt appropriate for their sizes, hinting at decent construction.

I considered the Morakniv Companion series and the Kershaw Blur before settling on this combo. Ultimately, the deciding factors were the fixed blade/folder combination and the price point, offering more versatility for the money. I was excited to see if these knives could live up to the Schrade name and handle the tasks I’d throw their way.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used the fixed blade for preparing kindling and food, while the folder became my everyday carry for smaller tasks. The knives performed reasonably well in dry conditions, but I noticed the staglon handle on the fixed blade became a bit slippery when wet.

The fixed blade excelled at batoning small pieces of wood and making feather sticks for fire starting. The folder proved useful for opening packages, cutting rope, and preparing snacks. It took a little getting used to the lockback mechanism on the folder, as it felt a bit stiff initially.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, both knives are holding up surprisingly well. The blades have maintained their edges with only minimal sharpening required. Some minor scratches are visible on the blades, but there are no signs of serious wear or damage.

The handles remain secure, and the blades still lock up tightly. The fixed blade’s sheath shows some signs of wear, but it’s still functional. I found that cleaning and oiling the blades after each use helps to prevent rust and maintain their performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo

Specifications

• The fixed blade features a 3.25-inch clip point blade made from 7Cr17MoV high carbon stainless steel. This steel provides a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• The folding knife has a 3.5-inch clip point blade, also made from 7Cr17MoV steel. This ensures consistency in performance and maintenance between the two knives.
• Both knives feature staglon handles, which offer a classic look and a decent grip, although they can become slippery when wet. The staglon material is a synthetic alternative to real stag horn, providing a consistent and durable handle.
• The fixed blade has an overall length of 7.2 inches and comes with a leather sheath for belt carry. This sheath offers convenient and secure storage for the fixed blade.
• The folding knife has an overall length of 8 inches (open) and features a lockback mechanism for secure blade lockup. The lockback mechanism ensures that the blade stays securely in place during use.

Performance & Functionality

The Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo performs its intended tasks adequately. The blades are sharp enough for most everyday cutting needs, and the handles provide a comfortable grip. However, the steel isn’t top-of-the-line, so frequent sharpening may be necessary with heavy use.

The fixed blade is sturdy and reliable for tasks like wood processing and food preparation. The folder is convenient for everyday carry and smaller cutting jobs. The steel is a good choice for its balance of properties, though higher-end steels would offer better edge retention.

Design & Ergonomics

The classic design of the Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo is aesthetically pleasing and functional. The staglon handles are comfortable to hold, but they can lack grip in wet conditions. The weight distribution is good, making the knives feel balanced in hand.

Both knives are relatively easy to use, with no significant learning curve. The fixed blade’s full tang construction provides added strength and stability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo is reasonably durable for its price point. The 7Cr17MoV steel is known for its corrosion resistance, which is a plus for outdoor use. Regular cleaning and oiling will help to extend the lifespan of both knives.

The leather sheath for the fixed blade may require occasional conditioning to prevent cracking. Sharpening the blades with a sharpening stone or honing steel will keep them in optimal cutting condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo comes with the fixed blade and its leather sheath, and the folding knife as a standalone item. There are no included accessories for the folder. Customization options are limited for these knives, primarily focusing on handle modifications or aftermarket sheaths.

Aftermarket sheaths for the fixed blade may offer improved retention or carry options. Some users may choose to replace the staglon handles with custom scales for improved grip or aesthetics.

Pros and Cons of Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo

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Who Should Buy Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo?

The Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and those needing a reliable backup knife set for their emergency kits. It’s also a good option for beginners looking to acquire a fixed blade and folder without a large investment.

Those who require high-performance knives for demanding tasks or prefer premium materials should skip this product. A must-have modification would be adding a lanyard to the fixed blade for enhanced grip and control, particularly in wet conditions.

Conclusion on Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo

The Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo provides solid value for its price. While it may not compete with high-end knives in terms of performance or materials, it offers a reliable and versatile cutting solution for everyday use and light outdoor activities.

At $35.99, the price is certainly justified for what you get: two functional knives from a reputable brand. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and practical knife set. If you’re after a budget-friendly combo that gets the job done, the Schrade UH 3.25in Fixed & 3.5in Folder Combo is definitely worth considering.