First Impressions of Katz Cheetah Small Lockback
The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback isn’t just another pocketknife; it’s a statement. This offering from Katz promises to blend classic design with modern functionality. Sporting a cherry wood handle, a satin finish stainless blade, and a compact size, it aims to be both elegant and practical for everyday carry.
I’ve always appreciated a well-made folding knife. My criteria are simple: solid lockup, comfortable grip, and a blade that can hold an edge. I was particularly intrigued by the Katz Cheetah Small Lockback because of its classic aesthetic.
Unboxing the Katz Cheetah Small Lockback, I was immediately struck by the visual appeal. The cherry wood handle felt smooth and warm in my hand. The blade was perfectly centered and the lockup was solid, inspiring confidence from the start.
Compared to my usual EDC, a Benchmade Griptilian, or even a smaller Spyderco Delica, the Katz Cheetah Small Lockback felt more refined. I wanted something with a touch more class for occasions where a tactical folder might seem out of place. The Benchmade is great, but sometimes subtlety is key.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback looked and felt like a quality piece, and I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Katz Cheetah Small Lockback to the Test
First Use Experience
I decided to put the Katz Cheetah Small Lockback through its paces on a weekend camping trip. My tasks included food prep, cutting cordage, and general camp chores. I wanted to see how it performed in a real-world setting.
The weather was typical for the mountains – cool mornings and evenings with a bit of dampness in the air. The cherry wood handle provided a surprisingly secure grip even when slightly wet. Cutting through paracord was effortless, and the blade maintained its edge throughout the day.
The thumb disk made one-handed opening relatively easy, though it did take a little getting used to. I was initially concerned about the smaller blade size but found it perfectly adequate for most tasks. There were no unexpected surprises; it performed exactly as I had hoped.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of carrying and using the Katz Cheetah Small Lockback regularly, it’s become a reliable companion. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to preparing kindling for my fireplace.
The blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. There are minor scratches on the stainless bolster, which is to be expected with regular use. The cherry wood handle has darkened slightly, giving it a richer, more characterful appearance.
Cleaning the knife is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional application of mineral oil to the handle keeps it looking its best. In comparison to some of my other knives that require more intricate disassembly for cleaning, the Katz Cheetah Small Lockback is refreshingly low-maintenance. It has definitely outperformed my expectations for a knife in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Katz Cheetah Small Lockback
Specifications
The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback has a closed length of 3.88 inches (9.86cm). This compact size makes it ideal for discreet everyday carry.
It features a 2.88 inch (7.32cm) satin finish stainless steel drop point blade. The drop point design is versatile, suitable for both slicing and piercing tasks.
The handle is crafted from cherry wood and complemented by stainless bolster(s). This combination offers a classic look with a comfortable and secure grip.
The knife has an inlay shield and a thumb disk for easy opening. These subtle details add to the overall aesthetic and functionality.
It weighs in at 0.44 lb. This weight is substantial enough to feel solid in the hand without being too heavy for pocket carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback performs admirably for its intended purpose. The stainless steel blade holds a decent edge and is easy to sharpen.
Its lockback mechanism is secure and reliable, providing confidence during use. The small size makes it ideal for everyday tasks and discreet carry. However, the smaller blade length might not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Overall, it meets expectations for a gentleman’s folder.
Design & Ergonomics
The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback boasts a classic and elegant design. The cherry wood handle provides a comfortable and natural grip.
The knife is lightweight and well-balanced in hand. There is a slight learning curve to opening with the thumb disk.
Durability & Maintenance
The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback, with its stainless steel blade and wood handle, should last for years with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward. The blade can be easily cleaned and sharpened. The handle benefits from occasional oiling to prevent drying and cracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback comes with a black leather belt sheath. This sheath provides a convenient and secure way to carry the knife.
There are limited customization options available for the Katz Cheetah Small Lockback, aside from aftermarket lanyards. The design is intended to be classic and timeless, and Katz doesn’t offer alternative scales or blade finishes.
Pros and Cons of Katz Cheetah Small Lockback
Pros
- The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback features a beautiful and classic design, perfect for everyday carry.
- It is compact and lightweight, making it comfortable to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
- The lockback mechanism is very secure and reliable.
- The cherry wood handle is attractive and provides a comfortable grip.
- The satin finish stainless steel blade holds a good edge and is easy to sharpen.
Cons
- The thumb disk can be a little difficult to use at first, requiring some practice.
- The smaller blade length may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
Who Should Buy Katz Cheetah Small Lockback?
The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback is perfect for individuals who appreciate a classic, well-made pocketknife for everyday carry. It is ideal for those who value aesthetics and functionality in a compact package. It would also make a wonderful gift.
This knife might not be the best choice for those who require a large, heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks. Individuals who prefer assisted-opening or automatic knives may also find the thumb disk opening system less appealing.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. A small bottle of mineral oil to care for the cherry wood handle is also recommended.
Conclusion on Katz Cheetah Small Lockback
The Katz Cheetah Small Lockback is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a refined and reliable everyday carry knife. It offers a blend of classic design, quality materials, and solid performance in a compact package.
The price of $169.99 is justified by the quality of construction and materials used. It is a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate a well-made tool that will last for years.
I would definitely recommend the Katz Cheetah Small Lockback to anyone looking for a stylish and functional pocketknife. If you appreciate timeless design and reliable performance, the Katz Cheetah Small Lockback is an excellent choice. Add this classic knife to your collection today!