First Impressions of Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple
The Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple is a folding knife that immediately catches the eye. Manufactured by Acta Non Verba Knives, this knife blends tactical functionality with a splash of unique aesthetics. The Elmax steel blade, DLC coating, and vibrant purple handle make it a standout piece, promising both performance and a distinct personal style.
As a seasoned outdoorsman, I’m always searching for tools that are both reliable and reflective of my personality. I needed a robust folding knife that could handle various tasks, from preparing food at a campsite to more demanding cutting tasks while maintaining a sense of individuality. The A100’s combination of high-end materials and striking colorway drew me in.
Unboxing the A100, the first thing I noticed was the solid, reassuring weight. The purple GRN handle felt secure in my hand, and the blade deployed smoothly with the thumb stud. The fit and finish seemed excellent, suggesting a knife built to withstand serious use.
I was also considering the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Para 3. Ultimately, I chose the Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple because its A-Lock mechanism seemed exceptionally strong, and the Elmax steel promised superior edge retention compared to the Bugout’s S30V or the Para 3’s various steel options. The unique color was also a deciding factor.
My first impression was one of excitement. The Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple appeared to be a well-crafted tool that could handle demanding tasks while still reflecting a sense of style.
Real-World Testing: Putting Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple on a week-long camping trip in the Cascade Mountains. The knife was used for everything from food preparation to cutting rope and shaping tinder for fire starting. The A100 performed admirably, slicing cleanly and maintaining its edge remarkably well.
Even in damp conditions, the GRN handle provided a secure grip. Deploying and locking the blade was easy, even with slightly wet hands. The knife required no break-in period and felt natural to use immediately.
The only minor issue was that the DLC coating on the blade showed a few faint scratches after some heavier use. This was purely cosmetic, however, and didn’t impact performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple has proven to be incredibly durable. The blade remains sharp, and the A-Lock mechanism is as solid as the day I unboxed it. There are no signs of blade play or loosening of the handle.
The DLC coating, while showing some minor cosmetic wear, has otherwise held up well to abrasion and corrosion. The GRN handle is also remarkably resistant to scratches and impacts. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed.
I’ve used several other high-end folding knives over the years, including a Chris Reeve Sebenza. While the Sebenza is undoubtedly a refined tool, the A100’s A-Lock feels more secure, and the Elmax steel seems to hold an edge longer than the Sebenza’s S35VN. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple’s performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.63 inches (9.22cm). This provides a good balance between cutting power and portability.
- Closed Length: 4.63 inches (11.76cm). Compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.
- Blade Material: Elmax Steel. This is a high-chromium-vanadium-molybdenum alloyed steel known for its exceptional wear resistance, high compressive strength, resistance to corrosion and very good dimensional stability.
- Blade Coating: Black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon). This coating increases the blade’s hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance, also reduces friction.
- Handle Material: Purple GRN (Glass Reinforced Nylon). This lightweight, durable polymer offers excellent grip and impact resistance.
- Locking Mechanism: A-Lock. Known for its strength and ambidextrous operation.
- Weight: 0.32 lbs (approximately 5.12 ounces). A comfortable weight for everyday carry without feeling too heavy.
- Pocket Clip: Included. Provides a secure and convenient carry option.
These specifications translate to a knife that’s tough, reliable, and easy to use. The A100 is designed to handle demanding tasks in various environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple excels in cutting performance. The Elmax steel blade is incredibly sharp and holds its edge for a remarkable amount of time. It cleanly slices through rope, cardboard, and wood with minimal effort.
The A-Lock mechanism is exceptionally strong and provides a secure lockup. There is absolutely no blade play, and the lock is easy to disengage with one hand. The thumb stud allows for quick and easy blade deployment.
The knife’s biggest strength is its combination of a high-performance blade and a rock-solid locking mechanism. The one area for potential improvement is the DLC coating, which is prone to showing cosmetic scratches. Despite this, the A100 meets and exceeds expectations for a high-end folding knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The A100 boasts excellent build quality. The materials used are top-notch, and the knife feels solid and well-constructed. The purple GRN handle is both comfortable and visually appealing. The ergonomics are well-thought-out; the handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
There is minimal learning curve. The knife is easy to deploy, lock, and unlock. The pocket clip is well-placed and allows for comfortable carry.
Durability & Maintenance
The Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple is built to last. The Elmax steel blade is incredibly durable, and the GRN handle can withstand significant abuse. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. The blade can be easily sharpened with a quality sharpening system, and the handle can be cleaned with soap and water. The A-Lock mechanism is relatively simple and requires minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple comes standard with a pocket clip. There aren’t many official accessories offered by Acta Non Verba Knives specifically for the A100.
However, the knife is compatible with many aftermarket lanyards. The pocket clip can also be replaced with different aftermarket clips if desired. The A-Lock mechanism may require specific tools for disassembly and maintenance beyond basic cleaning.
Pros and Cons of Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple
Pros
- Exceptional Edge Retention: The Elmax steel blade holds its edge for an incredibly long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Rock-Solid A-Lock: The A-Lock mechanism is exceptionally strong and provides a secure lockup, enhancing user safety and confidence.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials and excellent build quality ensure long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The GRN handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Unique Aesthetics: The purple handle and DLC-coated blade provide a distinct and stylish look.
Cons
- DLC Coating Susceptibility: The DLC coating on the blade is prone to showing cosmetic scratches with heavy use.
- Limited Customization: There are limited official accessories and customization options available.
Who Should Buy Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple?
The Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple is perfect for experienced outdoorsmen and tactical users who appreciate a high-performance knife with a unique aesthetic. It’s also a great option for everyday carry for anyone who values a reliable and durable cutting tool. People who require a strong and safe locking mechanism will also appreciate it.
Someone prioritizing a knife with readily available customization options or who needs a knife that can maintain a pristine appearance regardless of use should skip this product. They may want a knife with a more scratch-resistant coating or more extensive aftermarket support.
A quality sharpening system is a must-have accessory. A lanyard can also be a useful addition for enhanced grip and control.
Conclusion on Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple
The Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple is an outstanding folding knife that delivers exceptional performance and durability. The Elmax steel blade, rock-solid A-Lock, and comfortable ergonomics make it a joy to use. The unique purple handle and DLC-coated blade add a touch of personal style.
At $159.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and craftsmanship. This knife is built to last and will provide years of reliable service.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Acta Non Verba Knives A100 A Lock Elmax Purple to anyone looking for a high-performance folding knife that stands out from the crowd. If you want a knife that is as reliable as it is stylish, then consider adding it to your collection.