Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw Review

First Impressions of Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw

The Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw is an intriguing piece, sparking curiosity right out of the gate. From Boker, a name synonymous with quality blades, this compact multi-tool hints at a blend of practicality and a touch of historical inspiration. I was drawn to this specific knife, hoping to find a lightweight, pocket-sized solution for basic camp tasks and emergency preparedness.

My everyday carry (EDC) usually involves a larger folding knife and a dedicated multi-tool. But the allure of a simpler, more streamlined option – one capable of handling small cutting and sawing tasks – led me to consider the Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw. Upon receiving it, the small size and unusual blade shapes were immediately noticeable.

Compared to my Leatherman Wave+, which offers a vast array of tools, the Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw is far less bulky, promising a more comfortable pocket carry. It also contrasts sharply with my Spyderco Paramilitary 2, a dedicated folding knife focused solely on cutting, while the Boker offers a saw and a unique reverse tanto blade. I chose this over a standard Swiss Army knife because the blade shapes seemed more practical for my specific needs: processing small tinder and making quick cuts. I was cautiously optimistic; its size and unique design could prove either remarkably useful or somewhat limiting.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw during a weekend camping trip in the nearby foothills. I needed to gather small branches for kindling and prepare some feather sticks for fire starting. The conditions were fairly dry, with a slight chill in the air.

The saw blade performed surprisingly well on branches up to about an inch in diameter. The hawkbill blade was useful for stripping bark, while the reverse tanto blade proved handy for creating the fine shavings needed for feather sticks. The small size demanded a deliberate approach. There were no immediate issues but the small handle size seemed a bit challenging with gloves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw has proven to be reasonably durable for its size. There are no signs of blade wobble, and the stainless steel construction seems resistant to rust despite exposure to moisture. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down after use keeps it in good condition.

Compared to my experience with other small multi-tools, the Boker holds its own in terms of build quality. However, its specialized blade shapes limit its versatility compared to tools with more traditional knife blades or pliers. It is definitely a niche tool, excelling within that niche.

Breaking Down the Features of Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw

Specifications

• The Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw features a 3-inch (7.62cm) closed length, making it incredibly compact for pocket carry. This is crucial for EDC as it minimizes bulk.
• It boasts satin finish 440 stainless hawkbill, saw, and reverse tanto blades, offering a range of cutting and sawing options. Stainless steel is a good choice as it provides decent corrosion resistance for outdoor use.
• The handle is made of green stainless steel, providing a durable and weather-resistant grip. The stainless steel handle adds to the robustness of the knife.
• A lanyard hole allows for secure attachment to a keychain or pack. This is a simple but valuable addition.
• The knife weighs in at just 0.1 lb, which is incredibly light and easy to carry. The light weight makes it almost unnoticeable in a pocket.

Performance & Functionality

The Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw performs well within its intended limitations. The saw is effective on small branches, and the hawkbill and reverse tanto blades offer unique cutting capabilities. The small size requires a measured approach to tasks.

The main strength is its portability and specialized blade profiles. The primary weakness is its limited overall versatility compared to larger multi-tools. It certainly meets the expectation of being a lightweight, pocket-friendly tool for basic tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

The Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw features a robust, all-metal design. The green stainless handle provides a decent grip, though it can feel a bit slippery when wet. There is a slight learning curve due to the unusual blade shapes.

The build quality is good for its price point, feeling solid and well-assembled. The ergonomics are acceptable, considering its small size, though extended use can lead to hand fatigue.

Durability & Maintenance

The Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw appears to be built to last with proper care. The stainless-steel construction resists corrosion, and the blades seem reasonably durable. Maintenance is simple; cleaning and occasional oiling should keep it in good working order.

The stainless steel blades are easy to sharpen. Given the knife’s materials, it should last for many years with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw comes as a standalone tool. There are no included accessories beyond the box packaging. Customization options are limited due to its design, although a custom lanyard could be added.

It isn’t really compatible with accessories beyond a basic lanyard. The nature of the design makes extensive modifications impractical.

Pros and Cons of Boker Japanese Army Pen Knife Saw