First Impressions of Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl
The Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl is a knife that immediately catches the eye with its attractive burl wood handle. Manufactured by Browning, this assisted opening knife offers a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality, promising a reliable tool for everyday carry or outdoor adventures.
I was looking for a dependable EDC knife that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered a touch of class. Many tactical knives lean towards a purely utilitarian aesthetic, but I wanted something with a bit more visual appeal without sacrificing performance.
Upon unboxing, the Nine Mile felt solid and well-balanced. The burl wood handle, paired with the satin finish stainless steel, gives it a premium feel that belies its affordable price. It feels like a well-built knife from the start.
Compared to a similar Kershaw Blur I own, the Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl has a more refined look, sacrificing some of the aggressive tactical styling for a more subtle elegance. I also considered a CRKT Pilar, but the Browning’s assisted opening and burl wood handle ultimately won me over.
I was pleasantly surprised by the initial quality and design. It looks and feels more expensive than it is, sparking excitement to see how it performs in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl during a weekend camping trip and as my EDC for a week. The knife was used for tasks like food preparation, cutting rope, and general camp chores.
The assisted opening mechanism worked flawlessly, even with slightly damp hands, providing quick and easy blade deployment. The knife handled basic cutting tasks with ease, though the 2.75-inch blade felt a bit short for some larger tasks like batoning small pieces of wood (which isn’t really its intended purpose anyway). No issues arose during my initial testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of carrying and using the Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl, it has held up remarkably well. The blade has maintained its sharpness, requiring only minimal touch-ups with a honing steel.
There are a few minor scratches on the stainless steel handle and pocket clip, but the burl wood handle has remained in excellent condition. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The action remains smooth and consistent. Compared to some of my more expensive knives, it’s holding up better than expected, especially given the price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl
Specifications
- Blade Length: 2.75 inches. This blade length is suitable for EDC tasks but may feel a bit limiting for larger cutting chores.
- Closed Length: 4 inches. This provides a comfortable size for pocket carry without being too bulky.
- Blade Material: Stainless Steel. Offers a good balance of corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening.
- Handle Material: Burl Wood Handle with Satin Finish Stainless Back. This combination provides a secure grip and an aesthetically pleasing look.
- Assisted Opening. Allows for rapid, one-handed blade deployment.
- Framelock. Provides a robust and secure blade lockup.
- Pocket Clip. Allows for convenient and secure carry.
- Weight: 0.22 lb. The lightweight design makes it comfortable for everyday carry.
These specifications translate to a knife that’s easy to carry, quick to deploy, and capable of handling most EDC tasks. The burl wood handle adds a touch of class, while the stainless steel construction ensures durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl performs admirably for its intended purpose as an EDC knife. The assisted opening is snappy and reliable.
The blade’s edge retention is decent, requiring only occasional sharpening. The framelock mechanism provides a solid lockup, inspiring confidence during use. The knife is well-suited for everyday tasks like opening packages, cutting cordage, and preparing food. The only weakness is the relatively short blade, which limits its utility for larger tasks. It meets my expectations for an EDC knife at this price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is impressive for a knife in this price range. The materials feel solid and well-assembled.
The knife sits comfortably in the hand, offering a secure grip thanks to the contoured burl wood handle. The assisted opening is intuitive and easy to use, requiring minimal effort. The pocket clip is sturdy and positions the knife well in the pocket, allowing for comfortable and convenient everyday carry. There is no learning curve for this knife.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl should last for years. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion.
Cleaning is simple; regular wiping with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point will keep it in good working order. The framelock design is robust and reliable, minimizing the need for repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl comes with a standard pocket clip. There are no included accessories besides the box itself.
Customization options are somewhat limited due to the framelock design and integrated handle scales. However, aftermarket pocket clips may be available.
Pros and Cons of Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl
Pros
- Attractive burl wood handle adds a touch of class. This elevates the knife beyond purely utilitarian designs.
- Reliable assisted opening mechanism for quick blade deployment. Provides fast access to the blade when needed.
- Solid framelock provides secure blade lockup. Ensures safety and confidence during use.
- Lightweight and comfortable for everyday carry. Makes it an excellent choice for EDC.
- Excellent value for the price. Offers a great combination of features and quality at an affordable price point.
Cons
- Relatively short 2.75-inch blade limits utility for larger tasks.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl?
Perfect for: EDC enthusiasts, casual campers, and anyone seeking a stylish and functional knife for everyday tasks. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality.
Who should skip this product? Those who require a large, heavy-duty knife for demanding outdoor applications or prefer extensive customization options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening stone or honing steel to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl
The Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl is a well-designed and functional EDC knife that offers excellent value for the price. Its attractive burl wood handle, reliable assisted opening, and solid framelock make it a standout option in its category.
The price is absolutely justified considering the materials and performance. It’s a stylish knife that doesn’t compromise on functionality.
I would definitely recommend the Browning Nine Mile Framelock A/O Burl to anyone looking for a dependable and attractive EDC knife that won’t break the bank. It’s a great addition to any collection or a perfect starter knife for those new to the world of EDC. Pick one up today and experience the quality and style for yourself!