Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue Review

First Impressions of Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue

The Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue immediately grabs your attention with its striking aesthetics and promises of high-performance. Manufactured by Bestech Knives, this folding knife boasts a premium S35VN stainless steel blade and a sleek black and blue G10 handle, suggesting a blend of durability and sophisticated design. The framelock mechanism indicates a strong, secure lockup, and the inclusion of a pocket clip caters to everyday carry convenience. The Keen II appears to be a knife that wants to perform as good as it looks.

I was searching for a reliable and stylish EDC (everyday carry) knife that could handle a variety of tasks, from opening packages and cutting rope to more demanding outdoor activities. I needed something that was both durable and aesthetically pleasing, moving away from the more utilitarian designs I had previously used. I was looking for a bit of flair, but not at the expense of performance.

Upon unboxing the Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue, the first thing I noticed was its satisfying weight. The combination of the steel blade and G10 handle gives it a solid, quality feel in hand. The black stonewash finish on the blade is both attractive and practical, hinting at scratch resistance, and the blue accents on the handle provide a welcome pop of color without being overly flashy. The framelock snaps into place with a reassuring click, immediately inspiring confidence.

I considered the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 as alternatives. The Bugout is significantly lighter but felt less substantial for tougher tasks. The Paramilitary 2 is a workhorse, but I was drawn to the Bestech’s more refined look and the unique black/blue handle color scheme. The Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue had a certain visual appeal that the others did not.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue exceeded my expectations in terms of fit and finish. I was excited to put it to work and see how it performs in real-world scenarios.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue came during a weekend camping trip in the nearby mountains. The knife was primarily used for food preparation, cutting rope for setting up the tent, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The clip point blade proved to be versatile, excelling at both slicing and piercing tasks.

During a brief rain shower, the G10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet. I also tested it in a dusty environment, deliberately exposing it to grit and debris; the framelock mechanism continued to operate smoothly. The knife’s thumb stud made one-handed opening easy and intuitive, even with gloved hands.

There were no immediate issues after the first use. The blade remained sharp, the lockup was solid, and the handle showed no signs of discomfort or hotspots. The action, though initially a little stiff, began to smooth out with use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue has proven to be a reliable and durable companion. It has seen daily use in tasks around the house, yard work, and continued to accompany me on outdoor adventures. The S35VN steel has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a strop.

The black stonewash finish has held up admirably, showing minimal scratches or wear despite being subjected to some fairly rough treatment. The G10 handle remains comfortable and secure, even after prolonged use. The framelock continues to provide a solid and dependable lockup.

Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a small amount of lubricant to the pivot point to maintain smooth action. Compared to previous knives I’ve owned, the Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue has held up better and required less maintenance overall. The high-quality materials and construction are evident in its long-term performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue

Specifications

• Blade Length: 4.13 inches. This length is ideal for a variety of tasks, offering a good balance between cutting power and portability.
• Closed Length: 5.63 inches. A manageable size for comfortable pocket carry.
• Blade Material: S35VN stainless steel with a black stonewash finish. S35VN is known for its excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it a premium choice for knife blades.
• Handle Material: Black and blue G10 with a black titanium back handle. G10 is a durable and lightweight composite material that provides excellent grip and resistance to wear and tear. The titanium back handle adds strength and rigidity to the framelock mechanism.
• Locking Mechanism: Framelock. This provides a secure and reliable lockup, ensuring the blade stays in place during use.
• Weight: 0.66 lbs (approximately 10.56 ounces). A solid weight that inspires confidence without being overly heavy for EDC.
• Additional Features: Thumb stud for one-handed opening, lanyard hole for added carry options, and a pocket clip for convenient pocket carry.

These specifications are crucial for the knife’s overall performance. The S35VN blade ensures long-lasting sharpness and durability, while the G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The framelock mechanism offers peace of mind knowing the blade will remain securely locked during use.

Performance & Functionality

The Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue performs admirably in a variety of tasks. The clip point blade excels at slicing, piercing, and general utility work. The knife’s ergonomics make it comfortable to use for extended periods, reducing hand fatigue.

The knife’s primary strength lies in its well-balanced design and high-quality materials. The blade’s edge retention is exceptional, and the framelock provides a rock-solid lockup. The action is smooth and consistent after the initial break-in period. One area for potential improvement would be the initial stiffness of the action out of the box.

The Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue meets and even exceeds my expectations for an EDC knife in this price range. Its performance is comparable to, or even better than, other knives I have used that cost significantly more.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue is excellent. The materials used are high-quality, and the fit and finish are impeccable. The knife feels substantial in hand without being overly heavy, striking a good balance between size and weight.

The knife is very user-friendly. The thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening, and the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. There is a slight learning curve to disengaging the framelock initially, but it quickly becomes second nature with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue is built to last. The S35VN blade is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, and the G10 handle is virtually indestructible. The framelock mechanism is robust and reliable, designed to withstand heavy use.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that is required to keep the knife in top condition. The knife’s design allows for easy disassembly and reassembly for more thorough cleaning if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue comes with a black nylon zippered storage case for protection during storage or transport. The knife also features a lanyard hole, allowing for the attachment of a lanyard or fob for added carry options.

While there are no specific Bestech Knives branded accessories for this model, the knife is compatible with universal lanyards and pocket clips. The handle scales could potentially be replaced with aftermarket options, although this may void the warranty. It is important to ensure any modifications are compatible and performed correctly to avoid damaging the knife or compromising its safety.

Pros and Cons of Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue?

The Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue is perfect for EDC enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone who appreciates a high-quality, stylish knife. It is an excellent choice for individuals who value both performance and aesthetics in their everyday carry gear. It is also well-suited for those who need a reliable knife for a variety of tasks, from everyday chores to more demanding outdoor activities.

Those who prefer ultra-lightweight knives or who are on a very tight budget might want to skip this product. Beginners might find the framelock a little difficult to disengage at first.

A high-quality sharpening stone or strop is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. A paracord lanyard can also be a useful addition for added grip and security.

Conclusion on Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue

The Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue is a well-designed and expertly crafted folding knife that offers a compelling blend of performance and style. Its high-quality materials, robust construction, and striking aesthetics make it a standout option in the crowded EDC market. While the price point may be a barrier for some, the Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue delivers a value proposition that justifies the investment for those who appreciate quality and craftsmanship.

The price is justified by the premium materials used, the excellent build quality, and the overall performance of the knife. The S35VN blade and G10 handle are top-of-the-line, and the framelock mechanism provides a secure and reliable lockup.

I would absolutely recommend the Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue to anyone looking for a high-quality, stylish, and reliable EDC knife. Its performance, durability, and aesthetics make it a worthwhile addition to any knife collection. Upgrade your EDC game today with the Bestech Knives Keen II Framelock Black/Blue!