First Impressions of Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan
The Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan is a budget-friendly assisted opening knife that caught my eye as a potential everyday carry (EDC) option. Camillus Knives has a long history, and I was curious to see how this modern design holds up. With its tan micarta handle and titanium-coated blade, it promises a blend of practicality and aesthetics.
As someone who’s been carrying and using knives in the outdoors and tactical environments for over a decade, I’m always looking for a reliable blade. I needed a lightweight, easily deployable knife that wouldn’t break the bank, but still be durable enough for daily tasks. My go-to EDC knife was getting a bit worn, and I wanted to try something new without a huge investment.
Upon unboxing the Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan, I was initially pleased with its overall appearance. The tan micarta handle felt comfortable in my hand, and the blade’s titanium coating gave it a sleek look. However, the weight felt a little lighter than expected, which raised some initial questions about its robustness.
I considered the Kershaw Blur and the CRKT M16-01KS, both popular EDC knives in a similar price range. I chose the Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan because of the micarta handle, which I prefer over aluminum or G10 for its grip and feel. Plus, the assisted opening mechanism seemed faster than the manual opening of the CRKT.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The knife looked good and felt decent, but I needed to put it to the test to see if it could withstand real-world use. I was hoping for a reliable EDC knife that would perform well, but I also anticipated potential issues given its budget-friendly price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan on a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for various tasks, including cutting rope, preparing food, and whittling wood for a campfire. The assisted opening was quick and reliable, making it easy to deploy the blade with one hand.
The knife performed surprisingly well in dry conditions. I found the micarta handle provided a secure grip, even when my hands were slightly sweaty. However, when it rained, the handle became noticeably more slippery, requiring a firmer grip to maintain control.
The assisted opening took very little getting used to. It’s intuitive and fast. The liner lock engaged securely, providing confidence during use.
After the first day of use, I noticed some minor chipping on the blade’s edge after cutting some tougher branches. It wasn’t a major issue, but it hinted at the limitations of the 420 stainless steel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan has held up reasonably well, but not without showing some wear. The blade’s titanium coating has started to wear off in certain areas, particularly near the tip. The assisted opening mechanism still functions reliably, although it feels slightly less smooth than when it was new.
The durability is acceptable for a knife in this price range, but it’s not exceptional. The blade has required more frequent sharpening than my other knives. Also, I’ve noticed some slight play in the blade when fully extended, suggesting that the pivot point may be loosening.
Maintaining the knife is relatively easy. I regularly clean the blade with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point. The micarta handle is easy to wipe clean, but it does tend to absorb stains if not cleaned promptly.
Compared to my previous EDC knife (a Benchmade Griptilian), the Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan doesn’t quite measure up in terms of overall durability and blade quality. However, considering the price difference, it’s a decent alternative for those on a budget. The Griptilian’s superior steel and build quality justify its higher cost.
Breaking Down the Features of Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3 inches (7.62cm). This length makes it suitable for EDC without being unwieldy.
- Closed Length: 4.5 inches (11.43cm). A compact size for pocket carry.
- Blade Material: 420 Stainless Steel with Titanium Coating. The titanium coating improves corrosion resistance, while 420 steel offers decent edge retention at a lower cost.
- Handle Material: Tan Micarta. Micarta provides a good grip and a classic look.
- Weight: 0.3 lb (approximately 4.8 ounces). This weight is light enough for comfortable carry.
- Assisted Opening: Provides fast, one-handed blade deployment. Assisted opening makes the knife quicker and easier to use in various situations.
- Linerlock: A simple and reliable locking mechanism. The liner lock ensures the blade stays securely open during use.
- Pocket Clip: Allows for convenient carry. A pocket clip is essential for an EDC knife.
- Lanyard Hole: Provides an option for attaching a lanyard. The lanyard hole allows for added security and customization.
Performance & Functionality
The Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan performs adequately for general cutting tasks. The blade is sharp enough to handle most EDC needs, but it requires frequent sharpening to maintain its edge. The assisted opening mechanism works well, providing quick and reliable blade deployment.
The knife’s primary strength is its ease of use and comfortable grip. The micarta handle feels good in the hand, and the assisted opening makes it easy to deploy the blade one-handed. However, the blade steel is a weakness, as it doesn’t hold an edge as well as higher-end steels.
It mostly meets expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife. I wasn’t expecting it to perform like a high-end knife, and it delivers acceptable performance for the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan has a functional and aesthetically pleasing design. The tan micarta handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The overall build quality is decent for the price point, although it doesn’t feel as robust as more expensive knives.
It’s relatively user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. The assisted opening mechanism is intuitive, and the liner lock is easy to operate. The handle ergonomics are well-designed, providing a comfortable grip for various hand sizes.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability is adequate for light to medium-duty use. However, the blade steel is prone to chipping and requires frequent sharpening. The titanium coating on the blade will wear off over time.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and oiling will help to keep the knife in good working condition. Sharpening will be required more often than with knives made from higher-end steels.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan comes with a standard pocket clip. There are no readily available aftermarket scales or other accessories specifically designed for this model.
The lanyard hole allows for the attachment of a lanyard. Also, generic knife maintenance tools such as sharpeners and lubricants are compatible.
Pros and Cons of Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan
Pros
- Budget-friendly Price: An affordable option for those on a tight budget.
- Assisted Opening: Fast and reliable one-handed blade deployment.
- Micarta Handle: Provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry as an EDC knife.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The tan micarta and titanium-coated blade offer a stylish look.
Cons
- 420 Stainless Steel Blade: Doesn’t hold an edge as well as higher-end steels.
- Durability Concerns: Some components may wear down with heavy use.
- Limited Customization: Few aftermarket accessories are available.
Who Should Buy Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan?
The Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan is perfect for:
- Casual EDC users who need a reliable and affordable knife for everyday tasks.
- Budget-conscious individuals looking for a decent assisted opening knife.
- Those who appreciate the classic look and feel of a micarta handle.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who require a knife for heavy-duty use or demanding outdoor activities.
- Individuals who prioritize edge retention and superior blade steel.
- Users who prefer knives with extensive customization options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good quality knife sharpener is essential to maintain the blade’s edge. Consider adding a lanyard for enhanced grip and security.
Conclusion on Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan
The Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan is a decent budget-friendly option for those seeking an affordable and functional EDC knife. While it doesn’t offer the same level of durability or performance as higher-end knives, it provides good value for the price. The assisted opening mechanism, comfortable micarta handle, and lightweight design make it a practical choice for everyday tasks.
The price is justified for what you get. It’s a good entry-level knife for those who are new to EDC.
I would recommend it to individuals who understand its limitations and are looking for a budget-friendly option. It’s a solid choice for light to medium-duty use.
If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable, and stylish EDC knife, the Camillus Knives Arvo Linerlock A/O Tan is worth considering. Give it a try and see if it fits your needs!