First Impressions of China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS
The China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS is an assisted opening knife that immediately grabs your attention with its unique handle artwork. For a sub-$20 knife, I was curious to see if it could hold up to even basic tasks. I often find myself needing a quick, easily accessible blade for opening boxes, cutting rope, or other small tasks around the campsite, and I was looking for something lightweight and affordable that I wouldn’t be too concerned about losing or damaging.
My search led me to the China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS due to its low price and the assisted opening feature. I wanted something readily deployable with one hand. I had been considering a few other budget-friendly knives in the same price range, but the distinctive “Samurai warrior handle artwork” of this one made it stand out, promising a bit of visual flair despite the low cost. Others I considered were similar generic linerlocks, but lacked the assisted opening.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its price. The ABS handle, while clearly not a premium material, felt sturdy enough, and the blade deployed quickly thanks to the assisted opening mechanism. My initial thought was, “This might actually be useful,” followed by a healthy dose of skepticism about long-term durability. It definitely doesn’t feel like a $100 knife, but it doesn’t feel like a $5 knife either.
Real-World Testing: Putting China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS on a weekend camping trip, where I used it for basic tasks like opening food packages, cutting cordage for tent lines, and whittling small kindling. The assisted opening was reliable, making it easy to deploy the blade with one hand, even while wearing gloves.
The blade’s black finish seemed prone to scratching, but the edge held up reasonably well through the weekend. I found the handle comfortable enough for short tasks, but the ABS material started to feel slick when my hands got sweaty. There were no major issues during the initial use, but I did notice some slight blade play after some moderate use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of carrying the China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS as my everyday carry (EDC) knife, the initial optimism faded somewhat. The blade play became more pronounced, and the assisted opening mechanism felt a bit gritty.
The black finish on the blade is wearing off noticeably, especially near the tip and edges, revealing the stainless steel underneath. Cleaning is straightforward, but I noticed some rust forming around the pivot point after being exposed to moisture, despite my best efforts. Compared to my higher-end knives, the China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS definitely feels like a disposable tool, but at this price point, that is understandable.
Breaking Down the Features of China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS
Specifications
- Assisted Opening: This is the key feature. It allows for rapid, one-handed deployment of the blade.
- 4.5″ Closed Length: Compact enough for pocket carry.
- 3.5″ Black Finish Stainless Steel Clip Point Blade: A practical blade shape for various tasks, with a corrosion-resistant coating (though the durability of the coating is questionable). The 3.5″ blade is sufficient for most everyday cutting needs.
- ABS Handle: A lightweight and inexpensive polymer handle material with Samurai warrior artwork.
- Extended Tang: Provides added strength and leverage.
- Linerlock: Locks the blade open during use.
- Pocket Clip: Allows for convenient carry in a pocket or on a belt.
- Weight: 0.28 lb: Very lightweight, making it comfortable for all-day carry.
These specifications translate to a knife that is easy to carry and deploy, making it useful for quick tasks. However, the budget materials raise concerns about long-term durability and reliability. The lightweight design is a definite plus for EDC, as is the assisted opening.
Performance & Functionality
The China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS performs adequately for light-duty tasks. The blade is reasonably sharp out of the box, and the assisted opening is reliable, although it can feel a little stiff at times.
The linerlock engages securely, but the blade play is a concern. While it is not dangerous, it does make the knife feel less precise. For the price, it gets the job done, but I wouldn’t rely on it for demanding tasks.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is aesthetically pleasing, with the Samurai warrior artwork on the handle being a unique touch. The ABS handle is comfortable enough for short periods of use. The pocket clip is functional and allows for easy carry.
However, the ergonomics could be improved. The handle lacks texture, making it slippery when wet. The linerlock is also a bit stiff and requires some effort to disengage.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the budget materials, I don’t expect the China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS to last for years. The black finish is already showing wear, and the blade play is likely to worsen over time.
Maintenance is simple – cleaning and oiling the pivot point will help to prevent rust. However, major repairs are likely not worth the effort given the low price of the knife.
Accessories and Customization Options
The China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available, such as different scales or blade finishes. This is a basic knife designed for functionality, not personalization.
It’s unlikely that aftermarket parts are readily available for this specific model. This is a knife designed to be used and potentially replaced, rather than upgraded.
Pros and Cons of China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS
Pros
- Affordable Price: At around $16, it’s hard to argue with the value.
- Assisted Opening: One-handed blade deployment is quick and easy.
- Lightweight Design: Comfortable for everyday carry.
- Unique Aesthetics: The Samurai warrior artwork adds a bit of personality.
- Functional Pocket Clip: Allows for convenient carry.
Cons
- Subpar Materials: The ABS handle and stainless steel blade are not the most durable.
- Blade Play: Noticeable blade play affects the knife’s precision.
- Questionable Long-Term Durability: Unlikely to withstand heavy use.
Who Should Buy China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS?
The China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS is perfect for:
- Casual campers or hikers who need a basic knife for light tasks.
- Individuals looking for an inexpensive EDC knife that they won’t be too concerned about losing or damaging.
- Anyone who wants a novelty knife with a unique design.
Who should skip this product?
- Serious outdoorsmen or survivalists who need a reliable and durable knife.
- Anyone who demands precision and quality in their tools.
- Those who prefer knives with premium materials and construction.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.
- Some lubricant to keep the assisted opening mechanism smooth.
Conclusion on China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS
The China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS is a budget-friendly knife with a unique design and functional assisted opening. While the materials and construction quality are not top-notch, it performs adequately for light-duty tasks.
The price is definitely justified for what you get – a usable knife with a bit of personality. However, don’t expect it to last for years or withstand heavy use.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a cheap and cheerful knife for casual use. Just be aware of its limitations and don’t expect it to perform like a high-end blade. If you need a reliable, hard-working knife for serious outdoor adventures, look elsewhere. But if you just need something to open boxes and cut rope, the China Made Warrior Linerlock A/O CN300573SS will do the trick. Give it a shot if you’re on a budget, but remember – you get what you pay for.