First Impressions of Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan
The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan – the name itself conjures images of toughness in a compact package. Honey Badger Knives is a brand that’s been buzzing in the EDC community, and I was eager to see if this little folder lived up to the hype. I was looking for a lightweight, reliable knife that wouldn’t weigh down my pocket but could handle everyday tasks.
After years of lugging around heavier, more tactical-oriented knives, I wanted something discreet and practical for daily use. The promise of a sculpted GRN handle and a capable 8Cr13MoV stainless blade piqued my interest. Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its size. The tan handle has a unique texture that immediately stood out.
Compared to my Benchmade Mini Griptilian and my Spyderco Delica 4, the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan felt smaller and lighter. I ultimately chose the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan for its appealing combination of affordability, compact size, and promising ergonomics. My first impression was positive, leaning towards pleasantly surprised, and ready to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan during a weekend camping trip in the local mountains. The weather was damp, with intermittent rain showers, which provided a good opportunity to test the handle’s grip in less-than-ideal conditions. I used it for various tasks, from preparing food and cutting cordage to whittling small pieces of wood for kindling.
The blade’s sharpness out of the box was impressive, easily slicing through cardboard and rope. The handle’s textured GRN provided a secure grip, even when wet, which gave me a good sense of control and confidence. There were no major issues, but the liner lock felt a little stiff initially, requiring a deliberate push to disengage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan has held up remarkably well. The blade has retained its edge reasonably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the blade or handle.
The liner lock has smoothed out with use, becoming easier to operate. I regularly clean the blade with a dry cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to ensure smooth action. It consistently outperforms knives in its price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan
Specifications
The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan features a 2.75-inch 8Cr13MoV stainless steel tanto blade. This steel is known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it a solid choice for an EDC knife. The closed length is 3.75 inches, and the overall weight is a mere 0.34 lbs, making it incredibly pocket-friendly.
The handle is made from tan sculpted GRN (Glass Reinforced Nylon), a lightweight and durable material that provides excellent grip. The liner lock mechanism ensures secure blade lockup during use. Other features include an extended tang for easy one-handed opening, a lanyard hole for added carry options, and a pocket clip for convenient and discreet carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan performs admirably for its intended purpose as an everyday carry knife. The tanto blade offers a strong tip for piercing and excels at slicing and utility tasks. The blade geometry, combined with the 8Cr13MoV steel, makes it a reliable tool for a wide range of cutting chores.
The only weakness I’ve observed is that the tanto tip isn’t ideal for fine carving or detailed work, but that’s a trade-off for its strength. The knife has exceeded my expectations for its price point, offering a level of performance that rivals more expensive knives.
Design & Ergonomics
The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan is thoughtfully designed with ergonomics in mind. The sculpted GRN handle fits comfortably in hand, providing a secure and confident grip. The knife’s lightweight and slim profile make it a pleasure to carry, disappearing in the pocket until needed.
The knife is quite user-friendly, with a smooth opening action and an easily accessible liner lock. There’s no steep learning curve; it’s ready to go right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan is built to last, thanks to its quality materials and solid construction. The 8Cr13MoV blade is resistant to corrosion, and the GRN handle can withstand the rigors of daily use. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward: regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. Sharpening the blade is also relatively easy, thanks to the properties of the 8Cr13MoV steel.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan comes standard with a reversible pocket clip, allowing for tip-up carry on either the left or right side. The lanyard hole provides another carry option for those who prefer to attach it to a keychain or carabiner. Beyond these, there aren’t a lot of readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this model.
However, the standard hardware should be compatible with generic screws and standoffs if you want to customize the look. The compact size and design also make it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket pocket clips.
Pros and Cons of Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan
Pros
- Excellent value for the price. You get a lot of performance and quality for a very affordable price point.
- Lightweight and compact. Easy to carry discreetly in a pocket without feeling weighed down.
- Durable GRN handle. Provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Sharp 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade. Offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
- Ambidextrous pocket clip. Allows for tip-up carry on either side.
Cons
- Liner lock can be a bit stiff initially. Requires a deliberate push to disengage.
- Tanto blade not ideal for fine carving. Limited in detailed work due to the blade shape.
Who Should Buy Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan?
The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan is perfect for anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and discreet EDC knife. This is an excellent choice for students, office workers, and anyone who needs a general-purpose cutting tool for everyday tasks. It’s a solid option for casual campers and hikers who want a lightweight backup knife.
Those who require a specialized blade shape for intricate carving or prefer a more robust locking mechanism should consider other options. If you need a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks, this small folder may not be the best choice.
Conclusion on Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan
The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan is an exceptional value for the money, delivering solid performance and durability in a compact package. It’s a well-designed EDC knife that excels at everyday tasks and offers a comfortable and secure grip. The price is definitely justified for what you get, and it’s hard to find a better knife in this price range.
I would definitely recommend the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable EDC knife. It’s a great entry-level option for those new to the knife world, as well as a dependable backup for experienced users. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly EDC option that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Tan is well worth considering.