Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 Review

First Impressions of Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 immediately struck me as a compact and practical everyday carry (EDC) option. Manufactured by Honey Badger Knives, its unassuming design and black sculpted GRN handle hint at a no-nonsense tool ready for a variety of tasks.

I was seeking a lightweight, reliable knife that wouldn’t weigh down my kit during long hikes and could handle basic camp chores. I was particularly drawn to its size; I wanted something easily pocketable without sacrificing blade utility.

Upon unboxing, the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 felt surprisingly robust despite its small stature. The sculpted handle provided a secure grip, and the blade deployed smoothly with the thumb pull.

I was also considering the Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight and the Benchmade Bugout, both popular EDC knives. I ultimately chose the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 due to its appealing price point and the intriguing texture of the GRN handle, wanting to assess how it held up to real-world use.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 seemed like a solid value proposition, and I was eager to put it through its paces. It felt promising, like it could become a trusty companion for daily adventures.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The varied terrain and unpredictable weather provided ample opportunities to assess its performance.

The knife excelled at basic tasks such as food preparation, cutting cordage, and feathering sticks for fire starting, even after an unexpected downpour. The GRN handle remained secure even when wet, offering a reassuring grip.

The blade initially felt a little stiff, but after repeated opening and closing, the action smoothed out considerably. There were no major issues, but I did notice the black finish on the blade showed some minor scratches after cutting through a few stubborn branches.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of near-daily use, the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages and cutting zip ties to more demanding tasks like preparing kindling and cleaning small game.

The knife has held up remarkably well, with only minor cosmetic wear to the blade’s finish and slight softening of the initial edge sharpness. The liner lock remains solid and dependable, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand demanding use.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple cleaning with soap and water followed by a light application of oil keeps the blade rust-free and the action smooth. Compared to some of my higher-end knives, the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of care.

Breaking Down the Features of Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355

Specifications

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 features a 2.75-inch black finish 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade, offering a good balance of edge retention and corrosion resistance. Its 3.75-inch closed length makes it highly pocketable.

The handle is constructed from black sculpted GRN (Glass Reinforced Nylon), providing a lightweight yet durable grip. It also features an extended tang, lanyard hole, and pocket clip for versatile carry options.

These specifications combine to create a knife that is both lightweight and capable. The stainless steel blade resists corrosion, crucial for outdoor use, and the sculpted handle enhances grip and control.

Performance & Functionality

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 performs admirably for its intended purpose as an EDC knife. The blade sharpness out of the box is decent and the 8Cr13MoV steel is easy to resharpen.

The liner lock is secure and easy to operate with one hand, a critical feature for tactical and survival scenarios. The knife’s lightweight and compact size make it comfortable to carry all day without being obtrusive.

While it may not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks like batoning wood, it excels at everyday cutting chores and light bushcraft. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 is surprisingly good for its price range. The GRN handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions, and the sculpted texture enhances control.

The knife’s lightweight construction makes it easy to carry and maneuver, and the thumb pull allows for quick and easy one-handed opening. There’s a slight learning curve to closing the liner lock smoothly, but it becomes second nature with practice.

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 balances lightweight design with comfortable ergonomics. The thoughtful sculpting of the handle really improves the user experience.

Durability & Maintenance

Given proper care, the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 should last for many years of regular use. The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the GRN handle is highly durable.

Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning and light oiling are sufficient to keep the knife in top condition. The liner lock mechanism is robust and unlikely to fail under normal usage.

The construction quality suggests that this knife is built to withstand regular wear and tear. It’s designed for long-term reliability and easy maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 comes standard with a pocket clip, which can be configured for tip-up or tip-down carry, enhancing its versatility. The lanyard hole also offers another carry option.

While there are no specific accessories designed solely for this model, the standard dimensions of the knife allow it to be used with universal knife pouches and sheaths. The pocket clip is a major selling point for ease of carry.

While customization options are limited, its compatibility with aftermarket pouches makes it adaptable to various carrying preferences. The included features meet the needs of most users.

Pros and Cons of Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355

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Who Should Buy Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355?

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and anyone seeking a reliable and affordable utility knife. It’s also an excellent choice for beginners looking for a dependable first knife.

Those needing a heavy-duty knife for tasks like batoning wood or processing large game should skip this product. Instead, look for a larger knife with a thicker blade and full tang construction.

A sharpening stone or sharpening system would be a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. A universal knife pouch could also be beneficial for those who prefer to carry their knife on a belt rather than in a pocket.

Conclusion on Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 is a surprisingly capable and affordable EDC knife. Its lightweight design, durable construction, and reliable performance make it an excellent value proposition.

The price is definitely justified, especially considering its build quality and the utility it provides. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable everyday carry knife that won’t break the bank.

If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly and reliable EDC option, give the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black HB1355 a try – you might be surprised at how much performance you get for the price! It’s a great little knife with a lot to offer.