QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW Review

First Impressions of QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW arrived in a simple, no-frills box, which immediately set my expectations. As a seasoned outdoorsman and tactical gear enthusiast, I’ve seen my share of knives, from budget-friendly options to high-end custom pieces. This knife sits squarely in the mid-range, and I was keen to see if it could deliver on its promise of quality and functionality without breaking the bank. I was looking for a reliable EDC (Everyday Carry) knife that could handle various tasks from opening packages to more demanding cutting chores while maintaining a low profile.

The QSP Raven is a linerlock knife featuring a 3.38″ black stonewashed D2 tool steel blade and a black sculpted G10 handle. The extended tang and pocket clip are welcomed additions, and the knife felt substantial in hand. Its aesthetic strikes a balance between tactical and practical, avoiding the overly aggressive look of some knives in its class.

Initially, I was considering a Benchmade Griptilian and a Spyderco Paramilitary 2. I picked the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW because of its use of D2 steel at an attractive price point. The handle ergonomics also felt superior to other knives in this price range. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The knife appeared well-built, but the real test would be how it performed in the field.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW on a weekend camping trip to the local state park. I used it primarily for food preparation and camp chores. These included tasks like slicing vegetables, cutting rope, and feathering sticks for a fire.

The knife performed admirably in dry conditions, providing a solid grip and a sharp, consistent cutting edge. The sculpted G10 handle felt secure even when wet from washing dishes. While the weather remained fair during this trip, I did expose the knife to water during cleanup. The stonewashed finish seemed to resist water spots and potential corrosion.

The QSP Raven opened smoothly with the thumb stud, and the liner lock engaged securely every time. There were no initial issues or surprises, indicating a well-constructed knife.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW has proven to be a reliable companion. It’s been my go-to EDC for everyday tasks and has accompanied me on several hiking trips. The D2 steel has held its edge well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a strop.

I noticed some minor wear on the pocket clip, as expected from daily carry. Otherwise, the knife shows no signs of significant wear and tear. The liner lock still engages firmly, and there is no blade play.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after use is all that is needed to keep the blade in good condition. Based on my experience, the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW outperforms other knives in its price range regarding edge retention and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW

Specifications

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW offers a solid set of specifications that are relevant to its performance.

• Blade Length: 3.38 inches (8.59 cm) This provides a good balance between cutting power and portability for everyday tasks.
• Closed Length: 4.5 inches (11.43 cm) Compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.
• Blade Material: D2 Tool Steel D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance.
• Handle Material: Black Sculpted G10 G10 is a durable and lightweight composite material that offers a secure grip.
• Weight: 0.4 lbs (6.4 ounces) A comfortable weight for EDC.
• Additional Features: Lanyard Hole, Pocket Clip, Thumb Stud, Extended Tang These add functionality and convenience.

These specifications translate to a knife that is well-suited for everyday use and light to medium-duty tasks. The choice of D2 steel is particularly noteworthy, as it provides a significant upgrade in edge retention compared to cheaper stainless-steel options.

Performance & Functionality

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW performs its intended job of a reliable EDC knife very well. Its blade sharpness is good, and it can handle most cutting tasks with ease. The thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening, and the liner lock provides secure blade lockup.

The knife’s strength lies in its well-balanced design and the quality of its materials. The edge retention of the D2 steel is a definite plus. A potential weakness is that D2 is not as corrosion-resistant as some stainless steels.

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW meets expectations for a knife in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW features a practical and ergonomic design. The sculpted G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. The pocket clip allows for tip-up carry, which is my preferred method.

The knife’s weight is well-distributed, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. There is a slight learning curve to closing the liner lock with one hand, but it becomes natural with practice.

The build quality is impressive for a knife in this price range, with tight tolerances and a solid feel.

Durability & Maintenance

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW is built to last. The D2 steel blade is known for its durability and wear resistance. The G10 handle is also a very durable material.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade will help prevent corrosion. The liner lock is easy to disassemble for cleaning if necessary.

With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW comes with a basic cardboard box. It includes only the knife itself.

Aftermarket options are limited. The pocket clip is removable, but there are no readily available aftermarket options for replacement. Similarly, the G10 handle scales are not easily replaceable. This knife is primarily intended to be used as-is, rather than customized.

Pros and Cons of QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW?

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. It is an excellent choice for:

• Everyday carry enthusiasts who need a dependable tool for various cutting tasks.
• Outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable knife for camping, hiking, and other activities.
• Anyone who appreciates quality materials and construction at a reasonable price.

This knife is not ideal for those who:

• Require a highly corrosion-resistant knife for use in marine environments.
• Enjoy extensive customization options.

A must-have accessory for the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW is a quality strop to maintain the edge between sharpenings.

Conclusion on QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW is a well-designed and well-built knife that offers excellent value for the money. Its D2 steel blade provides exceptional edge retention, and its ergonomic G10 handle ensures a comfortable and secure grip. The knife is reliable, durable, and practical for everyday carry and outdoor use.

The price of $51.99 is justified given the quality of materials and construction. I would personally recommend this knife to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable EDC option.

The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Black SW is a great choice for those seeking a solid, no-nonsense knife that gets the job done. If you are looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife, give the QSP Raven a try.