First Impressions of Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH
The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH is a knife that immediately screams practicality. From Schrade, a manufacturer with a long history in the cutlery world, this knife presents itself as a no-nonsense tool ready for outdoor adventures. The guthook blade and TPE handle are notable features for anyone who anticipates field dressing game or needs a reliable grip in tough conditions.
I was seeking a robust, multi-functional knife for my backcountry excursions and occasional hunting trips. My current knife, while sharp, lacks a guthook, making field dressing a more cumbersome process than necessary.
Upon unboxing, the Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH feels solid in hand, a good sign for a tool intended for demanding tasks. The black and gray TPE handle offers a secure grip, even with wet hands, and the satin finish on the blade is aesthetically pleasing. Compared to my old folding knife and a fixed-blade hunting knife I own, the Schrade strikes a balance between portability and utility. While the fixed blade is undeniably stronger, the Trail Boss offers the convenience of a folding knife, and it is more versatile than my old folder due to the guthook.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH appears to be a well-built, practical tool that could be a valuable addition to my gear. However, the real test lies in its performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH on a recent deer hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp, with persistent drizzle and muddy terrain, providing an ideal environment to assess the knife’s grip and blade performance in challenging conditions.
The knife performed admirably. The TPE handle offered a secure grip even when covered in mud and blood, and the guthook proved to be a significant time-saver when field dressing my deer. The blade retained a decent edge throughout the process. The liner lock was easy to disengage with gloves. However, the thumb stud was a little difficult to use with gloved hands initially.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a camping trip and numerous smaller tasks around the homestead, the Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH has held up well. There are no signs of blade wobble or handle degradation.
The satin finish on the 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade has shown some minor scratches from use, but this is to be expected. The blade has retained a useful edge with minimal sharpening. The knife is easy to clean with soap and water. After cleaning, I apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point and the blade to prevent corrosion. The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH outperforms my previous folding knife in terms of grip and functionality, but the steel is not as hard or corrosion-resistant as some of my higher-end blades.
Breaking Down the Features of Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH
Specifications
- The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH has a 3.5″ (8.89cm) satin finish 8Cr13MoV stainless guthook blade. This provides a useful blade length for general cutting tasks while offering a dedicated tool for field dressing game.
- The knife has a 4.5″ (11.43cm) closed length and weighs 0.36 lb. These specifications make it convenient to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
- It features a black and gray TPE handle, an extended tang, a lanyard hole, and a pocket clip. These features enhance grip, security, and carry options.
The blade material, 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, offers a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. The handle material, TPE, is known for its excellent grip, even in wet or cold conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH performs well as an all-around outdoor knife. The blade is sharp enough for most tasks, and the guthook is a valuable addition for hunters.
The liner lock provides a secure lockup, giving confidence during use. The pocket clip ensures easy and convenient carry. While the thumb stud allows for one-handed opening, its small size can be difficult to manipulate with gloved hands.
Design & Ergonomics
The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH is designed with practicality in mind. The black and gray TPE handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip.
The extended tang offers added safety and control. While the pocket clip is convenient, it can sometimes feel a little flimsy.
Durability & Maintenance
The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade is reasonably durable and resistant to corrosion. The TPE handle is tough and should withstand years of use.
The knife is easy to maintain with regular cleaning and occasional sharpening. The satin finish on the blade helps to hide scratches and wear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH comes with a pocket clip and a lanyard hole. These provide options for carry and attachment.
There are no readily available aftermarket scales for this model. However, the knife is compatible with universal lanyard beads.
Pros and Cons of Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH
Pros
- Affordable Price: The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH offers good value for money, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Functional Guthook: The integrated guthook is a valuable tool for hunters, making field dressing easier and more efficient.
- Secure TPE Handle: The black and gray TPE handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
- Pocket Clip and Lanyard Hole: Offers multiple carry options for convenience.
- Easy to Sharpen: The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade is relatively easy to sharpen, ensuring it can be maintained in the field.
Cons
- Thumb Stud Size: The thumb stud can be difficult to operate with gloved hands.
- Steel Quality: While functional, 8Cr13MoV is not a premium steel and may require more frequent sharpening than higher-end options.
Who Should Buy Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH?
The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH is perfect for budget-minded hunters who need a reliable field dressing knife. It is also suitable for campers and hikers who want a versatile and affordable cutting tool.
This knife is not ideal for those who demand premium steel or require a knife for heavy-duty tasks. Someone seeking a high-end survival knife or a tool for demanding industrial applications should look elsewhere. A must-have accessory would be a decent sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge in the field.
Conclusion on Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH
The Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH is a practical and affordable knife that offers good value for money. The guthook blade is a standout feature for hunters, and the TPE handle provides a secure grip in challenging conditions.
The price of $37.69 is justified for the features and functionality offered. It is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile outdoor knife without breaking the bank.
I would personally recommend the Schrade Trail Boss Linerlock GH to anyone looking for an affordable and functional knife for hunting, camping, or general outdoor use. Pick one up today and experience its practicality for yourself!