First Impressions of TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG is an assisted-opening knife designed for everyday carry and tactical applications. TAC Force aims to provide reliable tools at affordable prices, and this knife is no exception, featuring a stonewash finish blade and a black aluminum handle with American flag artwork. I was intrigued by the combination of assisted opening, compact size, and patriotic design, wanting to see if it could hold its own as a practical tool despite its budget-friendly price point.
For years, I’ve relied on high-end knives for everything from backcountry camping to prepping game after a successful hunt. But sometimes, you need a tool you’re not afraid to lose or subject to heavy wear and tear. That’s what led me to the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG: a beater knife for less demanding tasks.
Unboxing the knife revealed a surprisingly lightweight package. The aluminum handle felt decent enough for the price, though not as solid as my usual G10 or Micarta scales. The American flag artwork is certainly eye-catching, perhaps even a bit loud for my personal taste.
Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian or my Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG is clearly in a different league in terms of materials and construction. However, those knives cost significantly more, and the TAC Force offers a comparable feature set like assisted opening, which is why I wanted to give it a try. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was curious to see how it would perform in real-world situations, especially considering its price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling, opening food packages, and cutting rope. The assisted opening mechanism worked smoothly, deploying the blade quickly and reliably.
The knife performed reasonably well in dry conditions. However, when the handle got wet from morning dew, the aluminum became a bit slippery, reducing grip confidence. There were no major issues after the first day, but I noticed the blade had lost some of its initial sharpness after only a few uses.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of use, the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG has shown some signs of wear and tear. The stonewash finish on the blade has started to scratch, and the aluminum handle has picked up a few dings. The assisted opening mechanism is still functional, but it has become slightly less smooth than initially.
The durability seems adequate for light to medium-duty tasks, but I wouldn’t rely on it for anything too demanding. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my experience with higher-end knives, the TAC Force requires more frequent sharpening and shows wear more quickly, but again, the value proposition is strong.
Breaking Down the Features of TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG
Specifications
- Blade Length: The 3.75-inch clip point blade provides a good balance between cutting ability and portability. This blade length is versatile for everyday tasks.
- Closed Length: At 4.75 inches closed, the knife is compact enough to carry comfortably in a pocket. The overall size contributes to its ease of carry.
- Blade Material: The 3Cr13 stainless steel blade offers decent corrosion resistance but requires more frequent sharpening than higher-end steels. This steel is common in budget knives.
- Handle Material: The black aluminum handle is lightweight but not as durable or grippy as other materials. The aluminum keeps the weight down.
- Assisted Opening: The assisted opening mechanism allows for quick and easy blade deployment with one hand. This is a key feature for tactical applications.
- Liner Lock: The liner lock mechanism secures the blade in the open position, providing a relatively safe and reliable lockup. While not the strongest lock, it’s functional.
- Pocket Clip: The included pocket clip allows for convenient and secure carry. This makes it easy to keep the knife accessible.
- American Flag Artwork: The bomb-shaped handle features an American flag artwork, adding a patriotic touch to the design. This is a purely aesthetic feature.
Performance & Functionality
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. Its edge retention is not exceptional, requiring frequent sharpening. The assisted opening mechanism is a major strength, allowing for quick blade deployment.
The biggest weakness is the quality of the steel; it’s simply not as durable as higher-end options. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price. The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG feels comfortable in hand, though the aluminum handle can become slippery when wet. There is minimal learning curve, as it’s a straightforward design.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials used, the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG isn’t expected to last a lifetime. However, with proper care, it should provide several years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG comes with only a pocket clip. There aren’t many customization options available due to its design and price point. It is unlikely to be compatible with accessories designed for higher-end knives.
Pros and Cons of TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG
Pros
- Affordable price makes it a great beater knife.
- Assisted opening provides quick and easy blade deployment.
- Lightweight design makes it comfortable for everyday carry.
- Compact size is ideal for pocket carry.
- American flag artwork adds a patriotic touch.
Cons
- 3Cr13 stainless steel requires frequent sharpening.
- Aluminum handle can be slippery when wet.
- Durability is limited compared to higher-end knives.
Who Should Buy TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG?
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG is perfect for casual campers, budget-conscious users, or anyone needing a backup knife. It’s a great option for those who want an assisted-opening knife without spending a lot of money.
This product should be skipped by those who require a highly durable and reliable knife for demanding tasks or harsh environments. Must-have accessories include a quality knife sharpener.
Conclusion on TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Black TF1039LFG is a decent budget-friendly option for those seeking an assisted-opening knife. Its value proposition is strong, offering acceptable performance at a low price.
The price is certainly justified for what you get. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive everyday carry knife. For the money, it’s hard to beat. Give it a try if you need a reliable, affordable tool!