Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives Review

First Impressions of Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives

The Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives immediately grabs your attention as more than just a tool; it’s a statement. Bear & Son Cutlery has a reputation for crafting knives that blend practicality with American craftsmanship, and this one seemed to promise exactly that: a reliable, rapid-deployment blade for everyday carry and more demanding situations. What truly intrigued me was the promise of a fast, automatic action paired with the ruggedness needed for tactical use.

My search for the perfect EDC knife had been ongoing for years, consistently seeking a blade that could seamlessly transition from opening packages to more demanding tasks on the trail. Too many folding knives I’d tried felt flimsy, or were simply too slow to deploy when every second counted. The Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives, with its automatic mechanism and robust blade, seemed like it could finally bridge that gap.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-balanced in hand. The black G10 handle offered a reassuring grip, and the automatic deployment was crisp and responsive. Compared to my Benchmade Osborne (manual) and my old Gerber Applegate-Fairbairn (fixed blade), the Bear & Son Cutlery offered a unique blend of speed and portability. I picked this model over a cheaper, imported automatic knife because of Bear & Son Cutlery‘s reputation for quality and the fact that it’s made in the USA.

My first impression was definitely positive, bordering on excited. The initial fit and finish hinted at a quality tool, ready to be put to the test. The automatic action, in particular, made me eager to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios, pushing it beyond the typical EDC tasks.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial field test for the Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives took place during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for tasks around the campsite, from preparing kindling to cutting rope and opening food packages. The weather was damp, with intermittent rain showers, presenting a good opportunity to evaluate the knife’s performance in less-than-ideal conditions.

The automatic action proved invaluable when setting up camp in the rain. Deploying the blade with one hand, while holding a tarp in the other, was significantly easier than fiddling with a manual folder. The G10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet, and the D2 steel blade held its edge well while processing firewood. The clip point blade shape proved useful for detailed cutting tasks.

There was a slight learning curve to safely deactivating the automatic deployment button without accidentally opening the knife. However, after a few practice runs, it became second nature. My only initial concern was the black blade finish, as it started to show some minor scratches after the first few uses.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of regular use, the Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives has become an indispensable part of my EDC. It has accompanied me on several hiking trips, shooting range visits, and countless everyday tasks around the house and yard. The knife has proven to be remarkably durable, with no signs of mechanical failure in the automatic deployment mechanism.

The D2 steel blade has held up exceptionally well, maintaining a sharp edge even after extended use. Minor scratches on the black blade finish are still visible, but haven’t affected performance. I’ve found that regular cleaning and oiling are essential to keep the automatic action smooth and prevent corrosion.

Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives offers a significant advantage in terms of speed and ease of deployment. While a fixed blade might be stronger, the Bear & Son Cutlery knife offers a more practical balance of portability and quick access. It consistently outperforms my manual folders in situations where one-handed operation is crucial.

Breaking Down the Features of Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives

Specifications

• The Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives boasts a 4-inch blade length. This provides a substantial cutting surface while remaining compact enough for comfortable everyday carry.
• The blade is crafted from D2 steel. D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel known for its excellent wear resistance and edge retention.
• The handle is made of black G10. G10 is a durable composite material that offers a secure grip even in wet conditions.
• It is an automatic folding blade. This provides rapid, one-handed deployment of the blade.
• The blade shape is a clip point. Clip point blades are versatile and well-suited for a variety of cutting tasks.
• The knife has a black blade finish. This provides some corrosion resistance and a tactical look.
• The product comes in a quantity of 1. You receive a single knife per purchase.

These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the knife’s performance and suitability for different tasks. The D2 steel blade ensures long-lasting sharpness, while the G10 handle offers a secure and comfortable grip. The automatic deployment mechanism adds a layer of convenience and speed that can be invaluable in certain situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives excels in its primary function: providing a reliable and readily accessible cutting tool. The automatic deployment is fast and consistent, allowing for quick one-handed operation. The blade locks securely in place, providing a stable and safe cutting platform.

The knife’s strengths lie in its rapid deployment, durable blade, and secure grip. The D2 steel holds an edge remarkably well, requiring less frequent sharpening. The black blade finish, while aesthetically pleasing, is prone to scratching and could be improved with a more durable coating.

The knife meets and exceeds expectations for an EDC automatic knife in this price range. It offers a good balance of performance, durability, and ease of use. The robust construction and reliable automatic mechanism make it a valuable tool for a variety of tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and ergonomics. The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands. The knife feels well-balanced in hand, making it easy to control during use.

The automatic deployment button is conveniently located and easy to activate. The pocket clip is sturdy and allows for secure carry. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the automatic deployment and deactivation safely, but the knife is generally user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives is built to last, with high-quality materials and robust construction. The D2 steel blade is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the G10 handle is virtually indestructible. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the knife is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade and automatic mechanism are essential to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Sharpening the D2 steel blade requires some skill and the right tools, but infrequent sharpening is needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives comes with a pocket clip for convenient carry. There are no other included accessories.

Customization options are somewhat limited, but aftermarket G10 scales in different colors and textures may be available. The blade is not easily replaceable, and modifications to the automatic mechanism are not recommended. The knife is compatible with most standard knife sharpening tools.

Pros and Cons of Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives

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Who Should Buy Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives?

The Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives is perfect for law enforcement, military personnel, and anyone who needs a reliable and rapidly deployable blade for self-defense or emergency situations. It’s also well-suited for outdoorsmen, hunters, and campers who appreciate the convenience of an automatic knife for everyday tasks. Individuals seeking a reliable EDC knife with the added speed and convenience of automatic deployment will find this knife very appealing.

This knife may not be ideal for those who live in areas where automatic knives are restricted or for users who prefer the simplicity and traditional feel of a manual folding knife. Someone prioritizing a pristine aesthetic over practical function may also find the easily scratched black finish a turnoff.

A must-have accessory for this knife is a quality sharpening stone or system designed for D2 steel. Regular maintenance with a good knife oil is also recommended to keep the automatic mechanism functioning smoothly.

Conclusion on Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives

The Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives is a solid and reliable automatic knife that offers a compelling combination of speed, durability, and functionality. The D2 steel blade holds an edge exceptionally well, and the G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. While the black blade finish is prone to scratching, the knife’s overall performance and build quality justify the $139.99 price tag.

I would definitely recommend the Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives to anyone looking for a high-quality, American-made automatic knife for EDC or tactical use. Its rapid deployment, durable construction, and comfortable ergonomics make it a valuable tool for a variety of tasks. Invest in a Bear & Son Cutlery Bold Action V 4in Automatic Folding Knives today and experience the difference a quality automatic knife can make!