We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife

The We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife immediately presents itself as a modern take on the everyday carry (EDC) folder. Designed by Ben Petersen and manufactured by We Knife Co Ltd, it promises a blend of premium materials, functional design, and reliable performance. My first impression is that this knife is aiming to be a solid all-rounder for daily tasks and outdoor adventures.

I’ve been searching for a compact, lightweight folding knife that doesn’t compromise on blade steel quality or lock strength. My old EDC knife, while reliable, felt bulky in my pocket and the steel required frequent sharpening. The Banter 2’s S35VN steel and crossbar lock seemed like a significant upgrade.

Unboxing the Banter 2 revealed a meticulously crafted tool. The knife felt substantial in hand, despite its modest size, and the action was smooth right out of the box. The clean lines of the drop point blade and the comfortable handle scales spoke of quality and attention to detail.

Compared to my previous Gerber Paraframe Mini and a Spyderco Delica 4, the We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 offers a different experience. The Gerber is lighter and more budget-friendly, but the steel is inferior. The Delica 4 is a classic, but the Banter 2‘s crossbar lock felt more secure and ambidextrous.

My initial impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. The Banter 2 looked and felt like a premium knife, but the true test would be its performance in the field. I was eager to put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 was a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for a variety of tasks, from preparing food to cutting cordage for my tent. The Banter 2 excelled in its role.

The Banter 2 handled well even in damp conditions. The textured handle provided a secure grip, and the blade remained sharp after repeated use. Opening and closing the knife with the crossbar lock was intuitive and easily accomplished with one hand.

I was immediately impressed by the edge retention of the CPM S35VN steel. After a full day of use, the blade still felt sharp enough to shave hair. I had no issues with the lockup, and the blade remained centered throughout.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of carrying the We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 daily, it has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to whittling wood, and it has performed admirably. The blade shows no signs of chipping or rolling, and the lock is as solid as the day I bought it.

The only visible wear and tear is some slight discoloration on the titanium pocket clip, which is to be expected with everyday carry. Cleaning the knife is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot to maintain smooth action.

Compared to my previous EDC knives, the We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 has significantly outperformed them in terms of edge retention, lock strength, and overall durability. It has become my go-to folder for both everyday tasks and outdoor adventures. This knife feels like a buy-it-for-life piece.

Breaking Down the Features of We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife

Specifications

• The We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 features a 2.87-inch blade, making it a compact and easily carried knife. The blade length is ideal for most EDC tasks.
• The closed length of the Banter 2 is 3.79 inches, contributing to its pocket-friendly design. This allows for comfortable carry without being cumbersome.
• The CPM S35VN blade material provides excellent edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. This is a premium steel choice that balances toughness and sharpenability.
• The knife’s design is credited to Ben Petersen, a well-known figure in the knife community. His design reflects a focus on functionality and ergonomics.
• The blade is non-serrated, making it suitable for clean cuts and fine work. This design lends itself well to detail-oriented tasks.
• The Banter 2 is marketed for everyday carry, emphasizing its versatility and practicality for daily use. This focus makes it a suitable option for a wide range of users.
• The overall length when open is 6.66 inches, offering a comfortable grip for most hand sizes. This dimension is large enough for confident handling, but small enough for easy carry.
• The blade shape is a classic drop point, known for its versatility and strength. The drop point is capable of both slicing and piercing.
• The blade thickness is 0.1 inches, striking a balance between strength and slicing ability. This thickness provides adequate strength without sacrificing cutting performance.
• The crossbar lock provides a strong, ambidextrous, and reliable locking mechanism. This lock type is easy to operate and offers excellent security.
• The blade grind is flat, offering excellent slicing geometry. Flat grinds are known for their cutting efficiency.
• The Banter 2 does not come with a sheath. It is designed to be carried with its pocket clip.
• The knife weighs 3.06 oz, making it lightweight and comfortable for extended carry. This weight is ideal for EDC purposes.

Performance & Functionality

The We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 excels at its primary job: cutting. The CPM S35VN steel holds an edge incredibly well, allowing it to slice through cardboard, rope, and other common materials with ease. Its drop point blade offers a good balance of slicing and piercing capabilities.

The Banter 2’s crossbar lock is incredibly strong and easy to use. It allows for ambidextrous operation, making it a good choice for both right- and left-handed users. The smooth action of the blade makes it a pleasure to use.

The Banter 2 exceeds my expectations for an EDC knife in this price range. Its performance is comparable to knives costing significantly more. The design is well thought out, and the materials are top-notch.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 is exceptional. The materials used are high-quality, and the fit and finish are excellent. The knife feels solid and well-made.

The handle is comfortable to hold, even for extended periods. The textured scales provide a secure grip without being abrasive. The knife is easy to open and close with one hand, making it very user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 is built to last. The CPM S35VN blade is known for its wear resistance, and the crossbar lock is incredibly strong. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple; just keep the blade clean and lightly oiled. The knife disassembles easily for thorough cleaning if necessary. The design promotes easy maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 does not come with a lot of accessories. This knife is all about simplicity and functionality.

There are aftermarket options such as different pocket clips and lanyard beads. The knife can be customized with various handle scales and hardware. The design is compatible with standard aftermarket parts.

Pros and Cons of We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife?

The We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable, and versatile EDC knife. It is an excellent choice for professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a well-made tool.

Those who prefer a larger knife or require a dedicated sheath might want to skip this product. Also, those who need a specialized tool with specific features like serrations might not find this to be the right fit.

A must-have modification would be a deeper carry pocket clip if discreet carry is a concern. Consider adding a lanyard for enhanced grip and retrieval.

Conclusion on We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife

The We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 2.87 in Folding Knife is a superb EDC knife that offers a remarkable blend of performance, durability, and ergonomics. We Knife Co Ltd has created a winner with this offering.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and craftsmanship. The CPM S35VN steel and crossbar lock alone make it worth the investment.

I would highly recommend the We Knife Co Ltd Banter 2 to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile EDC knife. It is a well-designed, well-built tool that will provide years of reliable service. Get yours today and experience the difference!