Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife Review

What Makes Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife Stand Out?

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife enters the crowded everyday carry (EDC) market with a promise of unwavering reliability. Marketed as a steadfast companion, this knife boasts a modified drop point recurve blade, spring-assisted opening, and an engraved handle. For $39.99, Smith & Wesson aims to deliver a dependable tool.

I’ve been carrying knives for over a decade, and my primary need is a dependable tool for daily tasks and emergency situations. I needed a knife that was easy to deploy one-handed, held a decent edge, and wouldn’t break the bank if it got lost or damaged.

Upon unboxing the Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife, I immediately noticed the weight. It felt substantial without being overly heavy, suggesting a decent balance between durability and carry comfort. The engraving on the handle added a touch of class, though I initially wondered about its impact on grip.

I was also considering the CRKT Drifter and the Kershaw Cryo. The CRKT Drifter is known for its slim profile, but I wanted something with a bit more heft. The Kershaw Cryo is a solid choice in this price range, but the Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife’s recurve blade and handle engraving caught my eye.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The spring-assisted opening felt snappy, and the blade locked securely. I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife on a week-long camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The diverse environment offered ample opportunities to test its capabilities. I used it for everything from preparing food to whittling kindling.

The knife performed surprisingly well in wet conditions. The handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were damp, and the blade resisted corrosion after being exposed to rain. The spring-assisted opening proved invaluable when I needed to quickly deploy the knife with one hand.

The assisted opening was smooth from day one. The liner lock engaged positively and never felt insecure during cutting tasks. However, the recurve blade shape did require a slight adjustment to my cutting technique, especially when making precise slices.

I initially had concerns about the handle engraving affecting grip, but it actually provided a surprising amount of texture. After a day of use, I was confident in its ability to stay secure in my hand.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of consistent use, the Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. There are minor scratches on the blade from regular use, but nothing unexpected. The spring-assisted mechanism still functions smoothly.

The liner lock continues to engage securely, and there is no blade play. I’ve touched up the blade edge with a ceramic honing rod a couple of times, but it retains a decent edge with minimal maintenance. A few drops of oil on the pivot keeps the action smooth.

I’ve owned other budget-friendly knives that quickly developed blade wobble or lock failure, so the Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability. While it’s not a premium knife, it’s a reliable tool that I can depend on.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife

Specifications

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife features a 3.25-inch modified drop point recurve blade. The closed length is 4.5 inches, making it comfortable to carry in a pocket. Smith & Wesson lists “No” under additional features, which is puzzling as the spring assist and liner lock are definite features.

The blade shape, a modified drop point with a recurve, provides versatility for various cutting tasks. The 3.25-inch blade is a practical length for EDC, offering a good balance between cutting power and portability. The spring-assisted opening ensures rapid deployment, while the liner lock provides secure blade lockup during use.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife performs admirably for its price point. The blade is sharp enough for most EDC tasks, and the recurve provides added cutting power for slicing. The spring-assisted opening is quick and reliable.

The primary strength is its ease of deployment and secure lockup. The blade shape is well-suited for general utility tasks. The main weakness is the steel itself. It requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels.

For the price, it meets and slightly exceeds my expectations. While it won’t compete with high-end knives, it’s a solid performer that delivers good value.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife features an engraved handle that provides a surprisingly comfortable and secure grip. The knife feels well-balanced in hand. The pocket clip allows for tip-down carry.

The build quality is decent, considering the price point. The action is smooth, and the blade is centered when closed. The only downside is the weight. While not excessive, it’s noticeable. There’s no real learning curve. It’s straightforward and easy to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife should last for several years with proper care. The steel is relatively soft, so the blade will require occasional sharpening. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help prevent rust and maintain smooth operation.

The knife is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. The liner lock is easily accessible for adjustments. With a few basic tools and some patience, most users can perform basic repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited due to its design. The pocket clip is not reversible.

Aftermarket scales may be available from third-party manufacturers, but these are not officially supported by Smith & Wesson. The absence of readily available accessories is a slight drawback.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife?

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Casual campers: A reliable tool for basic camp chores.
• Everyday carry users: A dependable and affordable EDC knife.
• Anyone seeking a budget-friendly option: Excellent value for the price.

This product isn’t for:

• Users who demand premium steel: Those needing extreme edge retention should look elsewhere.
• Users who require extensive customization: Customization options are limited.

A must-have accessory is a sharpening stone or ceramic honing rod to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife is a solid performer that delivers good value for its $39.99 price tag. The spring-assisted opening, secure liner lock, and ergonomic handle make it a practical and reliable EDC tool. While the steel is relatively soft and customization options are limited, these drawbacks are offset by its affordability and overall performance.

The price is definitely justified. It’s a dependable knife that won’t break the bank.

I would definitely recommend the Smith & Wesson Unwavered Folding Knife to anyone seeking a budget-friendly EDC option. It’s a solid, reliable tool that will serve you well. Pick one up today and experience its unwavering performance for yourself!