Browning 111 Folding Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Browning 111 Folding Knife

The Browning 111 Folding Knife from Browning is designed to be a reliable and easily portable cutting tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Its ultra-thin profile and durable construction aim to provide a balance between functionality and convenience.

My search for a dependable, everyday carry knife that wouldn’t weigh me down led me to the Browning 111 Folding Knife. I needed something that could handle basic cutting tasks during hunts and hikes without feeling bulky in my pocket.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the knife’s slim profile. The G-10 handle felt comfortable in my hand, and the blade had a sharp, clean edge. The knife felt well-balanced.

Compared to my previous Gerber folding knife, which was heavier and had a bulkier handle, the Browning 111 Folding Knife felt significantly lighter and more streamlined. It also seemed more refined than the basic CRKT model I often carry.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about its lightweight design and potential for everyday carry, but I wanted to test its durability and edge retention before fully committing.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Browning 111 Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Browning 111 Folding Knife on a weekend hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for tasks like cutting rope, preparing kindling, and field dressing a small game animal.

The knife performed adequately in dry conditions; however, when I had to clean the game in the rain, the handle became slightly slippery. The thin profile made it a bit challenging to maintain a secure grip when wet.

The knife was easy to deploy with one hand once I got used to the lockback mechanism. The blade felt secure when locked open.

After the first use, I noticed the edge wasn’t quite as sharp as when I initially unboxed it. It also took longer than expected to clean due to small pieces of meat lodging around the bolster.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including numerous camping trips and general everyday tasks, the Browning 111 Folding Knife is still holding up reasonably well. There is minor scratching on the blade, but the lockback mechanism remains solid.

The G-10 handle shows minimal signs of wear and tear, but the blade requires regular sharpening to maintain a decent edge. I would estimate sharpening every 2-3 uses to maintain adequate sharpness.

Cleaning the knife after use requires some attention to detail, especially around the bolsters. The process is not overly difficult, but needs regular oiling to prevent corrosion and maintain smooth operation.

Compared to my Benchmade folder, the Browning 111 Folding Knife doesn’t hold its edge as well and requires more frequent sharpening. However, for its price point, it’s a reasonable performer for general use.

Breaking Down the Features of Browning 111 Folding Knife

Specifications

The Browning 111 Folding Knife features a folding lockback design, providing a secure and reliable locking mechanism. The blade material is Sandvik 12C27 Stainless Steel, known for its decent balance between hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.

The blade features a fine edge, allowing for precise cutting and slicing. The handle is made from rugged G-10 material, offering a contoured and comfortable grip.

• Knife Type: Folding Lockback
• Blade Material: Sandvik 12C27 Stainless Steel
• Edge: Fine
• Handle Material: G-10

These specifications are important because they directly influence the knife’s performance and usability. The Sandvik 12C27 Stainless Steel blade provides a good compromise between edge retention and ease of sharpening, making it suitable for general-purpose use.

Performance & Functionality

The Browning 111 Folding Knife performs adequately for basic cutting tasks such as slicing, cutting rope, and light food preparation. Its slim profile makes it easy to carry, but its edge retention could be better.

The knife’s strengths lie in its lightweight design and comfortable handle. Weaknesses include the need for frequent sharpening and the slightly slippery grip when wet.

Overall, the knife meets basic expectations for an everyday carry folder in its price range, although it does not necessarily exceed them. Its price point reflects its performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Browning 111 Folding Knife has a slim and streamlined design. The G-10 handle is contoured for a comfortable grip, but the thin profile may not be ideal for users with larger hands.

The knife is relatively user-friendly, with a simple lockback mechanism that is easy to operate with one hand, after some practice. There is a slight learning curve with operating the folding lockback for one-handed use.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Browning 111 Folding Knife should last for several years of regular use. The Sandvik 12C27 Stainless Steel blade is resistant to corrosion, but it will require regular sharpening to maintain a decent edge.

Maintenance involves cleaning the blade and handle after each use and applying a small amount of oil to the pivot point to ensure smooth operation. The knife is not particularly difficult to maintain, but it does require some attention to detail to prevent corrosion and maintain functionality.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Browning 111 Folding Knife does not come with any additional accessories. There are limited customization options available, as the knife is designed as a standalone tool.

While some users may consider replacing the handle scales or modifying the blade, there are no readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Browning 111 Folding Knife. Its overall design limits customization.

Pros and Cons of Browning 111 Folding Knife