Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife

The Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife is a budget-friendly option in the realm of everyday carry (EDC) knives. Manufactured by Smith & Wesson, a brand with a long history in firearms and edged tools, this knife offers a blend of practicality and affordability. It features a partially serrated blade made from 7Cr17MoV stainless steel, an aluminum handle with a textured rubber insert, and a liner lock mechanism.

What led me to this particular knife was the need for a reliable, yet inexpensive, tool for general outdoor tasks. I wanted something that could handle cutting rope, opening packages, and even light food preparation without worrying about damaging a more expensive blade. I was essentially looking for a beater knife.

Unboxing the Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife, my initial thought was that it felt surprisingly solid for the price. The weight, at 4 oz, gives it a substantial feel, and the gun metal blue aluminum handle is aesthetically pleasing. The textured rubber insert seemed like it would provide a secure grip.

Compared to other budget-friendly knives I’ve used, like the Kershaw Brawler or the CRKT Drifter, the Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife seemed to offer a more robust handle design. I chose it over similar options because of the positive online reviews regarding its durability and the ambidextrous thumb knobs, which are a must for me as a left-handed user.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the materials didn’t scream “high-end,” the overall construction and feel suggested a decent level of quality. It felt like a knife I wouldn’t hesitate to use hard, and that’s exactly what I was looking for.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife to the test on a weekend camping trip. I used it primarily for cutting rope for setting up the tent, preparing kindling for the fire, and opening food packages. The partially serrated blade made quick work of the rope, slicing through it effortlessly.

The knife performed adequately in moderately wet conditions. The textured rubber insert on the handle provided a decent grip even when my hands were damp. However, the liner lock became slightly more difficult to operate with wet hands.

The knife was easy to use right out of the box, requiring no break-in period. The ambidextrous thumb knobs allowed for smooth one-handed opening, and the index flipper provided an alternative deployment method. The pocket clip kept the knife securely in place in my pocket.

After the first day of use, I noticed that the liner lock seemed to be engaging a little late on the blade tang. It wasn’t unsafe, but it did raise a slight concern about long-term durability. Other than that, the knife performed as expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife has held up reasonably well, considering its price point. I’ve used it for everything from cutting cardboard boxes to cleaning fish.

The aluminum handle has shown some minor scratches and dings, but the blade has retained its edge surprisingly well with minimal maintenance. There is some slight side-to-side blade play now, but nothing too alarming.

Cleaning and maintaining the knife is straightforward. A simple rinse with water and a light application of oil on the blade and pivot point is usually sufficient. The rubber inserts on the handle clean easily with a damp cloth.

Compared to some of my more expensive knives, the Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife obviously doesn’t offer the same level of performance or refinement. However, it has proven to be a reliable and practical tool for everyday tasks. It is a good choice if you need something you won’t feel bad about beating up.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife

Specifications

• The blade length of the Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife is 3.1 inches. This provides a useful cutting edge while remaining compact enough for comfortable carry.
• The closed length is 4.7 inches, making it easy to stow in a pocket or on a belt. The overall length when open is 7.7 inches.
• The blade material is 7Cr17MoV High Carbon Stainless Steel. This steel offers a decent balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, especially for a budget knife.
• The blade is partially serrated. This makes it suitable for cutting through tough materials like rope and webbing.
• The handle is made from aluminum. It contributes to the knife’s lightweight and durability.
• The knife weighs 4 oz. This is a comfortable weight for everyday carry, providing a solid feel without being too heavy.
• The lock type is a liner lock. It is a common and relatively reliable locking mechanism.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s performance and usability. The blade steel determines how well the knife holds an edge and resists corrosion. The handle material affects the grip and durability, and the lock type influences the safety and reliability of the knife.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife performs its intended job adequately. It cuts well, opens easily, and is comfortable to hold.

The serrated portion of the blade is particularly effective for cutting through fibrous materials. The non-serrated portion works well for slicing and general cutting tasks.

The main strength of this knife is its affordability and decent performance for the price. The weaknesses include the potentially softer blade steel compared to higher-end knives and the liner lock that may wear over time. The lock bar engaging late on the blade tang is also a potential concern.

For the price, it meets expectations. It isn’t a premium knife, but it gets the job done.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for a budget knife. The aluminum handle feels sturdy, and the textured rubber insert provides a good grip.

The weight is well-balanced, and the knife feels comfortable in hand. The ambidextrous thumb knobs and index flipper make it easy to open the knife with either hand.

The design is user-friendly with no significant learning curve. The liner lock is simple to operate, although it may require some practice to disengage smoothly with one hand.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife should last for a reasonable amount of time. However, it is not designed for heavy-duty use.

The knife is relatively easy to maintain. Keeping the blade clean and lightly oiled will help prevent corrosion, and occasionally tightening the pivot screw will help maintain blade stability.

Replacing parts might be difficult since this is a budget knife. Sharpening the partially serrated blade requires some skill and the correct tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife comes with a pocket clip. This allows for convenient and secure carry.

There are limited customization options available for this knife. Aftermarket scales or replacement blades are unlikely to be available due to its budget-oriented design.

The knife is generally compatible with universal knife sharpeners and cleaning kits. You can customize the carry by changing the pocket clip to different positions if desired.

Pros and Cons of Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife?

The Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife is perfect for those seeking an inexpensive and reliable EDC knife. It is suitable for casual campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a basic cutting tool for everyday tasks. Students and budget-conscious individuals will find this knife a practical choice.

Those who require a knife for heavy-duty use or demand premium materials should skip this product. Professionals who rely on their knives daily might want to invest in a more robust option.

A must-have accessory is a good quality knife sharpener to maintain the blade’s edge. A small bottle of knife oil is also essential for keeping the blade clean and preventing corrosion.

Conclusion on Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife

The Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife offers a solid value proposition for those seeking an affordable and practical EDC knife. It is a decent performer for the price.

The price is definitely justified given its features and functionality. While it may not compete with higher-end knives, it provides a reliable cutting tool for everyday tasks without breaking the bank.

I would personally recommend this knife to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option. It’s a great choice for a first knife or a backup to a more expensive blade.

If you’re in the market for an affordable and reliable EDC knife, give the Smith and Wesson Liner Lock Serrated Folding Knife a try. You might be surprised by how much value you get for the price.