Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife

The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife immediately strikes you as a robust and practical tool. Artisan Cutlery has crafted a knife that seems equally at home in a tactical setting or as an everyday carry (EDC) option. The stonewash finish on the D2 tool steel blade hints at durability, while the orange G10 handle adds a touch of visibility and grip.

I was looking for a reliable folding knife that could withstand demanding outdoor tasks without breaking the bank. I needed something with a strong blade and a secure grip, suitable for everything from cutting rope and preparing kindling to more intricate carving tasks. The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife appeared to offer a balance of ruggedness and affordability that caught my eye.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt substantial in hand, a good sign considering its intended use. The orange G10 handle provided a confident grip, and the linerlock mechanism engaged with a reassuring click. The stonewash blade finish looked ready to take a beating, and the overall build quality seemed impressive for a knife in this price range.

Compared to my Spyderco Tenacious and my Kershaw Blur, the Bombardier felt more robust, although slightly less refined in its opening action. The Tenacious offers a smoother deployment, while the Blur has assisted opening; however, the Bombardier’s solid construction won me over. The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife impressed me with its no-nonsense design and apparent toughness.


Real-World Testing: Putting Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for the Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing food, cutting paracord, and whittling wood for a campfire. The knife performed admirably in all these roles.

The D2 steel blade held its edge remarkably well, even after repeated use cutting through tougher materials. The orange G10 handle provided excellent grip even when my hands were wet from a sudden rain shower. The extended tang made one-handed closing relatively easy, a convenient feature in the field.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable companion. The blade remains sharp with only occasional stropping, and the linerlock continues to engage securely. There are some minor scratches on the stonewash finish, but this is purely cosmetic and expected with hard use.

The G10 handle shows no signs of wear, and the pocket clip remains tight and functional. Cleaning is simple; a quick wash with soap and water, followed by a light oiling of the blade pivot, keeps everything running smoothly. Compared to some other knives I’ve owned, the Bombardier requires minimal maintenance for the performance it delivers.

Breaking Down the Features of Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife

Specifications

  • The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife has a 5″ closed length, making it a substantial but still easily portable knife. This size is ideal for those who need a robust tool without sacrificing everyday carry convenience.
  • It features a 3.75″ stonewash finish D2 tool steel blade. The D2 steel offers a good balance of edge retention and toughness, while the stonewash finish helps to hide scratches and wear.
  • The handle is made of orange textured G10, providing a secure and comfortable grip even in wet or slippery conditions. The bright color also enhances visibility, preventing the knife from being easily lost.
  • Other key features include an extended tang, a lanyard hole, and a pocket clip. These elements add to the knife’s overall utility and ease of carry.

These specifications are significant because they contribute to the knife’s overall durability, functionality, and user-friendliness. The D2 steel blade and G10 handle ensure the knife can withstand harsh conditions, while the extended tang and pocket clip enhance its practicality.

Performance & Functionality

The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife excels in its primary role: cutting. The D2 steel blade is sharp and holds its edge well, making it suitable for a variety of tasks. The linerlock mechanism provides a secure lockup, giving the user confidence during heavy use.

The knife’s strengths lie in its durability and reliable performance. The D2 steel blade and G10 handle are built to withstand demanding conditions. A minor area for improvement might be a slightly smoother opening action, although this does not significantly detract from the knife’s overall utility.

Design & Ergonomics

The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife boasts a practical and functional design. The stonewash blade finish and orange G10 handle give it a distinctive and rugged appearance. The knife feels well-balanced in hand, and the G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.

The design is user-friendly, with easy access to the thumb pull for blade deployment. There is a slight learning curve to the linerlock mechanism if you’re not familiar with it, but it’s easily mastered with a few practice runs.

Durability & Maintenance

The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife is built for longevity. The D2 steel blade and G10 handle are highly durable and resistant to wear. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should last for many years.

Maintenance is straightforward: regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the blade pivot are all that’s required. The stonewash finish helps to hide scratches and wear, reducing the need for frequent polishing.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife comes standard with a pocket clip for convenient carry. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options like interchangeable scales or blades, the lanyard hole allows for personalized attachments. Aftermarket lanyards and beads can be added to enhance grip and visual appeal.

The knife is compatible with most standard knife maintenance tools, such as sharpening stones and lubricants. There aren’t specific accessories designed solely for the Bombardier, but its basic design ensures compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket products.

Pros and Cons of Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife

Pros

  • Durable D2 tool steel blade: Offers excellent edge retention and toughness.
  • Secure linerlock mechanism: Provides a reliable and safe lockup.
  • Textured G10 handle: Ensures a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
  • Affordable price: Offers excellent value for the quality and features.
  • Practical and rugged design: Suitable for both tactical and EDC use.

Cons

  • Opening action could be smoother.
  • Limited customization options.


Who Should Buy Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife?

The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife is perfect for:

  • Outdoor enthusiasts: Hikers, campers, and backpackers who need a reliable cutting tool.
  • Tactical users: Law enforcement, military personnel, and security professionals who require a durable and dependable knife.
  • Everyday carry users: Individuals who appreciate a robust and practical EDC knife.

This product might not be the best choice for individuals seeking a highly refined or lightweight knife. Those who prioritize assisted opening or extensive customization options may also want to consider other alternatives.

Must-have accessories for the Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife include a quality sharpening stone and a knife lubricant for optimal maintenance. A paracord lanyard can also enhance grip and visual appeal.

Conclusion on Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife

The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife is a solid and dependable tool that offers excellent value for its price. Its D2 steel blade, G10 handle, and secure linerlock mechanism make it a reliable choice for a variety of tasks. The Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife is a well-built and functional knife that won’t break the bank.

The price of $59.79 is more than justified given the quality of materials and construction. I would personally recommend the Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife to anyone seeking a durable and affordable folding knife for outdoor, tactical, or everyday use. It’s a no-nonsense tool that gets the job done. Go ahead and get yourself the Artisan Cutlery Bombardier Linerlock Folding Knife, you won’t regret it!

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