First Impressions of Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife
Slipjoint knives. They are more than just tools; they’re a tangible link to a simpler, more self-reliant past. The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife aims to embody that heritage, offering a blend of classic design and modern materials. I was drawn to this knife seeking a reliable, non-threatening EDC (Every Day Carry) option that wouldn’t raise eyebrows in more urban environments.
My journey with knives started in the Boy Scouts and continued through years of outdoor pursuits and military service. I needed a knife that could handle basic cutting tasks without the aggressive look of a tactical folder. The sheepsfoot blade shape and slipjoint mechanism appealed to my desire for a functional, understated tool.
Upon unboxing, the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife felt surprisingly solid for its size. The G10 handle offered a secure grip, and the satin-finished blade looked clean and sharp. It was notably different from my usual EDC knives, which tend to be larger, locking folders with more aggressive styling.
Compared to a Benchmade Proper or a Case Sodbuster, the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife seemed to strike a good balance between modern materials and traditional design. While the Benchmade offers a similar level of quality with a locking mechanism, I preferred the non-locking simplicity of the Begg Knives for my intended use. The Case Sodbuster, while classic, lacks the corrosion resistance of the Begg Knives’ stainless steel blade.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed to be a well-made, practical knife that might just fill the EDC niche I was hoping for. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife was a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, whittling kindling, and cutting cordage. The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife handled these tasks with surprising ease.
The weather was damp, with occasional light rain. The G10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet. The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife blade’s sheepsfoot shape proved particularly useful for controlled cutting on a flat surface, making it ideal for preparing food.
The knife required no real getting used to. The slipjoint mechanism was smooth and intuitive, providing enough resistance to prevent accidental closure while still being easy to open with one hand. There were no immediate issues or surprises; it performed as expected right out of the box.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and capable EDC tool. It has accompanied me on numerous hikes, fishing trips, and everyday errands. The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife has consistently performed well.
Despite frequent use, there are minimal signs of wear and tear. The Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel blade has resisted corrosion and maintained a good edge with minimal sharpening. The G10 handle is also holding up well, showing no signs of cracking or fading.
Maintaining the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth. Compared to some of my other knives that require more extensive cleaning and maintenance, the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife is a breeze to care for.
In comparison to some of my previous slipjoint knives, the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife outperforms them in terms of edge retention and corrosion resistance. The blade steel is a significant upgrade from traditional carbon steels, and the G10 handle is more durable and weather-resistant than wood or bone.
Breaking Down the Features of Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3 inches. This is a practical length for EDC tasks, providing ample cutting surface without being overly bulky.
- Closed Length: 4 inches. The closed length makes the knife comfortable to carry in a pocket without taking up too much space.
- Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N Stainless Steel. This is a high-quality stainless steel known for its excellent corrosion resistance, edge retention, and ease of sharpening.
- Serrated: Plain. A plain edge is more versatile for general cutting tasks and easier to sharpen than a serrated edge.
- Knife Application: Folding Blade. The folding design makes it convenient and safe to carry.
- Overall Length: 7 inches. The overall length offers a comfortable grip and adequate leverage for most cutting tasks.
- Blade Shape: Sheepsfoot. This blade shape is ideal for controlled cutting on a flat surface, minimizing the risk of accidental piercing.
- Handle Material: G10. G10 is a durable, lightweight, and water-resistant composite material that provides a secure grip.
- Blade Finish: Satin. The satin finish provides a smooth, non-reflective surface that resists scratches and fingerprints.
- Blade Thickness: 0.11 inches. The blade thickness strikes a good balance between strength and slicing ability.
- Lock Type: SlipJoint. The slipjoint mechanism provides a simple and reliable way to keep the blade open, while still being non-locking for legal carry in some areas.
- Sheath Material: Nylon. The included nylon sheath provides a safe and convenient way to carry the knife.
- Handle Color: Black. The black handle is understated and professional.
- Weight: 4.2 oz. The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife is lightweight enough for comfortable everyday carry.
- Manufacturer: Begg Knives.
Performance & Functionality
The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife performs its intended job exceptionally well. The blade is sharp and holds an edge well, making it suitable for various cutting tasks. The slipjoint mechanism provides a secure feel when open, and the knife is comfortable to use for extended periods.
The strengths of the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife lie in its simplicity, durability, and practicality. The sheepsfoot blade shape is particularly well-suited for everyday cutting tasks, and the stainless steel blade ensures long-lasting performance. The only potential weakness is the non-locking design, which may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications.
The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife meets and exceeds my expectations for an EDC slipjoint knife. It is a reliable and versatile tool that I can confidently carry in a variety of situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife is excellent. The materials used are high-quality and durable, and the construction feels solid and well-executed. The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife feels comfortable in hand, and the G10 handle provides a secure grip even in wet conditions.
The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife is very user-friendly, with no learning curve. The slipjoint mechanism is intuitive, and the blade is easy to open and close with one hand.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality materials and solid construction, the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife should last for many years with proper care. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the G10 handle is virtually indestructible.
The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife is easy to maintain and repair. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the pivot point are all that is required to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife comes with a black nylon zippered storage case. Aftermarket accessories and customization options are limited due to its simple, traditional design.
While there aren’t specific accessories designed solely for the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife, it will fit in any generic knife sheath or slip designed for a folding knife of similar size. The non-standard pivot pin design likely restricts aftermarket part swaps.
Pros and Cons of Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife
Pros
- Excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance due to the Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel blade.
- Durable and grippy G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable hold in various conditions.
- The sheepsfoot blade shape is ideal for controlled cutting and minimizing the risk of accidental piercing.
- Lightweight and compact design makes it comfortable for everyday carry.
- Simple and reliable slipjoint mechanism.
Cons
- Non-locking blade may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife?
The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife is perfect for: Those seeking a reliable and non-threatening EDC knife for everyday cutting tasks. Outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable and corrosion-resistant knife for light-duty tasks. People who prefer the simplicity and traditional feel of a slipjoint knife.
Who should skip this product? Individuals who require a locking blade for heavy-duty cutting or tactical applications. Those who prefer a wider range of customization options.
A must-have accessory is a sharpening stone or system to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife
The Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife is a well-designed and executed slipjoint knife that offers a compelling blend of classic aesthetics and modern materials. Its durable construction, practical blade shape, and comfortable ergonomics make it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
At a price of $54.19, the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife represents a solid value proposition. The quality of the materials and craftsmanship justify the price, and the knife should provide many years of reliable service.
I would personally recommend the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife to anyone looking for a high-quality, non-threatening EDC knife. It is a versatile and dependable tool that I am confident will become a valuable part of your everyday carry.
Ready to experience the perfect blend of tradition and modernity? Add the Begg Knives Sheepsfoot SlipJoint Folding Knife to your collection today!