Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife

The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife arrives with a promise of marrying classic design with practical functionality, a legacy Beretta often delivers. As a seasoned outdoorsman and tactical gear specialist, I’m always keen to see how a blade holds up to real-world demands. I have seen many knives over the years and many fads in the industry. I was curious to see what the hype around this one was all about.

For years, I’ve relied on folding knives for everything from field dressing game to prepping kindling, so finding a reliable tool is paramount. The Steenbok caught my eye with its combination of a 440 steel blade, walnut handle, and lockback mechanism, hinting at a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern utility. My usual carry knife is a SOG Trident AT; I was looking for something similar, but with a slightly more refined look for less demanding situations. This knife was looking like the answer to my prayers.

Unboxing the Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife revealed a handsome piece of equipment. The walnut handle felt warm and substantial in my hand, a welcome change from the synthetic scales of many modern folders. The blade, while not the most exotic steel, appeared well-ground and ready for work. This knife felt a little more like a tool than a weapon to me, so that was a definite plus.

Compared to other knives in my collection, like the Benchmade Bugout (known for its lightweight design) and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 (revered for its ergonomics and cutting performance), the Steenbok felt more like a classic gentleman’s folder with a bit of backbone. I have always been a fan of traditional styling, this one really took the cake. While the Bugout excels in ultra-lightweight carry and the Paramilitary 2 offers superior ergonomics for demanding tasks, the Steenbok seemed to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife has the potential to be a dependable and attractive everyday carry option, but the true test would come with hard use in the field. I was hoping this one would surpass all of my expectations.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife on a week-long backcountry camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains to truly put it through its paces. The varied terrain and unpredictable weather offered ample opportunities to test its capabilities. I even made sure I brought a spare knife, in case it went south.

The Steenbok handled basic camp chores with ease. From slicing rope to preparing food, the blade proved sharp enough for most tasks. In damp conditions, the walnut handle provided a secure grip, even when my hands were wet from rain.

While the lockback mechanism felt solid, I did notice a bit of stiffness when opening and closing the blade initially. The knife took some getting used to, as I was used to a different lock style on most of my daily knives. After a few days of use, the action smoothed out considerably, becoming more intuitive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable, although not perfect, companion. The 440 steel has held an edge reasonably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a honing steel. The steel held its own, but did not impress me with its ability to hold an edge.

The walnut handle has developed a nice patina with use, adding to its character. I am always a sucker for a nicely aged wood handle. I have noticed a few minor scratches on the bolsters, but nothing that detracts from the knife’s overall appearance.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use has kept the blade rust-free and the action smooth. Compared to some of my other folders with more complex mechanisms, the Steenbok is remarkably easy to clean and maintain.

Breaking Down the Features of Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife

Specifications

The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife boasts the following specifications:

• Blade Length: 3.75 inches – A versatile length for a variety of tasks.
• Closed Length: 5 inches – Compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.
• Blade Material: 440 Stainless Steel – A common, budget-friendly steel known for its corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point – A classic blade shape well-suited for general utility.
• Handle Material: Walnut – Provides a warm, traditional look and feel.
• Handle Color: Walnut – Offers a natural, aesthetically pleasing appearance.

These specifications combine to create a knife that is intended for everyday carry and light to medium-duty tasks. The 440 stainless steel, while not a premium steel, is a practical choice for users who prioritize ease of maintenance and affordability. The drop point blade shape lends itself well to both slicing and piercing, making it a versatile tool for various applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife performs admirably in its intended role as an everyday carry and general utility knife. The blade is sharp enough for most common cutting tasks. The lockback mechanism provides a secure lockup, instilling confidence during use.

While the 440 steel requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels like CPM-S30V or Elmax, it is easy to sharpen with basic tools. This makes it a good choice for users who are not experienced with knife sharpening. The handle ergonomics are decent, but not exceptional; extended use can cause some discomfort due to the lack of significant contouring.

The Steenbok meets expectations for a knife in its price range. However, it does not exceed them in terms of cutting performance or overall comfort. It does provide a nice look, which many modern knives lack.

Design & Ergonomics

The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife features a classic design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The walnut handle provides a warm, natural feel, while the stainless-steel bolsters add a touch of elegance. The overall build quality is solid, with tight tolerances and no noticeable gaps or imperfections.

The knife feels well-balanced in hand, but the handle could benefit from more ergonomic shaping. There is a slight learning curve associated with the lockback mechanism. However, it quickly becomes intuitive with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife is built to last, with durable materials and a robust construction. The 440 stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion. The walnut handle is naturally resilient.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication to keep the knife in good working order. With proper care, the Steenbok should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife comes with minimal accessories. The knife is supplied in a simple cardboard box. There are no other included accessories.

Customization options are limited, but aftermarket knife scales could potentially be fitted with some modification. The lanyard hole offers a point for adding a lanyard or fob.

Pros and Cons of Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife?

The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Everyday carry users who appreciate a classic design.
• Individuals seeking a reliable and affordable utility knife.
• Those who value ease of maintenance and durability.

Who should skip this product?

• Users who demand the highest level of cutting performance.
• Individuals who require advanced ergonomics for demanding tasks.
• Those seeking extensive customization options.

A must-have modification would be a higher quality steel, but that would drive up the price.

Conclusion on Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife

The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife is a handsome and functional knife that offers a good balance of classic design, durability, and affordability. While it may not compete with premium knives in terms of cutting performance, it is a reliable and practical tool for everyday carry and general utility tasks. The Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife is more suited as a gentleman’s knife, than for survival scenarios.

The price of $99.00 is justified for the materials and construction quality. Although the steel is not premium, the design and feel make up for it. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a classic, dependable folding knife that won’t break the bank.

If you appreciate traditional aesthetics and prioritize ease of use and maintenance, the Beretta Steenbok Lockback Folding Knife is a solid choice. Consider adding one to your collection today!