First Impressions of Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow
The Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow immediately grabs your attention with its striking black and yellow G10 handle. Bestech Knives aims to deliver a reliable and functional cutting tool with this offering, boasting a D2 steel blade and a comfortable, secure grip. It’s a knife that looks like it’s ready for anything, and I was eager to see if its performance matched its bold aesthetic.
I was looking for a durable, everyday carry (EDC) knife that could handle various tasks around the campsite and on the trail. I needed something more robust than my current lightweight folder, which felt inadequate for tougher cutting jobs. The Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow seemed to offer a good balance of size, strength, and affordability.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-built. The G10 handle provided a positive grip, and the blade deployed smoothly. The weight felt substantial, lending confidence to its ability to withstand demanding use.
I considered the Kershaw Blur and the Ontario RAT Model 1 before settling on the Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow. While the Kershaw offered assisted opening, I preferred the manual action and potentially greater long-term reliability of the Bestech. The RAT Model 1 is a classic for a reason, but the Skirmish’s unique color scheme and slightly more ergonomic handle won me over.
My initial impression was one of excitement. The knife felt like a significant step up in quality and durability compared to my previous EDC. I was eager to put it through its paces in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow on a weekend camping trip in the nearby mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling, cutting rope, and food preparation. The knife handled these tasks with ease.
The 3.5-inch D2 steel blade proved to be sharp and capable, even when wet from morning dew. The G10 handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were damp. I didn’t experience any slippage or discomfort during use. The thumb pull was easy to access and use, even with gloves on.
After the first use, I was impressed with its overall performance. There were no immediate issues, and the knife felt comfortable and secure in my hand. The liner lock engaged firmly and inspired confidence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like batoning small pieces of wood. The edge retention of the D2 steel is impressive, and it hasn’t required sharpening as frequently as my knives with softer steels.
The G10 handle shows no signs of wear and tear, and the liner lock remains solid and reliable. The pocket clip has maintained its tension, and the knife sits securely in my pocket. I did notice a slight amount of play in the blade after heavy use, but it was easily corrected by tightening the pivot screw.
Cleaning the knife is relatively simple. I typically use a damp cloth to wipe down the blade and handle after each use. Occasionally, I’ll apply a small amount of oil to the pivot to keep the action smooth. It outperforms my previous EDC knife in almost every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.5 inches (8.89cm). This is a practical length for EDC, providing ample cutting surface without being overly bulky.
- Closed Length: 4.5 inches (11.43cm). This is a comfortable size for pocket carry, neither too large nor too small.
- Blade Material: D2 tool steel. D2 is known for its excellent wear resistance and edge retention, making it a great choice for demanding use.
- Handle Material: Black and yellow G10. G10 is a durable and lightweight composite material that provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- Weight: 0.32 lb (approximately 5.12 ounces). The weight feels substantial without being cumbersome, providing a good balance in hand.
- Locking Mechanism: Linerlock. The linerlock is a simple and reliable locking mechanism that secures the blade in the open position.
- Additional Features: Pocket Clip, Lanyard Hole. The pocket clip allows for convenient and secure carry, while the lanyard hole provides an option for attaching a lanyard or fob.
These specifications translate to a knife that is well-suited for everyday tasks and more demanding outdoor activities. The choice of D2 steel for the blade ensures long-lasting sharpness. The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
Performance & Functionality
The Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow performs admirably in a variety of tasks. The D2 steel blade is exceptionally sharp and holds its edge well, making it suitable for cutting through various materials, from cardboard to rope. The blade’s shape and thickness provide a good balance of slicing and piercing capabilities.
The knife excels in everyday cutting tasks. It performs very well as an outdoor tool for preparing tinder and food. While the liner lock is reliable, it could be improved for smoother one-handed closing.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow is impressive for its price point. The materials feel durable and well-made. The weight is comfortable for extended use.
The handle is ergonomically designed and fits comfortably in the hand. The textured G10 provides a secure grip. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow should last for many years. The D2 steel blade is resistant to corrosion, but it should still be cleaned and oiled regularly to prevent rust. The G10 handle is highly durable and requires minimal maintenance.
The knife is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. Basic tools are all that is needed. Sharpening the D2 blade will require patience, but the edge retention makes infrequent sharpening a reality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow comes with a standard pocket clip. It also has a lanyard hole. Aftermarket options for pocket clips and lanyards are readily available.
Due to the liner lock construction, customization is limited to aesthetic components such as lanyards and beads. There are no readily available aftermarket scales, or other parts.
Pros and Cons of Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow
Pros
- Excellent Edge Retention: The D2 steel blade holds an edge extremely well, requiring less frequent sharpening.
- Secure G10 Handle: The textured G10 handle provides a comfortable and reliable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Solid Liner Lock: The liner lock mechanism engages firmly and provides a secure lockup.
- Affordable Price: For the quality of materials and construction, the Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow offers excellent value for the money.
- Striking Aesthetics: The black and yellow G10 handle provides a visually appealing and unique look.
Cons
- Liner lock can be stiff. Requires some break in period.
- Limited Customization. Few aftermarket parts are available to significantly alter the knife’s functionality or appearance.
Who Should Buy Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow?
The Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and anyone looking for a reliable EDC knife. Its durable construction and sharp blade make it well-suited for various cutting tasks. It’s also a great option for those who appreciate a visually striking knife with a comfortable grip.
This knife might not be ideal for those who prefer assisted opening mechanisms or require extensive customization options. People looking for a super lightweight knife may also want to explore other options.
A sharpening kit is a must-have accessory to maintain the D2 blade’s edge. A quality knife oil will help keep the blade clean and prevent corrosion.
Conclusion on Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow
The Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow is a solid and dependable EDC knife that offers excellent value for its price. Its D2 steel blade, G10 handle, and reliable liner lock make it a worthy companion for various tasks. The striking aesthetics are a bonus.
The price is absolutely justified, considering the quality of materials and craftsmanship. You’re getting a knife that performs far above its price point.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Bestech Knives Skirmish Linerlock Yellow to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable EDC knife. It’s a knife that you can rely on to perform when you need it most. Add this impressive piece to your collection today!