BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife

The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife enters a crowded market, promising reliability and sharpness in a compact package. Marketed as an ideal everyday carry (EDC) tool, this knife from BlackHawk aims to balance tactical functionality with practical convenience. I was particularly intrigued by the D2 Tool Steel blade and the promise of edge retention, something I value highly in a folding knife.

For years, I’ve been on the hunt for a folding knife that truly holds its edge through rigorous use. Too many knives dull quickly, turning simple tasks into frustrating chores. The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife seemed to offer a solution with its D2 Tool Steel blade, leading me to believe it could finally meet my needs for a reliable and sharp cutting tool.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-built, with a comfortable weight of 3.6 oz. The G-10 handle provides a secure grip, even with wet hands, and the blade’s steel finish looks both rugged and refined. My initial assessment pointed to a knife that’s built to withstand heavy use.

Compared to my old Kershaw Blur and a CRKT M21, the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife felt more robust. The Kershaw is lighter but the steel isn’t as durable, and the CRKT, while strong, is bulkier. The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife appeared to strike a better balance between portability and durability.

My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to put this knife through its paces and see if it lived up to the promise of being a dependable and sharp EDC tool. The combination of the materials and design indicated a quality knife, and I was eager to validate these initial observations.


Real-World Testing: Putting BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used the knife for everything from preparing food to cutting rope for setting up my tent. The terrain was diverse, exposing the knife to dirt, moisture, and varying temperatures.

The knife performed admirably in these conditions. The G-10 handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were wet from rain, and the blade sliced cleanly through everything I needed it to. I didn’t need any time to get used to the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife; it felt intuitive and comfortable right away.

The only initial issue was the stiffness of the opening mechanism. It required more force than I was accustomed to. However, after applying a drop of oil and opening/closing the blade repeatedly, the action smoothed out significantly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for various tasks, including cutting cardboard, opening packages, and even some light yard work. It has become a staple in my EDC rotation.

The D2 Tool Steel blade has retained its edge remarkably well. Even after consistent use, it still slices cleanly through materials without significant dulling. A quick stropping is all it takes to restore it to its original sharpness.

Maintaining the knife is simple. I clean the blade with a dry cloth after each use and apply a light coat of oil to the pivot point every few weeks. So far, there are no signs of rust or corrosion. The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife outperforms my previous EDC knives in terms of edge retention and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife

Specifications

The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance:

  • Blade Length: 3.38 inches. This length provides a good balance between cutting power and ease of carry, making it ideal for EDC.
  • Blade Material: D2 Tool Steel. D2 Tool Steel is known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance, meaning it stays sharp longer and can withstand heavy use.
  • Knife Application: Folding Blade. The folding design allows for safe and convenient carry, making it accessible for a variety of tasks.
  • Handle Material: G-10. The G-10 handle is exceptionally durable, resistant to moisture, and provides a secure grip even in wet conditions.
  • Handle Finish: Black. The black finish offers a low-profile look and helps to conceal the knife.
  • Blade Finish: Steel. The steel finish adds to the knife’s rugged aesthetic and provides corrosion resistance.
  • Weight: 3.6 oz. This weight strikes a balance between solid feel and comfortable carry, making it suitable for all-day use.
  • Color: Black. The all-black color scheme enhances its tactical appearance.

These specifications are essential to the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife because they determine its functionality, durability, and overall user experience. The D2 Tool Steel blade ensures sharpness and longevity, while the G-10 handle offers a secure grip. The weight and size are also key factors in its practicality as an everyday carry item.

Performance & Functionality

The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife performs its job exceedingly well. The blade is incredibly sharp, allowing for clean and precise cuts, and the G-10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, which is crucial for safety and control. The knife’s reliability is enhanced by the sturdy locking mechanism, ensuring the blade stays securely in place during use.

One strength of the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife is its edge retention. The D2 Tool Steel holds its sharpness even after prolonged use, requiring minimal maintenance. A minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the opening mechanism, but as mentioned, this improves with use.

The knife meets and even exceeds my expectations. It offers a superior cutting experience and exceptional durability, making it a reliable tool for various tasks. Its performance is a testament to the quality of materials and design.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife is excellent. The D2 Tool Steel blade is strong and sharp, while the G-10 handle is both durable and comfortable to hold. The knife feels well-balanced in hand, enhancing control and reducing fatigue during extended use.

The design is user-friendly. The knife has an intuitive opening and closing mechanism. There is a slight learning curve with the opening mechanism stiffness, but it quickly becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife is built to last. The robust materials and solid construction suggest it can withstand years of regular use. With proper care, including regular cleaning and occasional oiling, this knife should provide reliable service for a long time.

Maintaining the knife is straightforward. A quick wipe down after each use and periodic lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s needed to keep it in optimal condition. The simplicity of maintenance adds to its appeal as an EDC tool.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife features a handy belt clip, allowing for easy and secure carry. While the knife itself doesn’t offer much in the way of extensive customization options, the standard design makes it compatible with many aftermarket lanyards and pocket clips. This allows users to personalize the knife to their liking.

The G-10 handle scales could theoretically be swapped, although finding compatible aftermarket scales might require some searching. However, the stock G-10 handle is already excellent, providing a secure and comfortable grip. There are no standard accessories that come included other than the integral pocket clip.

Pros and Cons of BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife

Pros

  • Exceptional Edge Retention: The D2 Tool Steel blade holds its edge for a remarkably long time, requiring minimal sharpening.
  • Durable G-10 Handle: The G-10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions, and is highly resistant to wear and tear.
  • Solid Construction: The knife feels robust and well-built, inspiring confidence in its reliability.
  • Convenient EDC Size: The 3.38-inch blade and overall weight of 3.6 oz make it ideal for everyday carry.
  • Secure Locking Mechanism: The sturdy locking mechanism ensures the blade stays securely in place during use, enhancing safety.

Cons

  • The opening mechanism is initially stiff, requiring some break-in.
  • Limited customization options beyond lanyards and pocket clips.


Who Should Buy BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife?

The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife is perfect for:

  • Outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable cutting tool for camping, hiking, and other activities.
  • Everyday carry users who value sharpness, durability, and a comfortable grip.
  • Tactical professionals who require a dependable and rugged knife for field use.

This product might not be ideal for someone seeking a lightweight knife or those who prefer a completely smooth and effortless opening action right out of the box. The initial stiffness of the opening mechanism may deter some users.

A must-have accessory would be a good quality sharpening strop to maintain the blade’s edge. Also, a lanyard can be added to enhance grip and ease of retrieval from a pocket.

Conclusion on BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife

Overall, the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife is an excellent EDC option that delivers on its promises of sharpness, durability, and reliability. The D2 Tool Steel blade and G-10 handle are a winning combination, providing a superior cutting experience and a secure grip. While the opening mechanism might be initially stiff, this minor issue is easily resolved with use.

The price of $66.79 is justified by the quality of materials and construction. The BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife offers excellent value for those seeking a dependable and long-lasting EDC tool.

I would personally recommend the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and durable folding knife. Its exceptional edge retention, solid construction, and comfortable grip make it an outstanding choice for everyday carry and outdoor activities. If you are looking for a knife that can withstand heavy use and maintain its sharpness, the BlackHawk Point Man Folding Knife is definitely worth considering.

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