First Impressions of Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley
The Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley is a sleek and modern take on a classic folding knife design, known for its clean lines and exceptional ergonomics. Designed by the renowned custom knifemaker Lucas Burnley and manufactured by Boker Plus, this knife immediately stands out with its minimalist aesthetic and high-quality materials, promising both style and performance. I was drawn to its unique dagger blade shape combined with modern materials.
I’ve always appreciated Burnley’s work and his ability to blend tactical functionality with everyday carry sensibilities. I have been on the hunt for a knife with a symmetrical blade profile that isn’t a full-blown dagger but offers similar piercing capabilities while still being practical for slicing and general utility. The Kwaiken Sym seemed to perfectly fit that niche.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid and well-balanced for its size. The black G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, while the titanium bolsters add a touch of class and durability. The blade’s black coating gives it a tactical look, and the overall fit and finish are impressive, indicating a high level of craftsmanship.
Compared to my Spyderco Paramilitary 2, which excels in all-around utility, and my Benchmade Bugout, favored for its lightweight design, the Kwaiken Sym carves its own path. The Spyderco is a workhorse, and the Benchmade is barely there in the pocket, while the Kwaiken Sym seemed more geared towards those who appreciate form and refined function. I picked the Kwaiken Sym for its elegant design and intended purpose.
My initial impression was one of excitement and intrigue. The Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley looked even better in person than in the pictures, and its smooth action and comfortable ergonomics made me eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym on a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for various tasks, including preparing food, whittling some kindling, and cutting rope. The knife handled these tasks with ease, demonstrating its versatility.
The weather was slightly damp, and the black G10 handle provided a surprisingly secure grip even when my hands were wet. I didn’t need much time to get used to the knife; the ergonomics were intuitive, and the smooth opening mechanism made it a pleasure to use. The blade’s profile also aided fine cutting tasks.
There were no major issues during my first use, although I did notice that the black coating on the blade scratched slightly when cutting some tougher branches. It’s a minor cosmetic issue, but something to keep in mind if you’re concerned about maintaining a pristine finish.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym has proven to be a reliable and capable EDC knife. It’s seen regular use in my daily life, from opening packages and cutting zip ties to more demanding tasks like light yard work. The Kwaiken Sym continues to hold its edge well.
The knife has held up remarkably well, with only minor wear and tear. The black coating on the blade has acquired a few more scratches, but the blade itself remains sharp and free of corrosion. The G10 handle is still in excellent condition, showing no signs of wear or fading.
Maintaining the Kwaiken Sym is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the handle clean, and a drop of oil on the pivot occasionally keeps the action smooth. Compared to some of my other knives that require more frequent sharpening, the Kwaiken Sym has been relatively low-maintenance. It outperforms my previous EDC knives in terms of edge retention, likely due to the 154CM steel.
Breaking Down the Features of Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley
Specifications
The Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley features a 3.5-inch black-coated 154CM stainless steel dagger blade. The handle is made of black G10 with titanium bolsters, providing a secure and comfortable grip. It also includes an extended tang for added strength, a pocket clip for convenient carry, and a black nylon zippered storage case for protection. These specifications contribute to the knife’s overall performance, durability, and ease of use.
The 154CM steel offers a good balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. The dagger blade shape provides excellent piercing capabilities, while the G10 handle ensures a secure grip even in wet conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym performs admirably in a variety of tasks. The blade’s shape and sharpness make it well-suited for piercing, slicing, and general utility work. Its accuracy is excellent for a folding knife.
The knife’s strengths lie in its sleek design, comfortable ergonomics, and reliable performance. The only real weakness is that the blade’s black coating is prone to scratching, though this is purely a cosmetic issue. It exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials and precise machining. The Kwaiken Sym weighs just enough to feel substantial in hand without being overly bulky. The knife is extremely comfortable to hold, thanks to the ergonomic design of the handle.
The Kwaiken Sym is quite user-friendly. There’s no steep learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service. Maintaining the knife is simple.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym comes with a black nylon zippered storage case. While there are no official customization options offered by Boker Plus, the knife’s standard construction allows for the possibility of aftermarket modifications such as custom scales or pocket clips. Many aftermarket options may be compatible.
Pros and Cons of Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley
Pros
- Sleek and Modern Design: The Kwaiken Sym’s minimalist aesthetic and clean lines make it a stylish addition to any EDC collection.
- High-Quality Materials: The combination of 154CM steel, G10, and titanium ensures excellent durability and performance.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The ergonomic handle design provides a secure and comfortable grip for extended use.
- Smooth Action: The knife opens and closes smoothly, thanks to the well-tuned pivot mechanism.
- Versatile Blade Shape: The dagger blade shape is well-suited for piercing, slicing, and general utility tasks.
Cons
- Black Coating Prone to Scratching: The black coating on the blade is susceptible to scratches, which may detract from the knife’s appearance over time.
- Price: At $230.35, the Kwaiken Sym is a relatively expensive folding knife, which may be a barrier for some buyers.
Who Should Buy Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley?
The Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley is perfect for EDC enthusiasts, design-conscious individuals, and anyone who appreciates a high-quality, stylish, and functional folding knife. It’s also a great choice for those who value ergonomics and comfortable grip. If you prefer a more rugged or tactical knife, or if you’re on a tight budget, you may want to skip this product.
A must-have accessory would be a sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. Some users might also consider replacing the pocket clip with an aftermarket option for a more customized look and feel.
Conclusion on Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley
The Boker Plus Kwaiken Sym 3.5in Folding Knife by Lucas Burnley is a beautifully designed and well-executed folding knife that offers a compelling combination of style, performance, and ergonomics. While the price may be a bit steep for some, the quality of materials and craftsmanship justify the investment. I personally recommend it.
If you’re looking for a sleek and modern EDC knife that’s sure to turn heads, the Kwaiken Sym is an excellent choice. Go ahead and treat yourself – you won’t be disappointed.