Let’s Talk About Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno
The Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno is a testament to the fusion of Japanese design sensibilities and German engineering. Brought to life by the renowned Japanese knifemaker Kansei Matsuno, in collaboration with Boker Plus, this knife is more than just a cutting tool; it’s a pocketable piece of art. It stands out with its sleek profile, front flipper deployment, and high-quality materials.
I was looking for a gentleman’s knife that could double as an everyday carry (EDC) option – something refined yet practical. My search led me to the Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno and its promise of both elegance and functionality.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the knife’s slimness and lightness. The vertical satin finish on the blade and the meticulously crafted carbon/cocobolo/G10 handle exuded quality. The ball bearing action felt incredibly smooth, hinting at the precision engineering within.
Compared to the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 (known for its robust construction) and the Benchmade Bugout (praised for its lightweight design), the Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno offered a unique aesthetic and a distinct deployment method. It wasn’t about brute strength like the Paramilitary 2, nor was it about pure utilitarianism like the Bugout; it was about refined performance. I chose it because of its front flipper design and its slim profile and the unique design language it exudes.
My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with a touch of apprehension. Could this delicate-looking knife truly hold up to daily use? Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno came during a week-long camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I used it for a variety of tasks, from food preparation to whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The conditions were fairly mild, with some humidity and occasional light rain.
The knife performed admirably. The VG-10 blade held its edge well, even after repeated use. Opening the knife with the front flipper took a bit of getting used to, but once I got the hang of it, the deployment became smooth and reliable.
The only issue I encountered was a slight difficulty in gripping the knife securely when my hands were wet. The smooth handle scales, while aesthetically pleasing, could become slippery in damp conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno has proven to be a reliable and capable companion. I’ve carried it daily, using it for everything from opening packages to cutting rope.
The durability has been impressive. The blade has shown minimal signs of wear, and the liner lock remains solid and secure. The handle scales have held up well, with no signs of cracking or chipping.
Maintenance has been simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use has been sufficient to keep the knife in good condition. I’ve also applied a small amount of oil to the pivot point occasionally to maintain the smooth action.
Compared to my previous EDC knife, a Benchmade Griptilian, the Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno offers a more refined and elegant experience. While the Griptilian is undeniably more robust, the LRF is lighter, slimmer, and more comfortable to carry in dress pants or slacks. It has not disappointed me.
Breaking Down the Features of Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Boker Plus.
- Blade Length: 3.1 inches. This provides a good balance between cutting power and ease of carry.
- Blade Material: VG-10. This is a high-quality Japanese stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Knife Application: Folding Blade. This is designed for everyday carry and utility tasks.
- Overall Length: 7.1 inches. It is compact enough to comfortably fit in a pocket.
- Included Accessories: Clip. The clip allows for convenient tip-up, right-side carry.
- Blade Shape: Spey. This provides versatility for various cutting tasks.
- Blade Thickness: 0.1 inches. This allows for precise cutting while maintaining a sturdy profile.
- Sheath Material: No Sheath. As a folding knife, a sheath is not necessary.
- Weight: 1.9 oz. It’s incredibly lightweight.
These specifications collectively contribute to the knife’s excellent performance and user experience. The VG-10 steel ensures a sharp, durable blade, while the lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry all day long.
Performance & Functionality
The Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno excels at everyday cutting tasks. Its sharp VG-10 blade slices through cardboard, rope, and food with ease. The front flipper deployment, once mastered, is quick and reliable.
The knife’s strengths lie in its slim profile, lightweight design, and excellent edge retention. The weakness is its handle which is slightly slippery when wet.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a gentleman’s carry knife. It offers a blend of elegance, functionality, and quality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional. The materials used are top-notch, and the fit and finish are superb. The knife feels solid and well-made in hand.
The LRF is exceptionally user-friendly. The slim profile and lightweight design make it comfortable to carry. There is a slight learning curve with the front flipper, but it becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling are all that is required to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The knife comes with a pocket clip. Beyond that, customization options are limited. Aftermarket scales are not widely available.
It is compatible with most standard knife lubricants and cleaning products. This allows users to tailor their maintenance routine to their preferences.
Pros and Cons of Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno
Pros
- Exceptionally Lightweight: Weighing only 1.9 oz, it disappears in your pocket.
- High-Quality VG-10 Steel: Provides excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Sleek and Elegant Design: A refined aesthetic suitable for everyday carry or special occasions.
- Smooth Ball Bearing Action: The front flipper deployment is quick and reliable.
- Slim Profile: It makes it comfortable to carry in a variety of settings.
Cons
- Handle can be slippery when wet.
- Limited Customization Options.
Who Should Buy Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno?
The Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno is perfect for professionals, urban dwellers, and anyone who appreciates a refined and functional EDC knife. It’s ideal for those who want a lightweight, slim, and elegant knife that can handle everyday cutting tasks with ease.
Those who require a heavy-duty, tactical knife should skip this product. Those in very rough enviroments should skip this product.
A high-quality knife lubricant is a must-have accessory to keep the action smooth. A sharpening stone or system is also recommended to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno
The Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno is an exceptional knife that offers a compelling blend of elegance, functionality, and quality. Its slim profile, lightweight design, and high-quality materials make it a joy to carry and use. The smooth ball bearing action and sharp VG-10 blade provide excellent performance.
The price is justified by the knife’s quality, design, and performance. At $86.66, it represents a solid value for a premium EDC knife.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno to anyone looking for a refined and capable everyday carry option. Experience the fusion of Japanese design and German engineering for yourself. Add the Boker Plus LRF Folding Knives Kansei Matsuno to your collection today and elevate your EDC game.