BORDO Snake Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of BORDO Snake Folding Knife

The BORDO Snake Folding Knife is a compact, wood-handled knife that immediately evokes a classic aesthetic. At a price point of $33.99, it enters a crowded market, challenging it to prove its worth against both budget-friendly alternatives and more premium offerings.

I’ve been searching for a reliable, everyday carry knife that doesn’t break the bank but still offers solid performance. My primary need is a versatile tool that can handle basic cutting tasks during camping trips and the occasional box opening back at home.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the satin finish on the stainless steel blade. The brown wood handle feels surprisingly comfortable in the hand, considering the price. The overall build feels solid, but I’ll be putting it to the test to see how it holds up under real-world conditions. I’ve handled many knives in this price range, and the initial impression of the BORDO Snake Folding Knife surpasses those by Rough Ryder, mainly due to the apparent higher quality of the wood used.

Before settling on the BORDO Snake Folding Knife, I considered the Kershaw Leek and the CRKT Drifter. However, I was drawn to the classic look of the BORDO Snake Folding Knife and its wooden handle. I was cautiously optimistic.

Real-World Testing: Putting BORDO Snake Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the BORDO Snake Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was typically unpredictable – some sun, some rain, and plenty of humidity. I used it primarily for food prep, cutting cordage for setting up my tent, and creating feather sticks for starting a fire.

The knife performed adequately in dry conditions, though it struggled slightly with thicker pieces of wood due to the blade’s geometry. When the rain started, the wooden handle became a little slick. It still maintained a reasonable grip, but required increased caution. I didn’t experience any immediate issues, but the initial sharpness diminished after processing only a small amount of firewood.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the BORDO Snake Folding Knife for various tasks, it shows some minor wear. The satin finish on the blade has a few light scratches, and the wood handle has darkened slightly from handling. The folding mechanism has loosened a little, but there’s no significant blade play.

Cleaning the knife is relatively straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot point keeps it functioning smoothly. It’s neither outperformed or disappointed me relative to other knives in this budget segment. It is holding up comparably to knives from brands like Smith & Wesson in the same price range.

Breaking Down the Features of BORDO Snake Folding Knife

Specifications

The BORDO Snake Folding Knife features a 3.75-inch stainless steel blade with a satin finish. The closed length is 127 mm, making it reasonably compact for everyday carry. The handle is made of brown wood, and the knife weighs in at 0.44 lb. BORDO is the manufacturer of this knife. These specifications highlight a knife designed for general utility and portability.

The blade length provides a decent cutting surface for most common tasks, while the stainless steel construction should offer reasonable corrosion resistance. The wood handle contributes to the knife’s aesthetic appeal but might require more care than synthetic alternatives. The weight suggests a comfortable balance between durability and ease of carry.

Performance & Functionality

The BORDO Snake Folding Knife performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. The blade is sharp enough out of the box to handle paper, cardboard, and light cordage. The edge retention isn’t exceptional. Requiring sharpening after moderate use. The folding mechanism is reasonably smooth but not as refined as higher-end knives.

The knife’s primary strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use. Its main weakness is the steel quality, which impacts edge retention. It meets expectations for a knife in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the BORDO Snake Folding Knife is acceptable, given its price point. The wood handle provides a comfortable grip. The weight feels balanced in hand. The design is classic and understated, appealing to those who prefer a traditional aesthetic.

There is a minimal learning curve, and even novice knife users will find it easy to operate. The wood can feel a bit slick. Better texturing would have enhanced the ergonomic properties.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the BORDO Snake Folding Knife should last for several years of moderate use. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, but the wooden handle requires occasional oiling to prevent drying and cracking. The folding mechanism may require occasional tightening.

Basic cleaning and sharpening are all that’s needed to maintain its performance. The simple construction makes repairs straightforward.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BORDO Snake Folding Knife does not come with any additional accessories. There are no readily available customization options, such as aftermarket scales or clips. Its design is relatively fixed, limiting opportunities for personalization.

It is not specifically designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands. Customization is therefore limited to DIY modifications, which may void any potential warranty.

Pros and Cons of BORDO Snake Folding Knife

Who Should Buy BORDO Snake Folding Knife?

The BORDO Snake Folding Knife is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and anyone seeking an affordable, general-purpose folding knife for everyday carry. It is also well-suited for those who appreciate a classic design and a wood handle.

Individuals needing a knife for heavy-duty tasks, demanding edge retention, or extensive customization should skip this product. Consider knives with higher-end steel and more robust construction.

A sharpening stone or steel is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. Regular oiling of the wooden handle with mineral oil helps preserve its integrity and appearance.

Conclusion on BORDO Snake Folding Knife

The BORDO Snake Folding Knife offers reasonable value for its $33.99 price tag. Its classic design, compact size, and easy maintenance make it a suitable option for casual users seeking a reliable, general-purpose folding knife. While its edge retention and limited customization may disappoint some, its affordability and aesthetic appeal are undeniable.

I would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly EDC knife with a traditional look. Just be aware of its limitations and manage expectations accordingly. If you’re after a dependable, no-frills knife that looks good, the BORDO Snake Folding Knife might just be the one for you.