Let’s Talk About Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife
The Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife is designed for those who appreciate a blend of speed, lightweight design, and strength in their everyday carry. Browning, a name synonymous with quality in the outdoor world, brings their expertise to this tactical folder. Its assisted opening mechanism, frame lock construction, and textured G-10 scales immediately caught my eye.
I needed a reliable, quick-deploying knife that wouldn’t weigh me down during long days on the trail. I was looking for something that felt solid in my hand but was also easily accessible with one hand.
Unboxing the Finish Line, I immediately noticed its sleek profile and surprisingly light weight. The G-10 scales felt grippy and secure, and the assisted opening was smooth and fast right out of the box. It felt like a significant step up from some of the cheaper, flimsier assisted-opening knives I’ve handled in the past.
Compared to my Kershaw Blur and a CRKT M16-14SF, the Browning seemed to strike a better balance between weight and robustness. The Kershaw is lighter, but the Finish Line feels more substantial. The CRKT is tougher, but it’s bulkier and slower to deploy. I chose the Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife for its promise of a smooth, fast, and reliable carry without unnecessary weight.
My first impression was one of excitement. It appeared to be exactly what I wanted in a tactical folding knife: functional, well-built, and reasonably priced. I couldn’t wait to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test for the Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling, cutting rope for my hammock, and opening food packages.
It performed admirably in damp conditions; the G-10 scales provided a secure grip even with slightly wet hands. The assisted opening was a godsend when I needed to quickly deploy the blade to cut some tangled cordage, while I was trying to setup camp in the rain. No time to fumble!
The only slight issue I encountered was the initial stiffness of the frame lock. It required a bit more force than I expected to disengage, but it loosened up with use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife has proven to be a dependable tool. I’ve carried it daily, using it for everything from opening boxes to more demanding tasks like whittling and light prying.
The blade has held its edge well, requiring only occasional touch-ups. There are some minor scratches on the blade coating from normal wear, but no significant damage. I have used it primarily for opening packages, cutting rope and paracord and making feather sticks for the campfire.
Cleaning is straightforward. A quick rinse with water and a wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is usually all it takes to keep it in good condition. Compared to some of my other knives with more intricate mechanisms, the Finish Line is a breeze to maintain. So far, it has out-performed many of the knives in its price range, offering similar strength and performance without the premium price tag.
Breaking Down the Features of Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife
Specifications
- The Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife features a 3.38-inch hollow-ground stainless steel blade. This blade length is a great compromise for both utility and portability.
- It has a 4-inch closed length and an 8-inch overall length. The closed length is perfect for comfortable pocket carry.
- The blade is made of 440A stainless steel. While not a premium steel, 440A offers a good balance of corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening, making it practical for everyday use.
- The handle is made of machined textured G-10 scales with robust frame lock construction. This handle construction provides a secure and comfortable grip.
- It features a spring-assisted opening design. This makes the knife quick and easy to deploy with one hand.
Performance & Functionality
The Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife excels at its intended purpose. It is a fast-deploying, reliable cutting tool suitable for a wide range of tasks.
Its strengths lie in its rapid deployment, comfortable grip, and solid lockup. A weakness is the average steel.
It meets my expectations for an EDC (Every Day Carry) knife, providing reliable performance and solid construction at a reasonable price point. However, the steel will need sharpening more often than other premium knives.
Design & Ergonomics
The Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife is designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. The machined G-10 scales provide a secure grip and a sleek, modern look.
The knife feels well-balanced and comfortable in hand. The thumb stud is easily accessible, and the pocket clip allows for convenient carry. There’s a slight learning curve with the frame lock due to initial stiffness, but it becomes smoother with use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and materials, the Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife should last for years with proper care. The 440A stainless steel blade is corrosion-resistant, and the G-10 handle scales are very durable.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening should be sufficient to keep it in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife comes with a pocket clip for convenient carry. The clip can be positioned for left or right handed use.
There are no specific Browning-branded accessories designed for this knife. However, due to the standard construction of the knife, you can replace parts using generic aftermarket parts such as screws.
Pros and Cons of Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife
Pros
- Fast and reliable assisted opening: Provides quick, one-handed blade deployment in any situation.
- Durable G-10 handle scales: Offer a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Solid frame lock construction: Ensures a safe and secure lockup, preventing accidental blade closure.
- Lightweight design: Makes it comfortable for everyday carry without weighing you down.
- Excellent value for money: Offers a great combination of features and performance at an affordable price.
Cons
- 440A blade steel: Requires more frequent sharpening compared to premium blade steels.
- Frame lock stiffness: Can be initially stiff, requiring some break-in period for smooth operation.
Who Should Buy Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife?
The Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife is perfect for everyday carry, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing a reliable and quickly accessible knife. This would benefit campers, hikers, and even casual users who want a dependable cutting tool for daily tasks.
This knife may not be ideal for those who demand premium blade steel or prefer a more traditional manual opening mechanism. Those seeking a knife for heavy-duty tasks might also want to consider a fixed-blade option.
A sharpening stone is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. A small bottle of lubricating oil will also help keep the assisted opening mechanism smooth.
Conclusion on Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife
The Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a solid performer that offers excellent value for the money. It combines a fast and reliable assisted opening mechanism with durable construction and a comfortable grip.
At $42.99, the price is more than justified. You get a well-built, functional knife that can handle a wide range of tasks.
I would definitely recommend the Browning Black Label Finish Line Assisted Opening Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable EDC knife without breaking the bank. If you need a fast, reliable, and affordable tactical folder, the Finish Line is definitely worth considering. Get yours today and experience the Browning difference!