Let’s Talk About Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw
The Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw is a compact and versatile folding knife designed with the outdoorsman in mind. Manufactured by Camillus, this knife combines a durable build with a practical saw blade, making it a useful tool for various tasks. The Prym1 camo handle adds a touch of style while providing a secure grip, and the pocket clip ensures easy carry.
I was looking for a lightweight, multi-functional tool that wouldn’t weigh down my pack on backpacking trips. I needed a reliable cutting tool and a small saw for processing kindling and small branches. The Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw, with its combination blade and saw, seemed like a potentially ideal solution.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the knife’s compact size and lightweight feel. The Prym1 camo handle looked great, and the texturing provided a surprisingly secure grip. The blade opened smoothly, and the lockback mechanism felt solid and secure.
Compared to my Mora Companion and SOG folding knife, the Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw offered a unique blend of features. The Mora is a fantastic fixed blade, but lacks the saw. The SOG is a robust folder, but also missing a saw blade. The Camillus offered the potential to consolidate both cutting and sawing capabilities into a single, lightweight tool, which is why I ultimately chose it.
My first impression was positive; I was excited to put it to the test and see if it could live up to its potential. I was cautiously optimistic, as the $31.99 price point suggested it might not be as robust as some higher-end options, but I was eager to see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw on a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. The weather was mild, but the forest floor was damp from recent rain. I used the knife primarily for preparing firewood, cutting small branches for kindling, and notching wood for basic shelter construction.
The blade performed adequately for slicing tinder and whittling small pieces of wood. The saw blade, however, proved to be more useful than I initially anticipated, easily cutting through branches up to an inch in diameter. The camo handle remained grippy even with wet hands, adding to the overall positive experience.
My initial concern was that the lockback mechanism might feel weak under pressure. However, it held firm throughout my initial tests, providing a secure and reliable lock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw has proven to be a reliable tool, though with some limitations. The titanium coating on the blade has held up well, showing only minor scratches from regular use. The saw teeth remain sharp, despite having been used on a variety of wood types.
I have noticed some slight loosening of the pivot point over time. This required tightening with a Torx wrench to maintain optimal blade alignment and lockup. The camo handle has retained its color and grip, showing no signs of fading or wear.
Compared to my previous experiences with other budget-friendly knives, the Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability. While it doesn’t match the robustness of higher-end knives, it has held up surprisingly well under regular use.
Breaking Down the Features of Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw
Specifications
The Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw features a 5.75″ closed length, making it easily pocketable. It boasts a 4.25″ blade made from 420 stainless steel with a titanium coating. This coating provides enhanced corrosion resistance and durability.
The handle is made from a durable composite material with a Prym1 camo pattern. A thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening. The knife also includes a pocket clip for convenient carry and a triple edge grind on the blade for enhanced cutting performance.
These specifications are important because they dictate the knife’s overall size, weight, and performance capabilities. The 420 stainless steel provides a good balance of hardness and corrosion resistance, while the titanium coating further enhances durability. The Prym1 camo handle not only looks good but also provides a secure and comfortable grip.
Performance & Functionality
The Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw performs adequately as a general-purpose cutting tool. The blade is sharp enough for basic tasks like slicing, whittling, and opening packages. The saw blade is surprisingly effective for cutting through small branches and kindling, making it a valuable asset for outdoor activities.
The knife’s primary strength lies in its combination of a cutting blade and a saw. However, the blade steel could be of higher quality for improved edge retention. The lockback mechanism is reliable, but requires occasional maintenance to ensure proper function.
Overall, the Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw meets expectations for a budget-friendly multi-tool, but doesn’t necessarily exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw features a compact and lightweight design, making it comfortable to carry and use. The Prym1 camo handle provides a secure and ergonomic grip, even in wet conditions. The thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening, which is a valuable feature in tactical situations.
There is a slight learning curve associated with using the lockback mechanism. It takes a bit of practice to become proficient at opening and closing the blade smoothly and safely.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw should last for several years of regular use. The titanium coating on the blade provides enhanced corrosion resistance, but it is still important to clean and oil the blade regularly to prevent rust. The handle is made from a durable composite material that should withstand years of use.
The knife is relatively easy to maintain and repair. The pivot point can be tightened with a Torx wrench, and the blade can be sharpened with a standard sharpening stone or sharpening system.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw comes with a pocket clip, which is a useful accessory for convenient carry. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this knife. However, the pocket clip can be removed if desired.
The knife is compatible with most standard sharpening systems. Also, lubrication can enhance the smoothness of the deployment.
Pros and Cons of Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw
Pros
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Combination blade and saw, offering versatility for various tasks.
- Lightweight and compact design, making it easy to carry and use.
- Durable titanium-coated blade for enhanced corrosion resistance.
- Prym1 camo handle provides a secure and comfortable grip.
Cons
- The 420 stainless steel blade could benefit from higher edge retention.
- Requires occasional maintenance to tighten the pivot point and ensure smooth operation.
Who Should Buy Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw?
The Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw is perfect for:
- Campers who need a versatile tool for preparing firewood and other camp tasks.
- Hikers looking for a lightweight and compact knife with a saw for trail maintenance.
- Survivalists who want a reliable multi-tool for basic shelter construction and resource gathering.
- Casual outdoor enthusiasts who need a general-purpose knife for various tasks.
Those who should skip this product:
- Users who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks.
- Individuals who prioritize premium blade steel and superior edge retention.
A must-have modification is a high-quality sharpening stone. Proper sharpening will extend the life of the blade and maintain its cutting performance.
Conclusion on Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw
The Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw is a decent budget-friendly option for those seeking a versatile and compact multi-tool. Its combination blade and saw offer practical functionality for various outdoor activities. While the blade steel could be better, the knife’s overall durability and affordability make it a worthwhile purchase for casual users.
The price of $31.99 is justified given the knife’s features and capabilities. This makes it a good value for the money.
I would recommend the Camillus Knives Cloak Lockback Saw to anyone looking for an inexpensive and reliable multi-tool for camping, hiking, or general outdoor use. It’s not the best knife on the market, but it’s a solid performer at an affordable price. Go ahead and grab one, you might be surprised at how useful it becomes!