China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife

The China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife enters a crowded market of budget-friendly folding knives, promising utility with a touch of visual flair. The “Howling Wolf” artwork etched onto the handle immediately sets it apart, hinting at a potential blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal. At a price point of $12.99, expectations must be tempered, but the promise of a reliable cutting tool remains enticing. Is this a diamond in the rough, or just another inexpensive knife destined for the back of a drawer? Let’s find out.

I needed a backup knife for my hiking pack, something lightweight and affordable that I wouldn’t be heartbroken to lose. I’ve spent years relying on high-end knives, but sometimes you just need something simple and disposable.

Unboxing the China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife, I was immediately struck by its light weight. The handle felt surprisingly sturdy, despite its obviously inexpensive construction. The blade deployed smoothly, although with a slight grittiness that hinted at the need for some lubrication.

I considered other inexpensive knives like the Kershaw Brawler and the CRKT Drifter, both known for their budget-friendly reliability. Ultimately, I chose the China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife for its unique artwork and the lure of a potentially hidden gem.

My initial impression was a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism. I wasn’t expecting miracles for $12.99, but I was hoping for a functional tool that could handle basic tasks. Only time and testing would reveal its true worth.

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Real-World Testing: Putting China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was predictably unpredictable, ranging from sunshine to light rain. I primarily used the knife for simple tasks: cutting rope, opening food packages, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling.

The knife performed adequately in dry conditions, but the handle became noticeably slippery when wet. Opening food packages and cutting rope was simple enough; however, whittling proved to be less than ideal due to the blade losing its edge quickly. The liner lock engaged securely, but required a bit of force to disengage.

After its first use, I was left with the impression of an “okay” knife, it performed as expected for a knife at its price point, no surprises.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of occasional use, the China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife is showing signs of wear. The blade coating is starting to scratch, and the liner lock is becoming slightly looser.

The blade requires frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge, indicating a relatively soft steel. Cleaning the knife is straightforward; however, I noticed some rust forming on the blade near the pivot point after being exposed to moisture. The blade doesn’t hold its edge for very long.

Compared to my usual EDC (Every Day Carry) knife, a Benchmade Griptilian, the China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife is noticeably inferior in terms of durability and edge retention. It serves its purpose as a backup, but wouldn’t be my first choice for demanding tasks. The Benchmade stays sharp far longer.

Breaking Down the Features of China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife

Specifications

The China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife features a 3.25-inch blade made from an unspecified steel. The handle is constructed from an unknown composite material, adorned with the titular howling wolf artwork. Its closed length is 4.5 inches, making it relatively compact for pocket carry.

The liner lock mechanism secures the blade in the open position. The knife also features an extended tang, a lanyard hole, and a pocket clip for convenient carry. These specifications are fairly typical for a budget-friendly folding knife, prioritizing affordability over premium materials and features.

Performance & Functionality

The China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife performs adequately for light-duty tasks. The blade is sharp enough out of the box to handle basic cutting chores, but dulls quickly with use.

The liner lock functions reliably, preventing accidental blade closure during normal use. The ergonomic design of the handle provides a comfortable grip, even for extended periods. The extended tang offers added leverage for opening the blade.

However, the blade’s steel quality is a significant weakness. It requires frequent sharpening to maintain a usable edge, making it unsuitable for demanding tasks. The overall build quality feels somewhat flimsy, raising concerns about long-term durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife features a straightforward, no-frills design. The howling wolf artwork adds a touch of visual appeal, although the execution is somewhat crude.

The handle is contoured to provide a comfortable grip, even for larger hands. The pocket clip allows for secure and convenient carry. However, the overall fit and finish are lacking, with noticeable gaps and imperfections.

The knife is relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry without adding excessive bulk. The liner lock is easily accessible and can be disengaged with one hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife’s long-term durability is questionable. The blade steel is soft and prone to chipping, and the handle materials feel somewhat fragile.

The knife requires regular cleaning and lubrication to prevent rust and maintain smooth operation. Sharpening the blade is a frequent necessity due to its poor edge retention. Due to its inexpensive construction, repairs are likely not feasible.

Accessories and Customization Options

The China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife comes with no additional accessories beyond the integral pocket clip. There are no readily available aftermarket parts or customization options specifically designed for this knife.

Given its low price point, customization is generally not a consideration for this type of knife. Users seeking greater functionality or personalization would be better served by investing in a more expensive and versatile model.

Pros and Cons of China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife?

The China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife is perfect for casual campers, occasional users, or anyone needing a very inexpensive backup knife. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate the aesthetic of the howling wolf design and aren’t expecting high performance. This knife might be ideal for a young scout learning knife safety.

Those who should skip this product are serious outdoorsmen, survivalists, or anyone who relies on a knife for demanding tasks. It’s not a knife for heavy use or situations where reliability is paramount.

Must-have accessories would include a reliable knife sharpener to maintain the blade’s edge. Some lubricating oil might be helpful for maintaining smooth operation.

Conclusion on China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife

The China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife offers a budget-friendly entry point into the world of folding knives. It has some visual appeal and basic functionality.

The price is definitely justified for what you get, especially for those on a tight budget or needing a disposable tool.

I would recommend the China Made Howling Wolf Linerlock Folding Knife to someone who understands its limitations and has realistic expectations. For $12.99, it’s hard to complain too much, just don’t expect it to perform like a $100+ knife. Buy it for what it is: an inexpensive, visually interesting knife for light tasks.