CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife

Folding knives are ubiquitous, but truly exceptional folding knives are rare. When I first saw the CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife, its sleek design and high-end materials immediately caught my attention. This isn’t just another pocketknife; it promises to be a precision tool crafted for serious users.

My search began when my trusty, but ultimately pedestrian, EDC blade failed during a particularly demanding wilderness first-aid scenario. I needed a knife that offered uncompromising performance, superior edge retention, and bombproof reliability in the field. After extensive research, the CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife rose to the top of my list, promising a blend of tactical utility and refined craftsmanship.

Unboxing the Dagon was an experience in itself. The knife arrives in a zippered nylon case, a step above the cardboard boxes many knives are shipped in. Holding it for the first time, the immediate impression is one of quality: the gray anodized titanium handle feels solid and substantial, while the stonewashed blade exudes a sense of purposeful sharpness. The weight is reassuring without being cumbersome.

I considered several alternatives, including a Benchmade 940 Osborne and a Chris Reeve Sebenza 31. Ultimately, I chose the CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife because it seemed to strike the perfect balance between high-end materials, practical design, and value. The Benchmade, while excellent, lacked the premium feel of titanium, and the Sebenza, while legendary, came with a price tag that felt excessive.

My initial impression is overwhelmingly positive. The CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife feels like a serious tool designed for serious use. I am excited to put it through its paces and see how it performs in the real world.


Real-World Testing: Putting CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife was a week-long backpacking trip in the rugged Cascade Mountains. I used it for everything from food preparation and fire starting to gear repair and shelter building. The knife performed admirably in all conditions.

Even when wet from rain and river crossings, the handle provided a secure and comfortable grip. The blade’s stonewash finish proved surprisingly resistant to scratches and stains. Opening and closing the knife was smooth and reliable, even with gloves on. My initial tests involved whittling dry wood for kindling. The M390 steel sliced through the wood cleanly with very little effort.

The only minor issue I encountered was the pocket clip being slightly tight against thicker fabrics. This made it a bit difficult to draw the knife quickly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of consistent use, the CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife has become an indispensable part of my everyday carry. It has been subjected to a variety of tasks, from cutting rope and opening packages to more demanding tasks like batoning small pieces of wood for emergency fires. The blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its razor sharpness.

Despite being used in harsh environments, the knife shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The titanium handle remains scratch-free, and the blade is still as sharp as the day I received it. The CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray is easy to clean. A quick rinse with water and a wipe down with a clean cloth are usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime.

Compared to my previous EDC knife, a Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife offers superior edge retention and a more robust feel. While the Paramilitary 2 is a great knife in its own right, the Dagon’s premium materials and refined design give it a clear edge in terms of performance and durability. The titanium handle is significantly more durable than the G-10 handle on the Spyderco.

Breaking Down the Features of CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife

Specifications

  • Blade Length: 3.5 inches. A versatile length suitable for a wide range of tasks.
  • Closed Length: 4.75 inches. Compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.
  • Blade Material: Bohler M390 Stainless Steel. Known for exceptional edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.
  • Handle Material: Gray Anodized Titanium. Provides a lightweight yet incredibly strong and durable grip.
  • Weight: 0.44 lb. A substantial weight that feels balanced and reassuring in the hand.
  • Additional Features: Pocket Clip, Extended Tang. The pocket clip allows for convenient carry. The extended tang provides added strength and leverage.
  • Finish: Stonewash Blade, Gray Anodized Handle. The stonewash finish helps to conceal scratches. The gray anodization enhances the titanium’s corrosion resistance.

These specifications translate to a knife that is both highly functional and incredibly durable. The Bohler M390 steel ensures that the blade will hold its edge even after extended use. The titanium handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, while also being resistant to corrosion and wear.

Performance & Functionality

The CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife excels in its primary role as a cutting tool. The Bohler M390 blade is incredibly sharp and holds its edge for an impressively long time. It slices through cardboard, rope, and wood with ease.

The knife’s ergonomics are excellent. The handle fits comfortably in my hand, providing a secure grip even in wet conditions. The blade opens smoothly and locks securely into place, giving me confidence during demanding tasks. I have found that the blade is perfectly centered when closed and locks up with zero play in any direction when open.

Overall, the CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife exceeds my expectations. It is a high-performance tool that is built to last.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The clean lines and understated color scheme give it a refined, tactical look. The titanium handle is perfectly contoured for a comfortable and secure grip.

The knife opens smoothly thanks to its well-tuned pivot and ball bearing system. The lockup is solid and confidence-inspiring. There is a slight learning curve associated with the frame lock mechanism, but once mastered, it becomes second nature.

The ergonomics are well thought out. The jimping on the spine of the blade provides added control during fine cutting tasks. The pocket clip is discreet and functional, allowing for deep pocket carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife is built to last a lifetime. The high-quality materials and meticulous construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The blade’s corrosion resistance makes it suitable for use in wet environments.

Maintenance is relatively simple. The blade can be easily sharpened using a variety of sharpening tools. The handle can be cleaned with soap and water. Occasional lubrication of the pivot point will ensure smooth operation.

With proper care, this knife will provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife comes with a black nylon zippered storage case. While there are no readily available factory accessories, the knife is compatible with standard aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards.

Many users choose to customize their knives with aftermarket scales, back spacers, and pivot screws. The 1911 platform allows for tremendous customization. Custom titanium and carbon fiber scales would further enhance the knife’s premium aesthetic.

Pros and Cons of CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife

Pros

  • Exceptional Edge Retention: The Bohler M390 steel holds an incredibly sharp edge for a long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
  • Durable Construction: The titanium handle and robust blade construction ensure that this knife can withstand heavy use.
  • Ergonomic Design: The handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
  • Smooth Action: The blade opens and closes smoothly thanks to the well-tuned pivot and ball bearing system.
  • Discreet Carry: The pocket clip allows for deep pocket carry, making it easy to conceal the knife.

Cons

  • Tight Pocket Clip: The pocket clip is initially tight, making it slightly difficult to draw the knife quickly from thicker fabrics.
  • Frame Lock Learning Curve: The frame lock mechanism takes some getting used to.


Who Should Buy CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife?

The CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife is perfect for discerning users who demand the best in terms of performance, durability, and craftsmanship. This knife is ideal for experienced outdoorsmen, tactical professionals, and anyone who appreciates a high-quality tool. This knife is very suited to survivalists who must have a reliable blade in extreme conditions.

Someone seeking an entry-level EDC knife should skip this product. The price point reflects the premium materials and construction, making it a significant investment. For such individuals, there are cheaper options on the market that would be more suitable.

A must-have modification could be a deep-carry pocket clip. This would allow for even more discreet carry and prevent the knife from being easily seen in the pocket.

Conclusion on CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife

The CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife is an outstanding folding knife that delivers exceptional performance and durability. The premium materials, meticulous construction, and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who demands the best. I am thoroughly impressed with this knife and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality EDC blade.

The price of $249.99 is justified by the quality of the materials and the overall craftsmanship. This knife is built to last a lifetime and will provide years of reliable service. The CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife offers excellent value for the money.

I wholeheartedly recommend the CMB Made Knives Dagon Gray Folding Knife to anyone looking for a premium folding knife that can handle anything life throws at it. Don’t hesitate—add this exceptional tool to your collection today!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top