CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife

The CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife immediately strikes you as a serious tool, built for purpose and with a clean, functional aesthetic. CobraTec Knives is making a name for themselves by blending tactical robustness with everyday carry appeal, and the Krait appears to be a prime example. This knife promises high-end steel and a comfortable grip in a package that won’t break the bank.

I was looking for a dependable EDC (Everyday Carry) knife that could handle both daily tasks and the occasional more demanding outdoor chore. My previous EDC felt flimsy, like the lock was always about to fail. I was specifically seeking a knife with a durable blade steel known for edge retention and corrosion resistance, and a handle that offered a secure grip even in wet conditions.

Upon unboxing the CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife, I was impressed by the solid feel in my hand. The textured G-10 handle provided a confident grip, and the weight felt just right – not too heavy to be cumbersome, but substantial enough to suggest durability. The blade deployed smoothly, thanks to the ball-bearing pivot.

I considered the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 before settling on the Krait. The Bugout felt too light and delicate for my needs, and the Paramilitary 2, while excellent, was a bit more expensive than I wanted to spend. The Krait seemed to offer a similar level of quality and performance at a more accessible price point.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife appeared to be a well-built, functional knife that would easily handle the tasks I had in mind. I was eager to put it to the test.


Real-World Testing: Putting CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife on a week-long camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain varied from dense forest to rocky outcroppings, offering a range of opportunities to test its capabilities. The weather was equally unpredictable, with periods of heavy rain and humid conditions.

The Krait performed admirably in all conditions. It excelled at tasks like preparing kindling, food preparation, and even some light batoning to split small pieces of wood. The S35VN blade remained sharp throughout the week, even after repeated use on various materials.

The knife’s ergonomic design proved to be comfortable to use for extended periods. I did not need any time to get used to it. The grip provided a secure hold even when my hands were wet from rain or sweat.

I was surprised by how easily the Krait sliced through rope. Its sharpness made quick work of the task, proving that this knife was a cut above my previous EDC. There were no issues or surprises after first-time use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to cutting fishing line to preparing meals during backpacking trips. The knife has shown no signs of loosening or developing play in the blade.

The S35VN steel has proven to be exceptionally durable. Despite regular use, the blade has retained its edge remarkably well. There are only minor scratches on the blade’s surface, which is to be expected with a tool that gets used as much as this one.

The Krait is easy to clean and maintain. I simply wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point. The knife’s simple design makes disassembly and cleaning straightforward.

Compared to my previous EDC knives, the CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife is a significant upgrade. It outperforms them in every aspect, from edge retention to ergonomics to overall durability. It is a tool that I can rely on.

Breaking Down the Features of CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife

Specifications

  • Blade Length: 3.5 inches. This is an ideal length for EDC, providing ample cutting surface without being overly cumbersome to carry.
  • Closed Length: 4.75 inches. A compact size for easy pocket carry.
  • Overall Length: 8.25 inches. Provides a substantial grip when the blade is deployed.
  • Blade Material: S35VN. One of the highest corrosion resistant steels in the market and offers excellent edge retention.
  • Blade Shape: Straight Back. A versatile blade shape suitable for a wide range of tasks.
  • Handle Material: G-10. Known for its durability, lightweight, and excellent grip, even when wet.
  • Lock Type: Liner Lock. A reliable and easy-to-use locking mechanism.
  • Weight: 4 oz. Light enough for comfortable EDC, but substantial enough to feel solid and well-built.
  • Handle Color: Black. A classic and understated color that blends in well.

These specifications combine to create a knife that is both practical and durable. The S35VN blade ensures excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, while the G-10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The liner lock is reliable and easy to operate. The knife is lightweight enough for EDC but substantial enough to handle demanding tasks.

Performance & Functionality

The CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife excels at its job. The blade is incredibly sharp and holds its edge well. The knife opens smoothly and locks securely, providing confidence during use.

The main strength of this knife is its balance of cutting power and ease of carry. One area for possible improvement would be to allow for a left-handed carry with a reversible clip.

The Krait has exceeded my expectations. It’s a versatile and reliable tool that I’m confident in carrying every day.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife is excellent. The materials used are high-quality, and the knife feels solid and well-made. The weight is perfect for comfortable EDC.

The G-10 handle is incredibly comfortable in hand. The texturing provides a secure grip without being abrasive. There is no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

With its S35VN steel blade and G-10 handle, the CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife is built to last. The knife is easy to maintain and repair. Its simple design allows for easy disassembly and cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Krait comes with a pocket clip that allows for tip-up carry, which many users will find ideal. There are no listed customization options or other accessories included by CobraTec Knives. While the Krait is built to very high standards, the user may choose to customize with third party pocket clips.

Pros and Cons of CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife

Pros

  • Excellent S35VN blade steel with outstanding edge retention. This means less sharpening and more cutting.
  • Secure and comfortable G-10 handle. Provides a confident grip even in wet conditions.
  • Smooth ball-bearing pivot for easy opening. Makes deployment quick and effortless.
  • Reliable liner lock. Ensures the blade stays securely in place during use.
  • Lightweight and compact for comfortable EDC. Doesn’t weigh you down or take up too much space.

Cons

  • Right-hand only clip.
  • Limited customization options directly from CobraTec Knives.


Who Should Buy CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife?

The CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality EDC knife. This includes outdoor enthusiasts, tactical professionals, and everyday users who need a dependable tool for a variety of tasks. Those who value edge retention, durability, and a secure grip will find this knife to be an excellent choice.

Left-handed users who prefer ambidextrous knives might want to skip this product. Those seeking extensive customization options may also want to explore other options.

A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone or system to maintain the blade’s keen edge.

Conclusion on CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife

The CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife is an outstanding EDC option. It combines high-quality materials, excellent performance, and a comfortable design at a reasonable price.

At $119.99, the price is justified by the quality of the materials and the overall performance of the knife. The S35VN blade alone makes it worth the investment.

I would personally recommend the CobraTec Knives Krait Black 3.5in Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile EDC knife. It is a tool that will not disappoint. If you’re in the market for a new EDC knife, give the Krait a serious look – you won’t regret it.

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