Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife

The Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife immediately catches the eye with its striking aesthetics and compact profile. Manufactured by Damned Designs, the Anzu combines the visual appeal of Damascus steel with the rugged durability of G10, making it a standout in the crowded EDC knife market. Its sub-$70 price point also puts it within reach for budget-conscious knife enthusiasts looking for a touch of class.

I was seeking a smaller, easily pocketable knife that wouldn’t scream “tactical” but still offered reliable performance. The Anzu seemed to strike a balance between utility and style. Upon unboxing, I was immediately drawn to the contrasting colors of the black and red Damascus G10 handle and the stonewashed blade. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a solid build.

Compared to my usual EDC knives, such as a Kershaw Leek or a Spyderco Delica, the Anzu is smaller and arguably more stylish. I considered a Civivi Elementum Damascus, but the Anzu’s unique handle material swayed me. My initial impression was one of pleasant surprise; a stylish, seemingly well-built knife at a price point that almost felt too good to be true.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife was a weekend camping trip. I used it primarily for food prep – slicing vegetables, opening packages, and whittling some kindling. The drop point blade proved versatile and the size was perfect for intricate tasks.

The weather was mildly damp, and the G10 handle provided a secure grip, even with slightly wet hands. Deployment via the thumb pull was smooth and consistent. Initially, I was impressed by how easily the blade sliced through cardboard and rope.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of regular use, the Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife has held up reasonably well. The stonewash finish on the 14C28N blade does a good job of hiding scratches, though the edge needed a touch-up after some heavier use. There’s a very slight amount of play in the blade now, but nothing alarming given the price point.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps the blade and handle in good condition. Compared to some of my higher-end knives with more complex mechanisms, the Anzu is delightfully simple to maintain. It performs well for EDC tasks, but I wouldn’t subject it to heavy-duty bushcrafting.

Breaking Down the Features of Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 2 inches – This compact blade makes it ideal for discreet carry and intricate tasks.
• Blade Material: 14C28N Sandvik Stainless Steel – Known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• Handle Material: Black and Red Damascus G10 – G10 is a durable, lightweight composite material, and the Damascus pattern provides a unique aesthetic.
• Overall Weight: 0.3 lbs (4.8 ounces) – Light enough for comfortable everyday carry.
• Blade Style: Drop Point – A versatile blade shape suitable for a variety of cutting tasks.
• Lock Type: Liner Lock – Reliable and easily operated single-hand.
• Additional Features: Lanyard Hole, Pocket Clip, Extended Tang, Thumb Pull – These features add to the knife’s versatility and ease of carry.

These specifications are significant because they define the Anzu as a capable EDC knife with an emphasis on portability and ease of use. The Sandvik steel, though not a super-premium steel, offers a good balance of properties for the price. The G10 handle ensures a secure and comfortable grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife performs admirably for its size and price. Its 2-inch blade is sharp enough for most EDC tasks, and the drop point design offers good control. The liner lock engages securely, providing a reliable lockup.

The knife’s strengths lie in its portability and ease of use. Its primary weakness is the blade length; it’s not ideal for larger cutting tasks. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife with a focus on aesthetics and basic functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife is surprisingly good for the price. The G10 handle feels solid and provides a secure grip. The weight is well-balanced, and the knife feels comfortable in hand.

There’s no real learning curve; the thumb pull allows for easy one-handed opening, and the liner lock is simple to operate. The pocket clip is functional and keeps the knife securely in place.

Durability & Maintenance

With reasonable care, the Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife should last for years with regular EDC use. The 14C28N steel is relatively easy to sharpen, and the G10 handle is highly resistant to wear and tear. Simple cleaning and occasional oiling of the pivot point are all that’s needed for maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife comes with a functional pocket clip and a lanyard hole. There aren’t many specific accessories designed for this particular knife, but the pocket clip can be repositioned for left- or right-hand carry. Aftermarket lanyards are a popular way to customize the knife.

Pros and Cons of Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife?

The Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a stylish, affordable, and easily pocketable EDC knife. It’s a good choice for students, office workers, or anyone who wants a discreet and functional cutting tool. Those who appreciate unique aesthetics and don’t need a large, heavy-duty knife will be particularly drawn to the Anzu.

Someone needing a knife for heavy-duty tasks or wilderness survival should probably skip this product. A longer, more robust blade made of a premium steel would be a better option. A quality knife sharpener is a must-have accessory to keep the blade in optimal condition.

Conclusion on Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife

The Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife offers an impressive combination of style, functionality, and affordability. For a price of $62.89, you get a visually appealing knife with decent materials and a reliable design.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an EDC knife that stands out from the crowd without breaking the bank. If you’re seeking a stylish, compact, and functional knife for everyday tasks, the Damned Designs Anzu Damascus G10 Folding Knife is definitely worth considering. Add one to your collection, and you won’t be disappointed!