Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife

The world of folding knives is vast, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end custom pieces. The Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife immediately caught my eye with its clean lines and promise of performance without breaking the bank. Damned Designs aims to deliver quality and functionality, and the Wraith seemed to embody that philosophy, offering a Sandvik steel blade and durable G10 handle at an attractive price point. I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype.

My search began when my trusty, but well-worn, everyday carry (EDC) knife finally gave up the ghost. I needed a replacement that could handle daily tasks, occasional outdoor adventures, and even serve as a reliable backup in a tactical situation. The promise of a durable blade steel and a secure grip was particularly appealing.

Upon receiving the Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife, my initial impression was positive. The knife felt solid in hand, and the tumbled finish on the blade gave it a rugged, yet refined look. The G10 handle provided a secure grip, and the blade deployed smoothly.

Compared to my previous EDC, a Kershaw Cryo, the Wraith felt more substantial, and the blade steel seemed to be of a higher quality. I also considered a Spyderco Tenacious, but the Wraith’s aesthetics and unique handle design won me over. The price point also played a significant role in my decision.

I was cautiously optimistic. The knife looked great and felt good in hand, but the true test would be how it performed in real-world scenarios. The promise of quality materials and a functional design had me excited, but I’ve learned over the years that looks can be deceiving.


Real-World Testing: Putting Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for a variety of tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope, and whittling kindling for a fire. The knife performed admirably, holding its edge well and providing a comfortable grip even with wet hands.

The humidity was high, and it rained intermittently throughout the weekend. Despite the wet conditions, the G10 handle remained grippy, and the blade showed no signs of rust or corrosion after a quick wipe down. I found the knife easy to deploy with one hand.

Initially, I was impressed with the knife’s balance and ease of use. The blade deployed smoothly and locked securely into place, inspiring confidence in its robustness. There were no unexpected issues, and the knife felt like a natural extension of my hand.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to processing game during hunting season. The knife has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.

Despite frequent use, the blade remains sharp and requires only occasional touch-ups with a honing steel. The G10 handle still looks and feels like new, and the pocket clip remains secure. Cleaning the knife is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with water and a drop of oil on the pivot point.

Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Wraith has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and edge retention. Its performance has been impressive, solidifying its place as my go-to folding knife for both everyday tasks and outdoor adventures. The Damned Designs Wraith has proven its worth.

Breaking Down the Features of Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife

Specifications

The Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife features a 3.25-inch blade made from 14C28N Sandvik stainless steel. This steel is known for its excellent balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it an ideal choice for a versatile folding knife. The knife has a closed length of 4.75 inches and weighs in at 0.42 pounds, making it comfortable to carry in a pocket or on a belt.

The handle is constructed from durable Black G10, providing a secure and comfortable grip in all weather conditions. The knife also features an extended tang for added strength and a pocket clip for convenient carry. These specifications combine to create a folding knife that is both practical and reliable.

The 14C28N steel is a significant selling point, offering excellent edge retention for prolonged use. The G10 handle ensures a secure grip, which is essential for safe and effective knife handling. The pocket clip enhances everyday carry convenience.

Performance & Functionality

The Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife performs exceptionally well in a variety of tasks. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well, making it ideal for cutting, slicing, and piercing. The knife is easy to deploy and lock securely into place, providing a safe and reliable cutting tool.

The knife’s strengths lie in its versatility and durability. The 14C28N steel blade provides excellent edge retention, while the G10 handle offers a secure grip even in wet conditions. The only minor improvement I could suggest is a slightly smoother action on the blade deployment, which could be achieved with a small amount of lubrication and break-in time.

Overall, the Wraith has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and functionality. It is a reliable and versatile tool that is well-suited for everyday carry and outdoor adventures. Damned Designs has delivered a solid performer.

Design & Ergonomics

The Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife boasts a clean and ergonomic design. The tumbled finish on the blade gives it a rugged, yet refined appearance, while the Black G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The knife’s balance is excellent, making it easy to handle and control.

The knife feels substantial in hand without being overly heavy. The G10 handle is textured to provide a secure grip, even when wet or gloved. There is a slight learning curve to deploying the blade smoothly with one hand, but with practice, it becomes second nature.

The Wraith’s design prioritizes functionality and comfort. The clean lines and ergonomic handle make it a pleasure to use, while the durable materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of everyday carry. This knife is a testament to Damned Designs’ commitment to quality.

Durability & Maintenance

The Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife is built to last. The 14C28N Sandvik stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion and wear, while the G10 handle is virtually indestructible. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the Wraith is simple. The blade can be easily sharpened with a honing steel or sharpening stone, and the handle can be cleaned with soap and water. A drop of oil on the pivot point will keep the blade deploying smoothly.

The Wraith’s durability and ease of maintenance make it an excellent choice for those who demand a reliable and long-lasting folding knife. This knife is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use and outdoor adventures. Damned Designs has truly delivered a durable tool.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife comes standard with a pocket clip for convenient carry. While there are no specific accessories designed solely for the Wraith, its standard design allows it to be compatible with a variety of aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards. The G10 handle scales can also be customized with aftermarket options to change the color and texture of the handle.

The standard pocket clip is functional and secure, but some users may prefer a deeper carry clip for enhanced concealment. The ability to customize the handle scales and add a lanyard allows users to personalize the knife to their individual preferences.

The Wraith’s compatibility with aftermarket accessories enhances its versatility and allows users to tailor the knife to their specific needs. This customization potential adds value to an already excellent folding knife. Damned Designs provides a solid base for personalization.

Pros and Cons of Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife

Pros

  • Excellent value for the price. High-quality materials and construction at an affordable price point.
  • Durable 14C28N Sandvik stainless steel blade. Provides excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
  • Secure and comfortable G10 handle. Offers a reliable grip in all weather conditions.
  • Pocket clip for convenient carry. Enhances everyday carry convenience.
  • Clean and ergonomic design. Provides a comfortable and functional knife.

Cons

  • Blade deployment action could be smoother out of the box. Requires some break-in time.
  • Limited customization options directly from Damned Designs.


Who Should Buy Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife?

The Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and tactical users. It is a versatile and reliable tool that can handle a wide range of tasks. It’s also a great option for anyone seeking a quality folding knife without breaking the bank.

Those seeking a knife with extensive customization options or a super-premium steel blade may want to explore other options. However, for most users, the Wraith offers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and value.

A sharpening stone and a small bottle of blade oil are must-have accessories to keep the Wraith in top condition. A lanyard can also be added for enhanced grip and control.

Conclusion on Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife

The Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife is a solid and dependable folding knife that offers excellent value for the price. Its durable construction, reliable performance, and comfortable ergonomics make it a great choice for everyday carry, outdoor adventures, and tactical applications. Damned Designs has created a knife that punches well above its weight class.

At a price of $69.99, the Wraith is an exceptional value. The quality of materials and construction justifies the price, making it a smart investment for anyone seeking a reliable and versatile folding knife.

I would definitely recommend the Damned Designs Wraith Black G10 Tumbled Folding Knife to anyone looking for a quality EDC knife that won’t break the bank. Its performance, durability, and value make it a standout in its price range. Upgrade your EDC today!

Leave a Comment

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

Scroll to Top