Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife

The Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife is an eye-catching, budget-friendly option for anyone looking for a quick-deploying everyday carry knife. Dark Side Blades has made a name for themselves with their unique designs and affordability, and this knife is no exception. Its spring-assisted opening and distinctive rainbow finish are sure to turn heads.

I’ve been searching for a reliable, yet inexpensive, knife to keep in my truck for various tasks on the go. I needed something that could handle basic cutting tasks but wouldn’t break the bank if it got lost or damaged. The Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife seemed like a perfect fit.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the finish. The “rainbow” effect is definitely unique and gives it a somewhat flashy, if not polarizing, look. The knife feels surprisingly solid for its price point, although the handle does feel a bit lightweight due to the glass-filled nylon construction.

Compared to my Kershaw Blur or my CRKT M16, both significantly more expensive knives, the Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife obviously doesn’t have the same level of fit and finish. However, for a knife under $20, it holds its own surprisingly well. I picked this over a similarly priced Smith & Wesson because of the spring-assisted opening and the more compact size.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was intrigued by the design and hopeful about its functionality, but also realistic about the limitations of a budget knife. Only time and real-world use would tell if it was a worthwhile addition to my gear.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife during a weekend camping trip. I used it for tasks such as opening packages, cutting rope, preparing kindling, and food prep. The blade deployed quickly and easily thanks to the spring assist.

While the blade held an edge reasonably well, it did require some touch-up sharpening after a day of use, especially after cutting tougher materials like dried branches. The handle provided a decent grip even when my hands were slightly wet from the morning dew. However, I noticed that the “rainbow” finish on the blade seemed prone to scratching.

There were no major issues during the first use, but I did notice that the spring assist felt a little stiff at times. It felt as though it might need some breaking in.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a couple of months of consistent use, the Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife has proven to be a decent, albeit not exceptional, tool. The blade has maintained its sharpness with regular honing. The spring assist has become slightly smoother with use, though still not as refined as higher-end knives.

The finish has definitely shown signs of wear and tear. The rainbow coating has scratched and faded in several areas, particularly around the tip and edges of the blade. The handle, however, has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear.

Maintenance has been simple; a quick wipe-down after each use and occasional lubrication of the pivot point have been sufficient. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, which I’ve used for years, the Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife doesn’t offer the same level of performance or durability. However, considering the price difference, it has performed adequately.

Breaking Down the Features of Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife

Specifications

• The Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife features a 3.5-inch blade, making it a compact and convenient size for everyday carry. This blade length is ideal for various tasks without being overly bulky.
• The blade material is 3Cr13 stainless steel, known for its decent corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening, though it doesn’t hold an edge as well as higher-end steels. This makes it suitable for general use but may require more frequent sharpening.
• It has a plain edge, which is preferable for slicing and general-purpose cutting tasks. A plain edge is easier to sharpen than a serrated edge.
• The overall length is 8 inches, providing a comfortable grip and good leverage when the blade is deployed. This provides enough to get a secure grip on the knife.
• The handle material is stainless steel with a tinite finish for the frame and glass-filled nylon scales offering a balance of durability and lightweight feel. These scales make the handle easy to grip.
• The handle length is 4.5 inches, fitting comfortably in most hands. It’s large enough to be comfortably held.
• The blade finish is a distinctive rainbow, which is purely aesthetic and may appeal to some users more than others. This gives it a unique look.
• It features a drop point blade shape, which is versatile and suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks. This is one of the most widely utilized blade shapes.
• The knife has a spring assisted opening method, allowing for quick and easy one-handed deployment. This facilitates easy deployment with the push of a button.
• It includes a pocket clip for convenient carry, with tip-up carry configuration. This makes it easy to keep the knife at hand.
• The color is rainbow, consistent with the blade finish, extending the aesthetic to the entire knife. The finish is visually striking.

Performance & Functionality

The Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. The spring assist makes opening the knife quick and easy, which is useful in situations where one-handed operation is necessary. However, the edge retention of the 3Cr13 steel is a notable weakness.

The knife’s strengths lie in its affordability, ease of deployment, and eye-catching design. The primary weakness is the blade steel, which requires frequent sharpening. It meets expectations for a budget knife but doesn’t exceed them in terms of performance or durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price point. The materials used are adequate, though not top-of-the-line. The knife feels relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to carry, but the handle could benefit from more aggressive texturing for a better grip, especially in wet conditions.

The knife is fairly user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive design. The spring-assisted opening is easy to operate. However, there might be a slight learning curve for those unfamiliar with spring-assisted knives.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials used and the price point, the Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife is not expected to last as long as higher-end knives. The blade steel is prone to dulling, and the rainbow finish is susceptible to scratching. Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning and sharpening are all that’s needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The knife comes with a basic pocket clip and no additional accessories. There are limited customization options available due to the knife’s design and price point. It is unlikely to be compatible with aftermarket grips or other accessories designed for higher-end knives.

Pros and Cons of Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife

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Who Should Buy Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife?

The Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife is perfect for:

• Casual users who need a basic, affordable knife for everyday tasks.
• Those looking for a backup knife to keep in a vehicle or toolbox.
• Individuals who appreciate unique and eye-catching designs.
• Beginners who want to try out a spring-assisted knife without investing a lot of money.

Who should skip this product?

• Experienced knife users who prioritize high-quality materials and edge retention.
• Those who need a knife for heavy-duty or demanding tasks.
• Individuals who prefer a more discreet or traditional knife design.

A must-have accessory would be a decent sharpening stone or sharpening system to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife

The Dark Side Blades DS-A063 3.5in Spring Assisted Knife is a budget-friendly option that offers decent functionality for its price. It’s not the most durable or high-performing knife on the market, but it’s a solid choice for casual users who want a quick-deploying and visually striking everyday carry knife. The price is definitely justified for what you get, making it a good value for budget-conscious buyers.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive and eye-catching knife for light-duty tasks. Don’t expect it to perform like a premium knife, but it will get the job done for most everyday cutting needs. Grab one today and add a splash of color to your EDC!