Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife

The Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife immediately catches the eye with its vibrant orange G10 handle and uniquely shaped Wharncliffe blade. From Demko Knives, it promises innovative design and robust performance, targeting users who demand reliability and distinctive style in their everyday carry. I was drawn to this knife because I needed a sturdy folder for outdoor use that could handle various tasks, from preparing kindling to food prep, while also being easily identifiable in my pack.

The unboxing experience was straightforward, arriving in a simple plastic tube. My first impression was the solid feel and the surprisingly lightweight nature of the knife, considering its robust construction. The orange G10 handle provides excellent grip, even with wet hands, and the stonewashed blade finish gives it a tactical, no-nonsense appearance.

Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian and Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife stood out due to its Shark-Lock mechanism and Wharncliffe blade shape. I chose this Demko knife primarily for its unique locking system, which I hoped would offer superior strength and ease of use compared to traditional liner locks or frame locks. My initial reaction was excitement; I was eager to test the Shark-Lock and see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The conditions varied from dry sunny days to a brief period of heavy rain, providing a good opportunity to assess its performance in different environments. The knife proved incredibly useful for various tasks around the campsite, including cutting rope, preparing food, and creating feather sticks for fire starting.

The Demko knife performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions, with the G10 handle providing a secure grip even when soaked. Opening and closing the knife with the Shark-Lock was initially a bit stiff, requiring some practice to get used to the mechanism. However, after a few hours of use, it became smooth and intuitive. The only issue I encountered during the first use was some slight difficulty sharpening the Wharncliffe blade due to its unique shape.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The D2 steel blade has held its edge well, requiring only occasional touch-ups to maintain its sharpness. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the blade and handle, indicating the high quality of the materials used.

Cleaning and maintaining the Demko knife is relatively easy; I simply wipe the blade clean after each use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. Compared to my previous experiences with other folding knives, the Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife has exceeded my expectations in terms of its strength, edge retention, and overall durability. It outperforms my old Kershaw folder by a significant margin.

Breaking Down the Features of Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife features a stonewashed D2 tool steel Wharncliffe blade. The D2 steel offers a good balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for a variety of tasks.
• The handle is made of orange checkered G10, providing a secure and comfortable grip. G10 is a durable and lightweight composite material that is resistant to moisture and temperature changes.
• The blade length is 3 inches, making it compact enough for everyday carry while still being capable of handling larger tasks. Its closed length is 4.38 inches, which makes it very pocketable.
• It weighs 0.3 lbs, making it light enough to carry without feeling cumbersome. The lanyard hole and pocket clip add to its carry versatility.
• Additional features include a lanyard hole, a pocket clip, a thumb stud, and a thumb pull for easy opening. The Shark-Lock mechanism is the standout feature, providing a secure and ambidextrous lockup.

Performance & Functionality

The Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife excels at its primary function: cutting. The Wharncliffe blade is incredibly sharp and precise, making it ideal for tasks that require controlled cuts. The Shark-Lock mechanism is reliable and easy to operate with one hand, providing a secure lockup that inspires confidence.

The knife’s main strength lies in its robust construction and exceptional edge retention. One weakness is that the Wharncliffe blade shape may not be ideal for all users, as it lacks a traditional belly for slicing. Overall, the knife meets and even exceeds expectations for a high-quality EDC folder.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise machining. The weight is well-balanced, making the knife comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. The orange G10 handle provides a secure and ergonomic grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.

The Demko knife is generally user-friendly, although the Shark-Lock mechanism may require a brief learning curve for those unfamiliar with it. Once mastered, the Shark-Lock is easy to operate with one hand, making it a convenient and practical choice for everyday carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife is built to last, with a durable D2 steel blade and a robust G10 handle. With proper care and maintenance, the knife should provide years of reliable service. The knife is relatively easy to maintain; simply clean the blade after each use and occasionally oil the pivot point.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife comes standard with a pocket clip for convenient carry. While there are no specific accessories included, the knife is compatible with most aftermarket pocket clips that fit standard folding knives. Some users may also choose to customize the knife with aftermarket lanyards or beads.

Pros and Cons of Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife?

The Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Everyday carry enthusiasts who appreciate innovative design and reliable performance.
• Outdoor adventurers who need a durable and versatile cutting tool for camping, hiking, or fishing.
• Tactical users who require a secure and easy-to-operate folding knife.

Who should skip this product? Individuals who prefer traditional blade shapes or those who are uncomfortable with new locking mechanisms might want to consider other options.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality sharpening stone designed for Wharncliffe blades is a valuable addition, as is a paracord lanyard for added grip and security.

Conclusion on Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife

The Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife is an outstanding EDC folder that combines innovative design with robust performance. The unique Shark-Lock mechanism and durable D2 steel blade make it a reliable and versatile tool for a variety of tasks. The price is justified by the quality of the materials, the precision of the machining, and the overall performance of the knife.

I would highly recommend the Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife to anyone looking for a high-quality EDC folder that offers exceptional value and distinctive style. If you appreciate innovative design and reliable performance, then the Demko AD 20.5 Shark-Lock D2 SW Orange Folding Knife is an excellent choice. Add this reliable tool to your collection and experience the Demko difference for yourself!