ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife

The ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife immediately catches the eye with its visually appealing Damascus-etched blade and sleek black handle. ElitEdge aims for a blend of aesthetics and functionality, targeting everyday carry users and outdoor enthusiasts on a budget.

I was looking for a reliable, assisted-opening knife that wouldn’t break the bank and that I could carry daily. Many knives in this price range sacrifice quality for affordability. However, the ElitEdge knife promised a touch of class with its Damascus etching while remaining practical for everyday tasks.

Upon unboxing, the knife feels surprisingly solid for its price point. The black stainless steel handle provides a decent grip, and the assisted opening mechanism springs the blade into action quickly.

Compared to my Kershaw Blur (known for its speed and reliability) and my Gerber Paraframe (a lightweight, minimalist option), the ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife falls somewhere in the middle. The Kershaw offers superior blade steel, while the Gerber prioritizes weight savings. This ElitEdge knife attempts to blend aesthetics with practicality at an attractive price.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The Damascus etching added a touch of elegance I appreciated, but I remained skeptical about the overall durability and long-term performance given the budget-friendly price.

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Real-World Testing: Putting ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for the ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife was a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for basic camp chores, such as preparing kindling, opening food packages, and cutting rope.

The knife performed reasonably well in dry conditions. The assisted opening was quick and reliable, and the blade held a decent edge for basic cutting tasks.

However, the handle became somewhat slippery when wet, reducing grip confidence.

After the first day, I noticed some slight play in the blade when fully extended, which was concerning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of moderate use, the ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife showed signs of wear. The assisted opening mechanism started to feel less snappy, and the blade play worsened.

The black coating on the handle has begun to scratch and chip, revealing the stainless steel underneath. The blade itself required more frequent sharpening to maintain a usable edge.

Maintaining the knife is relatively easy. I clean it with a damp cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point occasionally.

Compared to my experience with higher-end knives from Benchmade and Spyderco, the ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife is a noticeable step down in terms of durability and edge retention. However, considering the price difference, it still provides adequate performance for light-duty tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.5 inches. A good length for everyday carry, offering a balance between portability and cutting ability.
• Closed Length: 4.5 inches. Compact enough to fit comfortably in a pocket without being too bulky.
• Blade Material: Damascus Steel. The “Damascus Steel” is actually an etched pattern on stainless steel, offering visual appeal but not the performance of true Damascus steel.
• Handle Color: Black Stainless. Provides a sleek look, but the stainless steel can become slippery when wet.
• Weight: 0.5 lb (8 oz). Noticeable heft, offering a sense of solidity but might be too heavy for some users.
• Additional Features: Assisted Opening, Pocket Clip. The assisted opening is convenient, and the pocket clip allows for secure carry.
• Quantity: 1. Includes only the knife itself.
• Color: Black. The black handle and etched blade provide a tactical aesthetic.

The specifications suggest a knife designed for EDC with a focus on visual appeal. The use of etched “Damascus” steel is a key point; buyers should understand they are not getting true Damascus performance.

Performance & Functionality

The ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife performs adequately for light to medium-duty cutting tasks. The assisted opening is quick and easy to use.

However, the edge retention is not exceptional, requiring more frequent sharpening than knives with higher-quality blade steel. The blade play that developed after initial use is a concern for long-term reliability.

The ElitEdge knife meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife but does not exceed them. It’s functional for everyday tasks but lacks the robustness of more expensive options.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price. The stainless steel handle feels relatively solid, but the black coating is prone to scratching.

The ergonomics are decent, but the handle’s smooth surface can become slippery, especially in wet conditions. There’s a slight learning curve in getting used to the assisted opening mechanism and ensuring the blade locks securely.

Durability & Maintenance

The long-term durability of the ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife is questionable. The blade play and chipping handle coating are indicative of potential long-term issues.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. However, the blade steel’s lower quality means more frequent sharpening will be necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife comes with only a pocket clip. There are no included accessories.

Customization options are limited due to the knife’s design and construction. Aftermarket scales or other modifications are unlikely to be readily available. The pocket clip is not reversible.

Pros and Cons of ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife?

The ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife is perfect for individuals looking for an inexpensive and visually appealing EDC knife for light-duty tasks. It’s also suitable for those who prioritize aesthetics over ultimate performance and durability.

Individuals who require a highly reliable and durable knife for demanding tasks should skip this product. Those who frequently work in wet conditions or need excellent edge retention should also look elsewhere.

Must-have modifications would include aftermarket grip tape for improved handle traction. Regular sharpening is essential for maintaining a usable edge.

Conclusion on ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife

The ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife is a budget-friendly option that offers a visually appealing design and assisted opening functionality. However, buyers should be aware that the “Damascus steel” is simply an etched pattern, and the blade steel has poor edge retention.

The price is justified for what you get: a functional, attractive knife for light EDC tasks. However, the long-term durability is questionable.

I would recommend it to those on a very tight budget who want a stylish EDC knife for occasional use. But, I’d advise anyone who needs a truly reliable tool to invest in a higher-quality option. Check out the ElitEdge Damascus Etched Black A/O Folding Knife if you value looks and affordability; just manage your expectations accordingly.