ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife

The ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife, manufactured by ElitEdge, immediately presents itself as an intriguing option in the budget-friendly assisted-opening knife market. With its two-tone stainless steel blade and distinctive scorpion handle artwork, it aims to blend tactical functionality with a unique aesthetic. For under $10, can this knife truly deliver on its promise?

My search for a reliable, yet inexpensive, backup knife for my hiking pack led me to the ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife. I needed something lightweight, easy to deploy, and capable of handling basic cutting tasks during my outdoor adventures. I was specifically looking for a knife that I wouldn’t be too worried about losing or damaging, given the harsh environments I often find myself in.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The synthetic handle, while not premium, offered a reasonable grip. The assisted opening mechanism seemed snappy, and the blade arrived reasonably sharp. The scorpion artwork, while perhaps not to everyone’s taste, added a unique visual flair.

Compared to other budget-friendly options like the Ozark Trail folding knives or the generic gas station knives I’ve encountered, the ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife stood out due to its assisted opening and more robust construction. I chose it over similar options because of the reported durability from initial impressions, and the included pocket clip, a feature often absent in knives at this price. It seemed to offer the most features for the minimal investment.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price raised some eyebrows, but the assisted opening and overall design sparked my curiosity. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test for the ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for tasks like preparing kindling, cutting rope, and opening food packages. The assisted opening mechanism proved incredibly useful when needing quick access to a blade with one hand.

The knife performed adequately in dry conditions. However, when exposed to rain, the handle became slightly slippery, requiring a firmer grip. There were no immediate failures or significant issues, but the blade’s edge dulled noticeably after only a moderate amount of use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife for various tasks, ranging from everyday carry (EDC) to light yard work, some limitations became apparent. The blade showed more wear and tear than expected. The edge required frequent sharpening to maintain decent cutting ability.

The pocket clip began to loosen, requiring periodic tightening. No parts broke entirely, but the overall feel became less secure. Compared to my experiences with higher-end knives from brands like Benchmade or Spyderco, the ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife simply didn’t measure up in terms of durability and edge retention. It served its purpose as a cheap backup, but it wouldn’t be my first choice for demanding tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife

Specifications

• The ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife features a two-tone finish stainless steel clip point blade. This provides some corrosion resistance but sacrifices edge retention compared to higher-grade steels.
• The blade length is 3.75 inches, making it suitable for a variety of tasks without being overly cumbersome. The blade length is a good balance of utility and portability.
• The closed length is 127 mm (approximately 5 inches), allowing for comfortable carry in a pocket. The ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife is not too large for everyday use.
• The handle is made of synthetic material, offering a lightweight and affordable grip solution. However, it lacks the durability and tactile feel of materials like G10 or Micarta.
• Additional features include assisted opening, a lanyard hole, and a pocket clip. These features enhance the knife’s functionality and convenience.

Performance & Functionality

The ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife performs adequately for light tasks. Its assisted opening is a significant advantage, allowing for quick and easy blade deployment.

However, the blade’s edge retention is a weakness. It requires frequent sharpening, especially with regular use. While functional, it’s not a high-performance tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price. The synthetic handle is lightweight, but it doesn’t offer the most secure grip.

The design is generally user-friendly, with the thumb stud and assisted opening facilitating easy one-handed operation. The scorpion artwork is a matter of personal taste, but it does give the knife a unique look.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials used, the ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife is not expected to last as long as higher-end knives. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and sharpening, is essential to prolong its lifespan.

The simple design makes it relatively easy to clean and maintain. However, the loosening of screws and the potential for the assisted opening mechanism to fail are concerns.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife comes with a pocket clip and a lanyard hole as included accessories. There are limited customization options available for this knife.

Due to its low price and generic construction, aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this model are scarce. Users might be able to replace the lanyard or attempt to modify the handle, but significant customization is not practical.

Pros and Cons of ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife?

The ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife is perfect for: individuals needing a cheap, readily available backup knife, occasional users who require a blade for light tasks, or those just starting out who want to get a feel for carrying a knife without a significant investment. It is a good option for casual campers, those who need a knife for basic tasks around the house, or as a gift for someone new to knives.

Who should skip this product? Experienced outdoorsmen, survivalists, or anyone who relies on a knife for demanding tasks should look elsewhere. Those needing a durable, reliable tool for frequent use will be disappointed.

A must-have modification would be a sharpening stone or tool to maintain the blade’s edge. Consider adding some grip tape to the handle for improved security, especially in wet conditions.

Conclusion on ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife

The ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife is a budget-friendly option that offers basic functionality. It performs well for light tasks and the assisted opening is a definite plus.

However, its low-quality materials and poor edge retention are significant drawbacks. The price is justified for what it is – a disposable, entry-level knife.

I would cautiously recommend it as a backup or for very light use. If you need a reliable, durable knife for serious outdoor activities or everyday carry, invest in a higher-quality option. But if you just need something cheap and readily available, the ElitEdge Scorpion A/O Folding Knife might suffice.