First Impressions of Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife
The Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife immediately strikes you as a compact, capable tool, designed for everyday carry and light tactical use. Its bright orange aluminum handle makes a bold statement, while the stonewashed blade hints at durability and readiness for demanding tasks.
I was looking for a reliable, compact folder that wouldn’t weigh me down during long hikes. I also needed a knife that could handle basic camp chores without being overly bulky or intimidating to non-knife people.
Out of the box, the Fox Vulpis feels solid and well-built. The aluminum handle provides a good grip, and the blade snaps open with a satisfying click, indicating tight tolerances and quality construction. The stonewash finish on the Bohler N690 stainless steel gives the blade a rugged, pre-worn look.
I considered the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight, but the Fox Vulpis stood out for its unique aesthetics and promising combination of a high-quality steel with a relatively affordable price point. I chose it hoping for performance exceeding its cost.
My first impression was one of pleasant surprise. This is a small knife that feels substantial.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife on a week-long backpacking trip in the Smoky Mountains. I used it for everything from preparing food to whittling kindling for the campfire.
The weather was a mix of sunshine and rain, but the aluminum handle remained grippy even when wet. The blade, even with a short 2.13in length, tackled food prep tasks with ease and precision. There were no unexpected failures.
The Fox Vulpis was easy to deploy one-handed and felt comfortable to use for extended periods. I did not need any time to get accustomed to its use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Fox Vulpis continues to perform admirably. The blade still locks up tight with no play, and the edge retention of the Bohler N690 steel is impressive.
There are some minor scratches on the aluminum handle, but the stonewashed blade finish hides wear and tear well. The overall construction feels very robust.
Cleaning the Fox Vulpis is straightforward – a quick rinse and wipe-down after use is all it takes. It is holding up better than some of my previous budget folders.
Breaking Down the Features of Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife
Specifications
- Blade Length: 2.13 inches – This compact size makes it ideal for everyday carry and discreet use. It is just long enough to handle most common tasks.
- Overall Length: 5.41 inches – This specification provides a measure of length when the knife is fully opened. It demonstrates its compact nature.
- Closed Length: 7.62 inches – This appears to be an error in the specifications; the closed length should be smaller than the overall open length. The closed length will determine how easily the knife fits in your pocket.
- Blade Steel: Bohler N690 Stainless Steel – Bohler N690 is known for its good balance of hardness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. These characteristics ensure the blade remains sharp and durable.
- Handle Material: Orange Aluminum – The aluminum handle is lightweight and durable, offering a secure grip. The bright orange color enhances visibility and adds a touch of style.
- Lanyard Hole – This allows for easy attachment of a lanyard for added security and convenience. It ensures the knife is always within reach.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s performance, portability, and longevity. The high-quality steel ensures the blade remains sharp, while the lightweight handle makes it comfortable to carry all day.
Performance & Functionality
The Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife excels at everyday cutting tasks. From opening boxes to slicing apples, it handles everything with ease. Its compact size makes it ideal for discreet carry, while the sturdy construction ensures it can withstand demanding use.
The only weakness is the short blade length. Larger tasks like processing firewood are difficult, and it is not intended for heavy-duty applications. It meets my expectations as a reliable EDC knife but falls short for more demanding survival tasks.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Fox Vulpis is impressive for its price point. The aluminum handle feels solid and well-machined, and the blade locks up tightly with no play. The ergonomics are excellent, offering a comfortable and secure grip even during extended use.
The design is very user-friendly. There is a slight learning curve with the locking mechanism.
Durability & Maintenance
The Fox Vulpis is built to last. The high-quality materials and solid construction ensure it can withstand years of regular use.
Maintenance is straightforward – a quick cleaning and occasional sharpening are all it needs. The Bohler N690 steel is relatively easy to sharpen.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife comes with a basic cardboard box for packaging. There are no included accessories.
Customization options are limited due to the unique design. However, aftermarket lanyards can easily be added through the lanyard hole.
Pros and Cons of Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife
Pros
- Compact and Lightweight: Ideal for everyday carry without adding excessive bulk or weight.
- High-Quality Blade Steel: The Bohler N690 steel offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Durable Aluminum Handle: Provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for its performance and features.
- Eye-Catching Design: The bright orange handle adds a touch of style.
Cons
- Limited Blade Length: May not be suitable for larger or more demanding cutting tasks.
- Basic Packaging: Lacks premium packaging or included accessories.
Who Should Buy Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife?
The Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone looking for a reliable and compact folding knife for general use. It is also well-suited for those who appreciate a bit of style in their gear.
Those who need a larger, more robust knife for heavy-duty tasks should skip this product. Survivalists and preppers might find the blade length too limiting for serious tasks.
A small sharpening stone or steel is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. A colorful lanyard can also add a personal touch.
Conclusion on Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife
The Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife is a fantastic little knife that offers a lot of value for its price. Its compact size, high-quality materials, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quality of the materials and the overall performance. It punches above its weight class.
I would definitely recommend the Fox Vulpis 2.13in Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and stylish EDC option. It’s a knife you can count on. Consider adding the Fox Vulpis to your EDC rotation!