Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue Review

First Impressions of Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve handled countless knives, from high-end custom blades to budget-friendly options. When I first saw the Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue, its striking blue handle and aggressive tanto blade immediately caught my eye. I was eager to see if its performance could live up to its aesthetics.

I was in the market for a durable, everyday carry (EDC) knife that could handle a variety of tasks, from opening packages to more demanding camp chores. I needed something reliable, easy to sharpen, and comfortable to carry.

The Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue arrived in a simple cardboard box. Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was how lightweight it felt in my hand. The textured nylon handle provided a secure grip, and the blade deployed smoothly with the thumb pull. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian or even a Kershaw Leek, the Honey Badger felt significantly lighter, though perhaps not as robustly built. While a Spyderco Paramilitary 2 offered a similar blade shape, the Honey Badger’s price point made it a more accessible option for a beater knife. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – intrigued by the design and price, but curious about its long-term durability.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for the Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue came during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was typical for the area – damp and unpredictable. I used the knife for a variety of tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope for my tent, and even some light batoning to split small pieces of firewood.

The knife performed surprisingly well in wet conditions. The textured nylon handle provided a reliable grip even with damp hands, and the 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade showed no signs of corrosion after being exposed to moisture. While not designed for heavy-duty tasks, it handled the light batoning reasonably well, though I wouldn’t push it too hard. I was initially concerned about the liner lock, but it engaged securely every time.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue has proven to be a reliable EDC knife. It’s been used for everything from opening boxes and letters to more demanding tasks like cutting zip ties and shaping wood for small projects.

The 8Cr13MoV steel has held up surprisingly well. It hasn’t required sharpening as frequently as some of my other knives with higher-end steels, and it’s easy to bring back to a razor edge with a simple sharpening stone. There are some minor scratches on the blade finish and handle, but nothing that impacts its functionality. The liner lock is still solid, and there is no blade play. Compared to my more expensive knives, the Honey Badger might not have the same premium feel, but it certainly outperforms its price point in terms of reliability and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue

Specifications

The Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue boasts a few key specs that contribute to its appeal. The 3.13-inch satin finish 8Cr13MoV stainless tanto blade provides a good balance between cutting power and control. Its 4.13-inch closed length makes it easy to carry in a pocket without being too bulky. The blue textured nylon handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, while the lanyard hole and pocket clip enhance its carry options. Weighing in at just 0.36 lbs, it’s light enough for all-day carry without feeling cumbersome.

These specifications translate to a knife that is easy to deploy, comfortable to use, and convenient to carry. The 8Cr13MoV steel provides a good balance of hardness and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for a variety of environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue performs admirably for its intended purpose as an EDC knife. The tanto blade excels at piercing and slicing, making it ideal for opening packages, cutting rope, and other everyday tasks. The blade’s flat grind allows for easy sharpening.

The knife’s main strength lies in its versatility and ease of use. The thumb pull allows for quick and easy one-handed opening, and the liner lock provides a secure lockup. However, the 8Cr13MoV steel might not hold an edge as long as higher-end steels, and the nylon handle might not be as durable as G10 or Micarta. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Honey Badger meets and even exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The blue textured nylon handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The blade’s tanto shape is aggressive and eye-catching, while the satin finish adds a touch of elegance.

The knife is user-friendly and requires minimal learning curve. The thumb pull is easy to access and operate, and the liner lock is simple to disengage. The lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry all day, and the pocket clip allows for secure and discreet carry.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its price point, the Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue is surprisingly durable. The 8Cr13MoV steel is known for its corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening. The nylon handle is tough and resistant to impact, although it may show signs of wear and tear over time.

Maintaining the Honey Badger is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the blade pivot is all that’s needed to keep it in good working condition. Sharpening the blade is also easy, thanks to the steel’s relatively soft temper.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue comes with a basic pocket clip for convenient carry. There are no included accessories or customization options directly from the Honey Badger Knives.

However, the knife can be easily customized with aftermarket accessories. Replacement pocket clips, lanyards, and even custom scales can be found online.

Pros and Cons of Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue?

The Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue is perfect for:

• Everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts looking for an affordable and reliable knife.
• Campers and hikers who need a versatile tool for light cutting tasks.
• Anyone who needs a backup knife for emergency situations.

This knife might not be ideal for:

• Users who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks like chopping wood or prying.
• Collectors who prioritize high-end steels and premium materials.

A must-have accessory for the Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue would be a reliable sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue

The Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue is an excellent value for the money. It offers a surprising level of performance and durability for its price point. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end knives, it is a reliable and versatile tool that is well-suited for everyday carry and light outdoor use.

The price is certainly justified given the knife’s quality and functionality. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and dependable EDC knife.

If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly tanto blade that won’t let you down, the Honey Badger Knives Medium Linerlock Tanto Blue is definitely worth considering. Grab one today and experience its performance firsthand!