Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black Review

First Impressions of Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black immediately struck me as a knife designed for everyday carry with a tactical edge. The Honey Badger Knives company has built a reputation for affordable, reliable blades, and I was eager to see if this small linerlock lived up to the hype. Its tanto blade shape and black sculpted GRN handle give it a serious yet approachable look, promising a balance of utility and discreet carry.

I needed a lightweight, durable knife to replace my bulky folder that was digging into my pocket during long hikes. My primary requirement was a blade that could handle basic camp chores, like food prep and cutting cordage, but also be easily accessible and reliable for self-defense if needed. The compact size and promising grip texture of the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black seemed like a potential solution.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its size and weight. The GRN handle, while not as premium as G10 or Micarta, offered a secure and comfortable grip. The liner lock engaged positively, and the blade arrived reasonably sharp, ready for initial testing.

I was considering the CRKT Squid and the Ontario RAT II, both popular EDC options. However, the Squid’s smaller blade length was a concern, and the RAT II’s handle felt a bit too bulky for my preference. The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black seemed to strike a good compromise in terms of size, blade shape, and ergonomics.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The knife appeared well-made for the price, and the design suggested practical utility. I was excited to put it to the test in the field and see if it could live up to my expectations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black on a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The varied terrain and potential for inclement weather provided a perfect testing ground. I used it primarily for food preparation, whittling kindling, and cutting rope.

The knife performed admirably in dry conditions. The tanto blade proved surprisingly versatile, offering both a fine point for detail work and a strong tip for piercing. I also got caught in a brief rain shower; the GRN handle provided secure grip even when wet, which boosted my confidence.

The knife opened smoothly, and the liner lock was easy to disengage, even with gloves on. I did notice a slight stiffness in the action initially, but it loosened up after a few openings and closings. There were no functional problems.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like clearing small branches. The blade still locks up tight.

I’ve noticed some minor scratches on the satin finish of the blade, but no significant wear or corrosion. The GRN handle shows no signs of cracking or discoloration. The liner lock still engages securely.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the blade with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. The knife is easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning if needed, thanks to its simple construction. This knife far outperforms any expectation for the price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black

Specifications

• The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black features a 2.75-inch 8Cr13MoV stainless steel tanto blade. This type of steel is known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it suitable for everyday carry.
• It has a 3.75-inch closed length and a weight of just 0.34 lb, making it compact and lightweight for comfortable pocket carry.
• The handle is made of black sculpted GRN (Glass Reinforced Nylon), which provides a secure grip even in wet conditions.
• Additional features include a thumb pull for easy one-handed opening, an extended tang, a lanyard hole, and a pocket clip. These features enhance its versatility and carry options.

The specifications highlight a well-balanced knife designed for practical use. The blade steel offers a good compromise between performance and ease of maintenance. The lightweight and compact design make it ideal for everyday carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black performs its intended function admirably. The blade arrives reasonably sharp and can be easily honed to a razor’s edge. Its tanto shape provides a strong tip for piercing and a flat edge for slicing.

The liner lock is reliable and engages securely, providing confidence during use. The thumb pull allows for easy one-handed opening, and the pocket clip keeps the knife readily accessible. The overall design is functional and efficient.

The knife’s primary weakness is that the 8Cr13MoV steel requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels like S30V or CPM-20CV. However, this is a tradeoff for its affordability and ease of sharpening. The knife definitely meets my expectations for what I would expect at the cost.

Design & Ergonomics

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black features a simple yet effective design. The sculpted GRN handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The blade shape is functional and visually appealing.

The knife is lightweight and well-balanced, making it comfortable to carry and use for extended periods. The liner lock is easy to operate, and the thumb pull allows for quick and easy one-handed opening. There is virtually no learning curve.

The build quality is good for the price point. The materials are durable, and the knife feels solid in hand. The fit and finish are generally well-executed, although some minor imperfections may be present.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black should last for many years. The 8Cr13MoV steel is reasonably resistant to corrosion, and the GRN handle is durable and resistant to impact. The simplicity in construction assures that it will last longer.

Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wipe down the blade after each use and occasionally lubricate the pivot point. The knife is easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning if needed.

The knife is not designed for heavy-duty use or abuse, but it can withstand normal everyday carry tasks. If used responsibly, it should provide reliable service for a long time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black comes with a standard pocket clip that can be configured for tip-up or tip-down carry. It also features a lanyard hole for attaching a lanyard or key ring. There are very limited customization options.

Due to its relatively low price point, there are not many aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this knife. However, some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with a different style or add custom handle scales. You may also be able to replace the screws and other small hardware.

The knife is compatible with most standard knife maintenance tools, such as sharpening stones and lubricants.

Pros and Cons of Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black

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Who Should Buy Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black?

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black is perfect for everyday carry users, hikers, campers, and anyone looking for an affordable and reliable utility knife. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a lightweight and compact knife that can handle a variety of tasks.

Those who require a knife for heavy-duty use or prefer premium blade steels should skip this product. Also, those looking for extensive customization options should look elsewhere.

A must-have accessory is a good sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black

The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black is a solid and practical knife that delivers excellent value for its price. It combines a functional design, durable materials, and reliable performance in a compact and lightweight package. The Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black is a welcome addition to my kit.

The price is definitely justified. For under $50, you get a knife that can handle most everyday carry tasks with ease.

I would definitely recommend the Honey Badger Knives Small Linerlock Black to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable EDC knife. It’s a great option for beginners and experienced knife users alike. Get yours today.