Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife

The Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife immediately caught my eye with its sleek design and promise of a reliable everyday carry (EDC) option. Manufactured by Kansept Knives, this knife features a black stonewash finish on its 154CM stainless steel blade, coupled with a black aluminum handle featuring a black Micarta inlay. It seemed to strike a balance between tactical functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it a strong contender for my next go-to folder.

I’ve been searching for a folding knife that offers a combination of durability, ease of carry, and a blade that holds an edge well. My current EDC is a bit bulky, and its blade requires frequent sharpening. I hoped the Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife would address these issues.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-balanced in my hand. The black aluminum handle, complemented by the Micarta inlay, provided a secure and comfortable grip. The stonewash finish on the blade gave it a rugged, almost broken-in look.

Compared to my Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and Benchmade Griptilian, the Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife presented a more streamlined profile. I chose this over the others because of the handle material combination, and the blade shape looked very practical for daily cutting tasks. My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive; I was eager to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife came during a weekend camping trip. I primarily used it for food preparation (slicing vegetables, trimming meat) and general camp tasks (cutting rope, feathering sticks for a fire). The blade’s sharpness allowed for clean and effortless cuts, making meal prep a breeze.

Despite a light drizzle, the Micarta inlay on the handle provided a secure grip, even with slightly wet hands. The knife opened smoothly with one hand, a feature I found incredibly useful when multitasking. After the first day, there were no noticeable performance issues or surprises; the Shikari performed exactly as expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable companion. The blade continues to hold its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages and cutting cardboard to more demanding tasks like stripping wires and carving wood.

The aluminum handle and Micarta inlays still look like new, with no visible scratches or signs of wear. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any residue. Compared to some of my other folders with more complex mechanisms, maintaining the Shikari is a breeze. It outperforms my previous EDC in edge retention and ease of maintenance, solidifying its place in my daily carry rotation.

Breaking Down the Features of Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife

Specifications

The Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife boasts some impressive specifications that contribute to its overall performance. The blade is made from 154CM stainless steel, known for its excellent balance of toughness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. The blade length is 3.38 inches, offering ample cutting surface without being overly bulky.

The knife has a closed length of 4.38 inches, making it compact and easy to carry. The handle is constructed from black aluminum with black Micarta inlays, providing a lightweight yet durable grip. Additional features include a pocket clip and a lanyard hole, enhancing its carry options. These specifications translate to a knife that is both functional and comfortable for everyday use.

Performance & Functionality

The Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife excels in its primary function: cutting. The 154CM blade arrives razor-sharp and maintains its edge exceptionally well. The knife’s slim profile and ergonomic handle design provide a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.

The blade opens smoothly and locks securely into place, inspiring confidence in its reliability. One slight weakness might be that the aluminum handle can feel a little slick in extreme cold, but the Micarta inlay offers ample grip. Overall, the Shikari meets and exceeds my expectations for an EDC folder.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The black stonewash finish on the blade gives it a rugged, tactical look, while the aluminum handle with Micarta inlays adds a touch of sophistication. The knife feels well-balanced in the hand, and the handle’s shape is comfortable for extended use.

The pocket clip is well-positioned and allows for deep carry, keeping the knife discreet and secure. There’s virtually no learning curve. The intuitive design allows for easy one-handed operation, even for those unfamiliar with folding knives.

Durability & Maintenance

The materials used in the Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife suggest excellent durability. The 154CM blade is known for its toughness and resistance to wear, while the aluminum handle and Micarta inlays are both incredibly durable. With proper care, this knife should last for many years.

Maintenance is straightforward: simply clean the blade and handle with a damp cloth after use and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point occasionally. The simple design makes disassembly and cleaning easy, ensuring the knife remains in optimal condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife comes with a black nylon pouch for storage and protection. While the knife itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the lanyard hole allows for adding a personal touch with a decorative lanyard or bead. The pocket clip is also removable, providing an alternative carry option.

The knife is also compatible with aftermarket pocket clips designed for similar-sized folding knives. This opens up possibilities for further customization to suit individual preferences.

Pros and Cons of Kansept Knives Shikari SBL 3.38in Folding Knife