Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E Review

First Impressions of Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E

The Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E is a folding knife that immediately grabs your attention with its clean lines and practical design. Manufactured by Kubey, this knife features a stonewashed AUS-10A blade and an OD green G10 handle, making it an appealing option for everyday carry and outdoor tasks. The simple, yet effective liner lock mechanism promises secure blade lockup, and the overall aesthetic hints at a solid, no-nonsense tool.

I had been searching for a reliable EDC knife that could handle both daily tasks and occasional outdoor adventures. I needed something with a good steel that wouldn’t require constant sharpening, and a comfortable handle for extended use. The Kubey Leaf seemed to fit the bill, balancing affordability with decent materials.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt substantial. The G10 handle offered a secure grip, and the stonewashed blade had a pleasing, worn-in look. Its weight felt balanced, not too heavy, nor too light.

I also considered the Ontario RAT Model 1 and the Kershaw Blur. I chose the Kubey Leaf primarily because of its blade steel and handle material. AUS-10A seemed like a good compromise between edge retention and ease of sharpening, and I preferred the grip texture of G10 over FRN.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The knife seemed well-built for the price, but the real test would be how it performed under pressure.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E occurred during a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks such as food preparation, cutting rope for setting up the tent, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The 3-inch blade proved to be a versatile size for these tasks.

The knife performed admirably in dry conditions, and I didn’t encounter any rain during my initial outing. The G10 handle remained grippy even when my hands were slightly damp. The liner lock engaged securely, giving me confidence during use.

The knife required a bit of breaking in, initially feeling a bit stiff to open. However, after applying a drop of oil and working the action a few times, it became much smoother. No other issues were apparent after its first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E has proven to be a reliable tool. It has accompanied me on several hikes, fishing trips, and countless around-the-house tasks. The blade has maintained its edge well, requiring only occasional touch-ups.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly some minor scratches on the stonewashed blade. The G10 handle shows no signs of fading or cracking. The knife has held up well to being carried in my pocket daily.

Cleaning is straightforward; I simply wipe down the blade after use and occasionally use a bit of compressed air to remove lint from the pivot area. It’s a low-maintenance knife. Compared to my previous EDC knife (a budget folder with 8Cr13MoV steel), the Kubey Leaf outperforms it in terms of edge retention and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E

Specifications

• The Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E has a 3-inch (7.62cm) stonewash finish AUS-10A stainless blade. This blade length is ideal for EDC, offering a good balance between cutting power and portability.
• Its closed length is 4 inches (10.16cm). This makes it compact enough to comfortably carry in a pocket.
• The handle is made of OD green G10. This material is known for its durability, excellent grip, and resistance to moisture and chemicals.
• It features an extended tang. This provides added strength and allows for easier one-handed opening.
• It includes a lanyard hole for added carry options. This allows users to attach a lanyard for added security and convenience.
• A pocket clip is included. This allows for secure and discreet carry in a pocket.
• The knife weighs 0.24 lb (approximately 3.84 ounces). The weight makes it substantial enough to feel sturdy but light enough for all-day carry.

These specifications translate into a practical and reliable EDC knife. The steel provides a good balance of sharpness, toughness, and ease of maintenance.

Performance & Functionality

The Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E performs its primary job of cutting very well. The AUS-10A blade holds an edge reasonably well and is easy to sharpen when needed. The liner lock provides a secure lockup, ensuring safe usage.

Its main strength is its value for money; it offers a decent steel and durable construction at an affordable price. A minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the opening action, but this improves with use. It meets my expectations for an EDC knife in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E boasts a simple, yet effective design. The stonewashed blade has a pleasing, utilitarian look. The OD green G10 handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet hands.

The knife is user-friendly; there is no learning curve. The liner lock is easy to operate, and the blade opens smoothly after a bit of breaking in.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E should last for many years. The AUS-10A blade is relatively resistant to corrosion. The G10 handle is virtually indestructible under normal EDC conditions.

Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed. Disassembly for thorough cleaning is possible but requires basic knife maintenance skills.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E comes with a basic box and a pocket clip. There are no included accessories beyond this.

Customization options are limited. The pocket clip can be moved to different positions, but there aren’t many readily available aftermarket scales or other modifications designed specifically for this model. You may be able to replace the pocket clip with a generic aftermarket clip.

Pros and Cons of Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E?

The Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. This includes students, office workers, hikers, and anyone who needs a general-purpose cutting tool for everyday tasks. It’s a great option for people who appreciate a no-frills, practical design.

Those seeking a highly customizable knife with premium materials should skip this product. Also, individuals who require a larger blade for heavy-duty tasks may want to consider other options.

A must-have accessory is a sharpening stone or system for maintaining the blade’s edge. Lubricating the pivot point with a quality knife oil is also recommended.

Conclusion on Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E

The Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E is an excellent EDC knife that offers exceptional value for its price. The combination of AUS-10A steel, a durable G10 handle, and a secure liner lock makes it a reliable and practical tool for a variety of tasks. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive knives, it delivers solid performance where it counts.

The price is definitely justified. You get a lot of knife for your money.

I would personally recommend the Kubey Leaf Linerlock OD KUB333E to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable EDC option. It’s a great choice for both beginners and experienced knife users alike. So, if you are in the market for a reliable and budget-friendly EDC knife, give the Kubey Leaf a try. You won’t be disappointed!