First Impressions of Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife
The Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife isn’t just another pocketknife; it’s a modern reimagining of a classic. Lionsteel, known for their impeccable craftsmanship and innovative designs, has taken the traditional Barlow pattern and infused it with premium materials and contemporary construction. This knife promises to be a sophisticated tool, blending old-world charm with new-age performance.
I’ve always appreciated the history and simplicity of traditional pocketknives, but often found them lacking in modern steel and robust construction. I needed a dependable EDC knife with a classic look that could handle everyday tasks without feeling flimsy or outdated. The promise of M390 steel and titanium liners in a Barlow pattern immediately piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife exudes quality. The fit and finish are exceptional, with the handle scales seamlessly integrated with the titanium bolsters. The knife feels substantial in hand, instilling confidence in its durability. It’s definitely a step above other traditional folders I’ve handled, like Case or Rough Ryder knives, offering a superior feel and a more refined aesthetic. It seemed the perfect blend of the classic styling of a Great Eastern Cutlery knife with the modern build of something from Lionsteel. My first impression was one of excitement; this knife appeared to deliver on its promise of marrying tradition with innovation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife was on a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. I used it for various camp chores, from preparing food to whittling kindling. The M390 blade proved incredibly sharp, effortlessly slicing through vegetables and carving wood with ease.
The knife performed admirably in the damp conditions, with no signs of rust or corrosion despite being exposed to moisture. The handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were slightly wet. It felt comfortable in hand. The only minor issue was the slightly stiff action of the slip joint, which required a bit of breaking in.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent carry and use, the Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The blade has held its edge exceptionally well, requiring only occasional touch-ups on a strop. There are no signs of blade play or loosening of the handle scales.
Maintenance is straightforward; I simply wipe the blade clean after use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. Compared to other slip joint knives I’ve owned, the Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife significantly outperforms them in terms of edge retention and overall build quality. I’ve used it camping, fishing, hiking, and casually at home, and it always performs.
Breaking Down the Features of Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3 inches. This length offers a good balance between versatility and portability, making it suitable for a variety of tasks without being overly bulky.
- Closed Length: 3.74 inches. The compact closed length allows for comfortable carry in a pocket or pouch.
- Blade Material: M390. M390 is a premium stainless steel known for its exceptional edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. This ensures that the blade stays sharp for longer and can withstand harsh environments.
- Serrated: Plain. The plain edge provides clean and precise cuts.
- Knife Application: Folding Blade. Its folding design makes it a safe and convenient everyday carry option.
- Overall Length: 6.7 inches. This is a good overall size for most users.
- Blade Finish: Satin. The satin finish provides a smooth and aesthetically pleasing look while also offering some scratch resistance.
- Blade Thickness: 0.08 inches. This is relatively thin.
- Lock Type: SlipJoint. The slip joint mechanism is a traditional design that relies on spring tension to hold the blade open, offering simplicity and reliability.
- Sheath Material: No Sheath. As a folding knife, no sheath is necessary.
- Weight: 2.29 oz. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry all day without adding unnecessary bulk.
These specifications translate to a high-performing and user-friendly knife. The M390 steel is a standout feature, offering excellent edge retention that significantly reduces the need for frequent sharpening. The lightweight design and compact size make it an ideal everyday carry companion, while the slip joint mechanism provides a simple and reliable locking system.
Performance & Functionality
The Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife excels in its intended role as a versatile EDC tool. The blade’s sharpness and precise cutting ability make it ideal for various tasks, from opening packages to preparing food. The slip joint mechanism provides a secure lockup, instilling confidence during use, although it requires a deliberate action to close the blade.
One minor weakness is that the slip joint does require two hands to close. The knife definitely meets my expectations for a high-quality EDC knife, offering a significant upgrade in performance and materials compared to traditional slip joints.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife boasts excellent build quality, with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. The handle scales are available in several materials, including natural Micarta, olive wood, ram horn, and carbon fiber, each providing a unique aesthetic and grip. The knife feels well-balanced in hand and the radiused edges ensure comfortable use for extended periods.
There is a slight learning curve. The action is stiff at first, but smooths out with use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife is built to last, with its robust construction and premium materials. The M390 blade is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, while the titanium liners add strength and durability to the frame. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. This keeps the blade performing optimally.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife does not come with many accessories, but that is the nature of such knives.
The beauty of the Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife lies in its simplicity, leaving little room for extensive customization. The handle scales can be swapped out for different materials to personalize the knife’s appearance. As a traditional design, it doesn’t lend itself to typical modern knife customizations like pocket clips or thumb studs.
Pros and Cons of Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife
Pros
- Exceptional M390 steel blade with outstanding edge retention.
- Premium materials, including titanium liners and high-quality handle scales.
- Classic Barlow design with modern construction and refined aesthetics.
- Lightweight and compact for comfortable everyday carry.
- Excellent fit and finish.
Cons
- Slip joint mechanism requires two hands to close and may not be preferred by those accustomed to locking blades.
- Price point may be higher than traditional slip joint knives.
Who Should Buy Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife?
The Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife is perfect for knife enthusiasts who appreciate traditional designs but demand modern performance. It is also suited for EDC users seeking a refined and reliable cutting tool with a touch of class. This is a fantastic knife for collectors and anyone who prioritizes quality materials and craftsmanship.
Those who prefer one-handed operation or require a robust locking mechanism for heavy-duty tasks should skip this product.
A leather slip sheath would be a nice addition to protect the knife in the pocket.
Conclusion on Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife
The Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife is a superb blend of classic design and modern materials, resulting in a refined and high-performing EDC tool. Lionsteel has successfully elevated the traditional Barlow pattern with premium components and exceptional craftsmanship.
While the price point is higher than traditional slip joints, the Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife’s superior materials and build quality justify the investment.
I would highly recommend the Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife to anyone seeking a sophisticated and reliable EDC knife that honors tradition while embracing innovation. This is more than just a knife; it’s a statement of quality and appreciation for timeless design. If you’re looking for a premium slip joint that delivers exceptional performance and lasting value, the Lionsteel Barlow Roundhead Folding Knife is an excellent choice.