Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife enters the market as a budget-friendly option for everyday carry. Manufactured by Mtech, this knife boasts assisted opening, a framelock mechanism, and a two-tone aesthetic aiming to deliver both functionality and style at an accessible price point. Is it a hidden gem or just another inexpensive knife?

I’ve always advocated for having a reliable folding knife. Whether it’s opening packages, cutting cordage on a camping trip, or performing minor repairs, a good knife is an indispensable tool. When my trusty EDC knife went missing after a particularly grueling fishing trip, I needed a replacement quickly, and budget was a primary concern.

My first impression upon unboxing the Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife was surprisingly positive. The blue titanium coated and black pakkawood handle looks appealing, and the knife feels relatively solid for its weight. It is clear it is not a premium knife, but acceptable for the price.

I considered a few other budget options like the Kershaw Cryo and the Ontario RAT Model 2. Ultimately, the Mtech knife’s assisted opening and unique handle design swayed my decision, hoping it would be a suitable replacement for my lost EDC.

Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic. For around $12, my expectations weren’t sky-high. However, I was hoping for a functional tool that could handle basic tasks without falling apart.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife to work during a weekend camping trip. I used it for tasks like preparing kindling, opening food packages, and cutting rope for setting up the tent. The assisted opening mechanism proved quick and reliable, making one-handed operation easy.

The knife performed decently in dry conditions. However, the handle became slightly slippery when wet, and the blade showed some resistance when cutting thicker materials. This resistance was noticeable but didn’t hinder the knife from fulfilling most light tasks.

The Mtech knife required very little getting used to. Its assisted opening and comfortable handle made it easy to deploy and control right away. I didn’t expect premium performance; I just needed a tool that would fulfill its intended purpose.

The most significant issue I encountered was the sharpness of the blade out of the box. It struggled to cleanly slice through some materials, requiring more force than expected and some immediate resharpening.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a couple of months of regular use, the Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife has shown some signs of wear. The blade has retained its edge fairly well after initial resharpening, but the finish on the handle has started to show some minor scratches. The assisted opening is still functional, but not as snappy as when it was new.

The durability is acceptable considering the price. The framelock still engages securely, but there’s a slight side-to-side blade play that has developed. This small movement does not compromise safety, but hints at lower-quality components and assembly.

Maintenance is straightforward. I regularly clean the blade and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth. However, the steel used is prone to rust so extra care to keep it dry is important.

Compared to my previous EDC, the Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a clear step down in terms of overall quality and performance. It works, but it lacks the refinement and durability of a more expensive knife. However, it does function and it’s a value purchase.

Breaking Down the Features of Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife

Specifications

• Framelock: This mechanism provides a secure lockup, preventing accidental blade closure during use. This is a functional, but not supremely refined, version of this locking system.
• Assisted Opening: Allows for rapid, one-handed blade deployment. The spring assist is relatively strong, which gives a positive feel to the blade opening.
• 4.75″ Closed: A compact size for easy carry in a pocket or on a belt. This size is ideal for everyday carry without being overly bulky.
• 3.75″ Satin Finish Stainless Drop Point Blade: The drop point blade shape is versatile for various cutting tasks. The satin finish is practical, but the stainless steel quality is questionable, hinting at a lower Rockwell hardness rating.
• Pocket Clip: Provides a convenient way to carry the knife securely. The clip tension is adequate, but it may loosen over time with frequent use.
• Lanyard Hole: Allows for attaching a lanyard for added security or personalization. This is a standard feature, offering a useful way to customize and secure the knife.
• Extended Tang: Provides extra leverage and control during use. The extended tang does offer more surface area for thumb placement, which does improve overall grip security.
• Blue Titanium Coated and Black Pakkawood Front Handle with Satin Finish Smooth Stainless Back Handle: The combination of materials gives the knife a unique aesthetic appeal. The pakkawood is attractive, but not very grippy, particularly when wet.

Performance & Functionality

The Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife performs adequately for basic tasks. It’s not a heavy-duty workhorse, but it can handle everyday cutting needs. It is important to note, however, that it would be best to sharpen it upon first purchase.

Its strengths lie in its assisted opening, compact size, and affordability. The weaknesses include the questionable steel quality, slippery handle when wet, and potential durability issues over the long term. It is also worth noting that the quality control with Mtech products is often variable.

For the price, it mostly meets expectations. It won’t blow you away, but it’s a functional tool that gets the job done. With more realistic expectations and a little bit of initial sharpening, it is acceptable.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for a budget knife. The materials used are not top-of-the-line, but they are sufficient for the intended use. The knife feels reasonably comfortable in hand, although the handle could be more ergonomic.

There’s no significant learning curve. The assisted opening is easy to use, and the framelock is straightforward. I have used framelock designs before so the learning curve was not a hinderance.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife is unlikely to last a lifetime. With proper care and maintenance, it should last a reasonable amount of time. However, the low price point reflects the quality of the materials and construction.

Maintenance is simple: clean the blade regularly, apply oil to the pivot, and sharpen as needed. However, the steel is susceptible to rust, so be sure to keep the knife dry. The cost to replace the knife is only around $12 so I would not be too concerned with longevity given the value purchase price.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife doesn’t come with many accessories. It includes only the knife itself. Given the value pricing, there are no accessories I would suggest.

There aren’t many customization options available. Due to the value nature of the product, I would advise against accessorizing this knife. The knife is designed for basic use and is best kept as-is.

Pros and Cons of Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife?

Perfect for: Those needing a cheap, basic EDC knife for light tasks, campers who need a backup blade, or anyone just starting to explore the world of knives. It can also be a good loaner blade for when you don’t want to risk damaging your more expensive equipment.

Who should skip this product? Experienced knife users, those who need a durable and reliable knife for demanding tasks, or anyone prioritizing high-quality materials and construction.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening stone or steel is essential for maintaining the blade’s edge. Due to its affordability, I do not suggest further accessories or modifications.

Conclusion on Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a budget-friendly option that provides basic functionality. It’s not a top-tier knife, but it gets the job done for light-duty tasks. The assisted opening and unique design are nice features, but the questionable steel quality and potential durability issues are drawbacks to consider.

The price is justified for what you get. It’s an inexpensive knife that offers decent performance for the money. It’s important to keep your expectations reasonable; this knife is not a substitute for a high-end tool.

I would cautiously recommend it to someone who needs a very affordable knife for light use. Just be aware of its limitations and be prepared to sharpen it frequently. If you need a robust and reliable knife for demanding tasks, invest in a higher-quality option.

Ultimately, the Mtech Framelock Blue/Black Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a good entry-level knife for those on a tight budget. If you’re looking for something more robust, save up and buy something more substantial. However, if twelve dollars is all you have to spend, then you could do far worse.