Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife

The Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife isn’t your typical tactical blade; it’s a throwback to simpler times, a pocket-sized piece of Americana with a wink and a nod. Made by Novelty Cutlery, this Barlow-style knife features classic lines combined with eye-catching, vintage-inspired artwork. For just $5.99, it promises a blend of old-school charm and basic functionality, making it an intriguing option for collectors and casual users alike.

I’ve always appreciated the practicality and history of traditional pocket knives, but I also enjoy items that are a little bit different and possess some character. I was looking for a small, inexpensive knife to keep in my pocket for everyday tasks, something that wouldn’t break the bank if it got lost or damaged. I also have an affinity for vintage art, especially pin-up designs, so this knife caught my eye with its unique handle artwork and old-school design.

Upon unboxing (or rather, unclaming) the Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife, my first impression was one of simple functionality. It’s lightweight, feels relatively solid for its price, and the artwork on the acrylic handle immediately stands out. The mirror finish on the stainless steel blades gives it a clean look, but I immediately noted that the edge could use some work.

I considered a few other budget-friendly pocket knives, such as the Rough Ryder Classic or the inexpensive Swiss Army Knives, which would cost a bit more and would come with more features. Ultimately, the Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife won me over with its unique aesthetic and incredibly low price point; I felt it would be an enjoyable novelty item. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; it’s a very affordable knife and is eye-catching. I hoped it would offer more than just a pretty face.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip with some friends. I used it for basic camp chores such as cutting rope, opening food packages, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The blades performed adequately for these light tasks, though I definitely had to apply more pressure than I would with a sharper, higher-quality knife.

The knife handled reasonably well in dry conditions, although the acrylic handle could get a bit slippery when my hands were sweaty from working around the campsite. I didn’t encounter any rain during my initial testing, but I could foresee the mirror-polished blades being prone to rust if not properly dried and oiled after exposure to moisture. The knife opened easily enough, but the hinge felt a bit stiff and could definitely benefit from some lubrication.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few months of occasional use, the Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife has held up surprisingly well, given its price point. The acrylic handle hasn’t shown any signs of cracking or significant scratching, despite being subjected to regular pocket carry. The blades have retained their shape, but the edge dulls quickly and requires frequent sharpening to maintain even a basic level of cutting performance.

The knife shows slight signs of wear and tear, particularly some minor scuffs on the nickel silver bolsters and a few small rust spots on the blades. Maintaining the knife requires regular cleaning and oiling to prevent rust and keep the blades opening smoothly. Compared to my higher-end knives, the Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife certainly doesn’t outperform in terms of edge retention or overall durability, but it also hasn’t completely disappointed me. It’s a decent little tool for basic tasks, especially considering the extremely affordable price.

Breaking Down the Features of Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife

Specifications

• Closed Length: 3.25 inches. This makes it a compact and easily pocketable knife, perfect for everyday carry without being cumbersome.
• Blade Material: Mirror finish stainless steel clip and pen blades. Stainless steel offers decent corrosion resistance, while the mirror finish provides a classic aesthetic appeal.
• Handle Material: Acrylic with pinup girl artwork. The acrylic handle is lightweight and adds a touch of personality, while the pinup art gives the knife a unique and vintage feel.
• Bolsters: Nickel silver. Nickel silver bolsters add a touch of elegance and provide some structural support to the handle.
• Packaging: Clam packed. This packaging is functional for protecting the knife during shipping and retail display, but is also cheap and easy to open.

These specifications highlight the Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife as a budget-friendly, lightweight pocket knife with a classic design and a unique aesthetic appeal. The choice of materials and construction reflects its intended use as a casual, everyday carry item rather than a heavy-duty tool.

Performance & Functionality

The Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife performs adequately for light-duty cutting tasks such as opening packages, cutting rope, and whittling small pieces of wood. The stainless steel blades are relatively easy to sharpen, but they don’t hold an edge very well. The knife’s usability is straightforward, with a simple slip-joint mechanism that allows for easy opening and closing.

Its strengths lie in its affordability, portability, and unique aesthetic, making it a fun and functional novelty item. The main weakness is its subpar edge retention, requiring frequent sharpening to maintain decent cutting performance. It meets expectations for a $5.99 knife, offering basic functionality and a distinctive look.

Design & Ergonomics

The Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife features a classic Barlow design with a slim profile and comfortable in-hand feel. The acrylic handle is lightweight, but it can be slippery when wet or sweaty. The build quality is adequate for the price, with no major gaps or loose parts, although the hinge is a bit stiff.

The knife is user-friendly, with no learning curve required; it operates like any other traditional slip-joint pocket knife. However, the lack of texture on the handle and the stiff hinge could be improved for better ergonomics.

Durability & Maintenance

The Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife is not designed for heavy-duty use, but it should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. Regular cleaning and oiling are essential to prevent rust and keep the blades opening smoothly. The knife is not designed to be easily repaired, but replacement parts are unlikely to be available anyway.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife comes with no accessories; it’s a very basic knife. Customization options are limited due to the knife’s construction and materials; the handle scales could potentially be replaced, but this would require significant modification and may not be worth the effort. It’s unlikely that aftermarket parts are specifically designed for this knife, though some universal knife accessories (such as sharpening stones or lubricants) could be used.

Pros and Cons of Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife?

The Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife is perfect for casual campers, collectors of novelty items, and anyone looking for an inexpensive, fun pocket knife for light-duty tasks. It’s also a good option for those who appreciate vintage-inspired artwork and classic designs.

This product is not suitable for survivalists, serious outdoorsmen, or anyone who needs a reliable, heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks. Must-have accessories would include a sharpening stone or steel to maintain the blade edge and a lubricant to improve the blade action.

Conclusion on Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife

The Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife is a charming and affordable pocket knife that offers basic functionality with a unique aesthetic appeal. It’s not a high-performance tool, but it’s a fun and functional novelty item that’s perfect for light-duty tasks and everyday carry. The price is definitely justified for what you get; it’s a great value for a budget-friendly knife with a distinctive design.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a cheap, cheerful pocket knife with a vintage vibe. It’s a fun little knife that’s sure to spark conversation and add a touch of personality to your everyday carry. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly and eye-catching pocket knife, give the Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Barlow Folding Knife a try; you might be surprised at how much you enjoy it.