Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife

The Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife is a classic, a testament to simple, reliable design that’s been around for generations. The Old Timer brand evokes a sense of nostalgia, conjuring images of grandfathers whittling wood on the porch or fathers teaching their sons basic knife skills. This isn’t a tactical, high-speed, low-drag knife; it’s a dependable tool built for everyday tasks.

I needed a compact, versatile knife for general camp chores and odd jobs around the house. I was looking for something that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered decent steel and a comfortable grip.

Out of the box, the Middleman feels solid, despite its light weight. The Delrin handle has a reassuring heft, and the three blades snap open with a satisfying click. The stainless-steel blades looked reasonably sharp.

I considered a few other options, like the Case Sodbuster Jr. and the Buck 309 Companion. I chose the Old Timer because of the three different blades offered in one package and also the Old Timer’s reputation for durability. The Case, while offering excellent steel, lacked the blade variety and the Buck, while more modern, just didn’t have that classic feel.

My initial impression was one of pleasant surprise. It is a well-made knife for the price, exuding a timeless quality.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife primarily on a week-long camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. The knife was used for a variety of tasks, including food preparation, feathering sticks for fire starting, and cutting cordage.

The Middleman performed admirably in dry conditions, slicing cleanly through vegetables and rope. In wet conditions, the Delrin handle provided a secure grip, even with damp hands, but the blades needed wiping more frequently to prevent water spots. The clip blade was particularly useful for finer tasks, while the sheepsfoot blade was handy for heavier cutting.

There was a slight learning curve getting used to accessing each blade quickly, but after a few days, it became second nature. The only minor issue was that the blades required a bit of extra effort to close initially.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife continues to perform well. The blades have retained their edges reasonably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a honing steel.

The knife shows minimal signs of wear and tear, with only a few minor scratches on the bolsters and handle. The blade hinges are still tight, and there’s no noticeable blade play.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth and a drop of oil on the hinges keeps everything running smoothly. Compared to more modern knives with complicated locking mechanisms, the Middleman is a breeze to maintain. It certainly outperforms some cheaper, gas-station knives I’ve owned, and it holds its own against some mid-range options as well.

Breaking Down the Features of Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife features three distinct blades: a clip point blade for general-purpose cutting, a sheepsfoot blade for controlled slicing, and a spey blade typically used for skinning, but handy for scraping tasks. This variety makes it a versatile tool for various applications.
• The blade length is 2.4 inches, making it compact and easy to carry. This blade length is ideal for detail work, like cleaning fish or carving wood.
• The blade material is stainless steel, offering good corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening. The stainless steel is not the highest grade available, but it is a practical choice for a budget-friendly knife.
• Included accessories are, quite simply, the 3 blades, embodying the knife’s minimalist design philosophy. It is a “what you see is what you get” product, that focuses on core functionality.
• The handle finish is Delrin, Brown, providing a durable and comfortable grip. The brown color gives it a classic Old Timer look.
• The weight is listed as 0 grain, which is obviously a mistake (should be around 2.4 ounces). The lightweight construction makes it easy to carry without weighing you down.
• Additional Features: No, in line with the knife’s simple, no-frills design.
• The dimensions are 1.20 X 4.25 X 10.70 in, which seems to be the packaging dimensions, rather than the knife’s dimensions. The closed length of the knife is approximately 3.5 inches.
• The height is listed as 1.2 in, seemingly referring to the handle thickness. This thickness provides a good grip without being bulky.
• The width is listed as 4.25 in, and it also refers to the knife’s packaging.

These specifications translate to a compact, lightweight, and versatile knife suitable for everyday carry and general-purpose tasks. The stainless-steel blades offer a good balance of durability and ease of maintenance.

Performance & Functionality

The Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife performs its job admirably as a general-purpose cutting tool. The three different blades offer versatility, allowing it to handle a range of tasks from fine detail work to heavier cutting.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity, reliability, and ease of use. However, its limitations include the steel quality not being the best available, and the lack of a locking mechanism.

The Middleman largely meets expectations for a knife in its price range. It’s not a high-end tool, but it’s a reliable and practical option for everyday tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

The Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife boasts a classic, no-frills design with a comfortable Delrin handle. The handle fills the hand well and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.

It is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no learning curve whatsoever. The blades are easy to access and deploy, and the simple slip-joint mechanism is intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife should last for many years. The stainless-steel blades are resistant to corrosion, and the Delrin handle is durable and impact-resistant.

Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning and oiling are all that’s required. Sharpening the blades is also easy, thanks to the relatively soft stainless steel.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife does not come with any additional accessories. There are no readily available customization options, such as aftermarket scales or blade upgrades.

While the knife is not designed for extensive customization, it can be paired with a leather sheath for convenient carry.

Pros and Cons of Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife?

The Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Casual campers and hikers who need a reliable knife for general camp chores.
• Individuals looking for an affordable and versatile everyday carry knife.
• Those who appreciate classic designs and traditional craftsmanship.
• People needing a basic utility knife for tasks around the house or garden.

This product is not ideal for:

• Users who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks.
• Those who prioritize high-end steel and advanced features.
• Individuals who prefer knives with locking mechanisms.

Must-have accessories include a leather sheath for comfortable carry and a honing steel for maintaining the blade edges.

Conclusion on Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife

The Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife is a reliable, versatile, and affordable tool that embodies the spirit of classic American knife-making. It’s not a flashy or high-tech knife, but it’s a dependable option for everyday carry and general-purpose tasks.

The price of $37.49 is justified by the knife’s durability, functionality, and classic design. It offers excellent value for money and is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for a simple, reliable cutting tool.

I would personally recommend the Old Timer Middleman 3 Blade Folding Knife to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, versatile, and classic pocketknife. It’s a great option for casual campers, hikers, and anyone who appreciates the simplicity and reliability of a traditional design. Get yours today and experience the timeless appeal of the Old Timer brand!