Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards Review

First Impressions of Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards

The Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards is a classic combination, bringing together a practical tool and a bit of leisure. Old Timer has a long history of producing reliable knives, and the Sharpfinger is one of their most recognizable designs. This particular set throws in a deck of playing cards, suggesting versatility for both work and relaxation in the outdoors.

I’ve been on the lookout for a compact fixed blade that can handle basic camp chores and skinning small game. Many modern knives are overly tactical or expensive, so the promise of a simple, functional blade at an affordable price point drew me to the Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards. The added entertainment of playing cards seemed like a fun, lightweight bonus for camping trips.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its size. The sawcut bone handle provides a classic look and decent grip. The blade arrived reasonably sharp, ready for a quick touch-up. Compared to a more modern, ergonomically designed fixed blade from Gerber, the Sharpfinger feels simpler, more traditional, and perhaps less focused on pure tactical applications. It does, however, beat out the Morakniv Companion in terms of classic looks! My first thought was, “This would be a trusty companion on a hunt, and if I get bored, I can deal out a hand of poker.”

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Real-World Testing: Putting Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards on a weekend camping trip to the Appalachian Mountains. The knife was primarily used for preparing food, whittling kindling, and some light camp tasks like cutting rope. It wasn’t designed for heavy-duty batoning but I did manage to split some smaller pieces of firewood with it.

The weather was fairly mild, but we did experience some light rain. The sawcut bone handle became a little slick when wet, but never dangerously so. The blade maintained its edge through most of the weekend, and I didn’t need to resharpen it until I returned home. The relatively small size and light weight meant it was easy to carry on my belt without feeling cumbersome.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards has held up reasonably well. There are a few scratches on the stainless steel blade, but no significant signs of wear and tear. The handle remains solid, and there’s no looseness in the tang.

Cleaning the blade is straightforward – a quick wash with soap and water is usually sufficient. I apply a thin coat of oil to the blade after cleaning to prevent rust. Compared to some of my more expensive knives with high-end steel, the Sharpfinger requires a bit more frequent sharpening to maintain a razor edge, but the 7Cr17 stainless is easy enough to work with. In short, it’s a no-frills, reliable tool.

Breaking Down the Features of Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards

Specifications

• The Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards boasts a 3.3-inch clip point blade made from 7Cr17 high carbon stainless steel. This steel is known for its decent edge retention and ease of sharpening, making it a practical choice for general use.
• The knife has an overall length of 7 inches and a closed length of 4.5 inches. This compact size makes it easy to carry and conceal.
• The handle is constructed from Old Timer’s signature sawcut bone, offering a classic look and a relatively secure grip. The handle is brown in color.
• The included sheath is made of polyester. While functional, it’s a basic sheath that’s more about protection than high-end carry.

The blade shape is excellent for skinning and general cutting tasks. The stainless steel material provides rust resistance, which is essential for outdoor use. The polyester sheath is an adequate way to protect the blade during transport, but its quality doesn’t match the knife’s legacy.

Performance & Functionality

The Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards performs admirably for its intended purpose. The clip point blade is well-suited for detailed cutting tasks, making it useful for everything from cleaning fish to preparing tinder. It’s not a heavy-duty knife, so tasks like batoning large logs are best left to more robust blades.

The knife’s main strengths are its affordability and versatility. However, its relatively soft steel means it requires more frequent sharpening compared to knives made with premium steel. It meets expectations as a budget-friendly, all-purpose knife, but don’t expect it to outperform higher-end models.

Design & Ergonomics

The sawcut bone handle provides a comfortable grip, even with prolonged use. The classic design is aesthetically pleasing, reminiscent of older, more traditional hunting knives. The weight is well-balanced, making the knife feel natural in the hand.

The knife is user-friendly, requiring no special skills or knowledge to operate. There is no learning curve; anyone familiar with a fixed blade knife can pick it up and use it effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards should last for many years. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the full tang construction adds to its overall durability. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep it in good working order.

The maintenance is minimal, and no specialized tools are required. This makes it a practical choice for users who want a reliable knife without the hassle of complicated upkeep.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards comes with a basic polyester sheath and a deck of playing cards. There aren’t many official accessories or customization options available directly from Old Timer. However, the knife can be used with any universal sharpening tools or blade oil.

The simple design allows for aftermarket customization, such as replacing the sheath with a leather alternative. While there isn’t extensive aftermarket support, its simplicity is part of the knife’s charm.

Pros and Cons of Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards

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Who Should Buy Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards?

The Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards is perfect for: hunters seeking a reliable skinning knife, campers needing a general-purpose tool, and anyone looking for an affordable and classic fixed blade. This knife is also great for those who appreciate simplicity and tradition over modern tactical features. It makes an excellent first knife for older children and teens learning bushcraft skills under supervision.

Who should skip this product? Those who need a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks like batoning large logs, or those who prioritize advanced steel types for superior edge retention.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening stone and some blade oil are essential for maintaining the knife’s edge. A leather sheath would be a significant upgrade over the included polyester sheath.

Conclusion on Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards

The Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards offers a solid blend of functionality, affordability, and classic design. While it may not boast the latest in steel technology or tactical features, it excels as a reliable and versatile tool for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures. The addition of the playing cards adds a fun, practical element, making it a great gift or addition to a camping kit.

The price is definitely justified for what you get. It’s a working knife that will probably last decades if cared for properly.

I would definitely recommend the Old Timer Sharpfinger Fixed Blade Knife & Playing Cards to anyone seeking a no-nonsense, dependable fixed blade without breaking the bank. Pick one up, and you’ll have a trusty companion for years to come.