First Impressions of Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2
In the realm of everyday carry (EDC) knives, the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2 presents itself as an accessible and practical option. This compact folder, manufactured by Old Timer, boasts a spring-assisted opening, a clip point blade, and a streamlined black design. It promises ease of carry and quick deployment, ideal for users needing a reliable tool without breaking the bank.
As someone who has spent years navigating the intricate world of tactical gear, I’ve always been on the lookout for a dependable, budget-friendly knife. I needed a smaller, lighter option for my daily tasks, something less imposing than my usual fixed-blade knives when I’m not in the field. My search led me to the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7, hoping it would bridge the gap between convenience and functionality.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The black aluminum handle provided a decent grip, and the spring-assisted mechanism snapped the blade open with authority. The Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 immediately felt like a capable companion.
Compared to my Kershaw Leek, known for its slim profile, and my CRKT M16, valued for its ruggedness, the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 seemed to offer a blend of both. I ultimately chose the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 for its promise of quick deployment and ease of carry at an attractive price. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic, eager to see how it would perform under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test for the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 came during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I primarily used it for tasks like preparing kindling, opening food packages, and general camp chores. The spring assist made one-handed opening a breeze.
While the blade performed adequately, the edge retention wasn’t stellar when processing wood. The dry conditions didn’t present any issues, but I was curious to see how it would fare in wet weather. After the first day of use, I noticed a slight wobble in the blade, which was concerning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 showed signs of wear. The black coating on the blade began to scratch and fade, particularly near the tip. Despite regular cleaning and oiling, the blade wobble persisted, becoming more pronounced with each use.
The aluminum handle has held up reasonably well, though a few minor dents are visible. Maintaining the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 is simple: wipe down the blade and handle after use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, which has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable, the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 clearly falls short in overall build quality and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2
Specifications
The Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2 has a 1.9-inch clip point blade made from 8Cr13Mov stainless steel with a black finish. This steel is known for its reasonable balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it a common choice for budget-friendly knives. The handle is constructed from black aluminum, which provides a lightweight and corrosion-resistant grip.
The knife features a linerlock mechanism for secure blade lockup. It also has a spring-assisted opening mechanism activated by a flipper tab or thumb stud. A red pivot collar adds a touch of visual appeal. A pocket clip allows for convenient carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 performs adequately for light EDC tasks. The spring-assisted opening is fast and reliable, providing quick access to the blade. However, the 8Cr13Mov steel blade requires frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge.
The blade wobble is a notable weakness that affects its precision and control. While the linerlock generally holds the blade securely, the play reduces confidence during more demanding tasks. The Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 mostly meets expectations for a budget knife but doesn’t exceed them in any particular area.
Design & Ergonomics
The black aluminum handle provides a comfortable grip for most hand sizes. The knife is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for EDC. The pocket clip is functional and holds the knife securely in a pocket or on a belt.
The Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 is relatively user-friendly, with a straightforward design and easy-to-operate opening mechanism. There is no real learning curve involved. The knife is comfortable in hand, though the aluminum can feel slippery when wet.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials used and the observed wear and tear, the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 is unlikely to last as long as more premium knives. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, oiling, and sharpening, is essential to prolong its lifespan. The simple design makes it easy to maintain and repair, if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 comes with no additional accessories beyond the integral pocket clip. Customization options are limited due to its budget-oriented design. You might be able to replace the pivot screw or pocket clip, but there are no readily available aftermarket scales or blades.
Pros and Cons of Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2
Pros
- Affordable Price: The low price makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Spring-Assisted Opening: Provides quick and easy one-handed blade deployment.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
- Decent Ergonomics: The aluminum handle provides a comfortable grip.
- Functional Pocket Clip: Allows for secure and convenient carry.
Cons
- Blade Wobble: Reduces precision and confidence during use.
- Mediocre Steel: Requires frequent sharpening to maintain its edge.
- Limited Durability: Shows signs of wear and tear relatively quickly.
Who Should Buy Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2?
The Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2 is perfect for casual campers, everyday users, and anyone needing a budget-friendly, readily accessible knife for light tasks. It is also ideal for those new to knives who want to experiment with a spring-assisted mechanism.
However, anyone requiring a highly durable, reliable knife for demanding tasks or harsh environments should skip this product. They would be better served by investing in a higher-quality knife with better steel and a more robust construction. A sharpening stone or sharpening system is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2
The Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 Spring Assisted Folding Knife 1-9/10 Clip Point Blade Black Box AE2F8EE2 is a decent option within the budget knife category. Its quick spring-assisted opening, lightweight design, and comfortable ergonomics make it a practical tool for light EDC tasks. However, the blade wobble, mediocre steel, and limited durability are notable drawbacks.
At $24.99, the price is certainly justified for what it offers, providing an accessible entry point for those needing a basic folding knife. While I wouldn’t rely on it for serious tactical or survival situations, I would recommend it for casual users who prioritize affordability and convenience over ultimate performance and durability. If you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly EDC knife, the Old Timer Smith & Wesson 24/7 is worth considering, just be aware of its limitations.