Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Spring Assist Folding Knife 2-1/2 Tanto Blade Black 32AC66FF Review

First Impressions of Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Spring Assist Folding Knife 2-1/2 Tanto Blade Black 32AC66FF

The Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Spring Assist Folding Knife 2-1/2 Tanto Blade Black 32AC66FF promises a blend of tactical styling and everyday practicality. Marketed under two iconic brands – Old Timer known for its legacy and Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with firearms and tactical gear – this knife aims to deliver reliable performance at an accessible price point. The assisted opening mechanism and tanto blade profile immediately suggest a focus on rapid deployment and piercing capabilities, features that appeal to both tactical enthusiasts and those seeking a versatile EDC (Everyday Carry) tool.

I was looking for a compact, easily deployable knife that I could carry comfortably without feeling weighed down, and that could handle the usual tasks around the campsite or while hiking. I’ve often found myself needing a quick, reliable blade for everything from food prep to gear repair, and the assisted opening and tanto blade seemed like a good fit.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly lightweight. The stonewash finish on the blade and handle gave it a rugged, no-nonsense aesthetic, though the handle material felt a bit less premium than I had anticipated. It’s very light, at only 2.4oz, which is a good feature to have.

Compared to my Kershaw Blur, which is a similarly sized assisted opener but with a more traditional drop-point blade, the Extreme Ops feels less refined but potentially more robust for heavy-duty tasks. I also considered the CRKT M16-01KS, known for its robust build, but ultimately chose the Extreme Ops for its lighter weight and more aggressive tanto blade. I picked this because the blade style and easy opening was a desirable feature.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The knife appeared functional and well-suited for its intended purpose, but I needed to see how it performed in real-world situations to truly gauge its value. It was definitely something I was interested in getting out into the field for testing.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Spring Assist Folding Knife 2-1/2 Tanto Blade Black 32AC66FF to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was mixed, with periods of rain and humidity, presenting a good test for the knife’s corrosion resistance and grip.

The assisted opening proved to be a standout feature, deploying the blade quickly and reliably even with slightly damp hands. Cutting cordage, preparing kindling, and opening food packages were all handled with ease. The blade was easy to deploy in a quick and efficient manner.

Initially, I found the handle a bit slick when wet, but a firmer grip addressed this issue. The liner lock engaged securely, providing confidence during use. There were no immediately noticeable issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the Extreme Ops has held up reasonably well. The stonewash finish has done a good job of concealing minor scratches and wear.

The edge retention of the 7Cr17Mov stainless steel blade is acceptable for the price point, requiring occasional touch-ups with a honing steel. Some wear has appeared on the clip, though this is to be expected.

Cleaning is straightforward – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to some of my higher-end knives, the Extreme Ops requires less meticulous maintenance, making it a practical choice for rough use. It has held up surprisingly well with a bit of care.

Breaking Down the Features of Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Spring Assist Folding Knife 2-1/2 Tanto Blade Black 32AC66FF

Specifications

• * Blade Length: 2.5 inches. This compact blade length makes it highly practical for everyday tasks while remaining compliant with most legal carry restrictions.
• * Blade Material: 7Cr17Mov Stainless Steel. A decent steel for the price, offering a reasonable balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• * Blade Style: Tanto. The tanto blade is known for its strong tip, ideal for piercing and thrusting tasks.
• * Handle Material: Stainless Steel. Provides a durable and weather-resistant grip, though some may find it less comfortable than textured materials.
• * Opening Mechanism: Spring Assist. Allows for rapid, one-handed blade deployment.
• * Locking Mechanism: Framelock. A robust locking system integrated into the handle, offering secure blade lockup.
• * Weight: 2.4 ounces. Very lightweight, making it comfortable for extended carry.
• * Pocket Clip: Tip-Down Carry. Allows for discreet and convenient carry.
• * Overall Length: 6.23 inches. A good size for EDC, balancing portability and usability.
  These specs make it a well-rounded tool for EDC and light duty tasks. The price point is something to keep in mind as the overall value is pretty substantial.

Performance & Functionality

The Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops performs admirably for its price. The assisted opening is reliable and quick.

The tanto blade excels at piercing and detailed cutting tasks, but its geometry isn’t ideal for slicing. The framelock is secure, providing confidence during use. The opening has become more reliable over time.

It meets expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife but doesn’t outperform higher-end models in terms of edge retention or overall refinement. It is a tool, and it fulfills its role.

Design & Ergonomics

The stainless steel handle provides a durable and weather-resistant grip. The lightweight design makes it comfortable for all-day carry.

The handle’s smooth surface can be a bit slippery when wet, and some users may prefer a more textured grip. The blade deploys quickly and easily.

Durability & Maintenance

The 7Cr17Mov stainless steel blade is relatively easy to sharpen and maintain. The stonewash finish helps conceal wear and tear.

With basic care, the knife should last for several years of regular use. It is meant to be a workhorse blade.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Extreme Ops comes with a basic tip-down pocket clip. There are no other included accessories.

Aftermarket customization options are limited due to the knife’s design and construction. It is not really meant for customization and modification.

Pros and Cons of Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Spring Assist Folding Knife 2-1/2 Tanto Blade Black 32AC66FF

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Who Should Buy Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Spring Assist Folding Knife 2-1/2 Tanto Blade Black 32AC66FF?

The Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops is perfect for: campers, hikers, backpackers, and anyone needing a reliable EDC knife on a budget. It’s well-suited for general utility tasks, and quick deployment is a big advantage.

This knife might not be ideal for collectors, serious bushcrafters, or users who require premium materials and exceptional edge retention. They would probably be more at home with a more premium and expensive tool.

A sharpening steel or whetstone is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. Some users might also consider adding grip tape to the handle for improved security in wet conditions. It is also a good idea to keep oil on the joints to keep it running smoothly.

Conclusion on Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Spring Assist Folding Knife 2-1/2 Tanto Blade Black 32AC66FF

The Old Timer Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Spring Assist Folding Knife 2-1/2 Tanto Blade Black 32AC66FF offers a compelling combination of tactical styling, reliable functionality, and affordability. While it may not boast the premium materials or refined features of higher-end knives, it delivers solid performance for everyday carry and light-duty tasks.

At around $35, the price is definitely justified. It is a reliable, easy-to-use tool.

I would recommend this knife to anyone seeking a budget-friendly EDC option with a tactical aesthetic and assisted opening capability. Pick one up today and see what it can do!