Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown Review

Let’s Talk About Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown is designed as a lightweight and reliable everyday carry (EDC) knife. Made by Outdoor Edge Cutlery, it boasts a non-reflective Blackstone™ coated blade, Zytel® handles with rubberized TPR inserts for superior grip, and a convenient pocket clip. This knife aims to deliver high performance in a compact, easy-to-carry package, all at an affordable price point.

I was looking for a lightweight, dependable knife that wouldn’t weigh down my pocket during hikes and everyday tasks. My criteria included a secure grip, a sharp blade that could hold its edge, and a discreet profile for comfortable carry. The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

Unboxing the Chasm, my initial impression was positive. The knife felt surprisingly light yet solid, and the brown Zytel® handles offered a comfortable, secure grip. The Blackstone™ coated blade looked sleek and ready for action; the knife exuded a practical, no-nonsense vibe.

Compared to my Spyderco Delica 4 and Benchmade Bugout, the Chasm presented itself as a more budget-friendly, yet potentially equally capable option. I chose the Chasm for its promising combination of lightweight design, secure grip, and appealing price, hoping it would provide excellent value for everyday carry. While the Delica 4 is known for its exceptional blade steel, and the Bugout for its premium materials, I was curious to see if the Chasm could hold its own in terms of usability and performance.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world use but also aware of its relatively lower price point compared to other EDC knives I own. The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown needed to prove its worth.


Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown on a weekend camping trip in the local mountains. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and whittling some kindling for the campfire. It was a diverse range of tasks that gave me a good feel for the knife’s initial abilities.

The knife performed admirably even in slightly damp conditions from morning dew; the rubberized TPR inserts on the handle provided a solid grip despite the moisture. Opening the knife one-handed using the double-sided thumb stud was easy and smooth, even with gloves on. There were no initial issues; the blade held its edge well after these initial tasks.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown almost daily, it has proven to be a reliable companion. The blade has held its edge surprisingly well. I have only needed to touch it up with a sharpening stone a few times.

The knife has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. The Blackstone™ coating on the blade has held up well against scratches, and the Zytel® handles remain solid and undamaged. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot point. I prefer to keep my EDC knives in excellent working condition, so I was satisfied with its simplicity.

Compared to some of my higher-end knives, the Chasm might not have the same premium feel, but it certainly outperforms many other knives in its price range. It has proven to be a dependable tool that I can rely on for various tasks, earning its place in my EDC rotation. The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown has impressed me with its resilience and practical design.

Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown

Specifications

  • Blade Length: 3.3 inches (8.4 cm). This length provides a good balance between cutting ability and portability for everyday carry.
  • Overall Length: 7.7 inches (19.4 cm). This compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket without being cumbersome.
  • Steel: 8Cr13MoV Stainless with BlackstoneTM coating. The 8Cr13MoV steel offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
  • Rockwell-C Hardness: 57. This hardness level ensures good edge retention while still being relatively easy to sharpen.
  • Opener: Double sided thumb stud. The thumb stud allows for easy, one-handed opening, a valuable feature for EDC knives.
  • Handle: Zytel® glass/nylon with rubberized TPR inserts. Zytel® provides a durable and lightweight handle material, while the TPR inserts enhance grip.
  • Pocket Clip: 420 Stainless steel with BlackstoneTM coating. The pocket clip allows for secure and convenient carry.
  • Weight: 2.2oz / 62g. This ultra-lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry all day without adding unnecessary bulk.

These specifications contribute directly to the knife’s overall performance and user experience. The lightweight design and compact size make it easy to carry, while the combination of 8Cr13MoV steel and Zytel® handles provides a balance of durability, edge retention, and grip. The one-handed opening capability adds to its convenience and utility.

Performance & Functionality

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown performs its job admirably, proving to be a reliable and versatile tool. Its sharp blade makes quick work of various cutting tasks, from opening packages to preparing food. The secure grip and easy one-handed opening further enhance its usability.

One of its strengths is its lightweight design. I barely notice it in my pocket. The blade, while not a premium steel, holds a decent edge and is relatively easy to sharpen. The only weakness I’ve found is that the Blackstone™ coating can scratch if subjected to hard use, but this is mainly cosmetic.

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown meets and even slightly exceeds expectations considering its price point. It offers a level of performance and functionality that rivals some more expensive EDC knives.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid for a knife in this price range. The Zytel® handle feels sturdy and provides a comfortable grip, thanks to the rubberized TPR inserts. The lightweight design ensures that it doesn’t weigh down your pocket.

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown is remarkably user-friendly, with a straightforward design that requires no learning curve. The one-handed opening mechanism is smooth and reliable, and the pocket clip keeps the knife securely in place.

Durability & Maintenance

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown appears to be built to last, with durable materials and a solid construction. The blade steel offers good corrosion resistance, and the Zytel® handle is resistant to impacts and scratches. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening should keep it in excellent working condition for years.

Maintaining the knife is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use is usually sufficient. I apply a drop of oil to the pivot point every few weeks to keep the action smooth. The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown is designed for easy maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown does not come with many accessories, focusing instead on simplicity and functionality. Aftermarket customization options are limited, mainly focusing on replacing the pocket clip with a different style or color.

While there aren’t many readily available accessories designed specifically for the Chasm, its standard size and design allow it to be compatible with some universal pocket clips and lanyards from other brands. These can add a personal touch or enhance its carry options.

Pros and Cons of Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown

Pros

  • Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry all day without adding unnecessary bulk.
  • Secure Grip: Zytel® handle with rubberized TPR inserts provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
  • Good Value: Offers excellent performance and features for its price point.
  • Easy One-Handed Opening: Double-sided thumb stud allows for quick and convenient opening.
  • Durable Construction: 8Cr13MoV steel and Zytel® handle ensure long-lasting performance.

Cons

  • Blade Steel: 8Cr13MoV, while decent, is not a premium steel and may require more frequent sharpening than high-end options.
  • Limited Customization: Few aftermarket accessories or customization options are available.


Who Should Buy Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown?

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown is perfect for: casual campers, hikers, everyday users needing a reliable tool, and anyone looking for an affordable yet capable EDC knife. It’s an excellent choice for those who value lightweight design, secure grip, and ease of use.

This product is not ideal for users who require a high-end blade steel for heavy-duty tasks or those who prefer extensive customization options. It’s also not the best choice for individuals needing a large, intimidating blade for self-defense purposes.

A must-have modification could be a lanyard for added grip and visibility. A sharpening stone or honing steel is recommended to maintain the blade’s edge over time.

Conclusion on Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown

The Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown is a well-designed and functional EDC knife that offers excellent value for its price. Its lightweight design, secure grip, and easy one-handed opening make it a convenient and reliable tool for various everyday tasks. While it may not have the premium features of more expensive knives, it delivers solid performance and durability.

The price is definitely justified considering the features and performance. It’s an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on quality.

I would personally recommend the Outdoor Edge Cutlery CHASM Plain Edge Knife, 3.3in, Brown to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable EDC knife. It’s a practical tool that performs well in various situations. Give it a try and experience the convenience and reliability for yourself!

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