First Impressions of QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2
The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 immediately strikes you as a capable and aesthetically pleasing everyday carry (EDC) knife. From QSP Knife, it boasts a clean design, a practical blade shape, and comfortable ergonomics, promising a reliable tool for a variety of tasks. Its price point also suggests a solid value proposition, making it an intriguing contender in the crowded EDC market.
I needed a dependable knife for general use around my property and while hiking. I wanted something that could handle basic cutting tasks, but also be robust enough for more demanding chores.
Out of the box, the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 feels well-built and substantial without being overly heavy. The brown burlap micarta handle offers a secure grip, and the black stonewashed blade gives it a tactical, yet refined look. The liner lock engages positively, inspiring confidence in its safe operation.
I considered the Ontario RAT Model 1 and the Kershaw Blur before settling on the Raven. The RAT Model 1 felt a bit too large for EDC, and the Blur’s assisted opening wasn’t a feature I particularly needed. The Raven seemed to strike a good balance between size, functionality, and aesthetics.
Initially, I was excited by the Raven’s blend of practicality and good looks. The micarta handle felt great in hand, and the blade’s stonewash finish gave it a rugged appeal. I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 was during a weekend camping trip in the local national forest. I used it for tasks such as preparing kindling, cutting rope, and food preparation.
The knife performed admirably in dry conditions. The D2 tool steel blade held its edge well while slicing through cardboard and whittling small pieces of wood.
The handle felt comfortable, even with extended use. The liner lock was easy to disengage with one hand.
I was initially impressed by the blade’s sharpness and edge retention. However, I did notice that the pocket clip felt a bit stiff when drawing the knife from my pocket.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like field dressing small game (rabbits).
The knife shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The stonewashed blade hides scratches well, and the micarta handle has become even more comfortable with use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and honing. I use a strop to maintain the edge, and a few drops of oil on the pivot keep the action smooth.
Having owned several EDC knives over the years, the Raven holds its own against more expensive options. Its robust construction, comfortable ergonomics, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile addition to any gear collection.
Breaking Down the Features of QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.38 inches. This provides a good balance between cutting power and ease of carry.
- Closed Length: 4.5 inches. This compact size makes it ideal for pocket carry without being too bulky.
- Blade Material: D2 Tool Steel. Known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance, making it a solid choice for a working knife.
- Handle Material: Brown Burlap Micarta. This offers a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- Lock Type: Linerlock. A simple and reliable locking mechanism that provides secure blade deployment.
- Weight: 0.38 lbs. This weight is substantial enough to feel solid in hand, yet light enough for comfortable carry.
- Additional Features: Lanyard Hole, Pocket Clip. These add to the overall versatility and convenience of the knife.
These specifications translate to a knife that’s both practical and comfortable to use. The D2 steel provides excellent cutting performance, while the micarta handle offers a secure and ergonomic grip.
Performance & Functionality
The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 performs admirably as an EDC knife. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well.
The liner lock engages positively and securely, providing confidence during use. The thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening.
The knife meets and exceeds my expectations for a general-purpose EDC knife. It’s reliable, comfortable, and performs well in a variety of tasks.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 is excellent for its price point. The materials used feel durable and well-made.
The knife weighs a comfortable 0.38 lbs, providing a solid feel in hand without being too heavy. The brown burlap micarta handle is ergonomically shaped and offers a secure grip.
The knife is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive design. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 is built to last. The D2 tool steel blade is known for its wear resistance.
The micarta handle is durable and resistant to moisture and wear. The liner lock is robust and should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is relatively easy, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. A few drops of oil on the pivot will keep the action smooth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 comes standard with a pocket clip. This allows for convenient and secure carry.
There are no readily available aftermarket scales specifically designed for the Raven. However, the lanyard hole allows for customization with different lanyards or fobs.
The standard pocket clip is reversible, allowing for tip-up carry on either the left or right side. You can also find aftermarket pocket clips that may fit the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2.
Pros and Cons of QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2
Pros
- Excellent Edge Retention: The D2 steel blade holds its edge well, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The brown burlap micarta handle is ergonomically shaped and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- Solid Lockup: The liner lock engages positively and securely, providing confidence during use.
- Durable Construction: The materials used are durable and well-made, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Affordable Price: The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 offers excellent value for its price point.
Cons
- D2 Steel Can Rust: D2 is a semi-stainless steel, and may require more care compared to stainless steels in high-humidity environments.
- Stiff Pocket Clip: The pocket clip can be a bit stiff, making it slightly difficult to draw the knife from the pocket.
Who Should Buy QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2?
The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 is perfect for everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and anyone who needs a reliable and versatile cutting tool. It is a great choice for general utility tasks.
Someone who needs a knife for heavy-duty tasks, such as batoning wood or prying, should skip this product. While durable, it is not designed for extreme use.
A sharpening stone or strop is a must-have accessory for maintaining the blade’s edge. A high-quality lubricant is also recommended for keeping the action smooth.
Conclusion on QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2
The QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 is a well-designed and capable EDC knife that offers excellent value for its price. Its robust construction, comfortable ergonomics, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile addition to any gear collection.
The price of $53.99 is justified by the quality of materials and construction. It represents a significant value in the EDC knife market.
I would personally recommend the QSP Knife Raven Linerlock Brown Mic QS122D2 to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. It’s a solid all-around performer that won’t break the bank. Pick one up today, and experience the quality and performance for yourself!