Let’s Dive into Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife
The Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife isn’t just another folding knife; it’s a statement piece, blending high-end materials with practical design. Real Steel has built a reputation for crafting knives that perform as beautifully as they look, and the Havran appears to be no exception with its S35VN blade, carbon fiber handle, and titanium accents. I’ve handled countless knives in my career, and the Havran’s listed specs immediately piqued my interest due to its blend of high-end materials and compact size.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a folding knife that balances everyday carry comfort with the strength and edge retention needed for tougher tasks. I’ve also long been searching for a high-end EDC knife that fits seamlessly into my professional attire, without appearing overtly tactical.
Upon unboxing, the Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife immediately impressed me with its fit and finish. The combination of satin blade, carbon fiber, and titanium gives it a refined, yet robust feel. It feels substantial in hand, but also surprisingly lightweight considering the materials and construction.
Compared to similar knives like the Benchmade 940-1 (known for its lightweight and slim profile) or the Chris Reeve Small Sebenza 31 (renowned for its durability and precision), the Havran seemed to offer a blend of both worlds. I chose the Havran because of its unique materials blend, elegant design, and because I was interested to see how Real Steel’s execution compares to the offerings from more established high-end knife brands. My initial impression was excitement; it appeared to be exactly the kind of knife I’d been searching for, one that could bridge the gap between everyday elegance and dependable performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife during a week-long backcountry camping trip in the rugged mountains of Montana. It served as my primary cutting tool for everything from food preparation to shelter building and gear repair. The S35VN blade showed impressive edge retention while processing firewood and preparing tinder.
The Havran performed admirably even in cold and wet conditions. The carbon fiber handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were damp. The framelock provided confident lockup without a hint of blade play. I did need a few minutes to adjust to the thumb pull opening, as I am more accustomed to thumb studs or flippers.
There were no issues after my initial week of testing, but the carbon fiber did pick up some minor scuffs from extended use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of near-daily use, the Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife has proven to be a reliable and capable tool. The S35VN blade has held its edge incredibly well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a ceramic honing rod. The finish has proven durable, exhibiting only minor scratches and wear marks that add character to the knife.
Maintaining the Havran is relatively simple. I disassemble it every few weeks to clean and lubricate the pivot point. The titanium framelock remains solid and secure, with no signs of loosening or wear. Compared to other framelock knives I’ve owned, the Havran’s lockup is impressively smooth and consistent. It definitely outperforms cheaper knives and holds its own against knives in a similar price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife
Specifications
The Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife boasts a 5-inch closed length. The 3.75-inch blade is crafted from S35VN stainless steel with a satin finish. The handle is made from carbon fiber with a titanium back handle, adding both strength and visual appeal.
These specifications contribute to the knife’s overall performance and user experience in several ways. The S35VN steel offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, crucial for demanding tasks. The carbon fiber handle reduces weight while providing a secure and comfortable grip. The titanium back handle adds strength and rigidity to the framelock mechanism.
Performance & Functionality
The Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife excels at a wide range of cutting tasks. The blade’s geometry allows for precise slicing and controlled cuts. The S35VN steel retains its sharpness even after extended use, making it ideal for demanding cutting tasks.
The Havran’s strengths lie in its balance of cutting performance, ergonomics, and aesthetics. The thumb pull is functional but takes some practice to master. One potential weakness could be the handle’s durability in extreme conditions; while carbon fiber is strong, it can be susceptible to impacts. Overall, it meets my expectations for a high-end EDC knife, and its cutting performance exceeded my initial expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife features excellent build quality. The materials used are top-notch. The knife feels comfortable and secure in hand due to its ergonomic handle design.
The Havran is relatively user-friendly, although the thumb pull opening mechanism requires a bit of practice to master. The framelock is intuitive and easy to operate. The Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife is designed for both right and left handed people
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality materials and construction, the Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife should last for many years with proper care. The S35VN blade is highly resistant to corrosion, and the titanium framelock is incredibly durable. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the pivot point will help ensure smooth operation and prevent wear.
Disassembly and cleaning are relatively straightforward, but care should be taken not to overtighten the screws when reassembling the knife.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife comes with a pocket clip for convenient carry. The knife arrives boxed. There are currently limited aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Havran.
Due to its relatively standard construction, some aftermarket pocket clips might be compatible.
Pros and Cons of Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife
Pros
- S35VN Blade: Excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Carbon Fiber Handle: Lightweight, strong, and aesthetically pleasing.
- Titanium Framelock: Durable and provides secure lockup.
- Refined Design: A blend of elegance and robustness suitable for EDC.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: Fits well in the hand and allows for extended use without fatigue.
Cons
- Thumb Pull: Requires practice to master.
- Limited Customization: Lack of readily available aftermarket accessories.
Who Should Buy Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife?
The Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife is perfect for discerning users who appreciate high-quality materials, refined design, and excellent cutting performance. Collectors, EDC enthusiasts, and professionals who need a reliable and stylish knife for everyday tasks will also find it suitable. This is a great choice for those seeking a step up in quality and performance from more basic EDC knives.
Those who prefer a more aggressively tactical aesthetic, or require a knife designed for extreme abuse, should skip this product. If you need a knife with readily available aftermarket customization options, there are better choices.
A quality knife maintenance kit, including a ceramic honing rod and lubricating oil, would be a must-have accessory to maintain the Havran’s performance.
Conclusion on Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife
The Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife is an outstanding EDC knife that offers a compelling blend of style and performance. The S35VN blade, carbon fiber handle, and titanium framelock combine to create a knife that is both beautiful and functional. At $235.00, the price is justified given the high-quality materials, excellent build quality, and exceptional cutting performance.
I would absolutely recommend the Real Steel Havran Framelock Finish Blade Knife to anyone seeking a high-end EDC knife that can handle demanding tasks while looking great. If you’re looking for a refined and capable cutting tool, the Havran is definitely worth considering; experience the blend of elegance and performance for yourself.