Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife promises to be a reliable EDC (Everyday Carry) option, blending modern materials with a proven design. Schrade, a name with a long history in the knife world, aims to deliver a budget-friendly yet capable tool with this offering. I was drawn to the Landshark because I needed a lightweight, easily deployable knife for general outdoor tasks and emergency preparedness.

My search focused on finding a knife that wouldn’t weigh me down but could still handle tasks like cutting rope, preparing kindling, and opening packages. I wanted something with a secure grip and a blade that could hold an edge through moderate use. The Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife’s advertised features seemed to tick those boxes.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the knife’s light weight. The tan G-10 handle felt secure in my hand, offering a good grip even before I had a chance to really test it. The assisted opening mechanism was snappy and responsive, deploying the blade with a satisfying click.

I was considering the Kershaw Blur and the CRKT M16-01KZ as alternatives. The Kershaw Blur, while a great knife, tends to be more expensive. The CRKT M16 is robust, but a bit bulkier than I was hoping for in an EDC.

My initial impression was positive and surprisingly good for the price. The Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife felt well-built and comfortable. I was excited to take it out and see how it performed in real-world conditions.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, from cutting paracord to preparing firewood and opening food packages. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions.

The assisted opening proved invaluable when I needed a quick one-handed deployment. The AUS-10 steel blade sliced cleanly through rope and cardboard, showing decent edge retention. I found the handle to provide a secure grip even when my hands were slightly damp.

After some initial use, I noticed that the liner lock felt a little sticky at first, requiring a bit more pressure than expected to disengage. This wasn’t a major issue, but something to be aware of.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife has held up surprisingly well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the blade or handle. The G-10 handle scales still provide a secure grip, even after being exposed to mud and rain.

The AUS-10 steel shows respectable edge retention, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. Cleaning is simple, generally involving wiping the blade and handle with a damp cloth. I occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth.

Compared to a previous EDC knife I used – a Buck Knives model with a 420HC steel blade – the Landshark outperforms it in terms of edge retention and grip. The assisted opening mechanism also provides a distinct advantage over my older model.

Breaking Down the Features of Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife

Specifications

The Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife features a 3-inch AUS-10 steel blade, known for its balance of hardness and corrosion resistance. The closed length is 4 inches, making it compact enough for comfortable pocket carry. Its overall length when open is 7.12 inches.

The handle is constructed from G-10, a durable composite material that provides excellent grip and resistance to moisture and wear. The knife weighs in at a mere 2.7 oz, making it very lightweight for everyday carry. It also features a liner lock for secure blade lockup and a pocket clip for convenient carry.

These specifications are important because they directly influence the knife’s usability and performance. The AUS-10 steel should provide a good balance between edge retention and ease of sharpening. The G-10 handle and light weight contribute to comfortable and secure handling.

Performance & Functionality

The Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife performs its job effectively as an EDC knife. It is a reliable tool for opening boxes, cutting rope, preparing food, and other general tasks. The blade is sharp and capable, and the assisted opening mechanism ensures quick deployment when needed.

The knife’s strength lies in its ease of use and lightweight design, however, the liner lock could be smoother. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it requires slightly more effort to disengage than some other knives I’ve used.

For the price, the Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife meets and slightly exceeds expectations. It provides a good balance of features, performance, and affordability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife features a functional and ergonomic design. The G-10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The knife is well-balanced in the hand, making it easy to control during use.

There is very little learning curve, even for someone new to assisted opening knives. The pocket clip allows for deep carry, keeping the knife discreet and easily accessible.

Durability & Maintenance

The combination of AUS-10 steel and G-10 handle scales suggests that the Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife should last for years with proper care. The steel is reasonably resistant to corrosion, and the G-10 handle is highly durable.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The knife can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife does not come with many accessories beyond the pocket clip. There are no included customization options directly from the manufacturer.

However, the knife is compatible with many aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards. You might be able to find aftermarket scales if you’re keen on a specific color or texture beyond the original tan G-10.

Pros and Cons of Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife?

The Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts looking for an affordable and reliable knife.
• Hikers and campers who need a lightweight and versatile cutting tool.
• Anyone looking for a budget-friendly knife for general utility tasks.

Someone looking for a premium knife with high-end steel and extensive customization options should skip this product. Those who prefer manual opening knives may not appreciate the assisted opening mechanism.

A must-have accessory would be a quality sharpening stone or strop to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a solid choice for anyone seeking a budget-friendly and functional EDC knife. It offers a good balance of features, performance, and durability at an affordable price. The assisted opening mechanism, AUS-10 steel blade, and G-10 handle make it a reliable tool for various tasks.

The price is definitely justified, making it an excellent value proposition. While it’s not a top-of-the-line knife, it provides great performance for the money.

I would personally recommend the Schrade Landshark Assisted Opening Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable EDC option. If you are looking for a knife that punches above its weight class without breaking the bank, this is a great place to start. Pick one up and experience the Landshark for yourself!