Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife promises a blend of tactical utility and everyday carry convenience. This knife, crafted by Schrade, aims to deliver a reliable cutting tool with rapid deployment capabilities. The dark stonewash finish and assisted opening mechanism immediately caught my eye, suggesting a blend of ruggedness and efficiency.

I needed a dependable knife for my outdoor adventures, something that could handle tasks from prepping kindling to basic camp chores. I’ve always appreciated assisted-opening knives for their speed and ease of use, especially when one hand is occupied. The promise of a durable blade and comfortable grip sealed the deal.

Upon unboxing, the Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife felt solid and well-balanced. The dark stonewash finish gives it a subdued, tactical look that I appreciate. The handle felt comfortable in my hand, and the assisted opening mechanism snapped the blade into place with satisfying authority.

Compared to my old Kershaw Blur, which had a similar assisted opening, the Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife feels slightly heavier, suggesting a more robust build. I also considered a Benchmade Griptilian, but the price point of the Schrade made it the more attractive option for a trial run. I also liked the more aggressive look of the Schrade.

Initially, I was impressed with the overall feel and construction. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world situations, but cautiously optimistic given the price point. My first thought was that it could be a contender for my go-to EDC (Everyday Carry) blade, but time will tell.

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

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife was a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I used it primarily for food preparation, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and feathering sticks for starting a fire. The blade performed admirably, slicing through vegetables and wood with relative ease.

While it wasn’t raining, the humidity was high, and the handle remained secure in my grip, even with slightly sweaty hands. The assisted opening proved invaluable when I needed to quickly deploy the blade while managing other tasks around the campsite. It was very easy to deploy quickly with one hand.

The only minor issue I encountered was the stiffness of the liner lock initially. It required a bit more pressure than I was used to to disengage the blade. However, after a few uses, it seemed to loosen up slightly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including a few more camping trips, some range days, and general EDC tasks, the Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife has held up surprisingly well. The blade has retained its edge reasonably well. I have only had to touch it up slightly.

There are a few minor scratches on the dark stonewash finish, but nothing major. The assisted opening mechanism is still as snappy as the day I unboxed it. The only real signs of wear are on the pocket clip, which has rubbed against my belt and pockets.

Maintaining the knife has been simple. I typically clean the blade after each use with a damp cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point every few weeks. So far, I’ve experienced no rust or corrosion. It’s proven to be much more durable than I initially anticipated, especially considering its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife features a 3.5-inch blade, providing ample cutting surface for various tasks. This blade length is a good balance between utility and portability.
• The knife has a closed length of 4.5 inches, making it compact enough for comfortable everyday carry. This means it fits comfortably in a pocket without being overly bulky.
• With an overall length of 7.5 inches when open, the knife provides a substantial grip and leverage. This gives the user good control during use.
• The Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife weighs in at 4.4 oz, which is light enough for extended carry without feeling burdensome. This weight makes it a great option for EDC without sacrificing durability.
• The blade is made of an unspecified steel, but it is likely a mid-range stainless steel like 8Cr13MoV, common in Schrade knives. The steel gives it a decent balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• The handle is made of an unspecified material, but it is likely G-10 or similar composite for durability and grip. The dark stonewash color gives it a tactical appearance.
• The knife does not include a sheath, relying on a pocket clip for carry. This makes it easy to clip to a pocket or belt for quick access.

Performance & Functionality

The Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife performs its primary function – cutting – effectively. The blade arrives reasonably sharp and holds an edge well with moderate use.

The assisted opening mechanism is reliable and fast, allowing for quick one-handed deployment. The liner lock engages securely, providing confidence during use. However, as mentioned earlier, it can be a bit stiff initially.

For general utility tasks like cutting rope, opening boxes, and preparing food, the Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife excels. It might not be the best choice for heavy-duty tasks like batoning wood, but it’s more than capable for everyday needs. It meets expectations, providing a good balance of functionality and affordability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife feels solid. The materials used seem durable enough for regular use. The dark stonewash finish adds to the tactical appeal.

The handle is comfortable to hold, even during extended use. The texturing provides a secure grip without being overly abrasive. There is a slight learning curve to disengaging the liner lock due to its initial stiffness, but overall, the knife is user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife should last for several years of regular use. The stainless steel blade resists corrosion, and the handle material is durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear.

Maintaining the knife is relatively easy. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in good working order. The simple design makes disassembly for thorough cleaning straightforward.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife does not come with any additional accessories beyond the pocket clip. Customization options are limited. The Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife is compatible with aftermarket pocket clips of a similar style and size, if desired.

Pros and Cons of Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife?

The Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Casual campers and hikers who need a reliable utility knife for basic tasks.
• Everyday carry users looking for an affordable and durable assisted-opening knife.
• Anyone who appreciates a tactical aesthetic and a secure grip.

Who should skip this product?

• Those who require a high-end blade steel for demanding cutting tasks.
• Users who prefer a knife with a included sheath.
• Collectors looking for a premium or highly customizable knife.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A sharpening stone or system to maintain the blade’s edge.
• A quality knife lubricant to keep the action smooth.
• Possibly an aftermarket deep-carry pocket clip for more discreet carry.

Conclusion on Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife offers a solid blend of functionality, durability, and affordability. While it may not boast premium materials or extensive customization options, it delivers reliable performance for everyday carry and light outdoor tasks.

The price is definitely justified, especially for those seeking an entry-level assisted-opening knife with a tactical look. It’s an excellent value for the money.

I would personally recommend the Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable and budget-friendly EDC option. It’s a well-built knife that performs its intended functions admirably. If you need a reliable, no-frills cutting tool without breaking the bank, give the Schrade Melee Assisted Opening Folding Knife a try!