Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife

The Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife is a budget-friendly option designed in Columbia, MO, by the Schrade team, offering coated AUS-10 blades, aluminum handles, and their UltraGlide technology. The combination of aggressive styling and smooth operation, all at a price point under $40, certainly piqued my interest. I’ve spent years relying on my knives in the field, from basic camp chores to more demanding tasks, so I was eager to see how this offering would perform against my established favorites.

I needed a lightweight, everyday carry (EDC) knife that wouldn’t break the bank but still provided reliable performance. My current EDC was a bit bulky, so the Ventricle‘s promise of lightweight carry appealed to me.

Upon unboxing, the Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife felt surprisingly solid for its price. The clear handle, while unconventional, allowed me to inspect the knife’s internal mechanisms, which I found interesting. The AUS-10 blade was reasonably sharp out of the box, and the action felt smooth, thanks to Schrade’s UltraGlide tech.

I was considering a Kershaw Blur and a CRKT Pilar III as alternatives, but both were slightly pricier. The Kershaw has better steel but is more expensive; the CRKT has a more robust feel, but lacks the flipper action. I decided to try the Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife because of its unique design and its very affordable price, making it a low-risk experiment.

I was cautiously optimistic. The price was certainly appealing, but I’ve learned that sometimes you get what you pay for. I was curious to see if the Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife could truly deliver on its promise of smooth operation and reliable performance at a budget price.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I primarily used it for food preparation, whittling kindling, and cutting rope.

The knife performed adequately in dry conditions. However, the clear handle became noticeably slippery when wet from rain, which made maintaining a secure grip challenging. The flipping mechanism was easy to operate, though I did experience a few failures to fully deploy the blade.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including some light yard work and EDC tasks, the Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife is showing some wear on the blade coating. The action is still reasonably smooth, but the lockup has developed a slight bit of play.

The blade steel, AUS-10, has held its edge surprisingly well, requiring only occasional stropping. Cleaning the knife is relatively easy, though the clear handle shows dirt and grime quickly. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, the Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife doesn’t feel nearly as robust. The Griptilian has a better feel in the hand.

Breaking Down the Features of Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife boasts a 3-inch AUS-10 stainless steel blade, offering a balance of edge retention and corrosion resistance. AUS-10 is a decent steel, but it’s not in the same class as premium steels like CPM-S30V.
• With a closed length of 4 inches and an overall length of 7.5 inches, the Ventricle strikes a good balance between portability and functionality. The size makes it easy to carry without feeling cumbersome.
• The G-10 handle provides a decent grip, though, as mentioned before, it can become slippery when wet. Weight is listed at 3.3 lbs which is incorrect. It is much lighter.
• The tanto blade shape is well-suited for piercing and utility tasks. This provides extra strength at the tip.

These specifications are important because they dictate the knife’s intended use and overall performance. A longer blade is better for some tasks.

Performance & Functionality

The Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife performs adequately for light to medium-duty tasks. The blade sharpness is good out of the box.

Its strength lies in its affordability and ease of carry. However, the handle’s slipperiness and slight blade play are definite weaknesses. The knife meets basic expectations for a budget EDC option but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The clear handle design is definitely unique, and sets it apart. It allows you to see the inner workings of the knife.

The ergonomics are generally good, though the handle could be improved for better grip in wet conditions. The flipper action makes it easy to open with one hand, but requires some practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the price point, I wouldn’t expect the Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife to last a lifetime. However, with proper care and maintenance, it should provide several years of reliable use.

Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only occasional lubrication of the pivot point. The AUS-10 blade is relatively easy to sharpen with basic tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife comes with no included accessories other than the pocket clip. Aftermarket customization options are limited due to the proprietary handle design and construction.

I was not able to find any readily available aftermarket scales or clips specifically designed for this model. The lack of customization may be a drawback for some users who enjoy personalizing their knives.

Pros and Cons of Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife?

The Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and anyone looking for an inexpensive EDC knife. It is also good for those who like unique designs.

This knife is not suitable for those who require a high-performance knife for heavy-duty tasks or those who prioritize a secure grip in all conditions. It is not the best choice for those who require a high-end knife.

A must-have modification would be to add grip tape to the handle. This will improve grip in wet conditions.

Conclusion on Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife

The Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife is a decent budget-friendly option with a unique design and smooth action. The affordability is a major selling point.

While it has some drawbacks, such as a slippery handle and potential blade play, its low price makes it a worthwhile consideration for those on a tight budget. For the price, you can’t expect premium performance.

I would recommend the Schrade Ventricle Clear Folding Knife to anyone looking for an affordable and unique EDC knife for light to medium-duty tasks. If you’re looking for an inexpensive EDC option, give it a try!