SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife

The SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife enters a crowded market of budget-friendly EDC (Everyday Carry) options, promising a blend of practicality and tactical aesthetics. SKIF Knives, a brand often associated with affordable alternatives, aims to deliver a dependable tool without breaking the bank. With its stonewashed blade, olive green G10 handle, and accessible price point of $45.99, the Urbanite immediately piques the interest of knife enthusiasts looking for a solid, no-frills option.

I was looking for a dependable folding knife that could handle everyday tasks without feeling like I was risking an expensive tool. My previous EDC knife had a tendency to rust, and I needed something with better corrosion resistance for my humid climate. Upon unboxing, the SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife felt surprisingly robust for its price. The G10 handle provided a secure grip, and the stonewash finish on the blade gave it a rugged, pre-worn look that I appreciated.

Compared to my trusty Kershaw Cryo and an older Gerber Paraframe, the Urbanite felt more substantial than the Paraframe and offered a similar level of grip to the Cryo. I chose the Urbanite due to its combination of a seemingly durable blade steel (9Cr18MoV), the comfortable G10 handle, and the overall aesthetic appeal that blended well with my outdoor gear. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the knife felt like a good value proposition, but real-world use would ultimately determine its worth.

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Real-World Testing: Putting SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested the SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and whittling some tinder for a fire. The knife performed adequately in these situations, though the blade required some initial sharpening to achieve a truly keen edge.

The conditions were mostly dry, but there was a brief period of light rain. Even with slightly damp hands, the G10 handle provided a confident grip. The knife opened smoothly thanks to the thumb stud, and the framelock engaged securely each time. My only initial concern was the edge retention; after a few hours of use, the blade seemed to dull slightly faster than I expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable, if not exceptional, EDC tool. The stonewash finish has held up well, showing only minor scratches and abrasions. The G10 handle remains grippy and comfortable, even after prolonged use.

I’ve noticed that the blade requires more frequent sharpening than knives with premium steels. However, the 9Cr18MoV steel is relatively easy to sharpen with basic tools, making maintenance manageable. Cleaning the knife is also straightforward; a quick rinse with water and a drop of oil on the pivot point keeps it functioning smoothly. While it hasn’t outperformed my higher-end knives in terms of edge retention, it has exceeded my expectations for a knife in its price range.

Breaking Down the Features of SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 10.16 cm (4 inches). This blade length makes it practical for both everyday tasks and more demanding outdoor activities.
• Closed Length: 127 mm (5 inches). The closed length makes it easy to carry in pocket without being too bulky.
• Lock Type: Framelock. The framelock provides secure blade lockup, preventing accidental closure during use.
• Condition: New. The knife arrives in pristine condition, ready for immediate use.
• Handle Color: Green. The olive green handle offers a subdued, tactical aesthetic.
• Additional Features: Lanyard Hole, Pocket Clip. These features enhance carry options and add to the knife’s overall utility.
• Quantity: 1. This is for a single knife.
• Color: Green. This specifies the handle color.
• Manufacturer: SKIF Knives. SKIF Knives is known for producing budget-friendly knives.
• Blade Material: 9Cr18MoV stainless steel. The choice of 9Cr18MoV offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• Handle Material: OD Green Textured G10. The G10 material provides a durable and textured grip, even in wet conditions.
• Blade Finish: Stonewash. The stonewash finish helps to hide scratches and gives the blade a worn-in look.

These specifications make the SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife a suitable option for those seeking a reliable and practical EDC knife without breaking the bank. The 9Cr18MoV steel strikes a balance between affordability and performance, while the G10 handle and framelock mechanism ensure a secure grip and safe operation.

Performance & Functionality

The SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife performs its intended job reasonably well. It’s not a high-performance tool, but it’s capable of handling most everyday cutting tasks. The blade’s edge retention is adequate for light to medium use, and the framelock provides a secure lockup.

The knife’s strengths lie in its affordability and ease of use. The thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening, and the G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. One area for improvement is the blade’s factory edge; it could benefit from a sharper grind out of the box. Overall, the knife meets expectations for its price point, delivering a solid, no-frills cutting tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife is decent for its price. The materials used, such as the 9Cr18MoV steel and G10 handle, are appropriate for the intended use. The knife feels solid in hand, and the weight is well-balanced.

The design is user-friendly, with the thumb stud and framelock easily accessible. There is minimal learning curve; the knife is intuitive to use right out of the box. The ergonomics are comfortable for most hand sizes, and the textured G10 handle provides a secure grip.

Durability & Maintenance

With reasonable care, the SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife should last for several years of regular use. The 9Cr18MoV steel is relatively resistant to corrosion, and the G10 handle is durable and impact-resistant. The stonewash finish on the blade helps to hide scratches and wear.

Maintaining the knife is simple; regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s required. The framelock design is robust and should not require any special maintenance. Overall, the knife is designed for durability and ease of maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip, which is removable and can be repositioned for tip-up or tip-down carry. It also includes a lanyard hole, allowing users to attach a lanyard for added security and convenience. There are no other included accessories.

While the SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife is not specifically designed for extensive customization, the standard pivot pin size and handle screw configuration may allow for aftermarket modifications. For instance, replacement pocket clips, custom handle scales, or different thumb studs might be compatible. However, SKIF Knives does not officially support or guarantee compatibility with third-party accessories.

Pros and Cons of SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife?

The SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife is perfect for: casual campers, hikers on a budget, everyday carry users looking for an affordable and reliable knife, and anyone needing a backup knife for their outdoor adventures. It’s also a great starter knife for those new to the world of folding knives.

Who should skip this product? Experienced knife enthusiasts seeking high-performance blade steels or those who prioritize premium fit and finish may find the Urbanite lacking. Someone needing a knife for heavy-duty cutting tasks might also want to consider a more robust option.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening stone or honing steel is essential for maintaining the blade’s edge. A small bottle of knife oil will help keep the pivot point smooth and prevent corrosion.

Conclusion on SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife

The SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife is a solid budget-friendly EDC option that delivers on its promise of affordability and reliability. While it may not boast premium materials or exceptional performance, it offers a practical and durable cutting tool for everyday tasks and light outdoor use.

The value proposition is strong; for $45.99, you get a well-built knife with a comfortable G10 handle, a secure framelock, and a corrosion-resistant blade. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable, no-frills EDC knife that won’t break the bank. If you’re in the market for an affordable and practical folding knife, the SKIF Knives Urbanite SW Olive Folding Knife is definitely worth considering.