Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife

The Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife promises to be a reliable, everyday carry (EDC) self-defense tool, blending the Smith & Wesson reputation with modern features like spring assist. This knife aims to offer rapid deployment and a secure grip at an affordable price point. As someone who has carried knives for over a decade, I’m always looking for that perfect balance of practicality, durability, and value.

I needed a lightweight, easily accessible knife for personal protection without breaking the bank. I spend a lot of time outdoors and in urban environments, so a dependable tool is essential.

The initial unboxing revealed a sleek, black knife. The weight felt appropriate for an EDC, suggesting a good balance between sturdiness and portability. I immediately noticed the finger loop, an interesting design choice aimed at improving grip.

Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian and my CRKT M16-14SFG, the Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife is noticeably lighter. Those knives are premium options focused on durability and blade steel, while the Smith and Wesson seems to prioritize affordability and rapid deployment. I chose this knife specifically for its spring assist and compact design.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The spring assist felt snappy, but the overall finish seemed less refined than my higher-end knives. Time and testing would tell if it lived up to its potential as a reliable self-defense tool.

Real-World Testing: Putting Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the nearby mountains. I used it for a variety of tasks, from preparing food and cutting rope to practicing quick deployment drills. The weather was mild, with some light rain.

The spring assist was surprisingly effective, allowing for rapid one-handed opening even with wet hands. The finger loop provided a secure grip, preventing slippage during use. However, I noticed the blade edge dulled slightly after only a few uses on wood and cardboard.

Initially, the liner lock felt a little stiff, requiring some effort to disengage. Otherwise, the knife performed as expected, though the need to sharpen the blade so quickly was a minor concern.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife shows some wear and tear. The black coating on the blade is starting to wear off along the edges, and the liner lock is becoming smoother but still requires deliberate action. I’ve used it regularly for opening packages, cutting zip ties, and general utility tasks.

The blade needs frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge. The 8Cr13MoV steel is relatively soft, so it doesn’t hold an edge as well as premium steels. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a damp cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot point.

Compared to my experience with my other EDC knives, the Smith and Wesson requires more frequent maintenance. While it hasn’t failed me, the softer steel and the wear on the coating suggest it’s not as durable as more expensive options.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife

Specifications

The Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife features an 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade. The handle is black, likely made from an injection-molded polymer or similar material to keep costs down. A spring assist mechanism allows for rapid blade deployment.

The blade type is plain, and the knife uses a liner lock mechanism for secure lockup. These specifications are crucial for understanding the knife’s intended use and limitations. The 8Cr13MoV steel is a budget-friendly option that balances affordability with decent corrosion resistance. The spring assist enhances accessibility in self-defense scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife excels in its rapid deployment capabilities. The spring assist provides quick, reliable opening, making it suitable for situations where speed is critical. The finger loop enhances grip and control, improving overall usability.

However, the blade steel is a significant weakness. The 8Cr13MoV steel dulls relatively quickly and requires frequent sharpening. It meets basic expectations for an EDC knife but falls short compared to higher-end knives with better edge retention.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for a knife in this price range. The materials feel durable enough for light to medium use, but the overall finish lacks the refinement of more expensive knives. The weight is comfortable for EDC, and the finger loop provides a secure and ergonomic grip.

There is a slight learning curve to disengaging the liner lock, but it becomes easier with practice. The design is practical and functional, prioritizing ease of use and accessibility.

Durability & Maintenance

While the Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife is reasonably durable, the blade steel is its weak point. The 8Cr13MoV steel is prone to dulling, requiring regular sharpening to maintain a useful edge. The black coating on the blade will also likely wear off with extended use.

Maintenance is straightforward: cleaning the blade and pivot point with oil. Given the materials used, it is unlikely to last as long as knives with premium materials.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife does not come with many accessories beyond the knife itself. There are no readily available customization options from Smith & Wesson. However, some users might be able to modify the handle scales or clip, but these are not officially supported and could void any warranty.

It might be compatible with some aftermarket pocket clips designed for similar folding knives. I did not test for compatibility with any Smith & Wesson branded accessories due to the lack of availability for this model.

Pros and Cons of Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife?

This knife is perfect for individuals seeking an affordable and easily accessible self-defense tool, such as students, city dwellers, and casual campers. It’s a good option for those who prioritize rapid deployment and a secure grip over premium materials and long-term durability.

Those who require a knife for heavy-duty tasks or prolonged use in demanding environments should skip this product. Professionals, survivalists, and experienced outdoorsmen may prefer knives with superior blade steel and overall build quality.

A sharpening kit is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. A quality knife lubricant will also help to keep the action smooth and prevent corrosion.

Conclusion on Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife

The Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife offers a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable EDC self-defense tool. While it compromises on blade steel and overall durability compared to higher-end knives, its spring assist, ergonomic grip, and affordable price make it an attractive option.

The price is justified for its intended purpose and features. It’s a functional and accessible knife that gets the job done.

I would recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive EDC knife with rapid deployment capabilities. However, be prepared to sharpen the blade regularly. For those just starting to carry a knife for self-defense, or as a gift, the Smith and Wesson M and P Folding Knife is a fine option for a solid performing, great looking, and reliably spring-assisted blade!