Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife is marketed as a tactical tool designed for law enforcement, military personnel, and everyday users needing a reliable cutting instrument. With its combination of a 7Cr17MoV stainless steel blade, G-10 handle, and integrated safety features, it appears to offer a compelling package. Let’s see if it lives up to expectations.

My need for a robust, multi-functional knife stemmed from years of leading wilderness survival courses. I needed a tool capable of handling everything from basic camp tasks to emergency situations, and the Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife seemed to offer just that.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt substantial and well-built. The textured G-10 handle provided a secure grip, and the blade was sharp right out of the box. The weight, at 9.2 oz, felt reassuringly solid, hinting at a durable construction.

Compared to my usual Gerber StrongArm and the Kershaw Blur, the Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife distinguished itself with its integrated glass breaker and seatbelt cutter. While the Gerber is a more rugged fixed blade, and the Kershaw offers a faster assisted opening, the Border Guard II aimed for a blend of utility and tactical features. This unique combination is why I selected it.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife appeared to be a well-designed, versatile tool, but I needed to put it through its paces in the field to truly assess its worth.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a weekend backcountry camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used the Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife for various tasks, including preparing kindling, cutting rope for shelter building, and food preparation. The partial serration came in handy for cutting through thicker materials, while the tanto blade proved useful for more precise tasks.

The conditions were damp, with occasional light rain. The G-10 handle maintained a secure grip even when wet, which was a major plus. The liner lock felt solid and secure, giving me confidence during more demanding cutting tasks.

The opening mechanism required a bit of getting used to initially. The blade wasn’t as smooth as some assisted-opening knives I’ve used, but after a few practice runs, it became more fluid. The size of the knife felt well-balanced in my hand, even during prolonged use.

The only minor issue I encountered was with the pocket clip. It felt a bit too tight, making it slightly difficult to draw the knife quickly from my pocket. Otherwise, the first use was positive and validated its potential.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable tool. I’ve used it on numerous camping trips, fishing expeditions, and even for everyday tasks around the house. The blade has held its edge reasonably well, requiring only occasional sharpening.

Despite some rough handling, the knife shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The black oxide finish on the blade has remained largely intact, and the G-10 handle is as sturdy as ever. The liner lock continues to function flawlessly, providing a secure lockup every time.

Cleaning the knife is relatively straightforward. A quick rinse with water and a light oiling of the blade keeps it in good working condition. The G-10 handle is resistant to stains and easy to wipe clean.

Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife offers a better balance of durability and functionality. While some knives may be slightly lighter or have a smoother opening action, the Border Guard II’s robust construction and integrated safety features give it an edge in demanding situations. It has become my go-to knife for outdoor adventures.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife

Specifications

The Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife boasts the following technical specifications:

• Blade Length: 4.2 inches. This provides a useful length for various cutting tasks.
• Closed Length: 5.9 inches. Making it compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.
• Blade Material: 7Cr17MoV stainless steel. This offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• Serrated: Partial. The partial serration enhances the knife’s ability to cut through fibrous materials.
• Knife Application: Tactical. Designed with features for emergency situations.
• Overall Length: 10.1 inches. Giving it good reach when fully deployed.
• Included Accessories: Pocket Clip. Offering convenient carry options.
• Blade Shape: Tanto. The tanto shape strengthens the tip for piercing tasks.
• Handle Material: G10. A durable and grippy composite material.
• Handle Finish: Textured. Enhancing grip security, even in wet conditions.
• Blade Finish: Black Oxide. Providing corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.
• Lock Type: Liner Lock. A simple and reliable locking mechanism.
• Handle Color: Black. Maintaining a low profile.
• Weight: 9.2 oz. A substantial weight that suggests durability.
• Package Type: Box. Standard packaging.
• Hand: Ambidextrous. Suitable for both right and left-handed users.
• Quantity: 1. Single unit packaging.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the knife’s performance and usability. The blade steel determines how well the knife holds an edge, while the handle material affects grip and comfort. The presence of a pocket clip and the type of locking mechanism contribute to ease of carry and safety.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife performs admirably for its intended purpose. The 7Cr17MoV blade is reasonably sharp and capable of handling a variety of cutting tasks. The partial serration is particularly effective for cutting rope, webbing, and other fibrous materials.

The knife’s strengths lie in its robust construction and versatile design. The G-10 handle provides a secure grip, and the liner lock feels solid and dependable. The integrated glass breaker and seatbelt cutter add an extra layer of utility for emergency situations.

However, the opening action could be smoother, and the pocket clip could be less stiff. Also, the weight might be a bit much for some users who prefer a lighter EDC knife.

Overall, the Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife meets expectations for a tactical folding knife in its price range. It offers a good balance of performance, durability, and functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife is functional and purposeful. The black oxide blade and black G-10 handle give it a tactical aesthetic. The textured handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.

The knife feels well-balanced in hand, and the blade shape is versatile enough for various tasks. The liner lock is easy to operate, and the pocket clip allows for convenient carry.

The knife has a slight learning curve due to the stiffness of the opening mechanism. However, with a little practice, it becomes easier to deploy the blade quickly and efficiently. The integrated glass breaker and seatbelt cutter are well-placed and easily accessible.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife is built to last. The 7Cr17MoV blade is relatively resistant to corrosion, and the G-10 handle is virtually indestructible. The liner lock is a simple and reliable mechanism that should provide years of dependable service.

Maintaining the knife is relatively easy. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade will help prevent rust and corrosion. The G-10 handle can be cleaned with soap and water.

With proper care, the Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife should provide many years of reliable service. The materials and construction are well-suited for demanding use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife comes with a pocket clip as its primary accessory. The clip can be attached to either side of the handle, making it suitable for both right and left-handed users.

While there are no readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Border Guard II, its standard design allows for some degree of customization. Lanyard beads can be added to the lanyard hole for added grip and personalization.

The knife’s compatibility with popular sharpening systems makes it easy to maintain the blade’s edge. The pocket clip can be replaced with a different style clip, if desired.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife?

The Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife is perfect for:

• First Responders: The integrated glass breaker and seatbelt cutter make it a valuable tool for emergency situations.
• Outdoor Enthusiasts: Campers, hikers, and survivalists will appreciate its durability and versatility.
• Everyday Carry (EDC) Users: Those seeking a robust and reliable folding knife for daily tasks.
• Tactical Users: Law enforcement and security personnel will appreciate its tactical design and features.

Who should skip this product? Those seeking an ultra-lightweight EDC knife or a knife with a smooth, assisted-opening mechanism.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality sharpening stone or system is essential for maintaining the blade’s edge. A paracord lanyard can be added to the lanyard hole for added grip and control.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife is a solid, reliable, and versatile tactical folding knife that offers good value for its price. While it may not be the lightest or smoothest-opening knife on the market, its robust construction, secure grip, and integrated safety features make it a valuable tool for a variety of users.

The price of $41.89 is justified by the knife’s overall quality and functionality. It’s a well-made tool that should provide many years of reliable service.

I would personally recommend the Smith & Wesson Border Guard II Folding Knife to anyone seeking a durable, versatile, and affordable tactical folding knife. It’s a great option for first responders, outdoor enthusiasts, EDC users, and anyone who needs a reliable cutting tool for demanding situations. Consider adding this dependable tool to your gear collection!