Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife is a recent addition to the everyday carry (EDC) market, promising a departure from traditional opening mechanisms. Smith & Wesson, a brand synonymous with firearms and tactical gear, aims to deliver a reliable and accessible tool with this button-lock design. I was eager to see if this Freelancer could stand up to the rigors of daily use and offer a genuine alternative to flippers and thumb studs.

My search for a new EDC knife stemmed from a desire for something faster and more intuitive than my current thumb-stud operated folder. I needed a knife that could be quickly deployed with one hand in various situations, from opening packages to performing minor repairs in the field. I was seeking something that offered secure lockup and a comfortable grip, without sacrificing portability.

Upon unboxing the Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife, my initial impressions were positive. The black oxide finish on the blade gave it a sleek, tactical look, while the black and tan G10 handle provided a secure grip. The weight felt well-balanced, suggesting a solid construction despite its reasonable price point.

I considered a few alternatives before settling on the Freelancer. The Kershaw Blur, known for its SpeedSafe assisted opening, was a contender, but I was intrigued by the Freelancer’s button-lock mechanism. I also looked at the CRKT Pilar, a popular, more compact EDC option, but ultimately decided that the Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife’s larger blade and full-sized handle would better suit my needs.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The button-lock was smooth, and the knife deployed quickly, but I was slightly concerned about the long-term durability of the mechanism. However, the overall feel of the knife was solid, and I was excited to put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for a variety of tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The Freelancer performed admirably in all of these tasks, demonstrating a sharp edge and a comfortable grip.

The knife performed well even in damp conditions. The G10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet. The black oxide coating on the blade also seemed to offer good protection against corrosion.

The button lock took a little getting used to initially, requiring a slightly different technique than I was accustomed to. However, after a few minutes of practice, I was able to deploy and close the knife smoothly and efficiently. There were no unexpected issues, and I found the knife to be reliable and easy to use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve carried it daily, using it for everything from opening mail to more demanding tasks around the house and yard. The blade has retained its edge reasonably well, and the lockup remains solid.

There are some minor signs of wear and tear on the black oxide coating, particularly around the edges of the blade. However, this is purely cosmetic, and the blade itself remains in excellent condition. The G10 handle shows no signs of wear or damage.

Maintenance has been simple, primarily involving occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot point. The knife disassembles easily for more thorough cleaning if needed. Compared to some of my previous EDC knives, the Freelancer has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife

Specifications

The Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife boasts the following specifications:

• Blade Length: 3.5 inches. This provides a good balance between cutting power and portability, suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel. This steel offers a good compromise between edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• Serrated: Plain edge. This makes it ideal for slicing and general-purpose cutting.
• Knife Application: Folding Blade. Its foldable design makes it a convenient everyday carry option.
• Overall Length: 8 inches. Providing a comfortable grip while remaining easy to carry.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point. This blade shape is versatile and well-suited for various cutting tasks.
• Handle Material: G10. This material is durable, lightweight, and provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions.
• Blade Finish: Black Oxide. This finish provides corrosion resistance and a tactical look.
• Blade Thickness: 0.1 inches. Providing decent strength without being overly bulky.
• Lock Type: Plunge Lock (Button Lock). This lock mechanism offers secure blade lockup and easy one-handed operation.
• Blade Grind: Hollow. This type of grind facilitates slicing and enhances cutting performance.
• Handle Color: Black/Tan. The dual-tone handle provides a stylish and functional design.
• Weight: 3.7 oz. This lightweight design makes it comfortable for daily carry.
• Handle Length: 4.6 inches. Offering a secure and comfortable grip for users of various hand sizes.
• Hand: Ambidextrous. Suitable for both left-handed and right-handed users.
• Color: Black/Tan. The dual-tone color scheme enhances the aesthetic appeal of the knife.

These specifications collectively contribute to the Freelancer’s overall performance and user experience. The choice of materials, blade shape, and lock mechanism all play a role in its functionality, durability, and ease of use.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife performs its intended job admirably. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well enough for EDC tasks. The button lock mechanism is smooth and reliable, allowing for quick and easy one-handed opening and closing.

One of its strengths is the button lock deployment. It’s faster and more intuitive than a traditional thumb stud once you get the hang of it. One area for improvement is the steel. While 8Cr13MoV is decent, a higher-end steel would improve edge retention. Overall, it meets expectations for a knife in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife features a well-thought-out design. The G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The black oxide finish on the blade adds to its tactical appeal.

The knife is user-friendly, although the button lock mechanism may require a slight learning curve for those unfamiliar with this type of lock. Once mastered, the deployment and closing action are smooth and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife is built to last. The materials used are of good quality, and the construction feels solid. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the Freelancer is relatively easy. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that is required to keep it in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife comes standard with a pocket clip for convenient carry. There are no readily available aftermarket scales. The blade can be easily sharpened with a standard sharpening stone or system.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife?

The Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts. It is ideal for those seeking a reliable and affordable knife with a fast and intuitive deployment mechanism. Campers and hikers would also appreciate its durability and versatility for tasks around the campsite.

Those who prefer higher-end blade steels or require a knife for heavy-duty tasks might want to skip this product. A sharpening kit is a must-have accessory to keep the blade in top condition.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife offers a compelling combination of affordability, functionality, and style. The button lock mechanism sets it apart from other EDC knives in its price range. The solid construction and comfortable grip make it a pleasure to use.

The price is definitely justified. You get a capable EDC knife with a unique opening mechanism. I would personally recommend the Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable everyday carry option. If you’re looking for a solid EDC knife with a unique deployment system, give the Smith & Wesson Freelancer Folding Knife a try!