Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a tool that promises rapid deployment and versatile functionality. This knife, manufactured by Smith & Wesson, boasts an assisted opening mechanism, a partially serrated tanto blade, and integrated features like a glass breaker and belt cutter. It seems designed as an affordable option for everyday carry and emergency preparedness.

I was looking for a reliable, readily accessible knife for my go-bag that wouldn’t break the bank. I needed something I could use for cutting rope, opening packages, and potentially for emergency situations involving seatbelts or glass. The Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife seemed to fit the bill.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The tan rubberized aluminum handle offered a decent grip, and the assisted opening was snappy and quick. The black finish on the blade looked durable, although I was initially skeptical of its long-term resistance to scratching.

I considered the Kershaw Blur and the CRKT M16-14SF before settling on the Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife. The Kershaw was slightly more expensive and lacked the glass breaker. The CRKT, while robust, didn’t have the assisted opening feature that I desired for quick deployment. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; it felt like a capable tool, but I needed to see how it performed under pressure.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip. I used it primarily for cutting rope, preparing kindling, and opening food packages. The assisted opening proved invaluable when I needed to quickly access the blade with one hand while managing a campfire.

In slightly damp conditions, the rubberized handle maintained a secure grip. However, cutting through thicker rope required more effort than I anticipated due to the blade geometry. I also noticed some minor difficulty in cleaning the serrations after cutting sticky materials.

The initial deployment was smooth, but the liner lock felt a bit gritty and required a firm push to engage. I was hoping this would smooth out with use, but it did concern me initially. After the first day, I felt it was a useful tool but with some minor drawbacks that needed monitoring.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife has held up reasonably well. There are some minor scratches on the blade’s black finish, but the edge has retained its sharpness with only occasional stropping. The assisted opening mechanism still functions reliably, although it now requires a drop of oil every few weeks to maintain its snappy action.

The aluminum handle has proven surprisingly durable, with no signs of bending or cracking. The glass breaker and belt cutter remain unused, but they are there for emergency needs. Cleaning remains straightforward, although the serrations still require extra attention.

Compared to my previous EDC knife (a Benchmade Griptilian), the Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife doesn’t quite match its overall performance or build quality. However, considering the significant price difference, it’s a respectable performer and a good value for money. It’s an effective tool.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife

Specifications

The Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife features a 3.25-inch black-finished stainless-steel tanto blade. This blade is partially serrated, adding versatility for cutting different materials. The knife has an overall closed length of 4.63 inches, making it reasonably compact for pocket carry.

The handle is made of tan rubberized aluminum, providing a secure grip even in wet conditions. It also incorporates a thumb stud for manual blade deployment in addition to the assisted opening. Integrated features include a glass breaker at the butt of the handle and a seatbelt/cord cutter near the base of the blade. A pocket clip allows for convenient carry.

• Assisted Opening Mechanism: Allows for rapid, one-handed blade deployment.
• Partially Serrated Tanto Blade: Increases the knife’s versatility for cutting through different materials.
• Glass Breaker & Belt Cutter: Integrated emergency tools that could prove invaluable in certain situations.

These specifications are crucial because they determine the knife’s functionality and suitability for different tasks. The assisted opening makes it quick to deploy, the blade shape allows for piercing and slicing, and the emergency tools add practical value. The choice of materials balances durability and weight, while the pocket clip enhances everyday carry convenience.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife performs its primary function – cutting – reasonably well. The blade is sharp enough for most everyday tasks, and the serrations are effective for cutting through fibrous materials. The assisted opening is reliable and quick, providing immediate access to the blade when needed.

The liner lock, while functional, can be a bit stiff and requires a deliberate action to disengage. The glass breaker and belt cutter haven’t been used extensively, but their presence provides peace of mind in emergency situations. The knife’s strengths lie in its affordability and rapid deployment, while its weakness is the slightly less refined feel of the locking mechanism and the blade’s edge retention compared to more expensive knives.

Overall, the Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife meets expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife with added emergency features. It’s not a premium performer, but it gets the job done adequately.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife features a straightforward, utilitarian design. The rubberized aluminum handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet. The knife’s weight is reasonable for its size, making it comfortable to carry in a pocket or on a belt.

The handle’s ergonomics are generally good, although the placement of the pocket clip can sometimes interfere with a full grip. The thumb stud is easy to access for manual blade deployment, providing an alternative to the assisted opening mechanism. The learning curve is minimal; it’s an intuitive tool to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife is reasonably durable for its price point. The stainless-steel blade resists corrosion, and the aluminum handle is resistant to impact. However, the black finish on the blade is prone to scratching, and the liner lock may wear over time with heavy use.

Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are sufficient to keep the knife functioning smoothly. Sharpening the blade can be done with a standard sharpening stone or system, although maintaining the serrated edge requires a bit more skill. The blade should last a long time if well cared for.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife does not come with many accessories beyond the standard pocket clip. Customization options are limited, as the knife is designed as a complete package. However, some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with a different style or add a lanyard for easier retrieval.

The knife’s design is generally compatible with universal sharpening systems and cleaning kits. However, due to its specific blade shape and handle design, aftermarket grips or sheaths may not be readily available. The knife should be able to integrate with common knife accessories.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife?

The Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Everyday Carry: For those who need a reliable and affordable knife for everyday tasks.
• Emergency Preparedness: Its integrated glass breaker and belt cutter make it a valuable tool for first responders and individuals focused on emergency situations.
• Budget-Conscious Users: Offers good functionality without breaking the bank.

This knife is NOT for:

• Those requiring premium performance: Serious outdoorsmen or professionals needing top-tier edge retention and locking mechanism.
• Users prioritizing aesthetics: The utilitarian design may not appeal to those seeking a more refined or stylish knife.

A must-have modification would be a high-quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge, and perhaps some lubricating oil for the assisted opening mechanism.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a solid, budget-friendly option for everyday carry and emergency preparedness. While it may not boast the refined feel or premium materials of higher-end knives, its reliable assisted opening, versatile blade, and integrated emergency tools make it a worthwhile purchase. The price is definitely justified considering its features and functionality.

I would personally recommend this knife to anyone looking for an affordable and practical EDC tool with added emergency capabilities. It’s a dependable companion for daily tasks and offers peace of mind in potentially dangerous situations. Consider the Smith & Wesson M&P Linerlock Assisted Opening Folding Knife as your next reliable pocket companion!