Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife is marketed as an ideal everyday carry (EDC) option, boasting a curved belly suited for cutting and chopping tasks. With its stainless-steel frame and G10 handle construction, it hints at durability. The inclusion of a finger flipper suggests a focus on convenient and rapid deployment. This knife, priced attractively, positions itself as a compelling addition to any knife enthusiast’s collection, but can it deliver on its promises?

I was seeking a reliable and affordable EDC knife for general utility tasks around the campsite and during hikes. I wanted something that could handle light cutting duties, like preparing kindling or food, without being overly bulky or expensive. The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife’s description seemed to align with my needs.

Upon unboxing, the initial impression was somewhat underwhelming. The knife felt lighter than expected, a factor that could point to either convenient portability or questionable robustness. The desert tan handle provides a decent grip, but the G10 material felt a bit less refined compared to higher-end knives.

I considered the Kershaw Blur and the Ontario RAT Model 1 before opting for the Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife. The Kershaw Blur, while praised for its assisted opening and grip, was significantly more expensive. The Ontario RAT Model 1, known for its ruggedness, seemed a bit too large for my desired EDC profile. The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife presented a compromise in terms of price and size.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the materials and finish weren’t top-tier, the blade shape and flipper deployment offered potential. It remains to be seen if it could hold up to real-world use.

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

First Use Experience

My first test involved using the Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. The tasks included cutting rope for setting up the tent, preparing kindling for the campfire, and slicing through some packaging. The dry conditions were ideal for testing the grip and blade sharpness.

The knife performed adequately for these light-duty tasks. The flipper opening mechanism worked smoothly, allowing for quick one-handed deployment. The blade maintained a decent edge throughout the initial tasks.

However, I immediately noticed the limitations when attempting to baton smaller pieces of wood. The lightweight construction and liner lock didn’t inspire confidence. It did make me question the long-term durability of the lock.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of sporadic use, the Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife has shown noticeable signs of wear. The satin finish on the blade has scuffed easily. The liner lock, while still functional, exhibits some play.

The edge retention of the 8Cr13MoV steel is average at best, requiring frequent touch-ups with a honing steel. The desert tan Micarta handle has proven to be relatively resistant to staining and provides a secure grip even when wet. Cleaning is simple, typically only requiring a wipe down with a damp cloth.

Compared to my experience with the Benchmade Griptilian, which boasts superior steel and a more robust locking mechanism, the Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife falls short in terms of overall durability and performance. However, considering the significantly lower price point, the Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife provides acceptable performance for basic tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife

Specifications

The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife features a 3.25-inch blade made of 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. This steel is known for its ease of sharpening. The blade has a reverse tanto shape with a plain edge and a satin finish. The closed length is 4.4 inches, resulting in an overall length of 7.7 inches.

The handle is constructed from Micarta in desert tan, offering a reasonable grip. It features a liner lock mechanism. The knife weighs in at a lightweight 0.2 pounds. It incorporates a finger flipper for quick deployment and a tip-down pocket clip for convenient carry.

These specifications suggest a knife designed for portability and ease of use, at the expense of extreme durability or edge retention. The reverse tanto blade shape is a unique feature that might appeal to some users but could also limit its versatility.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. Its sharpness out of the box is acceptable, allowing it to handle cardboard boxes, rope, and light food preparation with ease. The flipper deployment is fast and reliable.

However, the knife struggles with more demanding tasks. The liner lock, while functional, feels less secure than other locking mechanisms like a frame lock or axis lock. The blade steel requires frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge.

For its intended purpose as a budget EDC knife, it meets basic expectations. It wouldn’t be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife has a streamlined design. Its lightweight construction makes it comfortable to carry in a pocket without feeling burdensome. The desert tan Micarta handle provides a reasonable grip.

The finger flipper is well-positioned and easy to use. The pocket clip allows for discreet tip-down carry.

However, the overall build quality feels somewhat cheap. The tolerances are not as tight as higher-end knives, resulting in slight blade play when locked open. There is a slight learning curve, but the knife is generally user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife’s durability is a concern. The 8Cr13MoV steel is prone to chipping and requires frequent sharpening. The liner lock is not as robust as other locking mechanisms.

However, the knife is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are sufficient to keep it in working order.

I don’t expect this knife to last for years of hard use. If it’s treated as a light-duty tool, it should provide a reasonable lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard tip-down pocket clip. Customization options are limited due to its budget-friendly construction.

Aftermarket scales or clips might be available from third-party vendors. Given the price point, significant modifications are unlikely to be cost-effective. The standard tip-down pocket clip is functional and allows for relatively discreet carry.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife?

The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife is perfect for budget-conscious individuals seeking an affordable EDC knife for light-duty tasks. It’s suitable for casual campers, hikers, or anyone needing a basic utility knife for everyday use.

Those requiring a more durable knife for heavy-duty tasks or self-defense situations should skip this product. Survivalists, bushcrafters, or professionals requiring a reliable tool in demanding environments should consider a higher-end knife with better steel and a more robust locking mechanism.

A sharpening stone or honing steel is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife is a budget-friendly option that offers acceptable performance for basic cutting tasks. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and features a smooth flipper deployment. However, its durability and edge retention are limited by the materials used.

The price is justified for what it offers. This is an entry-level knife that is suitable as a first EDC option.

I would recommend it to those seeking an inexpensive, general-purpose knife for light use. It’s not a high-performance tool, but it gets the job done for its price. If you want a reliable and affordable knife, the Smith & Wesson Stave Folding Knife will meet basic expectations, but don’t expect it to perform like a top-tier knife.