Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum Review

Let’s Talk About Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum

The Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum is a spring-assisted folding knife designed for everyday carry and tactical applications. Manufactured by Smith & Wesson, this knife boasts a 3.5-inch black-finished, partially serrated blade and a black and FDE (Flat Dark Earth) aluminum handle, aiming for a balance of functionality and aesthetics. Its spring-assisted opening mechanism promises rapid deployment, while the rubberized aluminum handle offers enhanced grip.

I was looking for a reliable, easy-to-carry knife that could handle various tasks from opening packages to more demanding outdoor activities. Spring-assisted knives have always appealed to me due to their quick deployment, and I needed a durable EDC (Everyday Carry) option.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-constructed. The black and FDE handle provided a visually appealing contrast, and the weight felt balanced in my hand. The spring-assisted mechanism was smooth and responsive from the start, inspiring confidence in its build quality.

Compared to my Gerber Paraframe Mini and my Kershaw Leek, the Smith & Wesson offered a more substantial feel with its wider blade and robust handle. While the Gerber is ultra-lightweight and the Kershaw boasts a slimmer profile, the Smith & Wesson seemed more suited for heavier tasks, justifying its slightly higher price point. My decision centered on the need for a knife capable of more demanding use.

My first impression was positive; the Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum looked and felt like a capable tool, piquing my interest to see how it performed in real-world scenarios. I was excited to put it through its paces and assess its durability and functionality.

Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Smith & Wesson knife during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The varied tasks included preparing food, cutting rope for setting up the tent, and even some light wood carving for creating kindling. The partially serrated blade proved useful for sawing through tougher materials, while the smooth section handled finer cuts effectively.

Despite a brief rain shower, the rubberized aluminum handle provided a secure grip, even when wet. The spring-assisted opening remained consistent and reliable, allowing for quick one-handed deployment when needed. The only minor issue was that small debris occasionally collected in the thumb stud area, requiring a quick cleaning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum has proven to be a dependable tool. The black blade finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear.

The edge retention is decent, requiring only occasional honing to maintain its sharpness. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot point is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Smith & Wesson has consistently delivered reliable performance, proving to be a valuable addition to my gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum

Specifications

• Blade Material: The blade is constructed from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, offering a good balance between hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. This alloy is a popular choice for budget-friendly knives, providing reasonable performance without breaking the bank.
• Blade Length: The 3.5-inch blade offers sufficient length for a variety of tasks. This size strikes a good balance between portability and functionality, making it suitable for EDC.
• Handle Material: The handle is made from rubberized aluminum, providing a secure and comfortable grip. The rubberized texture enhances grip even in wet or slippery conditions.
• Handle Color: The black and FDE (Flat Dark Earth) color scheme offers a tactical aesthetic. This color combination is both visually appealing and practical for concealing the knife in various environments.
• Open Length: The knife measures 7.5 inches when fully opened. This provides a comfortable grip for most users.
• Closed Length: Measuring 4.0 inches when closed, the knife is compact enough for easy pocket carry. This dimension is ideal for discreet and comfortable EDC.
• Weight: The knife weighs 4.8 ounces, offering a solid feel without being overly heavy. This weight ensures a balance between durability and portability.
• Spring Assisted: The spring-assisted opening mechanism allows for rapid, one-handed blade deployment. This feature is particularly useful in situations where quick access to the blade is essential.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum performs admirably in a variety of tasks. Its partially serrated blade is effective for cutting through rope, cardboard, and other tough materials.

The spring-assisted opening is reliable and consistent, allowing for quick and easy deployment. The handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even when wet. However, the blade steel, while decent, may require more frequent sharpening compared to premium steels.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smith & Wesson knife features a well-balanced design. The rubberized aluminum handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.

The thumb studs and jimping offer added purchase and control. The knife is relatively easy to use, with no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum appears to be built to last. The black blade finish is durable and resistant to scratches.

The rubberized aluminum handle is sturdy and able to withstand regular use. Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning and occasional honing of the blade are all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson knife does not come with a wide range of accessories. However, its standard design allows for compatibility with aftermarket pocket clips.

There aren’t many readily available customization options specifically for this model. Users might consider aftermarket lanyards or paracord wraps to personalize the knife further.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum

Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum?

The Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum is perfect for everyday carry, campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a reliable and affordable folding knife. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate the convenience of a spring-assisted opening mechanism.

This product might not be the best choice for those who require a knife with premium blade steel for extended edge retention, or those who prioritize ultra-lightweight carry above all else.

A must-have accessory is a sharpening stone or honing rod to maintain the blade’s edge. A paracord lanyard can also enhance grip and provide additional utility.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum

The Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum is a solid, dependable folding knife that offers excellent value for its price. Its rapid deployment, secure grip, and versatile blade make it a practical choice for a variety of tasks.

At $42.99, the price is more than justified for the functionality and durability it provides. While the blade steel may not be top-of-the-line, it’s more than adequate for most everyday tasks.

I would definitely recommend this knife to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable EDC option. If you’re seeking a capable and versatile folding knife without breaking the bank, the Smith & Wesson S&w Knife Black/fde Spring Ast 3.5″ Black Blade Rub/alum is an excellent choice. Consider adding this reliable tool to your gear collection today!