Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives Review

First Impressions of Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives promises a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality, a combination that immediately piqued my interest. From Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in both firearms and edged tools, this knife boasts an assisted opening mechanism, a dagger-style blade, and rosewood handles, hinting at a refined yet practical design. As someone who values both performance and aesthetics in my gear, I was eager to see if the Unwavered lived up to its promise.

I needed a reliable, easy-to-carry knife for everyday tasks and occasional outdoor adventures. My older folding knife, while durable, was becoming difficult to open with one hand, particularly in colder weather or when wearing gloves. The assisted opening feature and compact size of the Smith & Wesson Unwavered seemed like the perfect solution.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its size. The rosewood handles offer a warm, natural feel, contrasting nicely with the sleek stainless steel blade. While the dagger shape might not be for everyone, it lends the knife a certain elegance. Compared to my previous EDC knife, a bulkier tactical folder with a drop-point blade, the Unwavered felt significantly more refined and pocket-friendly. I considered the Kershaw Leek and the CRKT Pilar before settling on the Smith & Wesson, primarily due to the classic aesthetics of the rosewood handle and the Smith & Wesson reputation.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The knife certainly looked the part, but the true test would be in its performance and durability. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it could truly live up to the Smith & Wesson name.


Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives was a weekend camping trip in the nearby mountains. I used it for various tasks, from preparing food and cutting rope to whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions.

The assisted opening mechanism worked flawlessly, even with slightly damp hands. The handle provided a secure and comfortable grip, and the blade proved sharp enough for most of my basic camp chores. However, cutting through thicker branches proved a little challenging due to the blade’s relatively slender profile.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Smith & Wesson Unwavered has become a constant companion. I’ve carried it daily for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like trimming bushes in the garden. The blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness.

I have noticed some minor wear on the rosewood handles, particularly around the edges, but this adds to the knife’s character and doesn’t affect its functionality. Cleaning is relatively simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point. Compared to my previous EDC knife, which required frequent sharpening and cleaning, the Unwavered is significantly easier to maintain. Overall, I’m pleased with its durability and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives

Specifications

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives boasts several key specifications. Its blade length measures 3.5 inches, offering a good balance between cutting power and portability. The closed length is 4.25 inches, making it easily pocketable.

The blade material is stainless steel, which provides good corrosion resistance and edge retention. The overall length is 7.75 inches, offering a comfortable grip for most hand sizes. The handle is made of rosewood, adding a touch of elegance and a warm feel in hand. The knife weighs in at 4.8 ounces, which is light enough for comfortable everyday carry. The blade shape is a dagger, which is less practical than a drop point, but great for piercing and offers a unique aesthetic.

These specifications contribute to a knife that’s lightweight, easy to carry, and capable of handling a variety of tasks. The stainless steel blade ensures durability, while the rosewood handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives performs its intended job quite well. The assisted opening mechanism is fast and reliable, making it easy to deploy the blade with one hand. The blade’s sharpness allows for clean and efficient cuts.

While the dagger shape isn’t ideal for all cutting tasks, it excels at piercing and detail work. One minor weakness is the absence of jimping on the spine, which would improve grip and control during more demanding cutting tasks. Overall, the knife meets and slightly exceeds my expectations for everyday carry.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Smith & Wesson Unwavered is generally good, especially considering its price point. The rosewood handles are well-finished and offer a comfortable grip. The knife’s weight is well-balanced, making it feel secure in hand.

The design is sleek and understated, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings. There’s a slight learning curve with the assisted opening, but once mastered, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials used, the Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives should last for years with proper care. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the rosewood handles are durable enough to withstand daily use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives comes with a standard pocket clip for easy carry. Unfortunately, there are limited customization options available for this particular model. Aftermarket scales are not readily available. It is compatible with most standard knife sharpeners and lubricating oils.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives

Pros

  • Fast and reliable assisted opening mechanism. Allows for quick, one-handed deployment of the blade in any situation.
  • Elegant rosewood handle. Provides a comfortable and secure grip, while adding a touch of classic style.
  • Lightweight and pocket-friendly. Makes it ideal for everyday carry without being cumbersome.
  • Durable stainless steel blade. Holds an edge well and resists corrosion.
  • Affordable price point. Offers excellent value for the money.

Cons

  • Dagger-shaped blade is less versatile than other blade shapes. Not ideal for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
  • Limited customization options. Aftermarket scales and other accessories are not readily available.


Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives?

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives is perfect for individuals seeking a stylish and reliable everyday carry knife. It’s well-suited for casual users, office workers, and anyone who appreciates a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality. It is also a nice gift for a beginner knife collector.

This knife is not ideal for those who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding outdoor or tactical applications. Individuals who prefer highly customizable knives might also want to look elsewhere. A must-have accessory is a quality knife sharpener to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives

The Smith & Wesson Unwavered Spring 3.5in Assisted Opening Folding Knives is a well-designed and functional knife that offers excellent value for the money. Its fast assisted opening, elegant rosewood handle, and durable stainless steel blade make it a reliable and stylish choice for everyday carry. The price is definitely justified.

While the dagger-shaped blade might not be for everyone, its overall performance and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a quality EDC knife that won’t break the bank. If you’re seeking a blend of classic style and modern functionality, the Smith & Wesson Unwavered is definitely worth considering. Pick one up today and experience the Smith & Wesson difference!

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