Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife

Every outdoorsman knows the value of a reliable blade, and that’s precisely why I was drawn to the Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife. Smith’s Sharpeners isn’t just a name; it’s a promise of quality when it comes to keeping your edges sharp, and this knife seemed to be a natural extension of that expertise. With its tanto blade, G10 handle, and compact design, it appeared to be a solid choice for everyday carry and more demanding tasks.

My primary need was a robust, easily-carried knife that could handle camp chores, food preparation, and general utility work during my frequent hiking and fishing trips. I wanted something that wouldn’t break the bank, yet felt substantial and reliable in hand.

Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by the Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife‘s weight; it feels solid without being overly heavy, giving the impression of a well-built tool. The desert tan G10 handle offers a comfortable grip, and the black stonewash finish on the blade provides a rugged, practical aesthetic.

I considered the Ontario RAT Model 1 and the Kershaw Blur before ultimately deciding on the Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife. The RAT Model 1 is a workhorse, but its larger size wasn’t ideal for everyday carry, and the Blur, while sleek, felt a bit too delicate for tougher tasks. The Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife seemed to strike a better balance between portability, durability, and affordability.

My first impression was positive; the knife felt like a capable tool ready for action, and I was eager to put it through its paces. It seemed a step above other budget-friendly options I’d encountered, offering a blend of practical features and solid construction that hinted at reliable performance.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife to use during a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The varied terrain and unpredictable weather provided an excellent testing ground for its capabilities.

The knife performed admirably in damp conditions, with the G10 handle providing a secure grip even when wet. It was used for everything from preparing kindling for the fire to slicing through rope and food packaging with ease. I was impressed with how easily it deployed and locked into place thanks to the thumb stud.

There were no major issues after the first use, although I did notice that the liner lock was a bit stiff initially, requiring a firm press to disengage. This improved slightly with subsequent use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable companion. The blade has held its edge reasonably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a sharpening steel.

Despite being subjected to dirt, mud, and the occasional accidental drop, the knife shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The stonewash finish hides scratches effectively, and the G10 handle remains grippy and comfortable.

Maintenance is simple; I typically clean the blade with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth. Compared to some of my other knives, the Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife has been surprisingly low-maintenance. It hasn’t outperformed some of my higher-end knives, but it certainly hasn’t disappointed either, especially considering its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 2.75 inches. This makes it compact and easy to carry, yet long enough for most everyday tasks.
• Blade Material: 420 stainless steel. This steel offers a good balance of corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening, though it may not hold an edge as long as higher-end steels.
• Handle Material: Desert tan G10. G10 is a durable and lightweight material that provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions.
• Closed Length: 3.75 inches. This makes it very pocketable.
• Blade Style: Tanto. The tanto blade is known for its strength and piercing ability.
• Locking Mechanism: Linerlock. The linerlock is a simple and reliable locking mechanism.
• Other Features: Thumb stud, lanyard hole, pocket clip. These features enhance the knife’s functionality and ease of carry.

These specifications contribute to a knife that is practical, easy to carry, and relatively durable, making it suitable for a variety of tasks and environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife performs its intended job as a general-purpose utility knife quite well. The tanto blade excels at piercing and cutting, making it useful for opening packages, preparing food, and performing other everyday tasks.

Its strengths lie in its compact size, comfortable grip, and reliable locking mechanism. The relatively soft 420 stainless steel does require more frequent sharpening than some higher-end steels, which could be a weakness for some users. Overall, it meets my expectations for a knife in this price range, providing a solid balance of performance and affordability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife features a functional and aesthetically pleasing design. The desert tan G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The knife is reasonably user-friendly, with a smooth opening action and a reliable linerlock. There’s a slight learning curve in getting used to the stiffness of the liner lock.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife is built to last, with durable materials and a solid construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s typically required. It’s easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning if necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife comes standard with a pocket clip, which allows for convenient and secure carry. The lanyard hole provides an additional carry option.

There are no specific customization options offered directly by Smith’s Sharpeners, but the standard design is compatible with many aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards. Aftermarket scales might be available, though I have not tested any myself.

Pros and Cons of Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife?

This knife is perfect for: Everyday carry enthusiasts, budget-conscious outdoorsmen, campers, hikers, and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable utility knife. It is also well-suited for someone looking for a first pocket knife.

Who should skip this product? Knife collectors seeking premium blade steels or individuals who require extreme edge retention for demanding tasks.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening steel or pocket sharpener to maintain the blade’s edge, and a lanyard for added security and ease of retrieval.

Conclusion on Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife

The Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife is a solid and practical choice for anyone seeking a reliable and affordable everyday carry knife. It balances durability, functionality, and price effectively.

The price is certainly justified, especially considering the quality of materials and construction. It is an excellent value for the money.

I would absolutely recommend the Smith’s Sharpeners Campaign Linerlock Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable utility knife without breaking the bank. Its compact size, comfortable grip, and practical tanto blade make it a versatile tool for a wide range of tasks. Go ahead and give it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised!