Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife

The Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife arrives promising a blend of practicality and aesthetics at an accessible price point. The jade green G10 handle immediately catches the eye, offering a distinctive look compared to the more common black or tan knives. At $31.99, my expectations are tempered, but I’m eager to see if this budget-friendly folder can deliver on basic performance.

My need for a reliable EDC (everyday carry) knife has grown since I started volunteering at a local wilderness education program. I wanted something lightweight and functional for basic camp tasks without breaking the bank, and the Summit Gear Linerlock seemed to fit the bill. I’ve been using a Gerber Paraframe for years, but I wanted to try something with a more substantial handle and a different aesthetic.

Out of the box, the Summit Gear Linerlock feels surprisingly solid for its price. The G10 handle provides a good grip, and the liner lock engages securely. While the satin finish on the stainless blade isn’t particularly flashy, it looks clean and functional. I was pleasantly surprised; my initial impression exceeded my expectations.

I considered the Ontario RAT Model 1 and the Kershaw Cryo as alternatives, both well-regarded budget folders. I chose the Summit Gear Linerlock mainly because of its unique color and smaller overall size. I’m looking forward to testing its functionality in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife was at our volunteer training weekend, deep in the local state forest. I primarily used it for preparing kindling for fires and opening packages of trail mix. The blade was reasonably sharp out of the box, making quick work of small branches and cardboard.

The humid, dewy conditions of the forest didn’t seem to affect the grip of the G10 handle. Even with slightly damp hands, I maintained a secure hold. Opening and closing the knife one-handed proved relatively easy after a few practice tries. My only initial concern was the slightly gritty action of the blade hinge.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of EDC and a couple more camping trips, the Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife has held up surprisingly well. I’ve used it to cut rope, open stubborn clamshell packaging, and even whittle a makeshift tent stake. The blade has maintained its edge reasonably well, requiring only occasional stropping.

There are a few minor scratches on the satin finish of the blade, but nothing unexpected for a knife in this price range. The liner lock still engages securely, with no sign of loosening or play. Cleaning is straightforward; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. It cleans up easily.

It certainly outperforms my old Gerber Paraframe in terms of handle comfort and overall sturdiness. While the Paraframe is lighter, the Summit Gear Linerlock feels much more substantial in hand. I can comfortably apply more pressure without worrying about the handle flexing.

Breaking Down the Features of Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife

Specifications

The Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife boasts a satin finish stainless steel blade, providing a balance of corrosion resistance and affordability. The 8.89 cm (3.5 inch) blade is a practical size for everyday tasks. The handle is made of jade G10, a durable composite material known for its excellent grip.

The knife has a closed length of 11.43 cm (4.5 inches), making it easy to carry in a pocket. The liner lock mechanism provides secure blade lockup, preventing accidental closure during use. Additional features include an extended tang for easy opening and a pocket clip for convenient carry. These features are impressive for a knife at this price point.

Performance & Functionality

The Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife performs admirably for a budget folder. The blade is sharp enough for most EDC tasks and maintains its edge reasonably well. The liner lock is reliable and easy to operate with one hand. It does meet my basic expectations.

The knife’s strengths lie in its comfortable grip and sturdy construction. However, the blade steel isn’t top-tier, so frequent heavy use will require more frequent sharpening. Also, the action of the blade opening could be smoother.

Design & Ergonomics

The jade G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The knife feels well-balanced in hand, and the 4.5-inch closed length makes it easy to carry. There is a slight learning curve to opening and closing it one-handed, but it becomes intuitive with practice. The aesthetics are pleasing.

The build quality is decent for the price, although the fit and finish aren’t perfect. The knife feels robust enough to handle everyday tasks. It is a great value.

Durability & Maintenance

With regular cleaning and oiling, the Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife should last for several years of moderate use. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the G10 handle is extremely durable. Sharpening will be required to maintain optimal performance.

Maintenance is simple. A few drops of oil on the pivot point and a wipe-down after use are generally sufficient. It’s a good idea to occasionally check the screws to ensure they are tight. It is easy to repair with minimal skills or tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife comes with a basic pocket clip. There are no additional accessories included. Customization options are limited, but aftermarket pocket clips might be available if the screw holes are a standard size. I would also recommend a good sharpening stone or kit.

The knife is unlikely to be compatible with specialized accessories like custom scales or blade replacements, given its budget-friendly nature. However, basic maintenance tools like a sharpening stone and lubricating oil are essential for keeping it in good working order. Also, a paracord lanyard through the lanyard hole could be added for additional grip or retrieval options.

Pros and Cons of Summit Gear Linerlock Jade G10 Folding Knife