First Impressions of TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan is an assisted opening knife designed for everyday carry and light tactical use. TAC Force is a brand known for producing affordable knives, and this particular model promises a blend of practicality and tactical aesthetics at a budget-friendly price. My interest was piqued by its assisted opening mechanism and the tan sculpted aluminum handle, hoping it would offer a comfortable and secure grip.
I needed a reliable, easily accessible knife for opening packages, cutting rope during camping trips, and general utility tasks. I was looking for something that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered decent functionality. I considered the Kershaw Blur and the CRKT M16-01KZ, both respected knives in the EDC world, but their price points were significantly higher. Ultimately, the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan seemed like a worthwhile gamble, promising similar features at a fraction of the cost.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its price. The tan aluminum handle has a nice texture, although it does feel a little lightweight. The black finish on the tanto blade looks decent, but I immediately noticed that the assisted opening wasn’t as smooth as some higher-end knives I’ve handled.
Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan feels less refined. However, the Griptilian costs significantly more. The speed and smoothness of deployment are the key differences I observed.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price was right, and the design seemed promising, but I knew real-world testing would be crucial to determine its true value.
Real-World Testing: Putting TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan to the Test
First Use Experience
I first took the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan on a weekend camping trip. I used it primarily for food preparation (cutting vegetables and opening packages) and for preparing kindling for the campfire. The assisted opening mechanism was helpful, allowing for quick one-handed deployment when needed.
The weather was dry, so I didn’t get to test it in wet conditions during the first use. However, the aluminum handle provided a reasonable grip even with slightly sweaty hands. While using it, I noticed the blade wasn’t razor sharp out of the box, requiring extra effort for some cutting tasks.
The biggest issue I encountered during the initial use was the liner lock. It felt a bit sticky and required conscious effort to disengage. This was a minor inconvenience, but it raised concerns about long-term reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of sporadic use, mostly for opening packages and occasional light tasks around the house, the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan is showing signs of wear. The black coating on the blade has begun to scratch and fade, particularly near the tip. The assisted opening mechanism has become slightly smoother with use, but it’s still not as refined as more expensive knives.
The aluminum handle is holding up well, with no signs of dents or cracks. I haven’t needed to do any serious maintenance beyond wiping the blade clean after use. Compared to my previous EDC knife, a Spyderco Delica, the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan feels less durable.
Overall, it performs adequately for light tasks, but it wouldn’t be my first choice for demanding outdoor activities. The blade material seems to be of lower quality than premium stainless steel knives.
Breaking Down the Features of TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan
Specifications
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan features assisted opening for rapid blade deployment. It has a 3.75-inch black finish stainless tanto blade. The closed length is 5.5 inches.
The handle is made of tan sculpted aluminum, providing a lightweight yet reasonably durable grip. A finger ring is present for enhanced grip and control. The extended tang offers additional leverage.
The knife also comes with a pocket clip for convenient carry. It weighs 0.36 lbs (approximately 5.76 ounces). These specs position it as a lightweight EDC knife.
Performance & Functionality
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. The assisted opening is functional, although not exceptionally smooth. The tanto blade is suitable for piercing and some slicing, but its geometry isn’t ideal for all-purpose use.
The knife’s main strengths are its low price and convenient size. Weaknesses include the blade sharpness out of the box and the somewhat stiff liner lock. It meets expectations for a budget knife but doesn’t exceed them.
The blade steel quality likely contributes to its moderate edge retention. I needed to sharpen the blade more frequently than my other knives with higher quality steel.
Design & Ergonomics
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan has a tactical aesthetic with its tanto blade and tan handle. The sculpted aluminum handle provides a decent grip, though it can feel a little slick in wet conditions. The finger ring is a nice touch, allowing for a more secure hold.
The pocket clip allows for comfortable tip-down carry, though the knife sits relatively high in the pocket. There is a slight learning curve to using the liner lock, but overall, the knife is relatively user-friendly. The weight is comfortable for everyday carry.
The handle ergonomics are reasonable, but extended use can cause some discomfort due to the lack of contouring. The jimping on the spine of the blade is minimal.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan is questionable under heavy use. The black coating on the blade is prone to scratching, and the blade steel itself may not hold up to extensive hard use. Light tasks and occasional sharpening should keep it functional for a reasonable amount of time.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling. Disassembly for thorough cleaning might be challenging for inexperienced users. The assisted opening mechanism could benefit from occasional lubrication.
I wouldn’t expect this knife to last for years with daily hard use. It is designed as a low-cost, readily replaceable tool.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the pocket clip. Customization options are limited due to its design and construction. Aftermarket scales or sheaths are unlikely to be readily available.
Standard lubrication oils can be used to maintain the assisted opening mechanism. Sharpening stones or systems are recommended for maintaining the blade edge. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is minimal.
The lack of customization options is a tradeoff for its affordability. You get a functional knife, but not one designed for extensive personalization.
Pros and Cons of TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan
Pros
- Affordable Price: The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan is incredibly budget-friendly.
- Assisted Opening: Offers quick, one-handed blade deployment.
- Lightweight Design: Easy to carry all day without feeling cumbersome.
- Tanto Blade Style: Provides piercing power and a tactical look.
- Decent Grip: The sculpted aluminum handle offers a reasonable level of grip.
Cons
- Blade Steel Quality: Edge retention is not great, requiring frequent sharpening.
- Liner Lock Stickiness: The liner lock can be stiff and difficult to disengage.
- Durability Concerns: The black coating is prone to scratching, and overall durability is questionable under heavy use.
Who Should Buy TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan?
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan is perfect for budget-conscious individuals who need a basic EDC knife for light tasks. It’s suitable for casual campers, college students, or anyone who needs an inexpensive utility knife. Someone who needs a backup knife might also find it useful.
This product should be skipped by those who require a high-performance, durable knife for demanding outdoor activities or tactical situations. Professionals or experienced outdoorsmen needing a knife that can withstand heavy use should look elsewhere. A must-have modification would be a reliable sharpening system to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan
The TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan offers an entry-level option in the world of assisted opening knives. It’s not the most refined or durable knife on the market, but it delivers adequate performance for basic tasks at an incredibly low price. The value proposition is strong if you prioritize affordability over premium materials and construction.
Personally, I would recommend it to someone looking for a cheap, disposable knife for light use. It’s a decent option for those just starting to explore EDC knives. For those seeking a reliable, long-lasting tool, investing in a higher-quality knife is advisable. If you’re on a tight budget and need a functional assisted-opening knife, give the TAC Force Linerlock A/O Tan a try, but be aware of its limitations.