TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife Review

Let’s Talk About TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife

The TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife is a budget-friendly option in the world of everyday carry (EDC) knives. Made by TAC Force, this knife aims to provide a reliable cutting tool without breaking the bank. Its spring-assisted opening and stainless steel construction are notable features, and its compact size makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a discreet blade.

I often find myself needing a quick, reliable knife for various tasks around the house, on the trail, or even at the range. A good EDC knife is essential, and I was curious to see if the TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife, despite its low price, could fill that role. My search centered around finding a lightweight, easily carried blade that could handle basic cutting tasks without feeling like a disposable tool.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The stainless steel handle offered a decent grip, and the spring-assisted opening mechanism felt relatively smooth, although a bit stiff initially. The black TiNi coating on the blade gave it a sleek look, although I questioned its long-term durability.

Compared to my Kershaw Leek, which is significantly more expensive, the TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife felt less refined, but perhaps more robust. The Leek prioritizes a slim profile and precise action, while this TAC Force knife seemed built for tougher, less delicate tasks. I also considered a similar-priced Smith & Wesson folding knife, but the spring-assisted opening of the TAC Force appealed to me more.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was neither blown away nor immediately disappointed. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world situations, considering my experience in the tactical space, I wanted to see if this knife would be a good fit for a beginner just getting in to the gear.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested the TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife during a weekend camping trip and at my local shooting range. At the campsite, it handled tasks like cutting rope, opening food packages, and preparing kindling. The range testing involved opening ammo boxes and some light cutting of targets.

The knife performed adequately in dry conditions, though the blade needed frequent wiping after cutting anything sticky. The spring-assisted opening struggled slightly after getting dusty, requiring a bit more force to deploy the blade. The grip was comfortable enough for short tasks, but became less so during prolonged use in the cold.

The knife’s action felt stiff upon first use, and I nearly cut myself closing it because I was not used to the lock. I realized it needed a break-in period. After the camping trip the blade showed signs of wear after cutting cardboard.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife held up better than I initially expected, though some limitations became apparent. The black TiNi coating on the blade showed noticeable scratches and wear marks, particularly after being used to cut tougher materials.

The edge retention was decent, requiring sharpening after a few weeks of moderate use; I was suprised by this because it’s not a very expensive knife. There was a small amount of play in the blade when fully opened, indicating some loosening of the pivot point. Cleaning was relatively simple, requiring only basic wiping and occasional lubrication of the pivot.

This knife definitely underperformed compared to my higher-end Benchmade and Spyderco knives, but it aligned with knives in the same price range. I have found that this knife is more durable and reliable than other cheap knives I have owned.

Breaking Down the Features of TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife

Specifications

The TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife features a 3.25-inch long blade made of 3Cr13 stainless steel. The 3Cr13 steel is a budget-friendly material known for its corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening, but it generally offers lower edge retention than higher-end steels. The black TiNi (Titanium Nitride) coating provides some additional corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance.

The knife’s handle is constructed of stainless steel and is 4.5 inches long. The handle’s stainless steel construction makes it durable and resistant to rust. The handle, being stainless steel, adds a bit of weight, giving the knife a solid feel in hand.

The blade features a drop point shape, which is versatile for various cutting tasks. A drop point blade provides a good balance between piercing and slicing capabilities. The plain edge is suitable for general cutting purposes and easy to sharpen.

The knife utilizes a spring-assisted opening mechanism for rapid blade deployment. The spring assist allows the blade to be quickly and easily deployed with one hand. The liner lock mechanism securely locks the blade in place when open.

The overall color of the knife is gray, and the knife is from TAC Force. The gray color gives the knife a tactical and understated look. The spring assisted action gives the knife the edge that would be required in tactical situations.

Performance & Functionality

The TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. It excels at opening boxes, cutting rope, and general utility work. Its sharpness is acceptable out of the box, and it is relatively easy to sharpen with basic tools.

The knife’s primary weakness is its edge retention. The 3Cr13 steel dulls relatively quickly with frequent use. The spring-assisted mechanism, while convenient, can be a potential point of failure over time if not properly maintained.

Overall, the knife meets expectations for its price point but does not exceed them. It is a functional tool for light to medium-duty tasks. Those expecting premium performance will be disappointed; it’s a budget knife that performs like one.

Design & Ergonomics

The TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife has a simple, functional design. The stainless steel handle offers a decent grip, though it can become slippery when wet. Its weight provides a sense of durability without being overly burdensome.

The knife is reasonably user-friendly. The spring-assisted opening is intuitive, and the liner lock is easy to engage and disengage with one hand. There is minimal learning curve required to use the knife effectively. The smooth opening action makes it easy to deploy for quick cutting tasks.

Durability & Maintenance

The TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife is reasonably durable for its price. The stainless steel handle can withstand rough handling, though the blade coating is prone to scratches. With proper care, the knife should last for several years with moderate use.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring occasional cleaning, sharpening, and lubrication. The knife disassembles easily for thorough cleaning if necessary, though some users may find the spring-assisted mechanism tricky to reassemble. Simple maintenance will prolong the life of this tool.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife does not come with any additional accessories. There are limited customization options available for this knife due to its budget-friendly nature.

Aftermarket options such as replacement screws or pocket clips might be available. The blade is not specifically designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands. However, given the price of the knife, most users are unlikely to invest in significant customizations.

Pros and Cons of TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife?

The TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife is perfect for casual campers, occasional hikers, and anyone seeking an inexpensive EDC knife. It suits those who need a basic cutting tool for light to medium-duty tasks. This knife would be ideal for people that are getting into using pocket knives.

Those who need a high-performance, durable knife for demanding situations should skip this product. Individuals expecting premium materials, exceptional edge retention, or heavy-duty performance will be disappointed. The TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife is not suitable for professional use or survival situations.

A sharpening stone or basic sharpening kit is a must-have accessory. This will help maintain the blade’s edge. Consider adding a small bottle of lubricant to keep the spring-assisted mechanism functioning smoothly.

Conclusion on TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife

The TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife is a functional and affordable option for those seeking a basic EDC knife. It provides adequate performance for light to medium-duty tasks, with the convenience of a spring-assisted opening. However, its limitations in edge retention and durability should be considered.

At a price of $16.99, the value is justified for users on a tight budget. The knife offers a decent balance between functionality and affordability. It is a practical tool for everyday cutting needs.

I would recommend the TAC Force TF-951 3.25in Spring Assisted Knife to anyone looking for an inexpensive, entry-level EDC knife. Just remember to manage expectations regarding its long-term performance and durability. If you’re on a budget and need a basic cutting tool, this knife is a decent option.