First Impressions of Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2
The Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 immediately presents itself as a tool designed for serious use, not just another pretty blade. The Templar Knife brand has been making waves with their blend of tactical aesthetics and practical functionality, and this folder seems to embody that ethos perfectly. The combination of green micarta handles, a black drop point blade, and D2 steel promises a durable and capable knife for everyday carry and more demanding tasks.
I was in the market for a reliable folder that could handle the rigors of both urban and outdoor environments. I needed something that could effortlessly transition from opening packages to assisting in campsite preparations. My search led me to the Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2.
Upon unboxing, the Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 feels substantial in hand. The green micarta provides a reassuring grip, and the blade deploys smoothly. The black drop point blade has a purposeful look.
I was also considering the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2. The Benchmade is incredibly lightweight, but I wanted something a bit more robust. The Paramilitary 2 is a solid choice, but I was drawn to the Templar Knife‘s unique aesthetic and the promise of D2 steel’s toughness at a compelling price point.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. It seems like a well-built, capable knife. I’m eager to put it through its paces and see how it performs under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 was a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, from preparing food and cutting rope to whittling kindling. The knife performed admirably, maintaining a sharp edge throughout the weekend.
The Paladin handled wet conditions with ease. The micarta handle provided a secure grip even when damp. I experienced no slippage or loss of control.
The deployment was smooth, and the lockup felt secure right out of the box. I didn’t need any significant adjustment period to feel comfortable using it. My only minor critique was the initial stiffness of the thumb stud, which loosened with use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve used it for everything from daily tasks like opening mail to more demanding activities such as processing firewood and field-dressing small game. The edge retention of the D2 steel has been impressive.
The knife shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after consistent use. The micarta handle has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no noticeable scratches or chips.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. I simply wipe down the blade with a damp cloth and apply a light coat of oil to the pivot point. This ensures smooth operation. Compared to some of my previous folders with more intricate designs, the Paladin is remarkably easy to keep clean. It has outperformed my expectations for a knife in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.25 inches. This makes it a versatile size for both everyday carry and more demanding tasks.
- Closed Length: 4.4 inches. This allows comfortable carry in a pocket or on a belt without being overly bulky.
- Overall Length: 7.67 inches. This provides a good balance between portability and usability.
- Blade Material: D2 steel. Known for its excellent wear resistance and edge retention.
- Handle Material: Green Micarta. This offers a durable and grippy surface even in wet conditions.
- Blade Style: Black Drop Point. This provides a versatile blade shape suitable for various cutting tasks.
- Weight: 0 grain. It should be noted that this is likely an error in the listed specs, as no knife weighs literally zero grains; the actual weight will need to be confirmed by scale. This affects how comfortable it is to carry and use for extended periods.
- Handle Color: OD Green. A classic color that blends well in outdoor environments.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the knife’s performance and user experience. The D2 steel ensures the blade stays sharp for longer. The micarta handle provides a secure and comfortable grip.
Performance & Functionality
The Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 performs its intended function exceptionally well. The blade is sharp and holds an edge remarkably well. The deployment is smooth and reliable.
The knife’s strength lies in its robust construction and practical design. The D2 steel provides excellent cutting power, while the micarta handle offers a secure grip. It could benefit from a slightly improved detent for even smoother deployment.
It meets and exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range. The materials and construction quality are impressive. It offers a balance of performance, durability, and value.
Design & Ergonomics
The Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 boasts a robust build quality with high-quality materials. The micarta handle is comfortable in hand and provides a secure grip. Its weight feels well-balanced, making it comfortable for extended use.
The knife is relatively user-friendly, with a smooth deployment and secure lockup. There’s no steep learning curve involved. The thumb stud could be slightly larger or have more aggressive texturing for improved grip, but this is a minor issue.
Durability & Maintenance
With its D2 steel blade and micarta handle, the Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 is built to last. Regular cleaning and oiling will ensure its longevity. The D2 steel is relatively corrosion-resistant but should still be properly maintained to prevent rust.
Maintenance is simple. Cleaning and oiling the blade and pivot point will keep it in top condition. The design is relatively simple. This means there are fewer parts to potentially break or require repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 does not come with many accessories out of the box. Typically, it includes only the knife itself. Some retailers might include a cleaning cloth or basic maintenance tool.
Customization options are somewhat limited, but aftermarket pocket clips are readily available. Potential upgrades could include different thumb studs or replacement scales. It is compatible with many universal pocket clips. This allows users to customize the carry options.
Pros and Cons of Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2
Pros
- Excellent Edge Retention: The D2 steel blade holds an edge exceptionally well, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Durable Micarta Handle: The green micarta handle provides a secure and comfortable grip even in wet conditions.
- Solid Build Quality: The knife feels robust and well-constructed, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Smooth Deployment: The blade deploys smoothly and locks securely, making it easy to use.
- Value for Money: Offers excellent performance and durability at a competitive price point.
Cons
- Thumb Stud Stiffness: The thumb stud can be a bit stiff initially, requiring some break-in period.
- Limited Customization: The customization options are somewhat limited compared to some other knives.
Who Should Buy Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2?
The Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 is perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable everyday carry knife. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate a tactical aesthetic without sacrificing practicality.
Someone looking for an extremely lightweight knife or one with extensive customization options should skip this product. Additionally, those who prefer a different blade steel with higher corrosion resistance might want to consider alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone or system to maintain the D2 steel’s edge. A paracord lanyard can also enhance grip and provide additional utility in survival situations.
Conclusion on Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2
Overall, the Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 is an impressive knife that offers excellent performance and durability at a reasonable price. Its robust construction, sharp D2 steel blade, and comfortable micarta handle make it a reliable companion for various tasks. While it may have a couple of minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
The price of $94.99 is justified given the quality of materials and craftsmanship. It is a solid value proposition for anyone seeking a dependable everyday carry knife.
I would personally recommend the Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile folding knife. Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or simply need a dependable tool for everyday tasks, the Paladin is a worthy investment. Add the Templar Knife Paladin Folder 3.27″ Green Micarta Blk Dp D2 to your kit today and experience the difference a quality knife can make!