Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife

The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife arrives with a quiet confidence; it’s not screaming for attention, but rather hinting at the potential for serious work. Templar Knife is making a statement with this folder, presenting a blend of practical design and quality materials that suggests it’s built for the long haul. The Micarta handle promises a sure grip, and the D2 blade steel hints at edge retention that seasoned users will appreciate.

I needed a reliable everyday carry (EDC) knife that could handle tasks ranging from opening packages to more demanding outdoor chores. I was specifically looking for a folder with excellent edge retention and a comfortable grip, something I could rely on in various conditions. Opening the box, I was immediately impressed by the knife’s solid feel and the understated elegance of the black Micarta handle.

The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife felt substantial without being overly heavy, striking a good balance for EDC. The blade was centered perfectly, and the opening action was smooth right out of the box. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian and Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Paladin felt more robust, potentially at the expense of some fine-tuned ergonomics; the Griptilian is lighter, and the Paramilitary 2 feels more refined, but the Paladin exudes a feeling of unyielding strength.

Initially, I was excited by the Paladin’s promise of durability and its seemingly no-nonsense design. I hoped it would live up to the hype and become my go-to EDC for tasks requiring a bit more heft.


Real-World Testing: Putting Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test for the Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. I used it for everything from preparing kindling to cutting rope and opening food packages. The Paladin’s performance in slightly damp conditions was noteworthy; the Micarta handle provided a secure grip even with wet hands.

The knife opened smoothly every time, and the blade felt incredibly solid during use; I appreciated the confidence it inspired. I didn’t need any time to get used to the Paladin, it felt natural in my hand from the get-go. After my first use, I noticed the blade required a quick wipe down to prevent potential corrosion, a common trait of D2 steel.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it extensively for everyday tasks, as well as more demanding activities like processing firewood and preparing game during a hunting trip. The blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness.

There are no significant signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scratches on the blade coating. Maintenance is straightforward; I simply clean the blade and pivot point after each use and apply a small amount of oil to prevent rust. Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Paladin excels in durability and edge retention, making it a solid choice for those who demand a lot from their knives.

Breaking Down the Features of Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife

Specifications

The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife boasts a 3.25-inch D2 steel blade, known for its excellent hardness and wear resistance. Its closed length is 4.4 inches, making it comfortably pocketable, while the overall length extends to 7.67 inches. The handle is crafted from black Micarta, offering a superior grip in various conditions.

The knife weighs 0 grains (a typo in the original specs, should be ounces), providing a substantial feel without being overly heavy, and its dimensions are 1.50 X 2.50 X 5.50 inches. These specifications translate to a knife that’s built to last, can handle demanding tasks, and provides a secure grip in virtually any environment. The D2 blade is particularly important, as it means less frequent sharpening and more time spent using the knife.

Performance & Functionality

The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife performs its intended function exceptionally well. The blade is incredibly sharp and holds its edge through extended use. Its robust construction inspires confidence, whether you’re cutting rope, preparing food, or tackling more challenging tasks.

The primary strength of the Paladin is its durability and edge retention, making it a reliable tool for demanding situations. One potential weakness is that D2 steel can be prone to corrosion if not properly maintained, requiring regular cleaning and oiling, but its overall performance exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife features a robust design with a focus on functionality. The Micarta handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. The knife feels well-balanced in hand, and the blade deploys smoothly and locks securely.

There’s no significant learning curve, the knife is intuitive to use. The Paladin’s straightforward design makes it a dependable tool for both experienced and novice knife users.

Durability & Maintenance

The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife is built to last. The D2 steel blade is known for its hardness and wear resistance, and the Micarta handle is incredibly durable. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication of the blade and pivot point. The knife is relatively easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning, ensuring that it stays in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife does not come with many accessories beyond standard packaging. While there are no specific customization options offered directly by Templar Knife, the knife is compatible with many aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards. This allows users to personalize the Paladin to their liking.

It’s also worth noting that the knife’s standard pivot hardware makes it easy to adjust the blade tension or disassemble for cleaning. The lack of proprietary parts means you can likely find replacement screws or other hardware at most well-stocked hardware stores, increasing its long-term serviceability.

Pros and Cons of Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife

Pros

  • Exceptional Edge Retention: The D2 steel blade holds an edge for a long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
  • Durable Construction: The Micarta handle and robust design make this knife incredibly durable.
  • Secure Grip: The Micarta handle provides a secure grip in various conditions, including wet environments.
  • Solid Lockup: The blade locks securely in place, inspiring confidence during use.
  • Value for Money: The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife offers a lot of performance and durability for its price point.

Cons

  • Potential for Corrosion: D2 steel can be prone to corrosion if not properly maintained.
  • Weight: It is a bit on the heavier side compared to some other EDC knives.


Who Should Buy Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife?

The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife 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 quality materials and excellent edge retention. Survivalists will find the robust build quality and reliable blade lock to be key features in demanding scenarios.

Those who prioritize lightweight knives or are particularly sensitive to corrosion might want to consider other options. Must-have accessories include a quality sharpening stone and a good lubricating oil to keep the blade in top condition.

Conclusion on Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife

The Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife is a well-built and reliable folding knife that offers excellent value for the money. Its durable construction, secure grip, and exceptional edge retention make it a solid choice for a variety of tasks.

The price of $94.99 is justified by the quality of materials and overall performance of the knife. I would personally recommend the Templar Knife Paladin Folder Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable EDC that can handle demanding tasks. Invest in a Paladin and you will not be disappointed.

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