Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives Review

First Impressions of Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives

The Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives arrives boasting a blend of tactical functionality and eye-catching aesthetics. Manufactured by Templar Knife, this out-the-front (OTF) automatic knife features a 3.5-inch D2 steel blade and a vibrant teal-colored metal alloy handle. The promise of a “smoother dependable action” thanks to its weighted Gen II design immediately piqued my interest, given my past experiences with OTF knives varying wildly in reliability.

I’ve long been searching for a reliable and aesthetically pleasing OTF knife for everyday carry and emergency preparedness. My previous OTF knives often suffered from inconsistent deployment and questionable durability, leading to a frustrating user experience. The Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives presented itself as a potential solution, promising a smoother action and a more robust build quality, all while sporting a unique color that sets it apart from the usual tactical fare.

Unboxing the knife revealed a surprisingly hefty feel, thanks to the metal alloy handle. The teal gloss finish is vibrant and immediately appealing, setting it apart from the typical black or gray tactical knives. The action felt stiff initially, but with a few deployments, it smoothed out considerably, hinting at the “smoother dependable action” promised in the product description.

Compared to my previous OTF knives, which were lighter and felt somewhat flimsy, the Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives felt significantly more substantial. I was particularly drawn to the combination of the D2 steel blade, known for its edge retention, and the eye-catching teal handle, offering a blend of performance and style. My initial excitement was tempered with a touch of skepticism, as OTF knives can be finicky, but the initial feel and action were promising.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for tasks such as preparing kindling, cutting rope, and opening packages. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions, deploying reliably and holding its edge well through repeated use on wood and fibrous materials.

However, when exposed to damp conditions, the deployment mechanism became slightly sluggish. While it still functioned, the action wasn’t as smooth or as immediate as it was when dry. I didn’t need any extra time to get used to its operation, other than to get familiar with the double-action mechanism that opens and retracts the blade. The initial stiffness of the action disappeared after repeated use.

The only surprise was the weight; after extended use, the 8.2 oz weight became noticeable compared to carrying lighter, smaller knives. This wasn’t necessarily a negative, as the weight contributed to the feeling of robustness, but it’s something to consider for all-day carry.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives has held up remarkably well. There are minor scratches on the black oxide blade finish from regular use, but the edge remains sharp, and the deployment mechanism is still functioning reliably. I did notice that pocket lint and debris can accumulate in the blade channel, requiring occasional cleaning.

The durability has been impressive; I’ve used it for everything from opening stubborn clamshell packaging to light batoning (which I wouldn’t necessarily recommend for an OTF, but it survived). Maintenance is relatively simple; I regularly clean the blade and mechanism with a dry cloth and apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts. Compared to my previous, cheaper OTF knives, the Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives

Specifications

• The Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives features a 3.5-inch D2 steel blade, offering a good balance of edge retention and toughness.
• The knife’s overall length is 9 inches, while the closed length is 5.5 inches.
• The handle is made of a metal alloy, providing a substantial feel and enhanced durability.
• The blade has a black oxide finish, offering some corrosion resistance and a sleek aesthetic.
• It weighs 8.2 ounces, which is heavier than some other folding knives but contributes to its robust feel.
• The knife uses a frame lock mechanism.
• A nylon sheath is included for carrying.
• The blade shape is a drop point, making it versatile for various cutting tasks.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the knife’s performance and usability. The D2 steel blade ensures that the knife will hold an edge well through extended use, while the metal alloy handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The weight, while noticeable, adds to the overall feeling of quality and durability.

Performance & Functionality

The Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives performs admirably in most cutting tasks. The blade is sharp and holds an edge well, making it suitable for everyday carry and light to medium-duty tasks. The automatic deployment is generally reliable, although it can become slightly sluggish in damp conditions.

The knife’s strength lies in its robust construction and ease of use. The main weakness is its potential for inconsistent deployment in wet or dirty conditions. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations for a mid-range OTF knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives is impressive, with the metal alloy handle providing a solid and secure grip. The 8.2-ounce weight adds to the feeling of quality, although it might be a consideration for some users who prefer lighter knives. The handle’s ergonomics are generally good, although the edges could be slightly more rounded for enhanced comfort during prolonged use.

The automatic deployment mechanism is user-friendly, with a simple button that both deploys and retracts the blade. There’s a slight learning curve to getting used to the double-action mechanism, but it’s intuitive and quickly becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives appears to be built to last. The D2 steel blade and metal alloy handle are durable and resistant to wear and tear. With regular cleaning and lubrication, the knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the blade and deployment mechanism. The black oxide finish on the blade is reasonably resistant to corrosion, but it’s still important to keep it clean and dry to prevent rust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives comes with a nylon sheath for carrying. Beyond that, customization options are limited due to the nature of OTF knives. While you can’t easily swap out blades or handles, you can potentially modify the pocket clip or add a lanyard for enhanced carry options.

The knife is likely compatible with universal knife lubricants and cleaning products. However, be cautious when disassembling or modifying the knife, as it could void the Manufacturer’s lifetime warranty.

Pros and Cons of Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives

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Who Should Buy Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives?

The Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, tactical professionals, and anyone looking for a reliable and stylish everyday carry knife. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate the convenience of automatic deployment and the durability of a D2 steel blade.

Those who prioritize lightweight carry or require a knife that performs flawlessly in all weather conditions might want to skip this product. Individuals who prefer traditional folding knives or fixed blade knives might also find the OTF mechanism less appealing.

A must-have accessory is a quality knife lubricant to keep the deployment mechanism running smoothly. A sharpening stone or system is also recommended to maintain the blade’s edge over time.

Conclusion on Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives

The Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives is a well-built and aesthetically pleasing knife that offers a good balance of performance and style. The D2 steel blade, metal alloy handle, and automatic deployment mechanism make it a versatile tool for everyday carry and outdoor adventures. While the deployment can be slightly affected by moisture and the weight is a consideration, the overall value proposition is strong.

At $45.49, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction. I would personally recommend this knife to anyone looking for a reliable and stylish OTF knife that can handle a variety of tasks. If you’re seeking a durable, eye-catching OTF knife that won’t break the bank, the Templar Knives Gen II Maiden Teal/Gloss OTF 3.5in Automatic Folding Knives is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your EDC today and experience the difference!