TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife

The TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife immediately grabs your attention with its sleek, all-black aesthetic and promises of reliable performance. Trivisa, a name not yet ubiquitous in the tactical gear world, aims to carve out a niche with this affordable yet feature-packed folder. Having spent over a decade evaluating knives for various outdoor pursuits, I approached the Lynx Blackout with a blend of curiosity and skepticism.

I’d been searching for a robust, easily concealed knife for everyday carry (EDC) and potential back-up use on hunting trips. The Lynx Blackout’s compact size and discreet coloration seemed promising. I wanted something that wouldn’t weigh me down, yet could handle typical camp chores and unexpected situations.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid. The black stonewash finish on the blade was clean, and the G10 handle offered a secure grip. Compared to my usual go-to, a Benchmade Griptilian, and a Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the TRIVISA Lynx Blackout felt slightly less refined but noticeably tougher, more ‘tactical’. The Benchmade excels in smooth action, while the Spyderco boasts a superior blade steel, but the Lynx looked like it could take a beating.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While not as polished as some of its higher-priced competitors, the TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife seemed like a capable and budget-friendly option. It sparked a desire to really test the knife in real-world scenarios.


Real-World Testing: Putting TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife was on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp, and the terrain varied from rocky trails to muddy creek beds. I primarily used the knife for food preparation, fire starting (batoning small pieces of wood), and general camp maintenance like cutting rope and cordage.

The Lynx Blackout performed admirably in these tasks. The blade held its edge fairly well, and the G10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet. I found the extended tang to be particularly useful for added control when batoning.

There was a slight stickiness to the liner lock at first, requiring more force than expected to disengage. This smoothed out with use, but it was noticeable initially. Otherwise, the first use was positive, suggesting the TRIVISA Lynx Blackout could handle typical outdoor tasks.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular carry and use, the TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable tool. The black stonewash finish on the blade has held up well, showing only minor scratches from regular use. The G10 handle remains grippy and comfortable, even after prolonged periods of use.

The knife has seen action on several fishing trips, where it was used for cutting line, cleaning small fish, and preparing bait. I’ve also carried it on hikes and used it for tasks like clearing brush and fashioning improvised shelters. The 14C28N Sandvik stainless blade has shown good corrosion resistance, even after exposure to saltwater.

Maintenance has been simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point. Compared to some of my other knives that require more frequent sharpening, the Lynx Blackout has held its edge remarkably well. While it doesn’t outperform high-end blades in edge retention, it certainly exceeds expectations for its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife

Specifications

  • The TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife features a black stonewash finish 14C28N Sandvik stainless blade. This steel is known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
  • It boasts a black G10 handle which is incredibly durable and provides excellent grip in various conditions. G10 is resistant to moisture, temperature changes, and many chemicals.
  • The knife has an extended tang that enhances control and stability, especially when applying force. This feature provides added safety and leverage.
  • It utilizes a Linerlock mechanism, a common and generally reliable locking system. Liner locks offer a secure blade lock and are relatively easy to operate.
  • The blade length is 3.63 inches and the closed length is 4.75 inches. This makes it a compact and easily pocketable knife.
  • It also includes a pocket clip for convenient and secure carry. The pocket clip allows for tip-up carry.

Performance & Functionality

The TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife performs its core function – cutting – quite effectively. The blade is sharp out of the box and retains its edge well enough for most EDC and outdoor tasks. Its size and weight make it a comfortable and manageable tool for a variety of applications.

The Linerlock engages securely, providing a solid lock-up during use. However, the lock can be a bit stiff initially, requiring some break-in. Overall, the knife performs well in its intended role as a general-purpose cutting tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The TRIVISA Lynx Blackout is designed with a focus on practicality and durability. The all-black color scheme gives it a tactical look. The G10 handle is contoured for a comfortable and secure grip.

The knife is well-balanced in hand, with a weight that feels substantial without being cumbersome. There is a slight learning curve to smoothly operate the Linerlock, but it quickly becomes intuitive. The pocket clip is well-positioned for comfortable carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The combination of 14C28N Sandvik stainless steel and G10 makes the TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife a durable tool. The blade resists corrosion, and the handle can withstand considerable abuse. Maintenance is simple: keep the blade clean and lubricate the pivot point occasionally.

Given its construction, the Lynx Blackout should provide years of reliable service with proper care. This level of durability contributes to its excellent value.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip, which is functional and secure. Beyond that, customization options are limited due to the knife’s design and construction. While it might be possible to replace the pocket clip with an aftermarket option, other modifications would likely require specialized tools and expertise.

The TRIVISA Lynx Blackout is primarily designed to be a functional tool right out of the box. This lack of extensive customization is understandable given the knife’s price point.

Pros and Cons of TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife

Pros

  • Affordable price: Excellent value for the features and quality offered.
  • Durable construction: The 14C28N steel blade and G10 handle ensure long-lasting performance.
  • Secure grip: The G10 handle provides excellent traction in various conditions.
  • Compact size: Easy to carry in a pocket without being too bulky.
  • Tactical aesthetic: The all-black design is discreet and appealing.

Cons

  • Stiff Linerlock: Requires a break-in period to operate smoothly.
  • Limited Customization: Not many options for aftermarket modifications.


Who Should Buy TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife?

The TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife is perfect for:

  • Everyday Carry (EDC) enthusiasts looking for a reliable and affordable knife.
  • Campers and hikers needing a general-purpose cutting tool for outdoor tasks.
  • Tactical gear aficionados seeking a discreet and durable backup knife.

Who should skip this product?

  • Knife collectors looking for high-end materials and intricate designs.
  • Users requiring extensive customization options.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

  • A sharpening stone or honing steel to maintain the blade’s edge.
  • A small bottle of lubricant for the pivot point.

Conclusion on TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife

The TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife is a surprisingly capable and well-built knife for its price. It offers a solid combination of durability, functionality, and discreet aesthetics, making it an excellent choice for EDC and general outdoor use. While it may not boast the refinement of higher-end knives, its robust construction and reliable performance more than compensate.

The value proposition is strong; you get a lot of knife for your money. I would personally recommend the TRIVISA Lynx Blackout Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable folder. Pick one up and experience its capabilities firsthand – you might just be surprised.

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