We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue Review

First Impressions of We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue

The We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue is a sleek, visually appealing knife that promises to deliver both form and function. Manufactured by We Knife Co Ltd, known for their precision and quality, the High-Fin immediately catches the eye with its striking blue stonewash titanium handle and stonewash finished CPM-20CV blade. Its compact size and lightweight design suggest comfortable carry, while the premium materials hint at robust performance.

I needed a reliable everyday carry (EDC) knife that could handle various tasks from opening packages to more demanding outdoor activities, with a bias towards corrosion resistance and edge retention. My old folder, a cheaper stainless steel model, was constantly needing sharpening and showed rust spots after exposure to humidity, making the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue‘s CPM-20CV blade very attractive.

Upon unboxing, the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue exudes quality. The weight feels perfect in hand, neither too heavy to be cumbersome nor too light to feel insubstantial. The titanium handle has a smooth, tactile feel, and the stonewash finish gives it a rugged, pre-worn look that I appreciate.

I considered the Benchmade 940 Osborne and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 before settling on the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue. The Benchmade is a classic, but the aluminum handles felt less premium than titanium. The Spyderco’s blade shape wasn’t quite what I was looking for, and the overall design felt less refined. The High-Fin, with its balanced design and high-end materials, seemed like the perfect combination of utility and aesthetics.

My first impression was definitely excitement. The We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue felt like a significant upgrade from my previous EDC, and I was eager to see how it performed in real-world situations. The smooth action and solid lockup instilled confidence in its build quality, making me believe it was an investment that would pay off.


Real-World Testing: Putting We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue took place on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various camp chores, including preparing food, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The blade’s sharpness was immediately apparent, slicing through cardboard and food packaging with ease.

The knife performed admirably in slightly damp conditions after an unexpected drizzle. The titanium handle provided a secure grip even when wet, and the CPM-20CV steel showed no signs of corrosion, even after being exposed to moisture for several hours. The thumb stud allowed for quick and easy one-handed opening, a necessity when juggling tasks around the campsite.

I didn’t need much time to get used to it; the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue felt incredibly natural in my hand from the first use. The ergonomics were well-designed, and the blade shape proved versatile for various cutting tasks.

The only minor issue I encountered was the stiffness of the framelock initially. It required a bit more force than I was used to when disengaging the lock, but this improved with use and is typical for titanium framelocks as they break in.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue has held up remarkably well. I’ve carried it daily, using it for everything from opening mail to more demanding tasks like breaking down cardboard boxes and preparing meals. The edge retention of the CPM-20CV steel is truly impressive; it has only required a light stropping to maintain its sharpness.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The stonewash finish on the blade and handle effectively hides scratches and scuffs, and the titanium handle remains solid and free from play. The pocket clip has maintained its tension and shows no signs of bending or loosening.

Maintaining the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue has been incredibly easy. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth after use is usually sufficient to keep it clean. Occasionally, I’ll apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to maintain smooth action.

Compared to my previous knives, the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue significantly outperforms them in terms of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and overall build quality. It has become an indispensable part of my EDC setup, and I have complete confidence in its reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue

Specifications

  • Blade Length: 3 inches (7.62cm). This length offers a good balance between utility and portability, making it suitable for everyday carry.
  • Closed Length: 4 inches (10.16cm). The compact closed length makes it easy to carry in a pocket without being too bulky.
  • Blade Material: CPM-20CV Stainless Steel. CPM-20CV is a high-chromium, high-vanadium stainless steel known for its exceptional edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for demanding cutting tasks.
  • Handle Material: Blue Stonewash Finish Titanium. Titanium is lightweight, strong, and corrosion-resistant, providing a durable and comfortable grip.
  • Weight: 0.56 lb (approximately 9 ounces). This weight is substantial enough to feel solid in hand without being too heavy to carry comfortably.
  • Locking Mechanism: Framelock. A framelock provides a secure and reliable blade lockup, ensuring safety during use.
  • Pocket Clip: Yes. The pocket clip allows for convenient and secure carry in a pocket or on a belt.

These specifications translate to a knife that is both highly functional and durable. The premium materials and thoughtful design ensure that the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue can withstand the rigors of daily use while maintaining its performance and aesthetic appeal.

Performance & Functionality

The We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue excels in its primary function: cutting. The CPM-20CV blade is incredibly sharp and holds its edge for an extended period. Its slicing ability is excellent, making it suitable for various tasks, from opening packages to preparing food.

The knife’s action is smooth and consistent, thanks to the well-tuned pivot point. The thumb stud provides easy and reliable one-handed opening, even with gloves. The framelock engages securely, providing a confident lockup with no blade play.

A minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the framelock, which requires some break-in to become smoother. However, this is a common characteristic of titanium framelocks and is not a significant drawback.

Overall, the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue meets and exceeds expectations for a high-end EDC knife. Its performance is reliable, consistent, and satisfying.

Design & Ergonomics

The We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue is a beautifully designed knife. The blue stonewash finish on the titanium handle is visually appealing and provides a comfortable, secure grip. The blade shape is versatile and functional, suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.

The knife feels well-balanced in hand, with a comfortable weight distribution. The pocket clip is positioned for deep carry, keeping the knife discreet and secure in a pocket.

There is a minimal learning curve; the knife is intuitive to use and feels natural in hand from the first use. The thumb stud is easily accessible, and the framelock is simple to operate once broken in.

Durability & Maintenance

The We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue is built to last. The CPM-20CV blade and titanium handle are highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The framelock mechanism is robust and reliable, providing a secure lockup for the life of the knife.

Maintaining the knife is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are sufficient to keep it in good working order. The CPM-20CV blade is relatively easy to sharpen with the proper tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue comes with a black nylon zippered storage case for protection during storage or transport.

While there are no readily available aftermarket scales or other significant customization options specifically designed for the High-Fin, the standard pivot size and construction mean that some generic hardware upgrades might be possible, though not officially supported by We Knife Co Ltd.

The knife is compatible with most standard pocket clips if you prefer a different style.

Pros and Cons of We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue

Pros

  • Exceptional Edge Retention: The CPM-20CV blade holds an edge for an incredibly long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
  • Superior Corrosion Resistance: The CPM-20CV blade and titanium handle are highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for use in humid or wet environments.
  • Lightweight and Durable Titanium Handle: The titanium handle is strong, lightweight, and comfortable to grip.
  • Smooth and Reliable Action: The knife opens smoothly and locks up securely, thanks to the well-tuned pivot point and framelock mechanism.
  • Visually Appealing Design: The blue stonewash finish and sleek design make the knife aesthetically pleasing.

Cons

  • Stiff Framelock: The framelock can be stiff initially, requiring some break-in period.
  • Price: At $246.50, the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue is relatively expensive compared to other EDC knives.


Who Should Buy We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue?

The We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue is perfect for EDC enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone who appreciates a high-quality, reliable knife. Its exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance make it ideal for those who frequently use their knife in demanding conditions.

Those on a tight budget or who prefer a less expensive EDC knife should skip this product. The price may be prohibitive for casual users who don’t need the premium features and materials.

A sharpening system designed for CPM-20CV steel would be a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge over time.

Conclusion on We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue

The We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue is an exceptional EDC knife that combines premium materials, thoughtful design, and reliable performance. Its CPM-20CV blade offers outstanding edge retention and corrosion resistance, while its titanium handle provides a comfortable and durable grip. While the price may be a barrier for some, the value proposition is justified by the knife’s overall quality and performance.

I would personally recommend the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue to anyone looking for a high-end EDC knife that can withstand the rigors of daily use. It’s an investment that will pay off in years of reliable service and satisfaction. If you’re looking for a knife that is both beautiful and functional, the We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue is an excellent choice. Invest in quality, invest in We Knife Co Ltd High-Fin Framelock Blue.

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