First Impressions of WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set
The WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set immediately struck me as a budget-friendly option for those curious about the art of knife throwing. WithArmour isn’t a name synonymous with high-end tactical gear, but they often deliver functional products at accessible prices. This set includes three 8.5″ knives with tanto blades, a nylon sheath, and a promise of balanced throwing performance. Having spent years throwing everything from axes to modified railroad spikes, I was eager to see if this relatively inexpensive set could stand up to the rigors of regular use, or if it would fall flat of the target.
I needed a set of knives for introducing friends to the hobby without risking my more expensive, competition-grade throwers. This set seemed to fit the bill, offering a relatively safe and affordable way to learn the basics.
Upon unboxing, the knives felt surprisingly solid for their price point. The black coating was evenly applied, and the one-piece construction seemed sturdy. They felt well-balanced in hand, though the edges were definitely not sharp enough for cutting tasks, clearly prioritizing throwing safety over utility. Compared to my Cold Steel throwers, the WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set felt lighter and less aggressive, but also less intimidating for beginners. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic: a decent entry-level set with potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set in my backyard, against a seasoned pine round target. The weather was dry, which offered good grip on the knife handles. The knives were easy to grip and release, even for someone with no experience throwing knives.
The learning curve was minimal; even novices were sticking the target within a few throws. However, the lightweight nature of the knives meant that wind significantly affected their trajectory. After a few hours of throwing, one of the black coatings started to chip near the tip where it frequently hit the target.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a month of use, primarily by beginners, the WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set showed moderate wear and tear. The black coating continued to chip with each session. The tips were also beginning to blunt and slightly bend from repeated impacts.
Maintenance was simple: wiping the blades clean after each use prevented any rust or corrosion. Compared to my heavier, more durable throwing knives, the WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set definitely required more frequent adjustments to throwing technique to compensate for their lighter weight and the wear to the tips. While they didn’t outperform my expectations for a budget set, they were also not too disappointing, serving their intended purpose of getting people into the sport.
Breaking Down the Features of WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set
Specifications
The WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set features an 8.5-inch overall length, with a 4.5-inch tanto blade. The knives are constructed from 440 stainless steel, feature a black coating, and have a lanyard hole. The entire set weighs in at 0.94 lbs.
These specifications are important because they dictate the knife’s balance, durability, and ease of handling. The tanto blade, while visually appealing, doesn’t offer any practical benefit for throwing, and could potentially make it more prone to bending at the tip. The lanyard hole can be used to add a weight, or for hanging the knives for storage.
Performance & Functionality
The WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set performs adequately for its intended use as an entry-level set. The knives stick into the target reasonably well when thrown with proper technique. Their lightweight nature, however, makes them less forgiving of errors, and more susceptible to wind.
The knives’ strength lies in their simplicity and ease of use, but the lack of sharpness is a major drawback, limiting them to solely throwing purposes. The knives meet, but do not exceed, the expectations for a budget throwing set.
Design & Ergonomics
The WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set features a one-piece construction, which contributes to its overall sturdiness. The handle is comfortable enough for extended use. The balance is slightly blade-heavy, which aids in rotation during the throw.
The knives are user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment to grip or throwing style. However, the black coating provides minimal grip, especially when wet.
Durability & Maintenance
The WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set, being made of 440 stainless steel, should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care, but is prone to chipping and bending under extended use. Simple maintenance involves wiping the blades clean after each use and occasionally applying a light coat of oil. More extensive repairs, like re-sharpening or straightening bent tips, are not practical given the price point of the set.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set comes with a basic black nylon belt sheath. There are no customization options or additional accessories included with the set. The knives could potentially be modified with paracord wraps to improve grip, but significant alterations are unlikely. The sheath is functional but lacks any standout features.
Pros and Cons of WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for beginners.
- One-piece stainless steel construction provides reasonable durability.
- Balanced weight for ease of throwing.
- Easy to learn with, even for novices.
- Included sheath for convenient storage and carry.
Cons
- Black coating is prone to chipping and wear.
- 440 stainless steel is less durable than higher-end steel alloys.
- Not suitable for cutting, only throwing.
Who Should Buy WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set?
The WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set is perfect for:
- Beginners who are new to knife throwing.
- Those looking for an inexpensive entry point into the hobby.
- People who want a safe and easy-to-use set for casual backyard throwing.
Who should skip this product?
- Experienced throwers who demand high performance and durability.
- Individuals seeking a multi-purpose knife for cutting and throwing.
- Those who require a set that can withstand heavy use and abuse.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A high-quality sharpening stone for maintaining blade tips.
- Paracord wraps for improved grip on the handles.
- A sturdier target made from seasoned wood.
Conclusion on WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set
The WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set provides an affordable and accessible entry point for those interested in learning the art of knife throwing. While it lacks the premium materials and refined performance of higher-end sets, it delivers adequate functionality for casual use.
The price is definitely justified for what you get: a set of three knives and a sheath that will get you started. I would personally recommend this set to beginners or anyone looking for a budget-friendly option for recreational throwing.
If you’re curious about knife throwing and want to try it out without breaking the bank, the WithArmour Aces Throwing Knife Set is a solid choice. Grab a set, find a safe target, and start sticking those knives!