Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

First Impressions of Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is not just a knife; it’s a statement. The tiger-stripe blade immediately sets it apart, hinting at a blend of ruggedness and refined engineering. Zero Tolerance has a reputation for building knives that can withstand serious abuse, and the 0350TS appears to uphold that tradition with its robust construction and high-quality materials.

I needed a reliable EDC (Everyday Carry) knife that could handle both mundane tasks and unexpected challenges. A knife that I can rely on is important. The ZT 0350TS promised a durable blade, a secure grip, and easy one-handed operation – all crucial features for my needs.

Out of the box, the knife feels solid and well-balanced. The textured G-10 scales provide an excellent grip, and the blade deploys smoothly and quickly thanks to the SpeedSafe assisted opening system. It is a reassuring heft without feeling cumbersome.

I considered the Benchmade Griptilian and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2. The Griptilian felt a bit too lightweight for heavier tasks, and the Paramilitary 2, while excellent, lacked the aggressive look and assisted opening that I desired. The Zero Tolerance 0350TS seemed to offer the best balance of durability, functionality, and tactical appeal.

My first impression was one of excitement. The knife felt like a serious tool, ready for anything I might throw at it. The tiger-stripe blade is a bit flashy, but it’s a welcome change from the usual plain steel.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Zero Tolerance 0350TS on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The knife was used for everything from food preparation and opening packages to cutting rope and whittling kindling. It performed admirably in all tasks.

The weather was damp, and the conditions were muddy. The textured G-10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet, and the blade’s DLC coating seemed to resist corrosion effectively. The SpeedSafe assist made one-handed opening easy even with gloves on.

The assisted opening took a little getting used to. At first, I was hesitant to apply enough pressure to the flipper. After a few minutes of practice, the action became smooth and intuitive.

I had a minor issue with the liner lock sticking slightly after some heavy use. A quick cleaning and lubrication resolved the issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Zero Tolerance 0350TS has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I have used it for various tasks, including yard work, opening boxes, and even some light prying. The knife still performs like new.

The S30V steel blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups. The DLC coating shows minimal signs of wear, even after being subjected to some fairly rough treatment. I have noticed that the pocket clip can loosen a bit over time and requires occasional tightening.

Maintaining the ZT 0350TS is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point is all it takes to keep it in top condition. The knife has exceeded my expectations. It is more durable and reliable than my previous EDC knife.

Breaking Down the Features of Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Specifications

• The Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife features a 3.25-inch blade made from CPM S30V stainless steel. This steel is known for its excellent balance of toughness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.
• The closed length of the knife is 4.6 inches, and the overall length when open is 7.6 inches. Its weight is 6.2 ounces, which makes it substantial without being overly heavy.
• The handle is made from textured black G-10, which provides a secure and comfortable grip. G-10 is a fiberglass laminate known for its strength, durability, and resistance to moisture and chemicals.
• The blade features a recurve, drop point shape. This blade shape is versatile and well-suited for a wide range of cutting tasks.
• The blade thickness is 0.307 cm, which contributes to the knife’s overall strength and durability. The ZT 0350TS uses a liner lock mechanism, known for its reliability and ease of use.
• The knife utilizes SpeedSafe assisted opening for rapid and easy blade deployment with either hand. Its pocket clip is quad-mountable, offering tip-up or tip-down carry on either the left or right side.
• The blade finish is a Tungsten DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) tiger-stripe coating. DLC coatings provide enhanced hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance, while the tiger-stripe pattern adds a unique aesthetic.
• The knife is designed by Ken Onion, a renowned knife designer known for his innovative designs and collaborations with Zero Tolerance. The knife also has a pre-drilled lanyard hole for added carry options.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the knife’s performance and usability. The S30V steel ensures a long-lasting edge. The G-10 handle provides a secure grip, and the assisted opening allows for quick and easy blade deployment.

Performance & Functionality

The Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife performs exceptionally well in a variety of tasks. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well, making it suitable for everything from slicing to heavy-duty cutting. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is reliable and fast.

The knife’s strengths lie in its durability, secure grip, and ease of use. The only weakness I have identified is the pocket clip, which can loosen over time and requires occasional tightening. Overall, it exceeds my expectations. It is one of the best EDC knives I have ever used.

Design & Ergonomics

The Zero Tolerance 0350TS features a robust and functional design. The materials used are high-quality, and the construction is solid. The knife feels comfortable in hand.

The knife is reasonably user-friendly, although the assisted opening mechanism may take a little getting used to. However, the overall design is intuitive and easy to operate. Its ergonomic handle design inspires confidence.

Durability & Maintenance

The Zero Tolerance 0350TS is built to last. The high-quality materials and solid construction ensure that it can withstand years of use. With proper care, this knife should last a lifetime.

Maintaining the knife is relatively easy. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to keep it in top condition. No specialized tools are required for basic maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Zero Tolerance 0350TS comes with a quad-mountable pocket clip. This clip provides versatile carry options.

There are not many factory customization options available for this particular model. However, the knife is compatible with many aftermarket accessories, such as lanyards and replacement pocket clips. This allows users to personalize the knife to their liking.

Pros and Cons of Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?

The Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and durable EDC knife. This includes: law enforcement, military personnel, first responders, and avid outdoorsmen. It is also a great choice for anyone who appreciates a well-built, high-performance knife.

This knife may not be ideal for those who prefer a smaller or lighter EDC option, or those who are not comfortable with assisted opening mechanisms. Those looking for a more traditional, non-tactical aesthetic might also want to consider other options.

A must-have accessory for this knife is a high-quality knife sharpener to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is an outstanding EDC knife that offers exceptional durability, performance, and value. Its high-quality materials, robust construction, and reliable SpeedSafe assisted opening make it a top choice for anyone who demands the best from their gear. The Zero Tolerance 0350TS Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is worth the price.

I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone in the market for a tough, dependable, and aesthetically pleasing folding knife. If you want a knife that can handle whatever you throw at it, look no further than the Zero Tolerance 0350TS.