TLDR Review: "Smith & Wesson CKTAC Folding Knife"
Pros
- •The blade is very sharp right out of the box with an attractive black finish and Smith & Wesson logo, making it visually appealing.
- •The rubberized ABS handle provides a comfortable, secure grip even when wet or slippery, with a guard nub adding safety and ease of opening.
- •The knife feels surprisingly lightweight for its size, even lighter than many smaller pocket knives, making it great for everyday carry.
- •The locking mechanism uses a springy metal blocking lever, which feels higher quality and more reliable than typical knives in this price range.
- •The builn belt clip is functional and removable, adding versatility for carrying options.
- •The tanto point blade design is easier to sharpen due to its straight edges and performs well for outdoor, survival, and general work tasks.
- •Solid construction with multiple screws securing the handle, contributing to good durability suitable for rough use.
- •Smooth blade alignment and opening/closing action without rough edges on the handle increase user comfort.
- •The knife works well as a practical, generaurpose folding knife for everyday tasks and outdoor use.
Cons
- •The flipper mechanism is ineffective due to a tight blade pivot, making quick onanded opening difficult; users rely on the blade tab instead.
- •The blade edge dulls relatively quickly and requires frequent sharpening, which can be inconvenient if used heavily.
- •A significant design flaw causes the locking mechanism to slip past the blade about 12% of the time, forcing users to reset it with a screwdriver before closing, which is a major safety concern.
- •The lock slippage issue is consistent across multiple units, indicating a fundamental design problem rather than a defect in individual knives.
- •Some units arrive not prharpened, requiring initial sharpening before being ready to use.
Bottom Line
The Smith & Wesson Special Tactical CKTAC folding knife delivers impressive sharpness, a comfortable grip, and solid build quality for its very affordable price point, making it a tempting choice for everyday carry and outdoor tasks. However, the notable locking mechanism flaw that occasionally causes it to slip open is a safety risk you should carefully consider, especially if you need a reliable lock for heavy-duty use. If that concern is a dealbreaker, you might explore other folding knives with more dependable locking mechanisms, but as an inexpensive, sharp, and lightweight knife, this one is a practical option for casual users.
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