I have used the same pocket knife since I was 11 years old, when my grandfather gave me a little 2-inch number for my birthday.
I have never had the occasion to upgrade and I’ve never needed to downsize, obviously. Its short, lightweight dependability has helped cut more fishing line, pulled more splinters, and engaged in every little triviality that occasions a light-grade knife well for year after year.
Although I was a pretty happy camper, there was an appeal to expanding my collection of knives to include something in between “tiny” and “6-inch-belt blade” in terms of aesthetic, and what’s more, I have bear paws for hands. A knife with a little more bulk seemed like a smart way to go.
Then I went to Smoky Mountain Knife Works and thought — hey, what the hell?
For those of you who haven’t gone to Smoky Mountain Knife Works — go. It’s incredible. The “World’s largest knife showplace”, as the website describes itself, is almost exhausting to go through with their selection of knives from the kitchen to movie reproduction models.
It took me a while that stuck out to me enough for me to pull the trigger, but once I go there I was extremely satisfied.
Introducing the SZCO Lockback With Genuine Stag Handles and Damascus Steel 3.25″ Clip Point Plain Edge Blade, as the incredibly long Smoky Mountain Knife Works title reads.
The appeal of the knife on its face is apparent — it’s gorgeous. I’m a sucker for anything with antler or some storied wood (my wedding band is made out of wood from the USS North Carolina) and if you add that to a Damascus blade, you’ve got a winner. I figured if nothing else it’d make a fun piece to look at, well worth $35.
Right out of the box the blade was not sharp as you might hope, but after a few moments spent sharpening the blade I have had no problems. We’ll see how she keeps her edge as I integrate it into an EDC role. I have heard from various and sundry internet forums discussing the knife that it’s Pakistani make, and therefore should be dubious in terms of reliability — time will tell.
For now, however, I have been very pleased with its performance. At .41 lbs, it sits heavy in the hand, and its handle is just long enough that my ginormous mitts don’t feel as though they’re holding an “Easy Bake” oven accessory.
You can take a list of the full specs below:
Weight
0.4100
Brand
Szco
Blade Length
3.25″
Blade Thickness
.125″
Closed Length
4.25″
Edge Type
Plain
Knife Type
Folding Knives
Handedness
Right-Hand
Lock Type
Lockback
Best Use
Everyday Carry
Blade Style
Clip Point
Handle Color
Stag
Handle Material
Stag
Blade Material
Damascus Steel
We’re only a couple of weeks into trying the knife out, but so far it’s cut everything from little bits of tape to zip ties and 8.4 mm rope — I’ve no complaints.
I will keep the knife’s review updated as developments occur, but so far the knife is comfortable, handy, hefty, and just plain gorgeous — consider adding one to your collection!
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