(
Pros: Blade Material, Blade Sharpness, Ease of Opening, Handle Feel, Handle Material, Lock Ease of Use, Lock Type, Overall Quality, Pocket Clip, Sheath, Weight
Cons: None
Texas toothpick indeed
This is my first Bear OPS knife, but likely not the last. The action is crisp, blade deployment and retraction is lickety-split quick, and handling very nimble and balanced. Although the handle is long, it's still surprising when the loooong blade pops out (OK, at 3.4" it's not that long, but considering how narrow the blade is, the sense of length is heightened). As an acknowledged knife wh**e, I rotate EDCs almost as frequently as I pick my nose, but this beauty might just earn a regular spot. Beside the solid action, it's sharp, and seems to hold that edge well (time will tell). Of note, the blade is "off center" relative to the width of the handle, being offset about 1/3 to the right (2/3 handle width to the left). The clip is sturdy, but mounts only to the right side. There is absoluetly no rattle while extended or retracted. Looks like the lanyard loop doubles as a glass breaker. I will note, if the blade doesn't extend fully (after being blocked from doing so), it is a bit tricky getting it re-engaged; I found manually lowering it 90% of the way, then flicking the blade out to be the most reliable way of re-engaging the blade to its mechanism. Overall, for under $200 it holds its own against other OTF knives costing up to $100 more; I'm not going to do away with my Microtechs, but this Bear OPS gets the job doone in a very stylish way. It's a winner.