Pros: Weight, Pocket Clip, Blade Material, Overall Quality
Cons: Lock Ease of Use, Lock Type
Great design, handling needs getting used to
As an avid knife collector I have always been fascinated by the design of the Decepticon series of folders, and this purchase was for the purpose of collection and less for utility, although I am sure it would make a good EDC for anyone who feels inclined to do so. The knife arrived in mint condition, in a soft carry pouch, and comes with a certificate of authenticity. It is one of the smoothest flippers I own, and despite its looks the handle does not bite excessively. The knife is larger than would be expected for most folders, and is comparable in size to the smaller fixed blades I own, but the slim profile and startlingly light weight makes it easier to carry. There is zero blade play, although the amount of surface area on which the tang contacts the liner is rather small and suspect for security issues (I have not had any thus far). It comes with an adequate factory edge, and the full flat grind optimizes it for slicing tasks. The pocket clip is neither too loose nor stiff, and it slides easily over my pocket but does the job in keeping my knife in place. It isn't deep carry, which leaves a good amount of handle accessible for the draw, but does not stick out high enough to be conspicuous. The thumb hole is mostly decorative; I tried and could not find a way to use it for opening the knife, although more skilled users may differ. The only thing I could possibly ding it for is the design and angle of the flipper, which while reducing and smoothening the profile of the knife when closed, provides less leverage than I would have preferred. However, the gimping on the flipper itself prevents my finger from slipping, and the knife has a very stiff detent which requires a substantial amount of force to overcome. Because of it, I have never failed to fully open the knife using the flipper. It can also be deployed using the wrist flip method (I've tried), although it requires good technique and more force than usual due to the detent. Another possible design issue is the sharp edge on the liner, which may hurt the thumb when it is pushed to unlock the blade. Once the liner is out of the way, the smoothness of the pivot allows the blade to drop free, and care should be taken to avoid being cut with the falling blade. As a nice touch, the liner has a replaceable steel lock bar inserts that prevents the blade steel from wearing down the softer titanium liner. Last thing of note is of Knifecenter's excellent service. I ran into issues with my bank and card when placing my order, and they remained in contact with me while I resolved the issue. I settled it over the weekend, and by the next working day they had resolved payment and shipped the knife out with tracking. They were courteous and efficient throughout the process. Will gladly do business with you guys again.
(
