Reviews and Ratings for HTM Knives Darrel Ralph DDR AXD 5.5 Assisted Folder 5-1/2" Stonewashed S35VN Blade, Titanium Handles

HTM Knives Darrel Ralph DDR AXD 5.5 Assisted Folder 5-1/2" Stonewashed S35VN Blade, Titanium Handlesrated 4.333 stars out of 5 (3 reviews)
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HTM Knives Darrel Ralph DDR AXD 5.5 Assisted Folder 5-1/2 inch Stonewashed S35VN Blade, Titanium Handles

 

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HTM Knives Darrel Ralph DDR AXD 5.5 Assisted Folder 5-1/2" Stonewashed S35VN Blade, Titanium Handles
rated 5 stars out of 5
Roger C.
Durango, CO
Nov 09, 2014
Pros: None
Cons: None

Update on October 2012 Review

It's been two years since I bought this knife, and I thought it would be worthwhile updating my original review. In a nutshell after two years of moderate use, there is nothing I would change from my original review. The assist release has remained tight, in fact on the border of being too tight. It loosened up slightly from new but there is nothing like the erratic release that others have reported on this knife and its variant finishes. I have complete confidence that the knife will not release in my pocket and put me in jeopardy of a severed femoral artery. The blade closes dead center in the handle with the point recessed about 1/8" below the edge of the handle. It has not moved with use. The edge holds very well as it should, and I am able to refresh it with my SpyderCo triangle sharpener figuring the blade angle at 17 degrees. I have not yet needed to send it back to HTM for free sharpening. Other owners have experienced problems which indicate some quality control issues, so buyers of this knife should insist on getting a knife whose quality measures up to mine.
HTM Knives Darrel Ralph DDR AXD 5.5 Assisted Folder 5-1/2" Stonewashed S35VN Blade, Titanium Handles
rated 5 stars out of 5
Roger
Durango, CO
Oct 09, 2012
Pros: Weight, Ease of Opening, Handle Material, Blade Material, Overall Quality, Blade Sharpness
Cons: Pocket Clip

Industrial art as well as a fabulous blade

Out of the box this is a breathtaking piece. It is a simply beautiful expression of industrial art. One expects to see something like this in the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The titanium and stone-washed steel complement each other in color and texture. The scalloped sculpturing attracts the eye and grips the hand. Pick it up and it feels and acts all business. The weight seems lighter than one expects but I guess that is the titanium. Throw the blade open and it locks with a loud positive almost hollow "clack;" the sight and sound make for intimidation. The edge is what you expect -- if S35VN lives up to its specs, it will be a workhorse. I expect to return it for sharpening when the time comes. My Sharpmaker might be up for the job, but I'll let the pros do it. This guy is expensive but looks and feels like it. My only head scratcher is why the pocket clip makes for carrying tip down. downpoints
HTM Knives Darrel Ralph DDR AXD 5.5 Assisted Folder 5-1/2" Stonewashed S35VN Blade, Titanium Handles
rated 3 stars out of 5
Hkp2000
NorCal
Dec 28, 2013
Pros: Handle Material, Blade Material
Cons: Lock Ease of Use, Pocket Clip

HTM quality is hit or miss

Revised review, I believe the handle is machined Ti. The lockup is 60 to 80%, and sticky. Something I would expect from a Chinese Strider knock off, not from a $400 plus semi-custom knife. When closed, the tip of the blade is only flush with the handle, not hidden inside the handle. The assisted opening is weak, may improve with the break in. This came as unpleasantly surprising because I also have a 3" HTM Maxx folder, and it has none of these issues. Another thing I don't like, the clip is shiny "look I carry a knife" stainless.