Buck Knives Sprint Ops Folding Knife Review

Here’s What You’ll Love (or Not) About the Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife

The Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife enters a crowded market of tactical and EDC knives, promising premium materials and performance in a compact package. From the trusted Buck Knives brand, this knife aims to deliver exceptional cutting ability and rugged durability. Its features like the CPM S30V steel blade and Micarta handle piqued my interest and begged for closer inspection.

I was looking for a knife that could stand up to daily use and occasional hard tasks without losing its edge or breaking down. Durability and edge retention were paramount. Many knives boast similar features, but the Buck Knives reputation for quality and the specific choice of S30V steel made this stand out from the crowd.

Unboxing the Sprint Ops, the first thing I noticed was its solid feel and clean design. The black Cerakote finish on the blade looked fantastic, and the Micarta handle felt grippy and comfortable in hand. The knife’s weight felt just right, suggesting quality materials without being overly bulky.

Compared to my usual EDC knife, a Benchmade Griptilian, and a Kershaw Blur I often use for tougher tasks, the Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife felt like a step up in terms of material quality. The Benchmade is a workhorse, while the Kershaw offers assisted opening, but neither have the premium steel or aesthetic appeal of the Buck. I chose this knife hoping to get a blend of everyday carry comfort and heavy-duty performance that the other two couldn’t quite match.

Initial impressions were positive; I was excited by the design and materials. I hoped its performance would live up to its appearance. This knife felt ready to tackle serious work.

Real-World Testing: Putting Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was a week-long camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I used the Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife for everything from food preparation to cutting rope and notching branches for shelter building. The knife performed admirably, maintaining a sharp edge throughout various tasks.

Even in damp conditions, the Micarta handle provided a secure grip. The blade shape proved very versatile. I found it easy to control and accurate in its cuts.

The ease of use was impressive. It deployed smoothly and locked up tightly without any play. I had no issues with the pocket clip, which kept the knife securely in place.

The only surprise was how easily the black Cerakote finish seemed to scratch. While it didn’t affect performance, it was a bit disappointing aesthetically.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable tool. I’ve used it regularly for opening packages, cutting cardboard, and various tasks around the house and yard. Its performance remains consistent.

Despite the initial scratching of the Cerakote, the knife has held up well overall. The blade remains sharp, and the lock is still solid. The Micarta handle shows no signs of wear.

Maintenance has been simple. I occasionally wipe down the blade with a lightly oiled cloth and clean out any debris from the pivot area. The S30V steel resists corrosion well, even with minimal care.

Compared to other folding knives I’ve owned, the Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife definitely outperforms in edge retention. It rivals some of my fixed-blade knives in terms of cutting ability. It has exceeded my expectations for an EDC folder.

Breaking Down the Features of Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife features a blade made from CPM S30V stainless steel. This steel is known for its excellent edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.
• It has a black Cerakote finish that provides added protection and a non-reflective surface. Cerakote is a ceramic-based finish known for its durability.
• The handle is made from black canvas Micarta, offering a secure and comfortable grip. Micarta is a durable composite material made from layers of fabric soaked in resin.
• The knife has a closed length of 108 mm (approximately 4.25 inches). This compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
• Additional features include an extended tang for added strength and control, a lanyard hole for convenient carry options, and a pocket clip for secure attachment. These features enhance the knife’s usability and versatility.
• The blade has a reverse tanto shape, known for its strength and piercing ability. This blade shape is a popular choice for tactical knives.
• The manufacturer is Buck Knives, a well-respected name in the knife industry known for producing quality blades for over a century. This is a testament to its legacy of quality and innovation.

These specifications matter because they combine to create a knife that is both durable and functional. The premium steel ensures long-lasting sharpness, while the Micarta handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The additional features, such as the extended tang and pocket clip, add to the knife’s overall usability and value.

Performance & Functionality

The Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife performs exceptionally well in a variety of tasks. Its sharp blade and comfortable handle make it a pleasure to use.

The CPM S30V steel holds an edge for an impressively long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening. The reverse tanto blade provides excellent piercing and slicing capabilities.

The knife’s strengths lie in its edge retention, comfortable grip, and solid lockup. The Cerakote finish, while aesthetically pleasing, is prone to scratching and is a minor weakness. Overall, this knife meets and even exceeds expectations for a high-quality EDC folder.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife is excellent. The materials used are top-notch.

The knife feels solid and well-balanced in hand. The Micarta handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The Sprint Ops is user-friendly and requires no learning curve. It opens smoothly and locks securely.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife should last for many years. The CPM S30V steel is highly resistant to wear and corrosion.

Maintaining the knife is relatively easy. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the blade and pivot area are sufficient to keep it in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife comes standard with a pocket clip. This is a welcome addition.

Aftermarket customization options are limited, but replacement pocket clips and lanyards can be easily added. The knife is compatible with most standard-size lanyards.

Pros and Cons of Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife?

The Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife is perfect for EDC enthusiasts, tactical users, and anyone who values a high-quality, durable folding knife. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a reliable tool for everyday tasks, outdoor adventures, or self-defense.

Someone who is looking for a budget-friendly option should skip this product. The price point may be too high for some users.

Must-have accessories include a quality knife sharpener to maintain the blade’s edge and a lanyard for added carry options. A small bottle of knife oil is also recommended for regular maintenance.

Conclusion on Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife

Overall, the Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife is an excellent knife that delivers on its promise of quality, durability, and performance. Despite the minor issue with the Cerakote finish, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

The price is justified by the use of premium materials and the knife’s exceptional performance. The CPM S30V steel and Micarta handle make this a knife that is built to last.

I would personally recommend the Buck Knives Sprint Ops CPM S30V Folding Knife to anyone looking for a high-quality EDC or tactical folder. It’s a reliable tool that will serve you well for years to come. Invest in the Sprint Ops and experience the difference a truly well-made knife can make.