USMC M-A1059 Spring Assisted Knife Review

The Real Deal Behind the USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife

The USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife is a budget-friendly option from the United States Marine Corps line of knives, offering a blend of tactical styling and practical utility. This spring-assisted knife features a 3.75-inch drop point blade, an aluminum handle, and a pocket clip, making it a candidate for everyday carry. Let’s dive into whether this knife lives up to the legacy of the USMC.

My search for a reliable yet inexpensive EDC (Every Day Carry) knife led me to the USMC M-A1059. I needed something that could handle basic cutting tasks and serve as a backup tool in outdoor situations without breaking the bank.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly lightweight, thanks to its aluminum handle. The black finish on both the blade and handle gives it a tactical look, though the overall build felt less robust than some of my higher-end knives. My initial thought was that the spring assist was smooth and quick, but the blade had some noticeable play.

I considered knives from Kershaw and CRKT in the same price range, but the USMC branding and the spring-assisted opening swayed me. The USMC M-A1059 offered a similar feature set at a comparable price point, and I was curious to see how it would perform.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While the materials didn’t scream “high-end,” the spring assist was snappy, and the blade arrived reasonably sharp. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could handle the demands of daily use.

Real-World Testing: Putting USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the USMC M-A1059 during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. The weather was dry, but the terrain was varied, offering opportunities to use the knife for different tasks. I used it for food prep, cutting rope, and even some light wood carving.

The knife performed adequately for basic tasks. The spring assist made one-handed opening easy, but the blade felt a little wobbly when applying pressure. The aluminum handle provided a decent grip, but it could become slippery when wet.

After the first use, I noticed the black coating on the blade started to show some wear around the edges. The blade also required some minor tightening to reduce the amount of play. Overall, the initial experience was acceptable for a budget knife, but it wasn’t without its shortcomings.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily use, the USMC M-A1059 has proven to be a decent, but not outstanding, EDC knife. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to cutting zip ties and small cardboard boxes.

The durability of the knife is questionable. The black coating on the blade has continued to wear off, and the aluminum handle has picked up some scratches. The blade also requires frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge.

Maintenance is relatively simple; a quick wipe down with a cloth and occasional application of oil to the pivot point keeps it functioning. Compared to my Benchmade or Spyderco knives, the USMC M-A1059 falls short in terms of overall quality and durability. However, considering the price point, it’s performing as expected, albeit with some compromises.

Breaking Down the Features of USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.75 inches. This is a practical size for EDC, allowing for a variety of cutting tasks without being too bulky.
• Blade Material: 3Cr13 stainless steel. This is a budget-friendly steel known for its corrosion resistance, but it doesn’t hold an edge as well as higher-end steels.
• Serrated: Plain. The plain edge allows for cleaner cuts and easier sharpening compared to serrated blades.
• Overall Length: 8.75 inches. This provides a comfortable grip while still being compact enough for pocket carry.
• Handle Material: Aluminum. Aluminum keeps the knife lightweight, but it’s not as durable as materials like G10 or Micarta.
• Handle Length: 5 inches. Provides enough space for a full grip for most hand sizes.
• Handle Finish: Anodized. Anodizing adds a layer of protection to the aluminum and gives it a sleek look.
• Blade Finish: Black. The black finish gives the knife a tactical aesthetic, but it’s prone to scratching and wear.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point. The drop point blade is versatile and suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.
• Opening Method: Spring Assisted. This allows for quick and easy one-handed opening.
• Additional Features: Clip. The pocket clip allows for convenient and secure carry.
• Color: Black. The all-black color scheme gives it a tactical and discreet appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. It’s sharp enough out of the box to handle everyday chores like opening boxes, cutting rope, and preparing food.

However, the knife has noticeable weaknesses. The 3Cr13 steel requires frequent sharpening, and the blade has some play, which affects precision. For the price, it meets expectations, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for a budget knife. The aluminum handle is lightweight and comfortable to hold, although it can be slippery when wet.

The design is user-friendly, with a spring-assisted opening that works reliably. There’s a minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The USMC M-A1059‘s long-term durability is questionable. The black coating on the blade wears off easily, and the aluminum handle is prone to scratches.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling. However, the low-quality steel means it needs frequent sharpening.

Accessories and Customization Options

The knife comes with a standard pocket clip, but there are limited customization options. There are no readily available aftermarket scales or blade upgrades.

It’s unlikely that accessories from other brands will be directly compatible without modification. This knife is designed to be functional as-is, rather than highly customizable.

Pros and Cons of USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife

Who Should Buy USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife?

The USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife is perfect for individuals seeking an inexpensive and functional EDC knife. It’s suitable for casual campers, handymen, or anyone needing a basic cutting tool for everyday tasks.

This product should be skipped by those looking for high-performance, durable knives for demanding tasks or professional use. It’s also not ideal for collectors or knife enthusiasts seeking premium materials and craftsmanship.

A must-have accessory would be a good quality knife sharpener to maintain the edge of the 3Cr13 steel blade.

Conclusion on USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife

The USMC M-A1059 3.75in Spring Assisted Knife is a budget-friendly option that provides adequate performance for basic cutting tasks. While it doesn’t boast premium materials or exceptional durability, it offers a functional design and the convenience of spring-assisted opening at an affordable price.

The price is justified for those seeking an entry-level EDC knife. However, buyers should be aware of the limitations in terms of steel quality and overall robustness.

I would recommend it to someone who needs a cheap, readily available knife and isn’t expecting it to last forever. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-frills EDC knife without breaking the bank, the USMC M-A1059 might be worth considering.