Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Knife Review

Let Me Walk You Through the Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife

The Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife is a compact and versatile tool designed for everyday carry and various outdoor tasks. Manufactured by Artisan Cutlery, this knife features a durable blade, a secure linerlock mechanism, and a comfortable handle. It aims to be a reliable companion for anyone needing a quick and easy cutting solution.

I was looking for a lightweight, easy-to-carry knife that wouldn’t weigh me down on hikes, yet could handle basic camp chores. I needed something more substantial than a keychain knife but less bulky than a full-sized fixed blade. The Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife seemed to strike that balance perfectly.

Unboxing the Consair, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design and lightweight feel. The knife felt solid in my hand, and the blade opened smoothly with a satisfying click. The overall build quality appeared to be excellent, with no visible flaws or imperfections.

I considered a few other similar knives before settling on the Consair. I looked at a CRKT Pilar, which is known for its robust design, and a Kershaw Leek, praised for its slim profile. Ultimately, I chose the Consair because its combination of size, blade shape, and price point seemed ideal for my needs.

My first impression was positive. I was excited to test its performance in the field. It felt like a well-made, practical tool that would quickly become an essential part of my everyday carry.

Real-World Testing: Putting Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife came during a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. I used it primarily for food preparation, cutting rope for shelter building, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The knife performed admirably in all these tasks.

The weather was damp, with occasional light rain. Even with wet hands, the Consair’s handle provided a secure and comfortable grip. The blade remained sharp, even after repeated use on various materials.

The Consair was incredibly easy to use straight out of the box. The linerlock mechanism was smooth and reliable, allowing for quick and safe blade deployment and closure. No learning curve was required; it felt intuitive from the start.

After my first camping trip, I noticed a slight bit of play in the blade when fully extended. This concerned me at first, but after tightening the pivot screw, it disappeared. Otherwise, the initial use was flawless.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages and cutting zip ties to more demanding tasks like processing small game during a hunting trip.

The Consair’s durability has been impressive. Despite being subjected to regular use and occasional minor abuse, the blade has retained its edge and the handle shows minimal signs of wear.

Maintaining the Consair is straightforward. I typically clean the blade with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. The linerlock mechanism remains smooth and reliable with minimal maintenance.

Compared to my previous everyday carry knife, a Gerber Paraframe, the Consair is a significant upgrade. The Consair’s superior blade steel and more robust construction make it a more reliable and versatile tool. It definitely outperforms my expectations for a knife in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife

Specifications

The Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife boasts several notable specifications:

• Blade Length: 2.88 inches. This compact blade length makes it ideal for everyday carry while still providing sufficient cutting power for most tasks.
• Closed Length: 4.5 inches. Its slim profile when closed allows for comfortable carry in a pocket or on a belt.
• Linerlock Mechanism: Provides secure and reliable blade lockup.
• Extended Tang: Offers added safety and control during use.
• Finger Ring: Enhances grip and stability.
• Pocket Clip: Allows for convenient and secure carry.

These specifications are crucial for the knife’s overall performance. The compact size and lightweight design make it comfortable to carry all day. The linerlock ensures the blade stays securely in place during use. The extended tang and finger ring provide added safety and control, reducing the risk of accidental cuts.

Performance & Functionality

The Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife excels at its primary function: providing a reliable and versatile cutting tool. Its sharpness out of the box is impressive, and it holds an edge well through moderate use.

The Consair’s strengths lie in its compact size, comfortable grip, and ease of use. It’s perfect for everyday tasks and light outdoor chores. The one notable weakness I found was the factory sharpness could have been better.

The Consair meets my expectations for a knife in its price range and even exceeds them in some areas. Its solid construction and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment.

Design & Ergonomics

The Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife features a well-thought-out design and comfortable ergonomics. The materials used feel durable and provide a secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The build quality is excellent for its price. The knife feels solid and well-constructed. Its weight is balanced, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. There is no significant learning curve associated with this knife. It is user-friendly and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife should last for years. The blade steel is resistant to corrosion, and the handle material is durable enough to withstand regular use and exposure to the elements.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the pivot point are all that’s needed to keep the Consair in top condition. No specialized tools or skills are required for maintenance or minor repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip for convenient carry. It also ships boxed.

While there aren’t many specific accessories designed exclusively for the Consair, its standard dimensions make it compatible with many aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards. You can easily customize its carry options to suit your preferences.

Pros and Cons of Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife?

The Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife is perfect for:

• Everyday Carry (EDC) Enthusiasts: Its compact size and versatile blade make it an ideal EDC knife.
• Hikers and Campers: A reliable cutting tool for food preparation, rope cutting, and other camp chores.
• Outdoor Adventurers: A lightweight and durable knife for various outdoor activities.

This knife is probably not for someone who needs a heavy-duty knife for extreme survival situations. Also, anyone requiring a large blade for processing big game or heavy wood should skip this product.

A must-have accessory for this knife is a sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife

In summary, the Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife is a well-designed, reliable, and affordable everyday carry knife. Its compact size, comfortable grip, and versatile blade make it an excellent choice for a wide range of users.

The price of $59.24 is justified by its quality construction and solid performance. The Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife offers excellent value for the money.

I would definitely recommend the Artisan Cutlery Consair Linerlock Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable and versatile everyday carry knife. Buy the Consair today.