Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock Review

One Week with the Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock

The Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock is a compact, budget-friendly folding knife designed for everyday carry. Camillus Knives, a company with a long history, aims to provide reliable tools for various users. With its titanium finish blade and glass-filled nylon handle, it presents itself as a practical option for those seeking a lightweight and affordable blade. I was looking for an EDC knife that wouldn’t break the bank, something I could use for simple tasks without worrying about damaging an expensive blade.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its size and price. The black glass-filled nylon handle provides a decent grip, while the 2.25-inch blade offers a practical cutting length. The liner lock engaged securely, and the thumb stud allowed for relatively easy one-handed opening, though it wasn’t as smooth as some higher-end knives I’ve used. Compared to my SOG Flash AT, which offers assisted opening and a more premium feel, the Bombat Linerlock felt more basic, but also more robust. It also felt less refined compared to a Kershaw Cryo, which boasts a stainless steel handle and a more substantial weight. I chose the Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock primarily for its affordability and the promise of a durable, no-nonsense EDC tool. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; it seemed like a good value for the price, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world situations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Bombat Linerlock was on a weekend camping trip. I primarily used it for food preparation, cutting rope, and opening packages. The 2.25-inch blade was sufficient for slicing vegetables and cheese, although it felt a bit small for heavier tasks like splitting kindling (which I wouldn’t recommend anyway). During a light rain shower, the nylon handle maintained a secure grip, even when wet.

The opening mechanism was a bit stiff at first, requiring some deliberate effort to deploy the blade. After several uses, the action smoothed out slightly. I noticed the titanium finish on the blade started showing some minor scratches after cutting through cardboard, which was a little disappointing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily use, the Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock held up reasonably well. There were no significant signs of blade play or lock failure. The titanium finish continued to show some scratches, but the blade itself remained sharp after light use. The handle still felt solid and secure.

Cleaning was simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth kept it in good condition. Compared to my previous EDC knife, a Gerber Paraframe, the Bombat Linerlock felt sturdier and more reliable. The Gerber had a tendency to loosen up over time, whereas the Camillus maintained its tightness.

Breaking Down the Features of Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock

Specifications

• The Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock features a 2.25-inch blade crafted from 420 stainless steel. This provides a balance of corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening, making it suitable for everyday tasks.
• Its closed length is 3.75 inches, contributing to its compact size for convenient pocket carry. The lightweight design, at only 0.24 lbs, ensures it won’t weigh you down.
• The handle is made from black glass-filled nylon, offering a durable and textured grip. The knife includes an extended tang for added leverage, a lanyard hole for secure attachment, and a pocket clip for easy carry.

These specifications combine to create a lightweight, easily carried knife that’s suitable for basic cutting tasks. The choice of materials reflects the knife’s budget-friendly nature, prioritizing functionality over high-end aesthetics.

Performance & Functionality

The Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock performs adequately for basic EDC tasks. It excels at opening boxes, cutting rope, and preparing small food items. The 420 stainless steel blade holds an edge well enough for these tasks, but it does require occasional sharpening with frequent use.

Its main strength lies in its affordability and portability. The weakness is its blade steel, which is softer than higher-end options. It meets the basic expectations for a budget EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional. The black glass-filled nylon handle offers a decent grip, and the pocket clip allows for convenient carry. There’s a slight learning curve with the liner lock mechanism, but it becomes intuitive with practice.

The build quality is adequate for the price point. The knife feels solid in hand, though the materials lack the premium feel of more expensive knives.

Durability & Maintenance

The Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock is built to withstand moderate use. The 420 stainless steel blade is relatively corrosion-resistant, and the nylon handle is durable. Maintenance is straightforward; keeping the blade clean and lightly oiled is sufficient for most users.

The expected lifespan depends on usage intensity, but with proper care, it should last for several years of everyday tasks. More demanding use may require more frequent maintenance and sharpening.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock comes with a standard pocket clip. There are limited customization options available directly from Camillus. Aftermarket scales might be available, but options are limited due to the knife’s budget-friendly nature.

The lanyard hole provides a point for adding a personal touch, such as a decorative bead or a small paracord lanyard for enhanced grip. No other accessories are officially supported by Camillus.

Pros and Cons of Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock

Who Should Buy Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock?

The Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock is perfect for:

• Casual users seeking an inexpensive EDC knife for basic tasks.
• Budget-conscious individuals who need a reliable tool without breaking the bank.
• Those looking for a lightweight and compact option for everyday carry.

Who should skip this product?

• Users who require a high-performance knife with superior edge retention.
• Individuals who prioritize premium materials and a refined finish.
• Those who need a knife for heavy-duty tasks.

A must-have modification would be a sharpening stone to maintain the blade edge. A small paracord lanyard can also enhance grip and ease of retrieval from the pocket.

Conclusion on Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock

The Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock is a solid choice for anyone seeking an affordable and functional EDC knife. It may not boast premium materials or cutting-edge features, but it offers reliable performance for everyday tasks. The price is definitely justified given the functionality.

I would recommend it to anyone on a tight budget who needs a basic, no-frills knife. It’s a great starting point for those new to EDC knives, and a reliable backup for experienced users. Grab a Camillus Knives Bombat Linerlock and experience its simple, functional design for yourself.