CH Knives Linerlock D2 Folding Knife Review

The Real-Use Review: CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife is a no-frills, utilitarian folder designed for everyday carry and light to medium-duty tasks. It boasts a D2 tool steel blade, G10 handle, and a straightforward linerlock mechanism. For just over fifty dollars, it promises to be a budget-friendly option for those needing a reliable cutting tool.

My search for a dependable EDC knife that wouldn’t break the bank led me to the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife. I needed something I could use for opening packages, cutting rope on the trail, and general camp chores, without worrying too much about damaging an expensive blade. The promise of D2 steel at this price point was definitely intriguing.

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife arrived in a simple cardboard box, nothing fancy. My initial impression was that it felt solid and well-made for the price. The G10 handle offered a good grip, and the blade was surprisingly sharp out of the box.

Compared to my Kershaw Cryo and my Buck 110 Slim Select, the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife felt like a more robust, working knife. While the Kershaw is sleek and fast to deploy and the Buck is a classic, the CH Knives model seemed better suited to taking a bit of abuse. I picked the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife primarily for its D2 steel blade, which I hoped would offer a good balance of edge retention and toughness.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It wasn’t love at first sight, but the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife felt like a solid tool that could potentially prove its worth with use. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world situations.

Real-World Testing: Putting CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the nearby state forest. I used it for various camp tasks, including preparing food, whittling kindling, and cutting paracord. The knife performed admirably, holding its edge well through all these activities.

The weather was fairly dry during the trip, but the humidity was high. The G10 handle provided a secure grip even with slightly sweaty hands. The liner lock engaged positively and felt secure, inspiring confidence during use.

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife required no break-in period. It was easy to deploy and lock open right from the start. The pocket clip allowed for comfortable carry in my pants pocket.

The only slight issue I noticed was that the extended tang, while functional, felt a little rough around the edges. It could use some refinement for improved comfort.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes to more demanding tasks like light trail maintenance. The blade shows minimal signs of wear, and the edge retention remains impressive.

I have noticed some minor scratches on the blade coating, but this is purely cosmetic and expected with use. The G10 handle still looks and feels new, showing no signs of fading or cracking.

Maintaining the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife is straightforward. I simply wipe the blade clean after use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. Sharpening the D2 steel requires a bit more effort than softer steels, but the edge retention is worth the trade-off.

Compared to my experience with other budget knives, the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife has exceeded my expectations. Its durability and performance are on par with knives costing significantly more. The D2 steel truly makes a difference in edge retention and overall toughness.

Breaking Down the Features of CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife

Specifications

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife features a 4.5-inch closed length. The blade is 3.5 inches long, made of D2 tool steel with a satin finish. The handle is constructed from black G10 material, offering a secure and comfortable grip.

The knife includes an extended tang for easy one-handed opening. There is also a lanyard hole for attaching a cord or fob. A pocket clip is included for convenient carry. The linerlock mechanism provides secure blade lockup.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the knife’s overall functionality and durability. The D2 tool steel offers excellent edge retention and wear resistance. The G10 handle provides a solid grip even in wet conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife performs its job admirably as an EDC cutting tool. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well, making it suitable for a variety of tasks. The linerlock is reliable and provides a secure lockup.

The knife’s strengths lie in its durability and edge retention. However, the extended tang could be more refined for improved comfort. Overall, the knife meets expectations for a budget-friendly EDC option.

Design & Ergonomics

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife features a simple, utilitarian design. The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands. The knife feels solid and well-balanced in the hand.

The knife is generally user-friendly, but the extended tang might take some getting used to. The linerlock is easy to operate with one hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife is built to last. The D2 tool steel blade is resistant to wear and corrosion. The G10 handle is durable and can withstand rough use.

Maintaining the knife is easy. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that is needed to keep it in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife comes with a pocket clip. There are no other included accessories.

There are limited customization options available for this knife. However, the pocket clip can be moved to either side of the handle for left or right-hand carry. The lanyard hole allows for adding a custom lanyard or fob.

Pros and Cons of CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife

Who Should Buy CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife?

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a budget-friendly, reliable EDC knife. It is especially well-suited for campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a durable cutting tool for everyday tasks. This knife is also a great option for those who want to try out D2 steel without spending a fortune.

Someone prioritizing a very lightweight knife or complex one-handed operation should skip this product. Anyone looking for a knife with premium materials or a more refined aesthetic might also want to consider other options.

A must-have modification would be smoothing down the edges of the extended tang. A custom lanyard could also be a nice addition.

Conclusion on CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife

The CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife is a solid, no-nonsense folder that offers excellent value for the price. The D2 tool steel blade and G10 handle make it a durable and reliable tool for everyday carry. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of more expensive knives, it gets the job done without breaking the bank.

The price is definitely justified, considering the materials and build quality. For around fifty dollars, you get a knife that can easily compete with models costing twice as much.

I would definitely recommend the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife to anyone looking for a budget-friendly EDC option. It’s a great choice for those who need a dependable cutting tool for everyday tasks or outdoor adventures. If you’re in the market for a reliable, affordable folder, give the CH Knives Linerlock D2 Tool Folding Knife a try. You might be surprised at how much knife you can get for the money.