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<![CDATA[The BESS Exchange is sponsored by Edge On Up - Knife and Blade Reviews]]> http://bessex.com/forum/ Sat, 19 Sep 2026 06:28:18 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[New Fixture]]> http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=487 Tue, 30 Jul 2019 16:14:09 +0000 http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=487
[Image: Sharpest-02-P1020681.jpg]

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]]> <![CDATA[Knife Review: Oberland Arms Jager Sepp]]> http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=477 Mon, 17 Jun 2019 19:40:10 +0000 http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=477 Before the main intro, the review featured in this post, includes SET testing results. Might this be the first ever review of its type to include these?...

This thread is a new approach for me regarding sharing my reviews. Forums are where I came from, and the discussion on forums is something I hope to be involved in and inspire. It has become too much work to convert the reviews published on my website into forum versions, so I need to try something else to stay in touch with the forums.

I am only including a headline introduction and link to the review - please return to this forum to discuss the review or ask questions.

To the Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews. If you have any concerns over this approach please let me know.

Knife Review: Oberland Arms Jager Sepp

17 June, 2019

[Image: OberlandArms-Jager-Sepp-00-feature-P1350284.jpg]

Finding Oberland Arms’ knives was an outstanding highlight of IWA 2018, and it became a mission of mine to review them. A happy coincidence that one other IWA 2018 highlight happened to be another knife designed by Tommaso Rumici who is the designer of the Jager Sepp on review here. Everything came together nicely at […]]]> Before the main intro, the review featured in this post, includes SET testing results. Might this be the first ever review of its type to include these?...

This thread is a new approach for me regarding sharing my reviews. Forums are where I came from, and the discussion on forums is something I hope to be involved in and inspire. It has become too much work to convert the reviews published on my website into forum versions, so I need to try something else to stay in touch with the forums.

I am only including a headline introduction and link to the review - please return to this forum to discuss the review or ask questions.

To the Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews. If you have any concerns over this approach please let me know.

Knife Review: Oberland Arms Jager Sepp

17 June, 2019

[Image: Lionsteel-M4-00-feature-P1330361.jpg]

If the Lionsteel M4 is not on your list of candidates for a utility / bushcraft / general purpose fixed blade knife, it should be. It is not a new model at the time of this review, now entering its third year of production, and the Mik Molletta designed M4 from Lionsteel seemingly finds that […]]]> <![CDATA[Rental Knife Options]]> http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=434 Tue, 22 Jan 2019 18:33:30 +0000 http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=434
Hoping i put this in the right place......I am curious about those of you that offer a rental knife program.

In a nearly Perfect world, I would think many would pick a brand name, high quality blade......not too hard, but of reasonable quality.

In one post I read about the Lasting Cut product.....seemed like a great price......but was unable to locate a supplier.

What options have you found/used???

In my area ( the Greater Toronto Area) we have a major player, that supplies cheap custom branded knives, that probably get a quick pass on a Conzinni, before being sent out again. I once gave my 4 Stars to them ( long before i got the bug) and they butchered them!!!

So, strictly as an investigation on economics, what has worked.

My baseline for a rental program in my area ( my local pub) is 6 knives per week, at $17 / week ......so even the cheapest Henckel Pro V would be a $120/set investment.......

Thank you so much for all the information and help this forum has done for me!

Sam]]>
Hoping i put this in the right place......I am curious about those of you that offer a rental knife program.

In a nearly Perfect world, I would think many would pick a brand name, high quality blade......not too hard, but of reasonable quality.

In one post I read about the Lasting Cut product.....seemed like a great price......but was unable to locate a supplier.

What options have you found/used???

In my area ( the Greater Toronto Area) we have a major player, that supplies cheap custom branded knives, that probably get a quick pass on a Conzinni, before being sent out again. I once gave my 4 Stars to them ( long before i got the bug) and they butchered them!!!

So, strictly as an investigation on economics, what has worked.

My baseline for a rental program in my area ( my local pub) is 6 knives per week, at $17 / week ......so even the cheapest Henckel Pro V would be a $120/set investment.......

Thank you so much for all the information and help this forum has done for me!

Sam]]> <![CDATA[Knife Review: Lionsteel TM1 CF]]> http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=422 Thu, 03 Jan 2019 10:54:59 +0000 http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=422

Lionsteel are a brand that stand out year-on-year thanks to maintaining a superb level of manufacturing quality over a wide range of knife designs, both fixed and folding. This review takes a look at the Carbon Fibre version of the TM1 folding knife. Like the outstanding SR-1 (which is still going strong eight years after its launch), with its impressive construction using a one-piece handle, the TM1 also uses this single-piece handle design, but instead of an integral lock it uses a more traditional back-lock. I like an integral lock as much as anyone, but I am having just a little too much of them, and find it refreshing that the TM1 uses a back-lock. One main advantage of this is that the handle shape, grip and feel is not compromised by the lock-bar. Still a heavy folder, like the SR-1, but with a very interesting reverse-tanto blade shape, and a handle with two non-metallic material choices - Carbon-Fibre or Micarta. Finding this knife was one of my show highlights from IWA 2018.

[Image: Lionsteel-TM1-26-angle-P1310272.jpg]

[Image: Lionsteel-TM1-26-angle-P1310272.jpg]

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Author's Statement for Transparency and Disclosure
The test sample/s featured in this article have been provided for technical testing and review by the manufacturer. Test samples are retained by the reviewer following publication of the completed review for the purposes of long term testing and product comparisons.

All output figures and test results published in this review are the sole work of the reviewer, and are carried out independently and without bias. Test results are reported as found, with no embellishments or alteration. Though best endeavours are made to maintain the accuracy of test equipment, the accuracy of these results is not guaranteed and is subject to the test equipment functioning correctly.
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Gallery Review Format

Tactical Reviews is known for very detailed reviews using many high quality images. This has meant quite a lot of scrolling to read most reviews. In the gallery format, the review contains 'responsive image galleries' to better display these images as a slide show with captions.
NOTE: Unfortunately these galleries cannot be pasted into forum threads.

A good look round the Lionsteel TM1 CF - Things to look out for here are:
There is a lot to see on the TM1, so keep an eye out for the handle contouring, clip and glass breaker, ramped thumb opener, crisp finish and other design details.

Explained by the Maker:
The reasons for certain design choices may not be clear when simply looking at an object, so this section is intended to give an insight into the thinking behind a design by speaking to the designer themselves.

I had the good fortune to be able to consult Mik Molletta about this knife...(Only available in the full version of this review.)

In case you were wondering how they fit those IKBs bearings...
(This image is from Lionsteel's TM1 product page.)
[Image: tm1-bearings.jpg]

The Blade and Handle - Detailed Measurements:
Now even more detailed!
Taking things far beyond most knife specifications, in this section I will be carrying out a detailed examination of geometry, balance, edge bevels, factory sharpness and structural edge testing using the industry leading measuring tools.

These measuring tools include a Vernier protractor, callipers, fixed radius gauges, the unique Arc Master adjustable radius gauge, Edge On Up's BESS Certified PT50A and SET tester along with CATRA's Hobbigoni LASER Edge Protractor.
The BESS 'C' scale of sharpness (Brubacher Edge Sharpness Scale) will be used to verify the sharpness of the factory edge and allow the knife to be brought to a minimum standard sharpness before testing a blade's cutting performance.

The measurements have been tabulated and are presented along with a few reference blades. The 'Balance relative to the front of the handle' tells you if the knife will feel front heavy, or if the weight is in your hand (a positive value means the weight is forward of the front of the handle). The 'Balance relative to the centre of the handle' indicates how close to a 'neutral balance' the knife has in the hand.

(Table only available in the full version of this review.)

The blade is made from Sleipner 60-61 HRC steel.

The TM1's factory edge has an average BESS 'C' sharpness of 342. This was acceptable as it would slice 80gsm paper, but not to the level I like so I brought the edge to 15 degree per-side and 200 BESS for testing the knife.

What it is like to use?
Lionsteel's TM1 is a pleasant contradiction as it is a 'heavy folder' yet at the same time it is a 'lightweight folder' (for its size) thanks to the carbon-fibre handle. Although the blade is a substantial 4.5mm, making it massively strong, and the handle is matched to the blade perfectly, the TM1 is light and easy to carry.

Thanks to its one piece sculpted handle and back-lock, the grip is excellent for a folder. A fully integral finger guard makes the grip super stable and more than a match for that powerful blade.

Opening is silky as the blade swings out smoothly and effortlessly on those ball bearings. If you hold the handle and push the lock bar in fully, the blade actually becomes completely free to swing (without the lock bar pressing on it) and does so with no resistance at all. Not being a flipper I had wondered if it was worth using the ball bearings, but it is - the opening is just so slick. The thumb opener has been shaped into a ramp and gives a larger contact area for your thumb than studs do, and this makes it quite a bit more comfortable to use.

Then there is that snap of the lock; so crisp, precise and solid, and so satisfying. It makes you want to keep on opening it up. (Warning - you might annoy your family or work colleagues with this knife.)

This is the first 'reverse-tanto' blade I've used, however the principle is not far from a clip-point, just a smaller clip, keeping the tip very strong. Slightly odd looking, it has proven to be highly usable. No issues with the tip's puncturing ability even though the point angle is 71 degrees. The tip looks extremely strong, but as yet I've not had a reason to really put this to the test (no car doors have jumped out at me and needed cutting into).

So 'Sleipner' in a folder? I was a little unsure about this choice with the reports of corrosion, and the fact it is not a stainless steel having only 7.8% Cr. I decided that during the course of the testing I would not use any oils or other blade protection, and have been using this knife for around six months for a variety of tasks, including with foods, and with one in particular that is normally very harsh - banana! Opening and fishing about in boil-in-the-bag foods so getting a good dose of heat and steam, pocket time, handling and at best a little wipe down.

It is possible that the blade has been lacquered but I can't see any evidence this has been done, and I reground the cutting edge bevel, so I know that is bare steel. To date there has not been any sign of corrosion. I had expected to have to intervene and remove some spotting as I haven't been caring for the blade steel. This is not the same as specifically abusing it or really trying to get it to corrode, but the testing has been normal use with little to no attempts to protect it beyond a wipe from time to time.

I'll have to say I'm still a little wary that this might need more care than I'd like, but so far I've been pleasantly surprised that it has not been noticeably susceptible to corrosion. It is possible the specific heat-treat Mik mentioned may have improved the corrosion resistance of this steel.

You might have spotted the relatively small looking clip, and like me assumed it was not going to work well. I found I was eating my words though. When I pocket-carried the TM1, that clip had enough clearance to get onto the pocket edge and enough flex to slide into place, yet enough grip to stay put. I had dismissed this clip as an afterthought, but was wrong, it works. The clip can also be removed and refitted on the other side.

Review Summary

The views expressed in this summary table are from the point of view of the reviewer’s personal use. I am not a member of the armed forces and cannot comment on its use beyond a cutting tool or field/hunting knife.

Something that might be a ‘pro’ for one user can be a ‘con’ for another, so the comments are categorised based on my requirements. You should consider all points and if they could be beneficial to you.

[b]Review Summary[/b]
_______________________________________________
Things I like
_______________________________________________
Superb fit and finish.
Single-piece handle.
Back-lock (Thank you!)
IKBS pivot bearings for super smooth action.
Rock solid lock up.
Lightweight yet 'heavy-build' folder.
Effective clip.
Works for right and left-handed users.
Strong blade.
Comfortable thumb opening ramp.

_______________________________________________
What doesn't work so well for me
_______________________________________________
Sleipner steel - I don't like the threat of corrosion hanging over a fantastic knife.
Nothing else.

[Image: Click-for-more-V5-800resized-first.png]

(Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews.)

[Image: Round-Sticker-V1-0.png]

]]>

Lionsteel are a brand that stand out year-on-year thanks to maintaining a superb level of manufacturing quality over a wide range of knife designs, both fixed and folding. This review takes a look at the Carbon Fibre version of the TM1 folding knife. Like the outstanding SR-1 (which is still going strong eight years after its launch), with its impressive construction using a one-piece handle, the TM1 also uses this single-piece handle design, but instead of an integral lock it uses a more traditional back-lock. I like an integral lock as much as anyone, but I am having just a little too much of them, and find it refreshing that the TM1 uses a back-lock. One main advantage of this is that the handle shape, grip and feel is not compromised by the lock-bar. Still a heavy folder, like the SR-1, but with a very interesting reverse-tanto blade shape, and a handle with two non-metallic material choices - Carbon-Fibre or Micarta. Finding this knife was one of my show highlights from IWA 2018.

[Image: Lionsteel-TM1-26-angle-P1310272.jpg]

Explained by the Maker:
The reasons for certain design choices may not be clear when simply looking at an object, so this section is intended to give an insight into the thinking behind a design by speaking to the designer themselves.

I had the good fortune to be able to consult Mik Molletta about this knife...(Only available in the full version of this review.)

In case you were wondering how they fit those IKBs bearings...
(This image is from Lionsteel's TM1 product page.)
[Image: tm1-bearings.jpg]

(Table only available in the full version of this review.)

(Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews.)

[Image: Round-Sticker-V1-0.png]

]]> <![CDATA[Knife Review: Spyderco Sliverax]]> http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=393 Fri, 12 Oct 2018 13:50:58 +0000 http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=393
[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-00-feature-P1310129.jpg]

[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-00-feature-P1310129.jpg]

New Review Format 2018!

Tactical Reviews is known for very detailed reviews using many high quality images. This has meant quite a lot of scrolling to read most reviews. In the new format, the review contains 'responsive image galleries' to better display these images as a slide show with captions.
NOTE: Unfortunately these galleries cannot be pasted into forum threads.

A good look round the Sliverax:
Things to look out for here are included in the image captions.

[Image: Knife-Review_-Spyderco-Sliverax-main.jpg]

(Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews.)

Explained by the Maker:
The reasons for certain design choices may not be clear when simply looking at an object, so this section is intended to give an insight into the thinking behind a design by speaking to the designer themselves.

From Spyderco's product description "Designed by automotive engineer and knife enthusiast Paul Alexander, the Sliverax is the first factory-made folding knife to combine Spyderco’s Compression Lock™ mechanism with a flipper-style opener. Its sleek drop-point blade is crafted from CPM® S30V® stainless steel and proudly includes both a fully accessible Trademark Round Hole™ and an index-finger flipper to support a full spectrum of one-handed opening options with either hand. A full-flat grind gives it outstanding edge geometry and its slightly negative blade-to-handle angle enhances its cutting leverage and shortens its opening arc for swift, positive deployment.

The Sliverax’s blade is supported by Spyderco’s patented Compression Lock mechanism—a high-strength lock located in the spine of the handle to greatly reduce the risk of unintentional release during use. Its lightweight, open-backed handle design features stunning carbon fiber/G-10 laminate scales and nested stainless steel liners. This advanced construction style provides impressive structural strength, keeps the knife slim and pocket friendly, and offers a solid foundation for the knife’s lock mechanism. To allow convenient carry and keep the Sliverax instantly accessible, its handle includes a reversible deep-pocket wire clip that can be configured for right or left-side tip-up carry."

The Blade and Handle Geometry:

Most knife specifications have a basic description of the blade geometry, but in this section I will be taking a more detailed look at geometry and balance.

[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-34-grind-P1320173.jpg]

[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-34-grind-P1320173.jpg]

Using a set of gauges and precision measuring equipment including a Vernier protractor, callipers, fixed radius gauges and the unique Arc Master adjustable radius gauge (the one that looks like a crossbow).
[Image: Knife-measuring-P1180483.jpg]

These measurements have been tabulated and are presented along with a few reference blades (8" Chef's Knife, 5.5" Santoku and the popular Fällkniven F1).

Key aspects such as the primary bevel angle, grind type, blade depth, blade thickness, length, weight are detailed, along with balance information.
[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-35-bevel-P1320194.jpg]

[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-35-bevel-P1320194.jpg]

The 'Balance relative to the front of the handle' tells you if the knife will feel front heavy, or if the weight is in your hand (a positive value means the weight is forward of the front of the handle). The 'Balance relative to the centre of the handle' indicates how close to a 'neutral balance' the knife has in the hand.
[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-33-balance-P1320170.jpg]

[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-33-balance-P1320170.jpg]

In the case of full convex grinds the approximate centre of the grind is used for the primary bevel angle estimate.

[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-32-BESS-P1310315.jpg]

The Sliverax's factory edge has an average BESS 'C' sharpness of 186. This is yet another super sharp factory edge from Spyderco. A figure less than 200 is really good and easily shaves arm hairs and falls through 80gsm paper.

What it is like to use?

What struck me on initially handling this knife is how the Sliverax differs from conventional folders with its organic lines and purposeful downward angled blade (positive rake).

[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-31-side-P1310141.jpg]

[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-31-side-P1310141.jpg]

When folded it is almost like a worry stone in its pleasing feel and curvy shape. Opening is lightning fast with the flipper, and this speed is in part due to the blade's positive rake, meaning the blade only has to rotate 160 degrees to open, instead of 180 degrees. Of course the pivot's captive ball bearings also guide the blade with virtually no resistance at all.

Having a fully exposed opening hole from both sides makes it very comfortable and easy to thumb-open with either hand. The clip can be fitted to either side, so the Sliverax is truly ambidextrous. The only aspect that is slightly handed is a one-handed close. I certainly found it easier to unlock the compression lock one handed using my right hand.

For the opening hole to be fully exposed, and to not have a Spyderco 'hump', a lot of the handle has been cut away making the handle at the first and second fingers very thin. As well as accentuating the rake of the blade further, it also makes a full hand grip a little awkward as the fingers don't have much to hold. However it does provide a deep finger guard so the chance your hand might slip forward is very low.

I tend to prefer thumb-opening blades for several reasons. In fact, in the UK where I am based, flippers are too close to switchblades for comfort, so a nicely controlled thumb-open goes down much better. This leads me to make an observation about the compression lock which I also noted on the Sharman. As I open the blade, my first finger tends to lie over the lock itself, and the lock bar often gives me a little nip as it snaps into place. A minor complaint and easily avoided (if you remember) but mentioned here as an observation.

Despite being a smooth finish, the Carbon Fibre/G-10 Laminate handle has enough texture to provide positive grip even when wet.

[Image: Knife-Review_-Spyderco-Sliverax-using.jpg]

Even without the 'issue' of appearances in the UK, I am personally a bit tired of the flipper. A mechanism where you have to compromise your grip on the knife to be able to press on a flipper tab to literally flick the blade open. Flippers can and do fail to fully open or lock, so much like the fixed blade is your most reliable partner, the two-handed open or the properly thumbed-open blade that is positively taken all the way to the locked position, means you know 100% it is there. If safety and security are your primary aims, then open the blade by manually rotating it all the way.

This leads me nicely into a couple of modifications I have made to the Sliverax I've been testing. Firstly the removal of the flipper tab. This makes the Sliverax a no-question thumb operated OHO, and has the benefit of removing the protruding flipper tab so it is even more pocket friendly.

The second modification is one of those things that for me is the sign of a finished knife blade, a sharpening choil. Others will have different opinions, and I'm not saying I'm right, but it is my preference. The end of the cutting edge at the sharpening choil also provide another 'point' for fine accurate cuts, so is not purely an aesthetic addition, but is functional too.

These images are of the modification I made and posted on Instagram, hence the branding on the images.

Modifications:

[Image: Knife-Review_-Spyderco-Sliverax-modifications.jpg]

In the modified state (allowing me to carry it more), this knife has proven itself over and over and has become a firm favourite. The positive rake makes the blade attack each cut eagerly, with the full flat grind slicing smoothly and efficiently. Its, lightness and pocket friendly finish and shape allow you to forget it is there until you need it. This is a knife I've gone from being uncertain of, to positively wanting to carry and use.

Review Summary

The views expressed in this summary table are from the point of view of the reviewer’s personal use. I am not a member of the armed forces and cannot comment on its use beyond a cutting tool or field/hunting knife.

Something that might be a ‘pro’ for one user can be a ‘con’ for another, so the comments are categorised based on my requirements. You should consider all points and if they could be beneficial to you.

_______________________________________________
Things I like
_______________________________________________
Organic ergonomic flowing lines.
Full Flat Grind S30V blade.
Easy to access opening hole.
Super slick flipping action.
Lightweight and easy to carry.
Blade rake makes for a positive cutting action.
Ambidextrous.

_______________________________________________
What doesn't work so well for me
_______________________________________________
Handle very thin where the first two fingers grip.
The Compression lock can 'nip' you.

[Image: Spyderco-Silverax-00-feature-P1310129.jpg]

(Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews.)

[Image: Round-Sticker-V1-0.png]

[Image: CPF-Trusted-Stamp-200-background.png]

]]>

In the case of full convex grinds the approximate centre of the grind is used for the primary bevel angle estimate.

(Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews.)

[Image: Round-Sticker-V1-0.png]

]]> <![CDATA[Knife Review: Hinderer Knives XM-Slippy]]> http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=339 Mon, 02 Jul 2018 10:59:51 +0000 http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=339
[Image: 00-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-feature-P1300856.jpg]

[Image: 00-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-feature-P1300856.jpg]

A few more details:

For the following galleries please click

What's in the box?:
A good look round the XM-Slippy - Things to look out for here are:
Rick Hinderer's Thumb Disc:
The XM-Slippy with Thumb Disc removed:

This example has the VERY orange G10 handles, but the XM-Slippy is also available in much more neutral colours. The stonewashed steel pocket clip is fitted by default in the tip down position and is pretty thick and sturdy (also read 'stiff').
One design aspect needs a little more attention; the smoothing/easing of all edges. A very obvious example of this are the edges of the back-spring, and the bevelled edges provide shadow lines along the back of the handle. The fact all edges are eased/rounded gives it a distinct look and feel and a great comfort in the hand and pocket. Some might criticise the fact that the H doesn't look as tight as they would expect, but this is as it should be; the combination of the easing and the fact there is an internal stop-pin results in this appearance, the blade itself is spot on and perfectly positioned.
Peering into the liners, you can see the very end of the clip screws just coming through the liner, but there is no contact with the blade; it does mean the screws are as stable as they possibly could be as they fill the threaded hole completely.

The Hinderer adjustable thumb disc uses a small grub screw (0.035" Allen key) to secure it in place. The Thumb Disc channel is the same on both sides of the CPM20CV blade, forming a T-shaped section that the thumb disc slides onto. The thumb disc can be positioned anywhere along the channel, or removed, allowing the user to find the best location for them.

If you need to disable OHO or prefer the look without the thumb disc you have the choice as the thumb disc can be completely removed.
The thumb disc slot also acts like a large nail-nick giving you something to grip to open the blade.

Explained by the Maker:
The reasons for certain design choices may not be clear when simply looking at an object, so this section is intended to give an insight into the thinking behind a design by speaking to the designer themselves.

While at IWA 2018 I had the good fortune to be able to talk to Rick Hinderer about this knife.

[video]https://youtu.be/DNBZHDyIIqc[/video]
Video Edited with - Cyberlink Director Suite 5 (PowerDirector 16 and AudioDirector 7)
Camera - Panasonic HC-V770 - Microphone - Tonor TN120308BL

The Blade and Handle Geometry:

Most knife specifications have a basic description of the blade geometry, but in this section I will be taking a more detailed look at geometry and balance.
[Image: 57-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-grind-P1320159.jpg]

[Image: 57-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-grind-P1320159.jpg]

[Image: 58-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-bevel-P1320183.jpg]

[Image: 56-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-balance-P1320154.jpg]

In the case of full convex grinds the approximate centre of the grind is used for the primary bevel angle estimate.

[Image: xm-slippy-parameters.jpg]

The blade is made from CPM20CV steel.

New for 2018! BESS Certified sharpness testing:

The BESS 'C' scale of sharpness, developed by Mike Brubacher (Brubacher Edge Sharpness Scale) will now become part of Tactical Reviews' knife testing process. Initially this will be used to verify the sharpness of the factory edge and allow the knife to be brought to a minimum standard sharpness before testing a blade's cutting performance.

[Image: 55-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-bess-P1310309.jpg]

[Image: 55-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-bess-P1310309.jpg]

The XM-Slippy's factory edge has an average BESS 'C' sharpness of 399. This was a show exhibit knife, so I would not comment on the absolute sharpness after all the handling and trying out it has had. As it was, the edge didn't appear to have any rolling or damage, and with this edge would slice 80gsm well enough although not the cleanest of cut.
For testing I have taken the edge to a 30 degree inclusive angle and a BESS score of 200, at which point it is shaving arm hair with ease.

What it is like to use?

Colour is a matter of taste, and for me the Orange is perfect. I like to see where I've put down important tools, or worst case dropped/lost, but moving beyond the Oranginess...
There is a finesse to the overall finish which starts to sink in the more you use it. The XM-SLippy, has only one sharp edge, exactly where it should be. All the other corners are smoothed so that nothing catches on your hands, gloves or pockets. I cannot stress enough how much this adds to the quality feel as nothing 'jars' while you handle or use it. Some knives have an unrelenting crispness to their finish and this can mean that edges are sharp, the corners of liners, blade stop, back-spring etc, all of which can become fatiguing to your hands and pockets - not so with the XM-Slippy.
Many slip-joints use a half-stop position for the blade, and in a two handed opener I don't object to this, but for a one-handed-opener, I find this a big no-no. The XM-Slippy has no half-stop, so the blade swings out smoothly all the way to snap into the open position without interruption. In my view this is exactly as it should be for a OHO, slip-joint or not. There are some that argue that the half-stop add to the safety in case of accidental closing, so the blade doesn't close on your fingers. I'd counter that by saying that if your slip-joint is closing on you, you are not using it correctly, and if you have sufficient force to start closing the blade onto your fingers it is quite likely to keep going through a half-stop anyway. Rick has definitely got this right.
A design feature shown in the gallery is the relatively large choil. This is not really a finger choil, though can be used as such carefully, and it is too large for a sharpening choil. Instead its design purpose is so that if the blade is closed onto your fingers, it is the choil that actually hits your finger (see gallery) giving you some protection from injury.
Being based on the XM platform, the look is of course familiar, but it also includes some jimping which might be a little overkill for a slip-joint. The forward thumb grip is useful, but clearly when applying a lot of force with a slip-joint you need to be careful. There is jimping for a reverse grip and I'd say it is wholly unsuitable to use a slip-joint with a reverse grip, so don't take its presence as a suggestion to use the XM-Slippy like this.
Rick has designed in easy user customisation for the XM-Slippy; starting with the pocket clip, which has two options, tip-up or tip-down. Keeping the refined finish complete, there is a blanking plate to fill in the alternate clip position, and swapping the pocket clip position is nice and easy. Using a standard Phillips screwdriver, simply undo the two screws holding the pocket clip and the two holding the blanking plate. Swap round and replace the screws...but wait, there is the next part. With the pocket clip off the knife, there is only a single screw holding the handle scale on. Take out that last screw and the G10 scale can be lifted off. Its fit is beautifully precise. A nice feature when swapping the handle scales is that with the scale removed, the knife is still fully functional, as the liners are held together with other fixings.
This example is fitted with the Hinderer 'slicer' blade which is an excellent general purpose blade shape for an EDC knife.
Is the adjustable thumb disc a gimmick? Maybe, maybe not. Though I can never see the extreme positions you could put the disc being used by anyone, the length of the thumb disc slot looks right for the proportions of the blade. Even small adjustments can make a big difference for your experience of using the knife, so don't be afraid to move it about and try. I've settled on a position that is different to all my other knives with thumb stud /disc. Then of course you can take it off, if you are visiting an area where the law does not permit one-handed-opening. I have found the thumb disc slot does collect a bit of pocket dust, but nothing compared to a pivot or the handles, so not to worry, and anything other than a perfectly plain blade will fail the 'peanut butter' test anyway.
The factory/show edge needed attention before I started to really use it, and the CPM20CV proved to be very easy to sharpen and took a razor edge with very little work. My current sharpening method is to use a small belt sander (120 grit with a light touch) with bevel angle guide to reprofile to 15 degrees per side followed by a good stropping with a polishing compound, the edge on this blade simply wanted to be super sharp.

For the Gallery Click

Review Summary

The views expressed in this summary table are from the point of view of the reviewer’s personal use. I am not a member of the armed forces and cannot comment on its use beyond a cutting tool or field/hunting knife.

Something that might be a ‘pro’ for one user can be a ‘con’ for another, so the comments are categorised based on my requirements. You should consider all points and if they could be beneficial to you.

_______________________________________________
Things I like
_______________________________________________
High quality fit and finish.
Adjustable / removable thumb disc.
All edges smoothed making it especially hand and pocket friendly.
CPM20CV steel takes a super sharp edge (with ease - depending on your sharpener).
Pocket clip can be positioned for tip-up or tip-down use.
Simple to replace/change handle scales.

_______________________________________________
What doesn't work so well for me
_______________________________________________
Expensive when compared to most slip-joint knives.
Pocket clip a bit tight for my taste.

[Image: 00-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-feature-P1300928.jpg]

[Image: 00-Hinderer-XM-Slippy-feature-P1300928.jpg]

(Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews.)

[Image: Round-Sticker-V1-0.png]

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A few more details:

For the following galleries please click

In the case of full convex grinds the approximate centre of the grind is used for the primary bevel angle estimate.

[Image: xm-slippy-parameters.jpg]

(Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews.)

[Image: Round-Sticker-V1-0.png]

]]> <![CDATA[Knife Review: Extrema Ratio RAO II]]> http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=315 Mon, 30 Apr 2018 13:50:22 +0000 http://bessex.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=315

Extrema Ratio's RAO II is an update of the original RAO which was developed back in 2006. Designed as a super tough, compact, survival and field knife, the brutish RAO was an immediate modern classic. In 2014, with improved ergonomics and a new drop-point blade, the RAO II widens the appeal of the RAO to those that found the original tanto blade a bit too specialised. On a personal note this is one of those knives I knew had to be in my life, and it has not disappointed.

[Image: 15-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-folded-P1290626.jpg]

[Image: 15-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-folded-P1290626.jpg]

The Blade and Handle Geometry:

Most knife specifications have a basic description of the blade geometry, but in this section I will be taking a more detailed look at geometry and balance.
[Image: 43-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-grind-P1300294.jpg]

[Image: 43-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-grind-P1300294.jpg]

[Image: 42-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-bevel-P1300289.jpg]

[Image: 41-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-balance-P1300285.jpg]

In the case of full convex grinds the approximate centre of the grind is used for the primary bevel angle estimate.

(Wherever you see the 'Read MORE' marker, it indicates that the Extended Version of the review has additional content at that point. Viewing the extended version helps support further reviews, but please ensure you return to this Forum for comments and discussion.)

The blade is made from Böhler N690Co steel.

New for 2018! BESS Certified sharpness testing:

The BESS 'C' scale of sharpness, developed by Mike Brubacher (Brubacher Edge Sharpness Scale) will now become part of Tactical Reviews' knife testing process. Initially this will be used to verify the sharpness of the factory edge and allow the knife to be brought to a minimum standard sharpness before testing a blade's cutting performance.

The RAO II's factory edge has an average BESS 'C' sharpness of 279. A score below 300 for a factory edge is good and it will slice 80gsm paper nicely and slices into the rounded edge of a doubled over sheet of the same 80gsm paper. Unfortunately a small nick in the original edge catches in some cuts causing some tearing. It is quite common for factory edges to have some flaws, and these can easily be sharpened out, so this is just an observation.

[Image: 48-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-BESS-1-IMG_20180210_160123.jpg]

[Image: 48-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-BESS-1-IMG_20180210_160123.jpg]

A few more details:

Extrema Ratio's knives are always well presented; the RAO II comes in a quality cardboard box.
[Image: 01-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-boxed-P1290582.jpg]

[Image: 01-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-boxed-P1290582.jpg]

Sliding the lid off, shows the RAO II (in a plastic bag) fills the box.
[Image: 02-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-box-open-P1290585.jpg]

The RAO II arrives in its dual purpose sheath. We need to have a closer look at this sheath before we move onto that amazing knife.
[Image: 03-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-box-contents-P1290587.jpg]

[Image: 03-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-box-contents-P1290587.jpg]

On the back are the MOLLE fitting straps. As supplied they are not woven into the webbing but just held with the press studs.
[Image: 04-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-MOLLE-P1290590.jpg]

[Image: 04-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-MOLLE-P1290590.jpg]

As with most MOLLE mounts, the fit is pretty tight.
[Image: 05-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-MOLLE-adjust-P1290592.jpg]

If just using the webbing next to the press studs, the MOLLE straps form a belt loop, which is how I'll be using this for the most part during testing.
[Image: 06-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-MOLLE-belt-P1290595.jpg]

[Image: 06-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-MOLLE-belt-P1290595.jpg]

This dual purpose sheath has a large front pocket with plastic buckle fastener holding down the flap.
[Image: 07-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-P1290600.jpg]

[Image: 07-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-P1290600.jpg]

The flap has another strap attached to it with two press studs. This is the retaining strap for when the sheath is used to carry to opened RAO II.
[Image: 08-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-open-strap-P1290603.jpg]

[Image: 08-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-open-strap-P1290603.jpg]

Releasing the strap from the two press studs and now you can see where the blade of the opened knife is inserted.
[Image: 09-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-open-strap2-P1290605.jpg]

[Image: 09-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-open-strap2-P1290605.jpg]

Flipping open the flap covering the front pocket and you find the diamond sharpener slipped into a small pocket in front of the main compartment.
[Image: 10-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-open-flap-P1290609.jpg]

[Image: 10-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheath-open-flap-P1290609.jpg]

This sharpener is a steel plate with a diamond pad on it.
[Image: 11-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sharpener-P1290615.jpg]

Out of the box, the RAO II is actually locked shut. We'll look at the special locking/safety pin next.
[Image: 17-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-folded-P1290631.jpg]

So, one of the RAO II's special features is its safety locking pin which effectively makes it into a fixed blade knife. This fits through the finger guard and can be fitted with the blade open or folded.
[Image: 18-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-pin-P1290634.jpg]

[Image: 18-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-pin-P1290634.jpg]

One end of the pin is threaded, so it screws into place.
[Image: 19-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-pin-undone-P1290640.jpg]

The pin is on a loop of elastic, so once removed it cannot be dropped or lost (unless the elastic cord is cut).
[Image: 20-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-pin-out-P1290643.jpg]

[Image: 20-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-pin-out-P1290643.jpg]

Now the blade is opened, we can put the safety pin back in place to secure the blade in the open position. There is no getting past that pin.
[Image: 24-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-safety-lock-P1290674.jpg]

[Image: 24-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-safety-lock-P1290674.jpg]

Pivot tension is set using a single sided pivot bolt (the other side is a blank plate). The pivot bolt head has a notched edge which allows it to be securely locked in place using the small screw that fits into one of the twelve notches. With the pivot locking screw in place, the pivot bolt cannot turn at all. You can beat on this knife as hard as you like and that pivot bolt won't come loose.
[Image: 25-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-pivot-lock-P1290677.jpg]

[Image: 25-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-pivot-lock-P1290677.jpg]

The improved ergonomics are obvious with well rounded edges all round the handle. Extrema Ratio's handle style is recognisable with the first two fingers grip. The RAO II also includes a third and fourth finger grip.
[Image: 27-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-handle-P1290681.jpg]

[Image: 27-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-handle-P1290681.jpg]

And now onto that purposeful blade. A drop-point with bayonet grind, the RAO II's blade is very deep. The area where the logo is printed is thinned slightly from the full thickness to provide a grip for opening the blade with.
[Image: 30-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-blade-P1290699.jpg]

[Image: 30-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-blade-P1290699.jpg]

A close look at the blade tip and edge bevel.
[Image: 31-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-blade-tip-P1290707.jpg]

The plunge line is well rounded to maximise strength. The slight double-plunge effect here is caused by the primary bevel meeting the blade opening grip and its different radiusing.
[Image: 32-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-plunge-P1290708.jpg]

[Image: 32-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-plunge-P1290708.jpg]

So we've taken the folded knife out of the sheath front pocket, opened it and fitted the safety lock pin. Instead of taking the pin out again to fold it, we can simply fit it into the sheath to carry it like a fixed blade. Note one of the press studs is uncovered as the retaining strap now only reaches the top press stud.
[Image: 37-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheathed-P1290734.jpg]

[Image: 37-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheathed-P1290734.jpg]

A view from the back with the opened knife sheathed.
[Image: 38-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-sheathed-back-P1290736.jpg]

What it is like to use?

If you ignore the pivot bolt and bolt lock button, the impression of this knife is not of a folder, but of a chunky fixed utility knife. In a bare hand (I take XL gloves) the finger grips are not quite in the right place. With gloves on they are a better match, but are definitely a better fit for large gloved hands.
[Image: 34-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-in-hand-P1290725.jpg]

[Image: 34-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-in-hand-P1290725.jpg]

It's big, but somehow seems perfectly reasonable once you pick it up. However, that handle is a significant size and the blade very deep, just look at the next photo.
[Image: 35-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-in-hand-P1290727.jpg]

[Image: 35-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-in-hand-P1290727.jpg]

Putting the RAO II next to a full size fixed blade (using the Extrema Ratio TASK J in this case), its blade is not as long, but it is larger in every other way - and this is a folder!
[Image: 36-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-size-P1290731.jpg]

[Image: 36-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-size-P1290731.jpg]

Extrema Ratio have proven time and again that they put real effort into all the details, including the sheaths. Their sheaths are strong, great quality, and highly functional. For the RAO II, this is taken even further, as the dual function sheath is a carry pouch for the folded knife (plus sharpener) as well as a sheath for the RAO II as a fixed blade.

The included sharpener, I'd class as one of those emergency options which is great because you have it with you, but not for regular use. I'm glad it is included, but won't be rushing to use it.

This is a short video taking a look over the RAO II and a technique to make the refitting of the safety lock pin easier.

Video Edited with - Cyberlink Director Suite 5 (PowerDirector 16 and AudioDirector 7)
Camera - Panasonic HC-V770    Microphone - Tonor TN120308BL

Now you've seen the video, and the safety lock pin coming in and out, you might come to the same conclusion I have. This is a great feature, and one I use, but there are many times I want to use the RAO II as a large folder and be able to open and close it quickly. In this case the pin is not being used, and if left attached, as it comes with the knife, it then flaps around and hits your hand, the knife and anything else in range. I got sick of this, so decided to alter things slightly and make it easy to remove the pin entirely.

This is my set-up. I've taken the original...

With this easy modification, that excellent safety lock pin can be set aside for when you want to use the RAO II in more extreme ways, but for general use and really making the most of this knife as a folder, it becomes more of a hindrance. Without that hindrance the RAO II becomes fun to use and revels in its stature and super heavy build.

The bolt lock works so intuitively; as you grasp the knife to fold it, your fingers naturally pull on the bolt as you press the blade into the handle. Unlocking and folding in one motion, as shown in the video.

Talking of super heavy build, this folder is exceptional in the trust you can put in it. That simple idea of the safety lock pin, makes it a folder you can treat just like a fixed blade and not have any concern it might fold on you. Described by Extrema Ratio as a 'compact' survival knife, the knife in its sheath is not particularly compact; the dual functions of the carry pouch and fixed blade sheath bulk it up somewhat. The knife on its own however, for the size and strength of knife you get to use, is nicely compact thanks to being a folder.

I'm not going to suggest that this is the most practical knife for general use, but it will make you grin when you bring it out - every time.

Review Summary

The views expressed in this summary table are from the point of view of the reviewer’s personal use. I am not a member of the armed forces and cannot comment on its use beyond a cutting tool or field/hunting knife.

Something that might be a ‘pro’ for one user can be a ‘con’ for another, so the comments are categorised based on my requirements. You should consider all points and if they could be beneficial to you.

_______________________________________________
Things I like
_______________________________________________
Safety lock pin fixes the blade open with complete reliability.
Superb dual function sheath (pouch/fixed blade).
MOLLE compatible sheath.
Super strong build.
Distinctive Extrema Ratio style.
RAO II blade shape more useful to most users.
Basically just awesome.

_______________________________________________
What doesn't work so well for me
_______________________________________________
If not fitted the safety lock pin flaps around on the elastic cord.
Supplied sharpener gets in the way.
Combined pouch / sheath is a little bulky.
Sheath is right-handed only when the blade is open.

[Image: 00-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-feature-P1290669.jpg]

[Image: 00-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-feature-P1290669.jpg]

(Moderators, there is a reciprocal link at the end of every review on Tactical Reviews.)

[Image: Round-Sticker-V1-0.png]

]]>

Extrema Ratio's RAO II is an update of the original RAO which was developed back in 2006. Designed as a super tough, compact, survival and field knife, the brutish RAO was an immediate modern classic. In 2014, with improved ergonomics and a new drop-point blade, the RAO II widens the appeal of the RAO to those that found the original tanto blade a bit too specialised. On a personal note this is one of those knives I knew had to be in my life, and it has not disappointed.

[Image: 15-Extrema-Ratio-RAOII-folded-P1290626.jpg]