Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife Review

My Experience with the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife: Here’s the Truth

For a while now, I’ve been on the hunt for a reliable, everyday carry (EDC) knife that strikes a good balance between utility and discretion. My professional life spans outdoor excursions, workshop tinkering, laboratory work, and extensive fieldwork, meaning I need tools that are versatile and dependable. This search led me to the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife, a model that promised swift deployment and a sturdy build without breaking the bank. I was drawn to its Tanto blade shape, which offers a practical combination of piercing strength and a functional edge, and the mention of Ultra-Glide bearing technology piqued my interest. I had been using a much older, heavier fixed-blade knife for some tasks, and a lighter, more adaptable folding option was clearly needed. My initial impression upon unboxing was that it felt surprisingly well-constructed for its price point, with a clean, modern aesthetic that didn’t scream “tactical” but still looked ready for action. I briefly considered a few other brands known for budget-friendly folders, but the reputation of Smith & Wesson for producing accessible, functional gear made this particular model my focus. My first reaction was one of quiet satisfaction; it felt like I might have finally found that workhorse I’d been looking for.

Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing began immediately after unboxing, in my home workshop. I used the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife to break down a few cardboard boxes from recent deliveries, a common task that quickly reveals a blade’s cutting ability. The knife opened smoothly, thanks to the Ultra-Glide bearing system, with a satisfying, almost effortless flick of the finger flipper. I was impressed with how cleanly it sliced through the thick cardboard without snagging, a testament to the sharpness of the 8Cr13MoV steel. I also used it to trim some excess plastic sheeting that had accumulated, and it handled that task with equal aplomb.

Over the following weeks, this folding knife became a constant companion. I carried it clipped to my pocket during various field excursions, from light trail walks to assisting on a local archeological dig. It proved surprisingly adept at cutting through twine and opening various packets of supplies without issue. Even on a dusty worksite, the mechanism remained surprisingly free of grit, and deployment was consistent. While I didn’t deliberately expose it to heavy moisture, it handled a light misting without any signs of immediate corrosion. The G10 handle scales provided a secure grip even when my hands were a little grimy.

The intuitive nature of the finger flipper and the reliable liner lock mechanism meant there was virtually no learning curve. It felt natural in hand from the very first use, and its low profile made it unobtrusive when clipped inside a pocket. The only minor surprise was how much I came to appreciate the Tanto blade shape for precision tasks, like scoring lines on materials, which often felt more controlled than with a more traditional drop-point blade.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. It’s become my go-to for a multitude of everyday tasks, from opening mail and packages at home to more demanding chores in the workshop, like scraping away old adhesive or cutting through tough packaging materials. The 8Cr13MoV steel has maintained its edge reasonably well, though I have given it a quick touch-up with a sharpening stone a couple of times to keep it performing at its peak.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear beyond the usual minor scuffs on the handle, which are expected from regular use. The liner lock remains solid, with no noticeable blade play, which is a crucial indicator of durability for a folding knife. The Ultra-Glide bearing system still operates smoothly, indicating good internal construction and tolerance. I haven’t experienced any stiffness or loosening in the pivot.

Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down after use and an occasional application of a light lubricant to the pivot area are all that’s needed. It’s easy to disassemble for a deeper clean if necessary, though its design seems to resist ingress of dirt and debris quite effectively. Compared to some other budget folding knives I’ve owned, this model stands out for its consistent performance and lack of degradation over time. It has certainly outperformed cheaper alternatives that tend to develop blade wobble or sticky mechanisms after only a short period.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife

Specifications

The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife is designed with practicality in mind, featuring a 3.5-inch blade crafted from 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel. This particular steel is known for offering a decent balance of edge retention and toughness, making it suitable for everyday cutting tasks. The overall length of the knife when deployed is a substantial 8.25 inches, providing good leverage for various applications.

The handle is constructed from G10, a composite material that is highly durable, offers excellent grip even when wet, and is resistant to impacts and chemicals. This makes it a robust choice for a variety of environments. The Tanto blade shape is characterized by its aggressive, angular point, which excels at piercing tasks and provides a distinct cutting edge.

For deployment, the knife features a finger flipper for quick, one-handed opening, aided by an Ultra-Glide bearing system that ensures a smooth action. Security is provided by a reliable liner lock, which keeps the blade firmly in place during use. The knife comes equipped with a tip-up pocket clip, allowing for discreet and convenient carry. This folding knife is packaged in a box, with one unit included.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – cutting – the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife performs admirably for its intended purpose. The sharpness of the 8Cr13MoV steel out of the box is quite good, and it handles common cutting chores with ease. Tasks like slicing through rope, opening sealed packages, and even light wood carving are well within its capabilities.

The Tanto blade shape proves particularly effective for piercing, allowing for confident penetration when needed. However, the aggressive angle of the tanto point can sometimes make fine detail work or tasks requiring a more controlled slicing motion slightly less fluid compared to a more traditional blade profile. The liner lock mechanism has proven to be very dependable, providing a secure lock-up with no discernible blade play during my testing.

Overall, this knife meets and, in many ways, exceeds expectations for a budget-friendly EDC tool. Its functionality is robust for general use, though those requiring extreme precision or specialized cutting performance might look elsewhere.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife leans towards a modern, functional aesthetic. The G10 handle scales are textured effectively, providing a secure and comfortable grip without being overly aggressive. Its low profile makes it comfortable to carry in a pocket or clipped to a waistband.

The finger flipper is well-placed and easy to access, facilitating quick and reliable deployment. The Ultra-Glide bearing system contributes significantly to the smooth action, making the opening process satisfying. The overall build quality feels solid, with tight tolerances and no rattles or loose parts, which instills confidence in its use.

While the overall ergonomics are good, the angular nature of the Tanto blade means the spine of the blade can feel a little more pronounced during certain gripping styles, though this is a characteristic of the blade shape itself rather than a flaw in the handle design. The tip-up pocket clip is securely attached and allows for a deep carry, which is a practical design consideration for EDC.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife appears to be a durable piece of equipment. The 8Cr13MoV steel, while not a premium alloy, is known for its resilience and ease of sharpening, suggesting it will last for a considerable time with proper care. The G10 handle is exceptionally tough and resistant to wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for a knife that sees regular use.

Maintenance is simple. A quick rinse and dry after exposure to dirt or moisture, coupled with occasional lubrication of the pivot, will keep the knife functioning optimally. The liner lock mechanism is robust and unlikely to fail under normal operational stress.

The only potential point of concern, as with any folding knife, is the pivot mechanism over extreme long-term use or abuse. However, given the quality of the Ultra-Glide bearing system, this seems unlikely to be an issue for the average user. It’s designed to be a reliable workhorse, and its construction reflects that intent.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife comes with a tip-up pocket clip already attached, which is a standard and highly appreciated accessory for everyday carry. No other specific accessories are typically included with this model, as it is designed to be a self-contained, functional tool.

Customization options are relatively limited for this specific model in terms of integrated features. However, the G10 handle scales are typically affixed with screws, suggesting that aftermarket scales might become available from third-party manufacturers looking to cater to enthusiasts. The Tanto blade shape and the general design do not lend themselves to easily swappable components like some other knife systems might. Its strength lies in its straightforward, effective design rather than extensive modifiability.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife?

This folding knife is ideally suited for individuals who need a reliable and accessible EDC tool for a variety of tasks. It’s perfect for DIY enthusiasts, workshop users, and anyone who appreciates a dependable blade for everyday chores. Those who value swift, one-handed deployment will particularly appreciate the Ultra-Glide bearing system and finger flipper.

However, this knife might not be the best choice for users who require a knife specifically for high-precision gourmet food prep, or those who exclusively work with materials that demand the absolute hardest and longest-lasting blade steels available. For those needing extreme edge retention or specialized cutting geometries, investing in higher-end steels might be more appropriate.

To enhance the usability, a small sharpening stone or sharpener is a wise accessory to keep with the knife, ensuring the 8Cr13MoV steel can be maintained at its best. Additionally, while the G10 handle is excellent, a small pocket organizer could help keep the knife alongside other essential EDC items.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife

The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Folding Knife stands out as an impressive offering in the budget EDC market. It successfully blends functional design with reliable performance, making it a valuable tool for a wide range of users. The smooth deployment, secure lock-up, and durable handle materials all contribute to a positive user experience that belies its price.

Considering its performance, especially the smooth Ultra-Glide bearing system and the robust G10 handle, the $31.99 price point offers exceptional value. While the 8Cr13MoV steel necessitates a bit more attention to sharpening than premium alloys, its overall utility and durability make it a worthwhile investment.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this folding knife to anyone seeking a capable, affordable, and dependable EDC option. It’s a solid choice for everyday tasks, from opening packages to light utility work, and proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a tool that performs well.