Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade Review

It’s Time to Talk About the Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade

For years, I’ve relied on robust, well-engineered tools to navigate everything from intricate workshop projects to demanding field applications. My search for a dependable everyday carry knife, one that balances form with function without demanding a king’s ransom, led me to the Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade. I needed something that could handle a variety of tasks without being overly ostentatious, a reliable workhorse that wouldn’t weigh down my pocket or my conscience. Considering options from brands like Spyderco and Benchmade, which often come with a significant price tag, the Kendo presented a compelling alternative that piqued my interest. Upon its arrival, my initial impression was one of solid construction; the G10 handles felt substantial yet comfortable in the hand, and the blade seemed to be expertly finished. There was a distinct sense of quality that belied its price point, sparking a healthy dose of curiosity about how it would perform in the real world.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Kendo was to my garage workshop. I immediately put it to work breaking down a few cardboard boxes, a common chore that provides an excellent initial feel for a blade’s cutting ability and ergonomics. The action was surprisingly smooth, and the plain edge sliced through the corrugated material with satisfying ease. I then used it to strip some wire insulation for a small electronics project, a task that requires a degree of precision. The knife handled this admirably, the sharp edge cleanly separating the plastic without nicking the copper strands. Later that week, I took it on a short hike where it proved useful for trimming a stray piece of cordage and for general utility tasks around a campsite, like preparing some small kindling.

Throughout these initial uses, I encountered no significant issues. The G10 handles offered a secure grip, even with slightly sweaty hands from exertion, and the blade deployment was consistently reliable. It felt intuitive from the start, requiring no special learning curve to operate effectively. The only minor surprise was how lightweight it felt for its size, a characteristic that quickly became a welcome trait rather than a concern.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade has become a regular companion in my EDC rotation. It’s seen daily use for opening packages, slicing through food prep in the kitchen when a chef’s knife is overkill, and even for minor repairs around the house. The blade has held its edge remarkably well, a testament to the D2 steel and its coatings. I haven’t needed to sharpen it yet, despite some fairly demanding tasks.

Durability has been excellent. There are no noticeable scuffs on the blade’s black electrochemical and DLC coatings, and the G10 handles remain as grippy and free from wear as they were on day one. The pivot mechanism has maintained its smooth action, with no hint of stiffness or looseness developing. Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down after exposure to dust or moisture, and an occasional light oiling of the pivot, is all that’s needed. Compared to some budget knives I’ve owned, which often develop blade play or dull quickly, this Bestech model feels significantly more robust and reliable. It certainly punches above its weight class when measured against similarly priced competitors, and even holds its own against some pricier options.

Breaking Down the Features of Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade

Specifications

The Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade boasts a blade length of 3.75 inches, providing ample cutting surface for a wide range of tasks. It closes down to a manageable 4.63 inches, making it discreet for everyday carry. The overall length when deployed is 8.375 inches, offering good reach and leverage.

At its core, the knife features a blade material of D2 steel, known for its excellent hardness and edge retention. This is further enhanced by a black electrochemical coating and DLC coating, which not only adds to its tactical aesthetic but also provides superior corrosion resistance and durability. The handles are constructed from G10, a strong and grippy laminate material that performs admirably in various weather conditions, resisting moisture and providing a secure hold. The knife operates with a folding mechanism, designed for safety and ease of use, and it’s constructed with what the manufacturer describes as AXIS metallurgy, implying a focus on robust internal locking and pivot systems for excellent strength.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any knife is to cut, and the Kendo excels here. The full flat ground D2 steel blade is exceptionally sharp out of the box, slicing through materials with minimal effort. Its ability to maintain this sharpness over extended use is particularly impressive, reducing the frequency of re-sharpening.

Its strengths lie in its cutting performance, durability, and the secure grip provided by the G10 handles. The black coatings not only protect the blade but also reduce glare, which can be beneficial in certain work environments. A minor weakness, if one can call it that, is the pocket clip’s tension; while secure, it can be a tad stiff for some users to manipulate for one-handed deployment. However, this also means it stays put when clipped to a pocket or waistband. It consistently meets and often exceeds the expectations for a knife in its price bracket, offering a level of performance typically found in more expensive models.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The G10 handles offer a subtle texture that provides excellent purchase without being abrasive. They are contoured to fit comfortably in the hand, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.

The overall feel of the knife is solid and well-balanced. The pivot action is smooth, allowing for a quick and confident deployment. The pocket clip is securely attached, though as mentioned, it can be a bit stiff to disengage. The black finish on the blade and the robust G10 create a tool that looks good enough for display but is built for practical, everyday work.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction with D2 steel and G10 handles, the Kendo is built for longevity. Under normal everyday carry and use conditions, I anticipate this knife will last for many years. The black coatings are resilient, resisting minor abrasions from everyday tasks.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap is usually sufficient for cleaning. For more thorough cleaning or lubrication, a small brush and some knife oil applied to the pivot mechanism go a long way. There are no obvious potential failure points that stand out, but as with any folding knife, regular checks of the pivot screw and clip security are always good practice.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade arrives as a complete package, focused on its core functionality. It doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories, emphasizing its role as a straightforward, effective tool.

The primary customization for this knife would be found in aftermarket pocket clips if one desired a different tension or aesthetic, although the included clip is perfectly functional. Its straightforward design means it’s unlikely to accept specialized attachments like those found on multi-tools. This lack of extensive customization isn’t necessarily a negative, as it underscores the knife’s purpose as a dedicated cutting instrument.

Pros and Cons of Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade

Who Should Buy Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade?

This knife is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a reliable, high-performing everyday carry knife that doesn’t break the bank. It’s perfect for students, tradespeople, home workshop enthusiasts, or anyone who needs a robust cutting tool for daily tasks. The Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade is also a great option for those new to carrying a folding knife, offering a blend of quality and simplicity.

Individuals who require highly specialized features, such as sterile environments or extremely fine-tuned precision tasks that demand micro-adjustments, might need to look at more specialized tools. For this knife, a small bottle of knife lubricant and perhaps a sharpening stone would be beneficial additions for long-term maintenance.

Conclusion on Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade

The Bestech Knives Kendo 3.75 in Plain Edge Folding Blade strikes an impressive balance between quality, performance, and affordability. Its D2 steel blade is sharp and durable, the G10 handles provide excellent grip, and the overall construction feels solid and reliable. For its price, it offers a level of craftsmanship and functionality that is hard to beat.

The value proposition is undeniable; you get a knife that performs like a much more expensive model. I would readily recommend this knife to anyone looking for a dependable, no-nonsense EDC tool that can handle a wide variety of everyday challenges without complaint. If you need a solid, capable blade that won’t empty your wallet, the Kendo is a fantastic choice to consider.