CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife Review

The One Thing I Didn’t Expect from the CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife

My search for a robust yet refined everyday carry knife led me to the CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife. The allure of its Bohler M390 stainless blade and blue anodized titanium handle promised both performance and a certain aesthetic flair that appealed to my appreciation for well-crafted tools. For years, my workshop and field gear relied on function over form, but I was increasingly drawn to equipment that didn’t compromise on either. I’d been enduring the slightly underwhelming performance of my previous EDC, a decent but uninspiring budget folder, and was looking for something with a bit more bite and longevity. Considering alternatives like Benchmade or Spyderco, I ultimately felt the unique combination offered by this CMB Made Knives offering presented a compelling blend of materials and design at its price point. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of pleasant surprise; the build felt solid, and the anodized titanium had a deep, consistent hue.

Real-World Testing: Putting CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for this folding knife was primarily my home workshop and general around-the-house tasks. I used it for opening stubborn packaging, trimming excess material from 3D prints, and breaking down cardboard boxes. I also carried it daily, discreetly in my pocket, for whatever minor cutting tasks arose. The blue anodized titanium handle offered a comfortable grip, even during extended use, and the blade deployed smoothly with the extended tang providing a good purchase. No immediate issues arose, but the real test would be in how it performed over time and with more demanding applications.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent EDC use, the CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife has proven to be a remarkably reliable companion. It’s handled everything from slicing through paracord during impromptu gear repairs to precisely trimming delicate wiring in my electronics bench. The Bohler M390 stainless blade has maintained its edge exceptionally well, requiring only occasional honing rather than full sharpening. The titanium handle shows minimal signs of wear, retaining its vibrant blue finish despite being dropped once on a concrete floor. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down and occasional application of a lubricant to the pivot mechanism keeps it operating smoothly. Compared to other EDC knives I’ve owned, its edge retention is particularly noteworthy, easily outperforming many stainless steel blades in its class.

Breaking Down the Features of CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife

Specifications

The CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife boasts some impressive specifications that contribute to its overall performance. Its blade measures a practical 3.5 inches in length, providing ample reach for most everyday tasks without being overly cumbersome. The closed length of 4.75 inches makes it compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.

The heart of this knife is its Bohler M390 stainless blade, a premium steel renowned for its exceptional hardness, corrosion resistance, and superior edge retention. This material is a significant upgrade from many common knife steels, promising long-term sharpness and durability. The handle is constructed from blue anodized titanium, offering a lightweight yet incredibly strong and corrosion-resistant frame. Titanium also provides a unique feel and a distinguished aesthetic that sets it apart from more common aluminum or G10 handles.

The knife features an extended tang, which aids in quick deployment and provides an additional point of contact for a more secure grip. A pocket clip is included, allowing for convenient and secure carry, ensuring the knife is always within easy reach. The overall weight is 0.44 lb, which feels balanced in the hand and doesn’t create an excessive burden in the pocket. This knife comes as a single unit, presented in a black nylon zippered storage case, which offers decent protection during transport or when not in use.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, cutting, the CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife performs admirably. The Bohler M390 stainless blade exhibits superb sharpness out of the box and, as mentioned, holds that edge for an impressive duration. Whether slicing through tough materials or performing more delicate tasks, the blade glides smoothly and efficiently.

Its primary strength lies in its excellent edge retention and robust build quality. The blue anodized titanium handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even when my hands were slightly oily from workshop tasks. The extended tang mechanism, while simple, is highly effective for one-handed opening, allowing for rapid deployment when needed.

A minor point of improvement could be the pocket clip. While functional, it’s a standard design and doesn’t offer any particularly unique retention features. Some users might prefer a deeper carry clip or one with a more aggressive tension for added security in more demanding environments. However, for general everyday carry, it performs its function adequately.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The blue anodized titanium handle immediately catches the eye, offering a premium look and feel. The anodization is even and deep, giving the titanium a rich, vibrant color that doesn’t feel cheap or superficial.

Ergonomically, the handle is well-contoured, fitting comfortably in my medium-sized hand. The titanium material, while strong, is not overly heavy, contributing to a balanced feel. The extended tang not only aids in opening but also provides a slight swell at the spine, which offers a natural resting place for the thumb during more controlled cutting.

The black stonewash finish on the blade is a practical choice, helping to hide minor scratches and reducing glare. It complements the blue handle well, creating a cohesive and sophisticated appearance. The overall build quality feels exceptionally solid; there’s no blade play, and the pivot is smooth but not so loose as to deploy accidentally.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bohler M390 stainless blade is a testament to the knife’s durability. This high-performance steel is known for its exceptional wear resistance, meaning the edge will stay sharp through prolonged use. I’ve yet to encounter any chipping or significant dulling, even after tackling materials that would normally require a more robust blade.

The blue anodized titanium handle is also remarkably durable. Titanium is inherently strong and resistant to corrosion, making it an excellent choice for knife handles. The anodization process creates a hard, colorful surface that resists scratches and scuffs better than many painted or coated finishes.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s needed to keep this knife in top condition. The black nylon zippered storage case is useful for protecting the knife when not in use, preventing it from getting scratched in a drawer or bag.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife comes with a practical black nylon zippered storage case. This case offers adequate protection for the knife during transport and storage, keeping it free from dust and minor abrasions. It’s a functional addition, though not particularly luxurious.

Beyond the included case, customization options for this specific model are limited, as it’s designed as a complete package. However, the titanium handle and Bohler M390 blade represent the pinnacle of its current design. Some users might explore aftermarket pocket clips if they desire a different carry style, but the included clip is generally sufficient for most EDC needs.

Pros and Cons of CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife

Who Should Buy CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife?

The CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife is an excellent choice for the discerning EDC (Everyday Carry) enthusiast who appreciates high-quality materials and refined aesthetics. It’s ideal for individuals who frequently find themselves needing a reliable cutting tool for a variety of daily tasks, from opening mail to more demanding workshop needs. Those who value superior edge retention and a durable, lightweight build will find this knife particularly appealing.

I would recommend this knife to anyone looking to upgrade from a budget folder to something that offers genuine performance benefits and a touch of personal style. It’s also a great option for individuals who work in environments where a corrosion-resistant and long-lasting blade is a significant advantage.

However, individuals seeking an extremely budget-friendly option or those who require a knife specifically for heavy-duty, abusive tasks might want to explore other categories. Those who absolutely need a lanyard hole for additional carry options might also find this specific design lacking.

Conclusion on CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife

The CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife stands out as a superb everyday carry option, delivering on its promise of premium materials and solid performance. The combination of a Bohler M390 stainless blade and a blue anodized titanium handle isn’t just about looks; it translates directly into superior edge retention, corrosion resistance, and a lightweight yet robust feel. Its thoughtful design, including the extended tang for quick deployment, makes it a joy to use for a wide range of daily tasks.

While the price point places it in the mid-to-high range for EDC knives, the value proposition is strong, especially considering the high-end steel and titanium construction. It represents a significant step up from more common materials and offers a level of refinement that’s hard to beat at its price.

Overall, I would confidently recommend the CMB Made Knives Dagon Blue Folding Knife to anyone looking for a stylish, durable, and exceptionally sharp folding knife for their everyday carry. It’s a tool that not only performs exceptionally well but also looks good doing it, making it a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship.