To quote Michael J. “Crocodile” Dundee: "That's not a knoife ...." (taking out his 18" bowie style) "THAT's a knoife!". Well the same can be said for knives, whether tactical or practical that try to compete with Gerber .
Many knives and tools from this US made and based manufacturer have been reviewed here. If memory serves me correctly, all favorable at that.
The newest one for the column is the Propel AO Downrange . This is not your daddy’s pocket knife or stick whittlin’ knife. It is made from what many say is the best steel possible. S30V Steel that was developed by Crucible Metals Corp. It is not a cheap steel, nor is it in-expensive. You will not find it in 5 and dime store knives. You will need to consider this an investment, as this steel is the best of the best as well as being more technically advanced than any other composition.
It is heavy enough and tough enough to stick through a 1/8” piece of plywood when dropped from 3”, yet manageable enough to strip wire or even extract a splinter from wood or stinger from a wasp (actually done on the writer).
The action is extremely smooth and thanks to its three way clip and ambidextrous thumb screw, is easy on either hand. It grip is of a non-slip texture that failed to budge when the hand was covered in typical animal fat residue (aka ham fat).
Its safety is easily triggered or set to off with either thumb and does not require any obscure movements.
It is easily cleanable and resists any malfunctioning, despite being put in the dish washer, the washing machine and a pile of sand. This is due to the blades black oxide coating that is specifically made to resist corrosion. Also, the pommel on the end (which contains a lanyard hole) appears to be part hammer, part thrust survival took for window breaking as well.
At the top of the article, it was mentioned that it was made with S30V steel which is one of the highest priced knife materials out there. At $164 for this beauty, just remember;
· You get what you pay for
· This will be the last tactical knife you buy, EVER
Learn more at Gerber Gear dot Com .
via Examiner National Edition Gadgets & Tech Channel Articles http://www.examiner.com/review/the-gerber-propel-downrange-ao-a-technically-advanced-knife-like-no-other?cid=roadrunner