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Astor
I actually bought this knife by mistake, as I misread the weight. The stated weight is .32 lbs, but I read it as 3.2 ounces. I have been looking for a knife with at least 3.25 inches of available blade (forward of the thumb stud), with enough handle length for all four fingers, good blade steel, and a blade shape like the Astor, for under $150. I also wanted it to weigh less than 4 ounces, but I got that wrong. Still, the knife is very good. The blade design is excellent...very high flat grind and aggressive distal taper make it very slicey and piercing, but the swedge along the spine leaves some strength in the tip. I don't understand what an "oil-infused bushing" is, but the pivot feels very smooth, and the detente is pretty much perfect. The action feels like it belongs in a much more expensive knife. My only complaints are that the liner lock is recessed a bit too much for me to get to it with my thumb, so I use two hands to close it. Also, the inside edges of the show-side G-10 could be chamfered a bit.
The ASTOR, a collaboration between Spartan Blades and knife maker Les George, appears to be a robust folding knife designed for heavy-duty tasks. Here are the key features and specifications:
Features:
- Designers: Les George
- Blade Length: 3.5”
- Blade Thickness: 0.120”
- Overall Length: 8.25”
- Blade Steel: Premium CTS-XHP
- Blade Hardness: 58-60 HRC (Rockwell Hardness Scale)
- Blade Style: Folding-Drop point-Flat ground
- Blade Finish: Tumbled
- Frame: Liner Lock, One layer Carbon Fiber G-10 Composite
- Weight: 0.320 LBS (approximately 5.12 ounces)
Additional Features:
- Deep Carry Pocket Clip: Configurable for left-hand carry by switching to the left side.
- Dual Thumb Studs: Facilitate ambidextrous opening.
- Bronze (Field) Grade: Incorporates the "Oil Infused Bronze Bushing System" (OIBBS) for a smooth blade opening.
Awards:
- 2021 Blade Show Winner: "Imported Knife of the Year."
Design and Construction:
- The knife is designed as a robust "Work Horse" with carbon fiber G-10 composite scales.
- The liner-lock mechanism adds to the knife's sturdiness.
Blade Characteristics:
- The premium CTS-XHP steel and the specified Rockwell hardness indicate durability and excellent edge retention.
- The folding-drop point-flat ground blade style is versatile, suitable for a variety of cutting tasks.
Finish:
- The tumbled finish provides a rugged and worn-in appearance while contributing to corrosion resistance.
Oil Infused Bronze Bushing System:
- The "Oil Infused Bronze Bushing System" is designed to reduce friction on the blade, ensuring a tight but smooth blade opening. This system is particularly useful for folding knives, especially in slow speeds, intermittent use, and uneven loads.
The ASTOR, with its focus on durability, functionality, and affordability, is well-suited for those seeking a reliable and versatile folding knife for demanding tasks. The recognition at the 2021 Blade Show further attests to its quality and craftsmanship.
