Milwaukee FASTBACK™ Hawkbill Folding Knife

The Milwaukee FASTBACK™ Hawkbill Folding Knife caught my attention with its promise of a durable, easy-to-use folding knife designed for both everyday carry and job-site utility. With a blade that is supposed to stay sharp and a design that promotes ease of use, I was eager to put this knife to the test.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about the FASTBACK™ is its robust build. The stainless steel blade is sturdy and retains its sharpness impressively well. The hawkbill shape of the blade is particularly useful for tasks that require a bit more precision and control, such as cutting through insulation or slicing open packages. The knife feels solid in hand, with a weight of just 0.24 lbs, making it light enough for easy carry but heavy enough to feel substantial.

The handle is made from a durable plastic that seems capable of withstanding a fair amount of abuse. It fits comfortably in my hand, and the finger wells and thumb ridges provide a secure grip. However, the plastic material does make the knife feel a bit less premium compared to other knives in its price range.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the FASTBACK™ is its press-and-flip mechanism, which allows for one-handed opening. This feature is particularly handy when you need to use the knife in tight spaces or when your other hand is occupied. The button release works well, and with a bit of practice, I was able to flick the knife open with ease. However, it does require a bit of wrist action, especially when the knife is new and the hinge is still stiff. Over time, the mechanism loosened up slightly, making it easier to deploy the blade.

Closing the knife involves pressing a liner lock, which is a bit of a double-edged sword. While the liner lock ensures that the blade stays securely in place during use, it can be a bit tricky to operate. The lock is positioned in such a way that gripping the knife too tightly can accidentally engage it, making the knife feel unpredictable at times. This is something to be mindful of, especially if you’re using the knife in high-stress situations.

Performance

In terms of performance, the FASTBACK™ does not disappoint. The blade came razor-sharp out of the box and maintained its edge remarkably well even after extensive use. I used it for a variety of tasks, from cutting through thick cardboard to slicing open food cans, and it handled everything with ease. The hawkbill shape is particularly effective for pull cuts, making it ideal for tasks like stripping wire or cutting rope.

One of the most impressive aspects of this knife is its ability to stay sharp. Even after a week of heavy use, the blade was still sharp enough to slice through paper cleanly. This is a testament to the quality of the steel used in the blade, which Milwaukee claims is a blend of stainless steel and carbon.

Durability

Durability is another strong suit of the FASTBACK™. The knife survived several drops without any noticeable damage, and the blade showed no signs of chipping or dulling. The wire belt clip is another thoughtful addition, designed to reduce pocket tearing while keeping the knife securely attached to your belt or pocket. The clip is strong and holds the knife firmly in place, yet it’s easy enough to remove when needed.

However, I did encounter a minor issue with the liner lock not fully engaging at times, especially when pressure was applied to the back of the blade. This is something to be cautious of, as it could potentially lead to accidental closures. While this issue did not occur frequently, it’s worth noting as it could be a safety concern.

Practicality and Everyday Use

For everyday carry, the FASTBACK™ is a solid choice. It’s lightweight, easy to open and close, and the blade stays sharp longer than most other knives in this price range. The tether-ready lanyard hole is a nice touch, allowing you to attach the knife to a lanyard for added security.

The knife’s compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt, and the red color makes it easy to spot among other tools. The overall design is practical and user-friendly, making it a versatile tool for both professional and personal use.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee FASTBACK™ Hawkbill Folding Knife is an impressive tool that combines durability, ease of use, and excellent performance in a compact package. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the occasionally finicky liner lock and the need for a bit of wrist action to open, these are outweighed by its many strengths.

I would recommend this knife to anyone in need of a reliable, sharp, and durable folding knife for everyday carry or job-site use. Its ability to retain its sharpness, combined with its robust build and practical design, makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or just someone who appreciates a good knife, the FASTBACK™ is worth considering.