Milwaukee 3" Smooth Blade Pocket Knife

As someone who appreciates quality tools, I was excited to get my hands on the Milwaukee 3" Smooth Blade Pocket Knife. Milwaukee, a brand celebrated for its durable and reliable tools, has ventured into the everyday carry (EDC) knife market with their Hardline series. This knife promised a lot, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the reputation Milwaukee has built over the years.

First impressions matter, and the aesthetic appeal of this knife did not disappoint. The stone-washed black oxide finish of the D2 steel blade gives it a rugged, battle-worn look that is both attractive and practical. The glass-filled nylon handle with a stainless steel back is finished with Milwaukee's distinctive red filler, adding a touch of style while ensuring a comfortable grip.

The blade itself is crafted from D2 steel, a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel known for its hardness and edge retention. This type of steel is typically found in higher-end knives, so seeing it in a knife priced under $100 was a pleasant surprise. D2 steel's ability to hold an edge is impressive, making this knife a reliable companion for various cutting tasks. However, keep in mind that while D2 steel is extremely durable, it can be a bit more challenging to sharpen compared to softer steels. After some initial sharpening with a ceramic stone, I found the blade to be razor-sharp and maintained its edge well over several weeks of use.

One of the standout features of this knife is the flipper with a bearing system. This design allows for quick and smooth opening with just a flick of the index finger. The ball detent keeps the blade securely closed in your pocket, minimizing the risk of accidental openings. The action is crisp and reliable, making it easy to deploy the blade quickly when needed. The steel frame lock is robust and provides a secure lockup, though it can be a bit tricky to disengage, especially for those with less nimble fingers or when using the knife with the non-dominant hand.

The knife also features a reversible tip-up belt clip, catering to both right and left-handed users. This clip allows for deep carry, ensuring the knife sits low in the pocket and remains discreet. While the deep carry is convenient for secure storage, it does require a bit of effort to retrieve the knife from your pocket. A small lanyard hole is included for those who prefer an easier way to pull the knife out.

In terms of ergonomics, the knife feels solid and well-balanced. The nylon handle provides a good grip, though I found it to be a bit on the small side for larger hands. Despite this, the design effectively prevents my hand from slipping onto the blade during use. The handle's combination of materials offers both durability and a comfortable grip, even during extended use.

One area where the knife could improve is the frame lock. While it is sturdy and secure, it can be challenging to disengage. The edge you push with your thumb to release the lock is rounded and lacks texture, making it difficult to get a good grip. Over time, I became more adept at closing the knife with one hand, but it is something to be aware of if you prefer a more accessible locking mechanism.

Durability-wise, the knife performs exceptionally well. I've used it to cut through various materials, including carpet, rope, cardboard, and plastic, and the blade shows minimal wear and tear. The D2 steel does its job well, holding up to tough tasks without losing its edge or showing significant signs of damage. The overall construction of the knife is robust, and it feels like it can withstand the rigors of daily use.

However, not everything was perfect. The belt clip, while useful, tended to become loose over time. It was frustrating trying to figure out what size tool I needed to tighten the screws, and eventually, one of the screw heads broke off. This is a design flaw that could be improved by using more common screw heads that are easier to find and tighten with standard tools.

Despite a few shortcomings, the Milwaukee 3" Smooth Blade Pocket Knife is a solid choice for an EDC knife. Its strengths lie in its durable D2 steel blade, smooth opening action, and robust construction. While there are areas for improvement, such as the frame lock and belt clip, these are relatively minor issues that don't significantly detract from the knife's overall performance.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Milwaukee 3" Smooth Blade Pocket Knife to anyone in need of a reliable, durable, and stylish EDC knife. It offers great value for the price, especially considering the quality of materials used. Whether you're a contractor looking for a dependable tool or an EDC enthusiast searching for your next knife, this Milwaukee offering is worth considering. Its combination of toughness, edge retention, and ease of use makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit or pocket.