How easy is the blade to sharpen and does it hold its edge?
74892
Holds an edge just fine and very easy to sharpen and maintain. I use loose stones for sharpening, however I am sure the more modern devices can be used just as easily with the same results.
74893
This knife sharpens easily enough provided that you sharpen it correctly. It has very good edge retention if you are using it for its intended purpose of skinning and cleaning of game animals.
74894
I've had Buck knives since 1976. They take more time to sharpen than some of the other knives I've had but hold an edge much longer. I used to to a lot of trapping and rawhide braiding so I used lots of different knives at first looking for ones that would hold an edge the longest. I've never found anything better than the Buck knives--but they do take the longest to sharpen. I still use a stone. Nothing else.
1467384
It takes a good edge and unless used inappropriately, the steel holds the edge. OF course it all depends on what material you are cutting, but I often cut cardboard with it, which is pretty hard on an edge. It is part of my EDC along with 2 other knives (rule of 3's), and I find that it is very handy. I also own one of the tanto blade models, but this straight edge seems to be more versatile. This is a hard steel, so needs to be sharpened properly. I keep mine in shape with a leather strop and it seems to do fine.
298821
It can be easily taken apart for cleaning. I disassemble it and clean it takes about twenty minutes or so. The blade is sharp but it is no different then cleaning or handling knifes.
732080
No, it sharpens pretty quickly. It will continue to sharpen until you pull it out.
932363
Pretty new piece of equipment for me. Have not had to sharpen the blade. I did use a little vegetable oil on the blade and it worked a bit smoother.
355196
I'm not a fan of serrated blades. For the price this knife has held up pretty well. I've put it to the test and am more the pleased with it.
143700
It depends on how much you tighten it. You can tighten the pivot until you can't even get the blade out if you want. Out of the box though, it was slightly towards the easy to open spectrum. The lock up was tight but it still managed to open easily. Not really worried about it opening in a loose bag easy, but able to flipped out with a thumb or by harshly waving the knife, sure.
1692755
not difficult at all. slightly push the button and instantly releases. I have had other knifes before and this is far the best one I have ever had and hopefully no need to purchase another.
1692353
It's sitting in my pocket as I type this. Its got a decent blade - razor sharp to start, but I abused it a bit. Its not going to hold an edge like a $80 or $100 knife, but for basic utility? It's excellent. Highly recommend it.
942308
I have cut meat with this knife and it worked well, but I do not feel the serrated edge can be easily sharpened.
580570
I have not attempted to sharpen it. I use it for cutting and scraping dough.
2019960
I haven't used mine extensively. The blade is fairly thin, the handle is pretty rigid, the lock seems pretty secure. It would depend on what you mean by hard use. I sure wouldn't try prying or batoning with it. It sharpens well and holds an edge pretty well. It's great at slicing with it's full flat grind. I like it. There is now a very similar model just a little bigger with a thicker blade, I think it's called the Eland. You might want to investigate that before making up your mind. I think either would be a very good buy considering how little they cost.
937161
It's a great knife- easy to grip, the blade does NOT stick out, and it's easy to close, too.I recommend this product.
346308
Ours has seen heavy usage for over two years, and I still don't think it needs sharpening. It still slices easily.
1302208
I've used it this past summer several times and its still sharp enough! It depends on how often is used but i saw a u-tube demonstration how to sharpen it and is pretty easy to do.
1239242
I carry mine every day, but probably only use it a few times a week. Under those conditions, I'd say it holds its edge extremely well. I've sharpened mine 3 times in 2 years. The first 2 times with an inexpensive pocket sharpener that worked surprisingly well. The 3rd and last time I sharpened it with an oilstone that gave it a razor sharp edge. I *love* this knife.
320789
It's a nice weight for the size. It's not particularly weighted, and you have to stabilize it with your other hand while sharpening, but it doesn't feel cheap and light.