Anyone checked out the Schrade Avatar?

[Cosmic Superchunk]

I just saw it at a local retailer and I decided to buy one. It's very different to what I was used to seeing from Schrade. Even though the cutting edge is roughly 3 inches long, the Schrade+ (440A?) blade seems larger. The knife is surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to hold. It comes with a stainless steel pocket clip designed for tip down carry and the lockup on my model is solid with no blade play in any direction and the action is smooth. I must admit the looks of the knife will probably not appeal to alot of people, but it's a sturdy folder. While the blue rubber inserts add a nice contrast, the overall pattern and "look" of the cast aluminium handle is what takes time getting used to. At first glance it seems like a Gigand import, but it is made in the USA. The blade cutout is easily accessible and works well in both left handed and right handed openings. Some folks may not like the hump on the blade, but it serves as an area to place your thumb on like the humps on Spyderco models. Also, it is of lockback design, but unlike a traditional lockback, it uses a U shaped spring with the ends on each side of the handle instead of the bar commonly seen on lockbacks. Anyhow, it's a knife with exotic looks that may not appeal to many, but it kind of grows on you after a while.

Pic courtesy of knifeoutlet.com

 

[Tim Faust]

Dear el cid: We're pretty proud of the new Avatar. It is a real departure for us, but not everyone wants a 34OT. The Avatar has been very well received - check it out at retail. Its open/close and construction are outstanding.