- Joined
- Dec 21, 2018
- Messages
- 141
I picked up a large El Patron, by Calavera Cutlery's Jeremy Robertson, on the secondary market for just under $400 delivered. Despite the initial dullness of the PD1 blade (quickly remedied with a few passes on stones and a strop), I knew that I'd found a keeper.
I'm a sucker for Ti frame locks, but after having a few negative experiences with poor quality flippers, I was initially a bit skeptical about the Patron.
But it flips open like a rocket every time I employ the tab. OK, not every time. I tried, and failed, to open it with wet hands, due to the complete lack of jimping on the tab. From my experience, the too-smooth tab has emerged as its only serious flaw.
The ergos are very good for a larger (almost 5 in closed) knife, and the clip nests nicely, rather than creating a hot spot.
The 3.75 in PD1 drop point blade is suitable for most any common task, and the steel is lauded for its ease of sharpening and edge retention. This is great for lay sharpeners like myself. These were also offered in tanto, and I'm now on the hunt for one to match my drop point.
As for the frame lock...well, it's no Sebenza. It takes a little more pressure than the CRKs I've owned, but it is certainly smooth enough for every day use.
These were made for hard-use, and I look forward to putting my Patron through its paces on the farm. If you have the chance to pick one up for a decent price, I highly recommend it. I'd bet it will replace whatever folder you've been carrying.
I'm a sucker for Ti frame locks, but after having a few negative experiences with poor quality flippers, I was initially a bit skeptical about the Patron.
But it flips open like a rocket every time I employ the tab. OK, not every time. I tried, and failed, to open it with wet hands, due to the complete lack of jimping on the tab. From my experience, the too-smooth tab has emerged as its only serious flaw.
The ergos are very good for a larger (almost 5 in closed) knife, and the clip nests nicely, rather than creating a hot spot.
The 3.75 in PD1 drop point blade is suitable for most any common task, and the steel is lauded for its ease of sharpening and edge retention. This is great for lay sharpeners like myself. These were also offered in tanto, and I'm now on the hunt for one to match my drop point.
As for the frame lock...well, it's no Sebenza. It takes a little more pressure than the CRKs I've owned, but it is certainly smooth enough for every day use.
These were made for hard-use, and I look forward to putting my Patron through its paces on the farm. If you have the chance to pick one up for a decent price, I highly recommend it. I'd bet it will replace whatever folder you've been carrying.