The Test
First I pounded the Peasant Knife blade through ¼ inch soft galvanized bolts (not high tensile). There was no damage to the edge or back of the blade. This shows the toughness that can be achieved using excellent tempering procedures. Baker gave the go ahead to flex the Peasant Knife 90°. I easily disassembled the knife and went to the vise. (Author's note: This is a destructive test.)
Baker's friction folder is 8 1/4 inches long in the open position.
The Peasant Knife flexed 90° with no edge cracking as per the American Bladesmith Society journeyman smith test. It also survived a 90° bend in the opposite direction, still with no edge cracking. Excellent toughness! Upon restraightening the blade snapped, but the toughness was impressive.
Baker provided another knife for the cutting evaluation. I sharpened the edge with a worn 400-grit belt and stropped it with jeweler's rouge on leather. Even though this produced a hair-popping edge, it only lasted four cuts on 3/4 inch manila rope.
I switched to a new 320 belt. This produced seven cuts. Still not satisfied, I used a worn 150-grit belt. Bingo! This produced the best working edge. After 30 cuts, I had to put on gloves because the locking hump was digging into my palm. The Peasant Knife cut a total of 50 times! The edge would still cut hair. (Authors note: This working edge is also obtainable by using an India stone.)
Overall
Baker's knives sharpen extremely quick. Edge holding is in the upper 10 percent of the knives I've tested. In a Baker knife you get an excellent piece for a good price.
