Today, we're delving into everyday carry tools, focusing on our trusty companions – knives. In the spotlight, Shieldon Knives, an unsung hero of the EDC world, caters to our pockets and wallets with their budget-friendly designs.
The Search for the Ideal EDC Knife
Finding the perfect knife that combines quality, functionality, and affordability in the vast sea of knives can be akin to a treasure hunt. As we navigate this quest, Shieldon emerges as a beacon of hope for those seeking a reliable companion without breaking the bank. Their quality parts and construction and willingness to take input from designers and users around the globe have led them to be an up-and-comer in the U.S. Market.
Here's the Deal
Shieldon Knives sent us two knives to look at for this blog. They are an OEM Manufacturer based in China, owned and operated by Steven Lu. Shieldon Knives partners with designers worldwide to create unique tools for various tasks. It uses quality materials in its designs. While many frown upon China-made goods, let's be honest: most of the stuff we use daily was built overseas; it's a part of a global economy, and while most stuff is junk, some gems come through occasionally. It's important to review such items for fellow consumers with honest input.
Empoleon: The Budget-Friendly Champion
The Empoleon is the first everyday carry (EDC) knife to model the Shieldon brand. This knife features a stout, razor-sharp D2 steel with a 3.27" blade. The G10 handle material is excellent and feels good in the hand, and the lock is a liner lock style.
While I did not beat on the locking mechanism, from the few tests I performed, it appears suitable for all EDC tasks. The flipper point is a guard to prevent hand slippage when stabbing in wet conditions. The pocket clip rides well in the pocket and secures the knife well. Adding a belt sheath is a nice touch for those who prefer such carry. It would make a great addition to a tool belt in this capacity.
Overall, for the $24.99 value, you will be hard-pressed to beat this offering. I like having these types of knives around as ditch knives. If I am going into a non-permissive area or forget that I am carrying something and get caught- this isn't one I would feel too bad about surrendering. It's a great budget option to consider.
Shieldon Bulbasaur
This knife caught me off guard. Its bulbous blade shape is like a cross between a leaf and a Canadian Belt knife. I get the dino-esque appeal. This 3.66" Sandvik 14C28N blade also had G10 handles, a flipper, and a frame lock. The frame lock is more significant on this model than the Empoleon due to the increased blade size, which I appreciated seeing.
It's large in my hand—that says something with my sausage fingers, and that's what I like and dislike about this particular model. I am generally a large knife fan, but when it comes to EDC or tactical carry, I prefer sleek and discrete. While this knife has as elegant a design as possible for the style and rides well from the pocket clip, it's heavy in shorts and a bit too large for my preference.
In my opinion, this style is more of a novelty. I get it if you are an avid knife collector and want variety in your EDC rotation or a color coordinate! However, for most readers of this blog, the $62.99 price point has many competitors in that space, and I feel that they may better match up for survival and tactical tasks.
Why Shieldon Knives Stand Out
Shieldon Knives distinguishes itself not only through its affordability but also through its commitment to quality. As an OEM Knife Manufacturer, Shieldon prioritizes the craftsmanship and materials used in their knives. This dedication results in tools that are not only budget-friendly but also reliable and durable, making them a smart choice for those who value both performance and cost-effectiveness.
The Shieldon Experience: Unboxing
My knives arrived in an attractive box with instructions and warranty information. Upon opening the box, I first saw the nice quality nylon belt sheath, which is of the same quality as a Kobalt brand tool you would find at Lowes. The attention to detail in each knife, from the handle ergonomics to the blade sharpness, reflects Shieldon's commitment to providing an exceptional user experience. I was pleased with how sharp each blade was out of the box, with the grinds and the handle fit and finish.
Final Thoughts: Shieldon and the Budget EDC Dream
Shieldon Knives exemplifies the synergy between affordability and quality in everyday carry tools. I recall when MTech first hit the scene many years ago, and everyone had them- they have since gone the way of the Flea Market! I hope Shieldon maintains its integrity, strives to make better relationships with US designers, and keeps a high-quality standard in the face of growing markets such as TEMU, Amazon, and others. Whether you opt for an Empoleon or the Bulbasaur, you can trust Shieldon to deliver a reliable companion that won't weigh heavy on your wallet.
Thanks to Steven Lu of Shieldon for contacting me and encouraging a fair and honest review.
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