- the knife that grew over time
Well the knife itself perhaps didn't grow as much as my liking of it I guess. But growth and size can be applied on the blade shape since today's knife "Osprey" from Artisan Cutlery is so modern in its expression that it has a trendy cleaver blade. "Bigger" is, therefore, the word that springs to mind.
Artisan Cutlery 1803P-CF "Osprey"
I'm not sure I understand the naming though. "Osprey" is "fiskgjuse" in Swedish. A bird often present in my childhood since a couple nested a few hundred yards from our house. Between that bird and this knife, there is no resemblance at all. A knife with such a stubby beak should be named after an owl or a horned owl instead. But, the knife got a name and that is significantly much easier to remember than a lot of numbers so thank you for that Artisan.
As most models from Artisan Cutlery, it can be had in a baffling array of versions. The most luxurious ones have M390 as blade steel and handle in TC4 titanium. The models below them come with D2-blades instead and either contoured or straight handle slabs made out of G10 or like in this case carbon fiber. These combinations go for most if not all of the knives from this company. All in all, it gives plenty of options but it's also a bit unwieldy. As the saying goes, a bird in the hand is worth two in the catalog!
As most models from Artisan Cutlery, it can be had in a baffling array of versions. The most luxurious ones have M390 as blade steel and handle in TC4 titanium. The models below them come with D2-blades instead and either contoured or straight handle slabs made out of G10 or like in this case carbon fiber. These combinations go for most if not all of the knives from this company. All in all, it gives plenty of options but it's also a bit unwieldy. As the saying goes, a bird in the hand is worth two in the catalog!
Can a blade inspired by a meat-cleaver speak to an old butcher like me?
Twitter version: Ospreys don't fly in flocks. An oddity that turned out to be a migratory bird
Blade
The looks of this knife might be the most striking about the whole knife and what defines it. In fact, it can be classified as overgrown sheepsfoot blade a k a "cleaver". This particular one measures 3,625 inches in length and is 1,625 inches tall. Proportions that gives the typical look. This is highlighted by the stock thickness of 0,15". Towards, well tip isn't exactly the correct word, the front end of the blade it has a rather striking false edge which both saves some weight by thinning the blade and makes it more visually appealing.
A sheepsfoot made out of D2, lots of D2
The steel in this version of the model is D2. A tool steel that seems to be hot for the moment. Heat treat aside It's well known for taking a keen edge and for holding it for a long time. But there is always a trade-off for these traits. The disadvantage is that steels of this type are not stainless. They are also in general very hard and can, therefore, be tricky to sharpen once they get dull. The same of course goes for re-profiling of edges. Knife edges in D2 should be taken good care of in order to avoid that. I want to add that my personal experience of this steel from several brands is that they demand rather thick edges to avoid brittleness. And despite that, there is often a tendency to chip. For that reason, it's not a favorite of mine even in the budget segment. But it's "the latest" and relatively cheap so many companies use it.*
The finish on the Osprey is a semi-shiny stone wash with a surface that is rather practical as well as matching the looks of the knife. It can also be noted that Artisan is doing alright on the billboard side of things. That is a properly sized logo on one side and on the other serial number, type of steel and country of origin but in miniature size. The way I prefer if there should be any text at all.
The finish on the Osprey is a semi-shiny stone wash with a surface that is rather practical as well as matching the looks of the knife. It can also be noted that Artisan is doing alright on the billboard side of things. That is a properly sized logo on one side and on the other serial number, type of steel and country of origin but in miniature size. The way I prefer if there should be any text at all.
As can be seen a rather decent but not perfect edge. The overall cutting ability is saved by the height of the primary grind
The blade is flat ground to about two third of its height which is a good thing since it aids in cutting performance. But unfortunately, the knife is thick behind the edge which means that despite being sharp out of box paper cutting is out of the question as sharpness test for this knife. The thick and broad blade doesn't perform especially well in cardboard either. This kind of materials ain't this knife's forte. Of course, you can do it but it requires quite a bit of force behind the cuts to shred card boxes for instance.
Well, you can slice things with the Osprey
That this is a blade not well suited for penetration is kind of obvious. But as a fact, there is a rudimentary tip and it can be used to open packages and the like.
A side note, I haven't tested this knife as thorough as I do with a knife that I intend to keep.
But it must be said - Cleaver blades on folders ain't exactly practical. There is no obvious benefits at all but several drawbacks.
Handle
One of the most visible features of this knife is the very glossy carbon fiber handle. I can't say for certain but I don't think they are massive CF but some laminated version with a sticker on top of G10 like most Taichung made Spydercos for instance. It also strongly resembles the type of finish Ganzo have on their CF. The handle slabs are mounted on a steel frame that has been weight relieved.
The knife has got a decorative pivot screw whose pattern can be discussed. I do understand that it is supposed to be a stylized mirroring of Artisans logo. But you can't help think it looks like a swastika viewed from certain angles. That sort of symbol is an ancient token for luck and success both here in Scandinavia but above all in several countries in Asia. But as everyone knows it also got another meaning since it got kidnapped and became the "Hakenkreuz". For that very reason, I personally would have chosen another design for a product aiming for a global market.
Besides that, the pivot head has been provided with the knife's only exclamation mark, a colorful collar in gaudy orange. One can have different opinions about that detail but I like it on this knife.
The knife has got a decorative pivot screw whose pattern can be discussed. I do understand that it is supposed to be a stylized mirroring of Artisans logo. But you can't help think it looks like a swastika viewed from certain angles. That sort of symbol is an ancient token for luck and success both here in Scandinavia but above all in several countries in Asia. But as everyone knows it also got another meaning since it got kidnapped and became the "Hakenkreuz". For that very reason, I personally would have chosen another design for a product aiming for a global market.
Besides that, the pivot head has been provided with the knife's only exclamation mark, a colorful collar in gaudy orange. One can have different opinions about that detail but I like it on this knife.
A touch of color around the "swastika"
The handle shape is a simple one, a slightly rounded stick. Something I highly appreciate since it makes it easy to find a comfortable grip no matter what hand size or shape. All the usual grips work just fine and especially so when the finger is placed on top of the spine for controlled cuts. In that position, the handle is quite good.
A long handle not without virtues. It's rather ergonomic and it balances the big blade
The back could be more rounded off and from what I can see from pictures that go for the more contoured versions of the Osprey. Therefore I think that they are considerably more comfortable in hand even if this version is approved. The straight carbon fiber sides give however no traction at all. So for that reason, I would definitely opt for the G10 version instead if you are planning on actually using the knife.
The handle measures 5 inches lengthwise, is about one-inch height and is 0,55 inch thick.
Osprey is not a small knife. The handle is longer than Spydercos Shaman and is close to Cold Steels
Ultimate Hunter in that regard. The width surpasses them both
Ultimate Hunter in that regard. The width surpasses them both
The length of the handle saves Osprey in more ways than one. First of all, it's practical since it provides space even for larger hands. Secondly, it eliminates one common problem often related to deep carry clips - that of the back end of them creating an annoying hotspot when using the knife. In this case, the fold over part of the clip ends up behind the hand for most people. That goes for "hammer grip" anyway. In saber grip, there is a tendency for a hotspot anyway.
But most important of all, the handle really affects the handling of the knife. It counterbalances the blade and makes the knife way more lively and agile in hand than what could have been the case. Despite the rather massive blade, Osprey got a neutral point of balance which is worth mentioning. The knife is therefore perceived as faster and smaller than it actually is.
But most important of all, the handle really affects the handling of the knife. It counterbalances the blade and makes the knife way more lively and agile in hand than what could have been the case. Despite the rather massive blade, Osprey got a neutral point of balance which is worth mentioning. The knife is therefore perceived as faster and smaller than it actually is.
Opening and lock up
As a majority if not all knives from Artisan Cutlery, this is a flipper knife. Now there are two alternative ways of opening Osprey of which one might be consciously made and the other more of an unwelcome side effect.
The width of the blade, of course, makes for a good two-handed opening. There is plenty of blade to get hold of and you can open the knife in a calm and controlled manner if you so choose. But the same width combined with the stock thickness also makes for a very heavy blade which transforms Osprey into a "gravity knife". There is no chance for the detent to keep the blade in place if you give the knife a good wrist flick. The Aussies and other people living in areas where such knives are forbidden won't appreciate that. It can be said that goes for other Artisan models such as Apache as well.
The width of the blade, of course, makes for a good two-handed opening. There is plenty of blade to get hold of and you can open the knife in a calm and controlled manner if you so choose. But the same width combined with the stock thickness also makes for a very heavy blade which transforms Osprey into a "gravity knife". There is no chance for the detent to keep the blade in place if you give the knife a good wrist flick. The Aussies and other people living in areas where such knives are forbidden won't appreciate that. It can be said that goes for other Artisan models such as Apache as well.
A flipper that functions surprisingly well
The detent is on the other hand strong enough to make the knife feel safe in the pocket and to make the flipper work properly. The blade runs on ceramic bearings and how the blades move is a reflection of that. The knife has a very smooth action but it isn't especially fast. The lack of speed is a pure consequence of physics, the blade is too big and heavy. That also makes it a formidable finger guillotine. The blade drops as soon as the lock bar is released so keep your digits away.
The flipper tab has some jimpings which give traction. It is also properly sized so that it works well without being too large and cumbersome in a pocket. That is, it's no woodpecker even if it's like most other flipper tabs can be felt. That is one the reasons to why I'm not as positive to that way of opening a knife as many others.
The flipper tab has some jimpings which give traction. It is also properly sized so that it works well without being too large and cumbersome in a pocket. That is, it's no woodpecker even if it's like most other flipper tabs can be felt. That is one the reasons to why I'm not as positive to that way of opening a knife as many others.
The lock on this knife is well executed and plenty strong
There is not much to say about the liner lock on this knife. Or rather I have mostly good things to say about it. It's made out of sturdy two-millimeter thick steel. The function is excellent with secure lock up with every opening and it does so without even the slightest play in any direction. There is a very minute tendency to lock slip if the blade is provoked heavily putting pressure from the spine of the blade. The lock bar itself has no jimping but that is not necessary since the blade stock of nearly four millimeters makes for plenty of space within the frame to reach the lock.
To carry
To say that the Osprey is a discreet carry would be lying. But with that said it's actually not as bad as one can be tricked to think. A good deep carry clip, a spine soft to the touch and a well-rounded stern contributes. The smooth material in the sides makes the knife very easy to draw and put away. That type of surface is also less aggressive towards your beloved garments. Especially where the clip contacts the scale of the knife.
The clip is of a rather simple fold over type made out of steel. One detail that could be bettered is to countersink the screws that hold the clip in place. It would give more room for thicker fabric. But as is the knife works just fine with ordinary jeans.
The clip is of a rather simple fold over type made out of steel. One detail that could be bettered is to countersink the screws that hold the clip in place. It would give more room for thicker fabric. But as is the knife works just fine with ordinary jeans.
On the premium versions you get sculpted ti-clips, here it's a spring steel clip
The clip works properly, is very shiny and somewhat boring
But despite the positives, you also find over twelve centimeters of a handle in your pocket. Combine that with a folded width of close to two inches and a handle thickness of 0,55" and you got a pretty impressive volume. Osprey also weighs in at 6,28 oz. So you can't claim that this is a small bird! It also has a beak even if it's no aggressive "pocket pecker".
To conclude
To start with my interest in this particular knife was lukewarm I must admit. So-called "Cleavers", that is pocket knives with blades inspired by meat cleavers, isn't exactly my preferred style of knives. Mostly because the blade shape in this size has no practical functions at all but is a purely aesthetic choice. One that doesn't appeal to me at all. But since I'm also a curious being I wanted to test one despite that.
A cleaver in the pocket should be supplemented with something smaller that has a tip and don't frighten the sheeple
My liking for the Osprey grew a bit during the test period. The knife is a good representative for the style. It is above all saved by how it handles and the good balance. A long handle combined with a rather sturdy frame evens out the mass of the blade. That makes for a knife that feels more agile than it looks. It can also be said that the action of this knife is very good. The Osprey is quite fun to fiddle with since it runs on bearings. On perhaps "jogging on bearings" is more appropriate since the knife due to the heavy blade isn't as swift as lightning.
The Osprey that became a migratory bird despite growing during this period. A well-built knife for somebody else
Yet another bird has landed but in this case, it turned out to be a migratory creature. This ain't a knife that I will buy since nor the function nor the looks are my cup of tea.
But for the ones who appreciate this kind of folder, this is a good example that can compete with most brands out there. A well-built knife with decent materials. Despite not having tested the other versions of this knife I would though recommend the premium titanium-handled or contoured G10 models instead depending on the intended area of use. Not only does the curved titanium sides look more luxurious they most probably provide better ergonomics as well. On top of that, they can be had in several different colorations. The G10 versions are probably better for actually knife related work due to better traction.
But for the ones who appreciate this kind of folder, this is a good example that can compete with most brands out there. A well-built knife with decent materials. Despite not having tested the other versions of this knife I would though recommend the premium titanium-handled or contoured G10 models instead depending on the intended area of use. Not only does the curved titanium sides look more luxurious they most probably provide better ergonomics as well. On top of that, they can be had in several different colorations. The G10 versions are probably better for actually knife related work due to better traction.
So if you are a fan of cleaver-bladed folding knives the Osprey from Artisan Cutlery is definitely a candidate for your pocket!
Specification:
Length overall: 8,625"
Length folded: 5"
Weight: 6,28 oz (177 g weighed by me)
Blade length: 3,625"
Blade thickness: 0,15"
Blade Steel: D2
Handle: carbon fiber on top of a steel frame
Lock: Linerlock in steel
Produced by: Artisan Cutlery, made in China
/ J - the temporary falconer
* Artisan Cutlery claim on their homepage that the blade is 100 mm. But no matter how I measure this knife it isn't that long. The same goes for the handle that they say is 128 mm and according to me, it's 125 mm. Maybe the G10 versions are slightly bigger.
** This especially goes for Chinese brands since the "knife world" highly trends sensitive and their domestic "number steels" such as 8Cr13MoV has been labeled as low grade. But you must take into consideration which numbers that are involved. A steel for kitchen sinks like 3Cr13MoV is definitely not the same as 9Cr18MoV. That discussion mirrors the one concerning the difference between 440A and 440C.
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