- the bird has landed
It is rather obvious that QSP is in full swing broadening their selection of knives. They added many models at different levels and also new types. For example, they have more fixed blades than previous and also a Karambit in the catalog. The materials are also more comprehensive than before. There are entry models like the previously reviewed Parrot. That knife offers a blade in 440C and a handle built on a steel frame with slabs of G10. Somewhat more advanced are models like the Piglet which comes with contoured G10 sides and 14C28N for blade steel and the Phoenix with the same handle materials but with a D2-blade on ball bearings.
Even higher in the hierarchy, you find knives like the Mamba and the Locust. The blade steels are in both cases VG10 and they too run on bearings. The handles are made out of shaped carbon fiber and Flax (a sort of Micarta like material). Locust comes with details as 3D-milled titanium clip as well.
And then we have today's knife that represents the currently most distinguished class from QSP. The model is, as you might have guessed from the title, called Songbird.
QSP QS115-A Songbird
With this knife, QSP stepped up a notch both regarding blade steel, handle materials and attention to detail. Well, depending on your view on the subject titanium versus other materials that is.
A very slender and elegant revelation
Twitter version: A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. QSP Songbird has landed!
Even higher in the hierarchy, you find knives like the Mamba and the Locust. The blade steels are in both cases VG10 and they too run on bearings. The handles are made out of shaped carbon fiber and Flax (a sort of Micarta like material). Locust comes with details as 3D-milled titanium clip as well.
And then we have today's knife that represents the currently most distinguished class from QSP. The model is, as you might have guessed from the title, called Songbird.
Twitter version: A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. QSP Songbird has landed!
Blade
Songbird has a rather unusual blade type. If you just take a quick glance at a distance it might pass for a slender Wharncliffe. But the edge isn't straight, it curves slightly in the "wrong" direction which brings us closer to what is normally referred to as "hawkbills". That typology isn't' correct either since they are more reminiscent of a hook or as the name suggests, a beak of a bird. This is instead a Talon which also feels very suitable. The edge consists of a long sweeping negative curve that meets a back that also slops downward. That gives a rather distinct look and also a very effective tip. It can be said that the blade isn't an extreme example of the blade type but rather subtle say compared to a Spyderhawk.
The blade is quite sturdy for being this slim. The blade stock is the for QSP almost standardized 3,5 mm and the length is 97 mm. The blade measures only 25 mm at it's widest wich gives the slender profile. The finish is excellent for the ones who like their blades shiny. A nice and polished satin on the secondary edge meets a longitudinal satin on the flats which gives a two-tone effect.
QSP seems to have listened to what at least parts of the knife community think about excessive branding. The logo is greatly reduced and thus very discreet. On the opposite side, the blade is marked with blade steel. That too with very small text so all in all this blade is very clean. Something I think most can appreciate.
Not the most common blade shape for an EDC-type of knife - a Talon
As said earlier the choice of steel in this knife has been somewhat tuned and that means the tried and tested S35VN from American Crucible. Not the "latest", which I'm thankful for but very capable. You might say "if it is good enough for Chris Reeve, it's good enough for..." and fill in the blanks with whatever brand. However, it all comes down to what you do with said piece of metal and how the inherent properties of the steel are used. As far as I can tell QSP has managed quite well on that front too.
The steel is the tried and tested CPM S35VN
The factory edge was quite well executed. The knife arrived bloody sharp, to be frank. As I use to say, all knives need to be sharpened sooner or later but I'm happy if I don't have to resharpen brand new knives. The way a factory edge is executed shows if a company gives a damned and how quality control is managed.
Once in hand, the Songbird is very likable. No immediate surprises, it behaves pretty much the way it looks and feels at first contact. The balance is almost completely neutral. The point of balance is found just behind the pivot and the knife, therefore, feels quick and lively in hand. The tip is found about the same height relative the handle as on a modified Wharncliffe. The tip is, by the way, needle-sharp without being too fragile. That makes Songbird suitable for miscellaneous penetrating cuts. But given the format and choice of handle materials, this is no knife for stabbing or prying.
What you can do on the other hand is cut things. The slightly curved edge bites really well especially when stuff is cut off. That goes especially well for rope and the like. But it works surprisingly well even at twigs and smaller branches even though this particular bird doesn't find its nest in the forest.
Besides being a rope killer and cardboard killer the
blade reminds me of a paring knife
One property this type of blades shares with the nowadays so popular Wharncliffe is that they, in the long run, tends to wear a bit uneven. The tendency is to cut with the outer most part of the edge. That becomes especially clear if you cut against flat surfaces such as stumps, cutting boards and the like. Truth be told I don't know how difficult it will be to resharpen this curved edge since I haven't done it yet. I suspect it will be like sharpening a recurve.
That it can pose a challenge can be understood since the person behind the original grind has had some minor problems. The height of the edge is even and the grind is symmetrical but the curvature flattens towards the tip.
The blade is quite sturdy for being this slim. The blade stock is the for QSP almost standardized 3,5 mm and the length is 97 mm. The blade measures only 25 mm at it's widest wich gives the slender profile. The finish is excellent for the ones who like their blades shiny. A nice and polished satin on the secondary edge meets a longitudinal satin on the flats which gives a two-tone effect.
QSP seems to have listened to what at least parts of the knife community think about excessive branding. The logo is greatly reduced and thus very discreet. On the opposite side, the blade is marked with blade steel. That too with very small text so all in all this blade is very clean. Something I think most can appreciate.
As said earlier the choice of steel in this knife has been somewhat tuned and that means the tried and tested S35VN from American Crucible. Not the "latest", which I'm thankful for but very capable. You might say "if it is good enough for Chris Reeve, it's good enough for..." and fill in the blanks with whatever brand. However, it all comes down to what you do with said piece of metal and how the inherent properties of the steel are used. As far as I can tell QSP has managed quite well on that front too.
Once in hand, the Songbird is very likable. No immediate surprises, it behaves pretty much the way it looks and feels at first contact. The balance is almost completely neutral. The point of balance is found just behind the pivot and the knife, therefore, feels quick and lively in hand. The tip is found about the same height relative the handle as on a modified Wharncliffe. The tip is, by the way, needle-sharp without being too fragile. That makes Songbird suitable for miscellaneous penetrating cuts. But given the format and choice of handle materials, this is no knife for stabbing or prying.
What you can do on the other hand is cut things. The slightly curved edge bites really well especially when stuff is cut off. That goes especially well for rope and the like. But it works surprisingly well even at twigs and smaller branches even though this particular bird doesn't find its nest in the forest.
Besides being a rope killer and cardboard killer the
blade reminds me of a paring knife
blade reminds me of a paring knife
One property this type of blades shares with the nowadays so popular Wharncliffe is that they, in the long run, tends to wear a bit uneven. The tendency is to cut with the outer most part of the edge. That becomes especially clear if you cut against flat surfaces such as stumps, cutting boards and the like. Truth be told I don't know how difficult it will be to resharpen this curved edge since I haven't done it yet. I suspect it will be like sharpening a recurve.
That it can pose a challenge can be understood since the person behind the original grind has had some minor problems. The height of the edge is even and the grind is symmetrical but the curvature flattens towards the tip.
Handle
The handle has also been "tuned" in terms of materials and in this case, it's metal, more specifically titanium. It has been given a blue/purple shimmering anodization. It's claimed to be blue but on this specimen, it varies depending on the light. To add some complexity and thereby visual interest, the titanium has been milled in a stepped pattern towards the end of the handle. A pattern that is, by the way, found on both sides. Hurray, a folding knife in titanium that lacks a distinctive front- and a backside!
Besides, the knife has been fitted with double-sided recessed carbon fiber inlays. The knives in this category are also equipped with a pivot screw head with a triangle pattern to distinguish them from the rest of the line. On the opposite side, a proper T8 is found for ease of maintenance.
A handle in blue anodized titanium with double-sided carbon fiber inlays
The basic construction is simple and well-proven. Two sides in sturdy titanium have been attached with two screws beside the pivot. The sides are not weight relieved on the inside but they have instead milled pockets on the outside for the inlays. The panels are made out of carbon fiber as mentioned and the finish is just excellent. There are absolutely no gaps between the materials and the CF is of high quality without any voids and have a nice shine to them.
The knife has a partial backspacer. It too is made of titanium and has a gear pattern.
Overall the Songbird gives an impression of being very solid and well built. That is despite a weight of only 100 g. Weight is not the only important property for a folding knife. But as an example, in the summertime, I often carry a knife in the leg pockets of my shorts and then I don't want it to hit my leg while moving. So lighter is often better, at least for me.
Two sturdy pieces of titanium connected via a gear patterned backspacer
The handle is long enough to accommodate even a larger hand. The shape creates a recess for the forefinger to rest in and the same goes for the other fingers. The grooves are not too deep so that they interfere with different grips and force your hand into certain positions. Therefore most standard grips work well, no matter hammer-, saber or reversed grips. The shape makes for a good hold, for lighter tasks I might add.
This is not a knife for heavier tasks but that is told already by the looks and the materials. If you grip the handle really hard it feels a bit too angular and as a whole, it is way too slippery for that purpose. Neither the titanium nor the carbon fiber gives any traction to speak of. The only thing that makes for a more secure grip is som light grooves on the blade spine and a diminutive finger guard.
But that is certainly not a problem. For lighter EDC-tasks and the various quick cuts that this knife may encounter in everyday life, the ergonomics are more than decent. No extra traction needed.
Besides, the knife has been fitted with double-sided recessed carbon fiber inlays. The knives in this category are also equipped with a pivot screw head with a triangle pattern to distinguish them from the rest of the line. On the opposite side, a proper T8 is found for ease of maintenance.
The knife has a partial backspacer. It too is made of titanium and has a gear pattern.
Overall the Songbird gives an impression of being very solid and well built. That is despite a weight of only 100 g. Weight is not the only important property for a folding knife. But as an example, in the summertime, I often carry a knife in the leg pockets of my shorts and then I don't want it to hit my leg while moving. So lighter is often better, at least for me.
Two sturdy pieces of titanium connected via a gear patterned backspacer
This is not a knife for heavier tasks but that is told already by the looks and the materials. If you grip the handle really hard it feels a bit too angular and as a whole, it is way too slippery for that purpose. Neither the titanium nor the carbon fiber gives any traction to speak of. The only thing that makes for a more secure grip is som light grooves on the blade spine and a diminutive finger guard.
But that is certainly not a problem. For lighter EDC-tasks and the various quick cuts that this knife may encounter in everyday life, the ergonomics are more than decent. No extra traction needed.
Opening and lock
One of the reasons I chose this model is actually the opening method. Personally, I have almost always preferred thumb studs or holes over flippers if the choice is given. That is especially true for recent times when the market is literally flooded by TFFs (Titanium Frame lock Flippers), which at least saturated my interest somewhat. Especially since that particular way of opening a knife comes with some disadvantages.
The thumb studs on Songbird are of a relatively simple type. One thing I like about them is that they are small which matches the overall slim profile of the knife. Besides that, they are also placed correctly. Both to get the blade out and not to be in the way of the cutting path. At least not more than necessary. Well done QSP! A surprisingly big amount of manufacturers miss this detail and places them halfway out on the blade.
Thumb studs where they are supposed to be
One thing is not optimal though. That is the resistance from the detent ball. In this detail, you can notice the influence of the flipper-craze in the knife world. Some loud voices always call out for "stronger detents". At least this particular specimen of the Songbird demands a certain technique to open. Some force is needed to overcome the detent. Actually, so much that when I handed this knife to a friend who isn't perhaps as much of a knife nut that I am but still no beginner he couldn't open it at first!
Correct angle and some power are required. But when you succeed the action is splendid. The blade is as fast as any flipper out there. Unfortunately, that is at the expense of one of the biggest advantages with thumb studs. It is hard not to say almost impossible to open this knife in a slow and controlled manner if you feel like it. When the detent ball let go the blade comes flying out no matter what. After some breaking in the knife is a bit less hard to open.
One of the reasons behind the speedy opening is, of course, the ball bearings. That feature on folding knives can be discussed. But on a knife like this, not aiming towards the great outdoors I don't mind as much. Otherwise, I am an advocate for well-made bushings instead.
A titanium frame lock with lock bar reinforcement
This knife has a modern frame lock plain and simple. That includes an overtravel stop, double in this case since the carbon fiber inlay overlaps the lock bar a bit like bolster locks do. It also incorporates a steel lock bar insert. In theory, it is replaceable but have you ever heard of any actually replacing one?
The function of the lock is without fault. There is no play in any direction and frankly, anything else would have been disappointing. I can't detect any slippage of the lock bar either while using the knife or after some light "spine whacking". By the way, is it "whacking" if it is done very gently? Any harder torture than that I refuse to expose EDC-knives to. It is a completely different story if you put words like "survival" or "bushcraft" in the name.
It is easy to disengage the lock. The lock bar itself has been chamfered nicely and there is a recess on the opposite side to facilitate easier access.
The thumb studs on Songbird are of a relatively simple type. One thing I like about them is that they are small which matches the overall slim profile of the knife. Besides that, they are also placed correctly. Both to get the blade out and not to be in the way of the cutting path. At least not more than necessary. Well done QSP! A surprisingly big amount of manufacturers miss this detail and places them halfway out on the blade.
Correct angle and some power are required. But when you succeed the action is splendid. The blade is as fast as any flipper out there. Unfortunately, that is at the expense of one of the biggest advantages with thumb studs. It is hard not to say almost impossible to open this knife in a slow and controlled manner if you feel like it. When the detent ball let go the blade comes flying out no matter what. After some breaking in the knife is a bit less hard to open.
One of the reasons behind the speedy opening is, of course, the ball bearings. That feature on folding knives can be discussed. But on a knife like this, not aiming towards the great outdoors I don't mind as much. Otherwise, I am an advocate for well-made bushings instead.
A titanium frame lock with lock bar reinforcement
The function of the lock is without fault. There is no play in any direction and frankly, anything else would have been disappointing. I can't detect any slippage of the lock bar either while using the knife or after some light "spine whacking". By the way, is it "whacking" if it is done very gently? Any harder torture than that I refuse to expose EDC-knives to. It is a completely different story if you put words like "survival" or "bushcraft" in the name.
It is easy to disengage the lock. The lock bar itself has been chamfered nicely and there is a recess on the opposite side to facilitate easier access.
To Carry
What do we think about so-called sculpted titanium clips? In the beginning, I was most allergic to them for one specific reason. Many didn't work at all or very very poorly. They only served one purpose and that was as eye-candy but for the rest they were useless. From a purely functional standpoint, I still prefer a well-made spring clip. But advances have been made in this field as well and more and more manufacturers have learned to make ti-clip that actually works. This is a good example of such a clip. Despite being well in line with the knives overall theme with anodization and all it also works really well in a pocket. It keeps the knife in place, you can get it into a pocket and it's easy to pull the knife. Much of the explanation can be found in the choice of making the clip rather thin som it flexes the way it is supposed to.
A sculpted titanium clip that actually works and that doesn't create a hot spot
One important detail done right on this clip is the back end. It has been slanted and rounded off which prevents it from creating a hot spot. Too often sculpted clips are too thick in this area to obtain sufficient strength at the attachment point. That lump of metal usually eats away at your hand while using the knife. But not in this case.
The anodization makes the knife very discreet if you are wearing blue jeans
The Songbird is no giant of a knife even if it's quite long. It measures about 12 centimeters in length and weighs in at around 100 grams which makes it rather unobtrusive in the pocket. The lack of flipper tab and the general lines makes for a slim profile and at the widest, this knife is 30 mm and the width of the handle is a meager 11 millimeters.
One important detail done right on this clip is the back end. It has been slanted and rounded off which prevents it from creating a hot spot. Too often sculpted clips are too thick in this area to obtain sufficient strength at the attachment point. That lump of metal usually eats away at your hand while using the knife. But not in this case.
The anodization makes the knife very discreet if you are wearing blue jeans
Conclusion
How well does QSP succeed with the ambition of broadening the views and expanding their catalog? After testing several new models from them I think they are doing really good. In addition to this knife, I have experience from the previously reviewed Mamba. Within short there will also be reviews of the models "Piglet" and "Locust".
With the model Songbird*, QSP has introduced the higher-end materials many companies nowadays start with like titanium and S35VN. The way I see it they made the right decision to start with a couple of solid offerings at a competitive price point and work their way up from there. Maybe, just maybe there is a risk of getting labeled as a budget brand if you do so. But unlike say CRKT that have done the same but for many years QSP has chosen another path. It still remains to be seen how successful the concept will be. They are rather new on the market and the competition is fierce nowadays. In this class of knives, you find offerings from brands like Artisan Cutlery, Bestech, Real Steel and Kizer to name a few.
But both regarding materials and quality this knife is certainly a contender.
Songbird comes with a sturdy presentation box and with a zipper pouch
As the saying goes "better a bird in the hand than two in the bush". That is definitely true in this case. In hand, this bird gets approved and more depending on the area of usage. To me, Songbird is a dedicated EDC-knife. Both materials and design aim that way.
This means that this knife is up for all the small chores you might encounter in your everyday life as long as that life isn't spent on construction sites or in the wilderness. A needle-sharp tip combined with an edge with a really good bite can handle most tasks. The blade shape is especially good at cutting off stuff, in particular things like zip ties, and rope. The tip is excellent at penetrating hard plastics, wrapping, and other modern materials. Also, cardboard of varying types is handled with ease.
Sometimes you can find a Songbird in a forest despite all
Songbird is a strikingly well-built knife. The most important parts like the blade, handle and lock oozes quality. So besides the materials, the build quality is there. There are no obvious misses, the transitions between materials are extremely well made, the blade well sharpened and the lock behaves exemplary.
When it comes to execution I have very few objections. Perhaps the strong detent is one. I will try to fine-tune it myself. As is you can't slowly deploy the blade and that is something I would like to be able to. That is one of the big advantages with thumb stud openers I think.
All in all, Songbird offers a lot for your hard-earned money. You get a milled anodized titanium handle and backspacer with a sculpted clip to match, high-quality carbon fiber inlays on two sides, S35VN-blade, ceramic ball bearings, overtravel stop, and steel lock bar insert.
But the number one reason to get this knife is not the tech but the sleek look. This is a knife you buy because you like the long slightly curved blade. A very elegant shape with a little mean touch to it. It's around that the knife is built and that is the entire idea with the Songbird. A pocket knife for the gentleman but with a twist! If you don't like Bluebirds like this one it can also be had in Jackdaw-grey or Raven-black.
Specification:
Length, Overall: 212 mm
Length, Folded: 117 mm
Weight: 100 g
Blade Length: 97 mm
Blade Thickness: 3,5 mm
Blade Steel: CPM S35VN
Handle: Titanium with carbon fiber inlays
Lock: Framelock with an over-travel stop
Produced by: QSP, made in China
/ J - bringing out my inner ornithologist
* And a couple of other models like Kylin och Puffer
But both regarding materials and quality this knife is certainly a contender.
Songbird comes with a sturdy presentation box and with a zipper pouch
This means that this knife is up for all the small chores you might encounter in your everyday life as long as that life isn't spent on construction sites or in the wilderness. A needle-sharp tip combined with an edge with a really good bite can handle most tasks. The blade shape is especially good at cutting off stuff, in particular things like zip ties, and rope. The tip is excellent at penetrating hard plastics, wrapping, and other modern materials. Also, cardboard of varying types is handled with ease.
Sometimes you can find a Songbird in a forest despite all
Songbird is a strikingly well-built knife. The most important parts like the blade, handle and lock oozes quality. So besides the materials, the build quality is there. There are no obvious misses, the transitions between materials are extremely well made, the blade well sharpened and the lock behaves exemplary.
When it comes to execution I have very few objections. Perhaps the strong detent is one. I will try to fine-tune it myself. As is you can't slowly deploy the blade and that is something I would like to be able to. That is one of the big advantages with thumb stud openers I think.
All in all, Songbird offers a lot for your hard-earned money. You get a milled anodized titanium handle and backspacer with a sculpted clip to match, high-quality carbon fiber inlays on two sides, S35VN-blade, ceramic ball bearings, overtravel stop, and steel lock bar insert.
But the number one reason to get this knife is not the tech but the sleek look. This is a knife you buy because you like the long slightly curved blade. A very elegant shape with a little mean touch to it. It's around that the knife is built and that is the entire idea with the Songbird. A pocket knife for the gentleman but with a twist! If you don't like Bluebirds like this one it can also be had in Jackdaw-grey or Raven-black.
* And a couple of other models like Kylin och Puffer
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