- this Hawk flies higher than most
The golden section or ratio is often mentioned in art contexts and in architecture also for that matter and sometimes even in connection with people's appearance. A similar phenomenon appears to exist for folding knives targeting the EDC segment. Or pocket knives as they were called back then they lacked clip and actually were carried deep down in a pocket.
It can't be a coincidence that a couple of quite diverse knives I've become really fond of lately have in common that the dimensions are very close.
It is for me three new knives in three different price ranges from three different manufacturers. They are Honey Badger Medium Flipper, Benchmade Bugout, and of course, today's review object QSP Hawk.
It can't be a coincidence that a couple of quite diverse knives I've become really fond of lately have in common that the dimensions are very close.
Three different knives, three price ranges but about the same dimension
It is for me three new knives in three different price ranges from three different manufacturers. They are Honey Badger Medium Flipper, Benchmade Bugout, and of course, today's review object QSP Hawk.
QSP QS131-B Hawk
Like many models from QSP, it can be had in a couple of different variations. You can choose between a carbon fiber or wood handle like this one. The blade can be had in a standard satin with CPM S35VN steel or as in this case a pattern-welded version.
The use of Damascus steels of various sorts can always be discussed as well as the terminology surrounding them. The correct term is really pattern-welded steel for this type of product.
To be honest, I have very few knives with this type of blade and there is a reason for that. In most cases, I think it is "too much", appearance-wise. What is supposed to be decorative and beautiful instead becomes too busy and makes the blade look like it suffers from typhus or something?
I know it is quite fashionable nowadays to use patterned welded blades but in general, that also means a blade with less performance. Homogeneous powder steel is simply better in all respects. But then came a company, from Sweden actually, named Damasteel, and marketed a stainless version with a performance that was significantly better suited to modern pocket knives. It is similar steel but of Chinese origin that can be found in this knife
The use of Damascus steels of various sorts can always be discussed as well as the terminology surrounding them. The correct term is really pattern-welded steel for this type of product.
To be honest, I have very few knives with this type of blade and there is a reason for that. In most cases, I think it is "too much", appearance-wise. What is supposed to be decorative and beautiful instead becomes too busy and makes the blade look like it suffers from typhus or something?
I know it is quite fashionable nowadays to use patterned welded blades but in general, that also means a blade with less performance. Homogeneous powder steel is simply better in all respects. But then came a company, from Sweden actually, named Damasteel, and marketed a stainless version with a performance that was significantly better suited to modern pocket knives. It is similar steel but of Chinese origin that can be found in this knife
The luxury- or perhaps "bling" version of the Hawk
Twitter version: QSP Hawk, the bird of prey that crossed with a peacock but kept its sharp and practical beak
Blade
If you now adhere to the golden section or ratio, it means certain proportions and although it is not the benchmark for knife blades, simplicity and harmony are always feasible. As in this case. It means a drop point that measures just over eight centimeters in length, is about two and a half centimeters high and reasonably thin with its three millimeters thickness.
Only two things cause the blade to deviate slightly from the base template. Of course, one is the finish and the other is the ramp found at the base of the blade. By the way, it has got some milled grooves to give the thumb a better grip. A detail that feels welcome on this knife
Only two things cause the blade to deviate slightly from the base template. Of course, one is the finish and the other is the ramp found at the base of the blade. By the way, it has got some milled grooves to give the thumb a better grip. A detail that feels welcome on this knife
Simplicity is a virtue, especially when the blade is otherwise patterned. The result is a practical drop point
As mentioned before this is a patterned welded steel. Before I knew what the components were I noticed that the blade was easy to hone and strop and that it took a keen edge. It is also durable of what I can find out without devoting myself to the endurance race for knives. Since then I learned that the blade is made out of VG10 and 9Cr18MoV. Two good stainless steels.
The blade is flat ground to almost the entire height of the blade. The factory edge was good as most of the knives I've encountered from QSP. The knife came sharp and the edge is fairly even though not perfect. The person who did this is probably right-handed as the person in question has "capsized" a little towards the tip to the left. It's a little steeper there. Something I tend to do when I use a grinder If I remember correctly.
The blade is flat ground to almost the entire height of the blade. The factory edge was good as most of the knives I've encountered from QSP. The knife came sharp and the edge is fairly even though not perfect. The person who did this is probably right-handed as the person in question has "capsized" a little towards the tip to the left. It's a little steeper there. Something I tend to do when I use a grinder If I remember correctly.
One detail that has been done correctly on this knife is the sharpening choil. It extends beyond the plunge line. This allows the edge to really extend all the way to the heel without getting that typical smile that can be the case otherwise.
The patterned steel is stainless and made out of VG10 and 9Cr18MoV
In many ways, this is an exemplary knife blade for EDC tasks purely in terms of form. The harmony is found both in appearance and how it is to use which means a good tip, a small belly which makes cutting against hard surfaces (cutting boards, chopping blocks, pieces of wood, etc) and sweeping cuts easier. That while the blade offers a good portion of straight edge to work with
The tip is effective in such a way that it is sharp enough to be used for really small tasks, which in fact often means things like removing splinters, glass pieces, removing a scab, etc. At the same time, it is not so thin that it is excessively sensitive. That makes it possible to release the blade when it's stuck in a piece of wood for example. And speaking of wood, this knife isn't too bad at handling that kind om material either. I did not expect this from just looking at the knife I must admit. But after making some kindling for a fire and carving some sticks for sausage grilling and even start on a walking stick, I realized that it managed these tasks just fine.
More common chores like opening packages, cutting cardboard, and removing all those damn shrink-wrapped packagings that the world is full of, Hawk manages excellently. The thin stock glides through even double-walled cardboard with ease.
Overall it can be said that the knife blade is experienced as all-round as it looks
The tip is effective in such a way that it is sharp enough to be used for really small tasks, which in fact often means things like removing splinters, glass pieces, removing a scab, etc. At the same time, it is not so thin that it is excessively sensitive. That makes it possible to release the blade when it's stuck in a piece of wood for example. And speaking of wood, this knife isn't too bad at handling that kind om material either. I did not expect this from just looking at the knife I must admit. But after making some kindling for a fire and carving some sticks for sausage grilling and even start on a walking stick, I realized that it managed these tasks just fine.
More common chores like opening packages, cutting cardboard, and removing all those damn shrink-wrapped packagings that the world is full of, Hawk manages excellently. The thin stock glides through even double-walled cardboard with ease.
Overall it can be said that the knife blade is experienced as all-round as it looks
Handle
Both versions of this knife are based on a polished steel frame. All edges and corners on it have been well rounded. In this case, it is a necessity when choosing to make the knife with a "letterbox" configuration, i e the frame stands slightly proud.
Incidentally, the knife is completely open in the back and there are two hourglass-shaped and equally polished spacers. The screw size for them is T6 and the adjustable pivot screw is handled with a T8.
Incidentally, the knife is completely open in the back and there are two hourglass-shaped and equally polished spacers. The screw size for them is T6 and the adjustable pivot screw is handled with a T8.
The wooden sides are slightly arched and well ground. The wood gives off a slight and pleasant aroma
Covering the frame are sides that not only have well-chamfered edges but are also elegantly vaulted. Besides, two grooves have been milled in the sides that lead the thumb to the thumb studs should uncertainty arise. The material in this version of the knife is vera wood or Bulnesia. A type of wood that is known to be very hard and has a fairly strong vein, which makes every handle unique. My copy, for example, has a slightly green tone, except for the reddish-brown root tone. Besides, this wood has a pleasant aroma that reminds me a little of juniper wood.
The handle has an open back
The shape of the handle is simple and neutral. Exactly the way I usually prefer. The underside curves and forms a soft transition to the flipper tab which acts as a finger guard at the front and to a bulge at the back. The bulge or small swell of the handle prevents the hand from sliding backward when cutting. The back of the handle is perfectly straight and which makes it ideal for saber grips.
For a hammer grip, I prefer to have a slightly arched back for it to be perfect. But this applies most to knives aimed at heavy-duty work. On an EDC-knife like Hawk, the current shape is excellent, especially as it is easy to switch between different grips.
The grip surface itself is nine centimeters and the handle is thus just about big enough for all fingers to fit where they belong. But just barely I must admit.
For those who appreciate their beads or just want a lanyard for practical reasons, there is a generous hole for that as well.
For a hammer grip, I prefer to have a slightly arched back for it to be perfect. But this applies most to knives aimed at heavy-duty work. On an EDC-knife like Hawk, the current shape is excellent, especially as it is easy to switch between different grips.
A handle large enough to hold all four fingers but small enough to make the knife smooth in the pocket
The grip surface itself is nine centimeters and the handle is thus just about big enough for all fingers to fit where they belong. But just barely I must admit.
For those who appreciate their beads or just want a lanyard for practical reasons, there is a generous hole for that as well.
Opening and Lock
Hawk was really nice to open right from the start. But after a short break-in period, it is now extremely smooth and quick. This is especially true for the opening of the knife. In part, the lightning-quick opening is explained by the combination of ceramic ball bearings and a well-tuned detent ball.
Another explanation can be found in geometry. The flipper tab is almost placed "on top" of the pivot point. This means that very little force is needed to send the blade flying. The flipper is thus very effective and this is also what allows it to be kept so small. I only have one objection to it and that is that it tricks you. With its flat top with milled grooves, it invites to be pressed down. But that doesn't work at all, nothing happens if you try! This blade can only be opened by pulling the tab backward.
Another explanation can be found in geometry. The flipper tab is almost placed "on top" of the pivot point. This means that very little force is needed to send the blade flying. The flipper is thus very effective and this is also what allows it to be kept so small. I only have one objection to it and that is that it tricks you. With its flat top with milled grooves, it invites to be pressed down. But that doesn't work at all, nothing happens if you try! This blade can only be opened by pulling the tab backward.
A discreet flipper tab that fools you. Namely, it cannot be pressed downwards but must be pulled back to function
This knife, which may be evident from the pictures, has double opening systems. In addition to the small shark fin, there are double-sided thumb studs. An unusual feature is that both methods work equally well.
Much because the thumb studs are situated up at the ramp on the blade. This means that they almost act like a flipper tab when using them. The blade wants to fly out even when the thumb is involved. If you really want to slow-roll your blade open, it is recommended that both hands are used on this knife.
Both opening methods are equally good. I, therefore, prefer to use the thumb studs
The thumb studs are quite tall and combined with their shape they give good traction. Almost a little too good actually. The edges are so distinct that they almost feel a bit sharp.
Much because the thumb studs are situated up at the ramp on the blade. This means that they almost act like a flipper tab when using them. The blade wants to fly out even when the thumb is involved. If you really want to slow-roll your blade open, it is recommended that both hands are used on this knife.
Both opening methods are equally good. I, therefore, prefer to use the thumb studs
The thumb studs are quite tall and combined with their shape they give good traction. Almost a little too good actually. The edges are so distinct that they almost feel a bit sharp.
An example of a well-made liner lock
The lock on this knife is a liner lock, no more no less. The function is very good.* The entire lock bar engages the blade base and it does not slip or bend if the blade is subjected to negative pressure. I even handle som mild spine whacks. The lock is also easy and comfortable to disengage. It comes from the fact that the spring tension is not extremely strong and that both the frame and the side on the opposite side are recessed to make it easier to access the lock bar.
To Carry
Also when it comes to "carryability", the golden ratio for EDC-knives is close at hand. A knife doesn't get much better than this in a pocket.
The explanation can be found in a combination of format, weight, and material. Well polished and slightly vaulted wooden sides are really soft to the hand. Consequently, they are equally soft against fabrics as well. In other words, close to perfection. The outer dimensions with a length, width, and height of 105x13.5x31 millimeters are also pocket friendly.
And so is the weight despite the frame not being weight relieved. In this version, Hawk weighs in on 100 g even. Extra praise to QSP since the stated weight exactly matches the actual measurement. This is not always the case with knives. Somewhat strange is that the satin-blades version of this knife is a few grams heavier according to QSP's website. And if you choose the carbon fiber version you have to add another couple of grams.
The little flipper tab is as modest as it can be. Small, flat, and rounded as it is.
The explanation can be found in a combination of format, weight, and material. Well polished and slightly vaulted wooden sides are really soft to the hand. Consequently, they are equally soft against fabrics as well. In other words, close to perfection. The outer dimensions with a length, width, and height of 105x13.5x31 millimeters are also pocket friendly.
And so is the weight despite the frame not being weight relieved. In this version, Hawk weighs in on 100 g even. Extra praise to QSP since the stated weight exactly matches the actual measurement. This is not always the case with knives. Somewhat strange is that the satin-blades version of this knife is a few grams heavier according to QSP's website. And if you choose the carbon fiber version you have to add another couple of grams.
The little flipper tab is as modest as it can be. Small, flat, and rounded as it is.
clip as adapted for deep carry as it is shiny
The clip is very good. Except that QSP didn't get my memo regarding angles of the tip of a clip. They should NEVER point outwards. Simply because it's easy to just hit it with your hand walking normally and it actually hurts and the risk of scratching things of course increases. However, said tip provides a very good ramp for handling all types of fabric. The spring tension is quite strong in this clip. Maybe too strong if the material had been coarse G10 but now it is not. The combination of the almost slippery wood and the clip works just fine.
This is a deep carry type clip which means that none of the knife-handle protrudes from your pocket when you carry the knife. In addition to being discreet, you do not risk losing your precious knife.
This is a deep carry type clip which means that none of the knife-handle protrudes from your pocket when you carry the knife. In addition to being discreet, you do not risk losing your precious knife.
Then I personally think that clip can be a little less glossy but since the blade is a bit shiny as well they match. It should be added that the clip is not removable.
To Conclude
In this text, the looks of this knife have been mentioned more than once. Probably because this is one of few folding knives with patterned-welded blades in my possession. The blade looks pretty striking, especially when combined with wood in the handle. But at the same time, I can't help but think that the best thing about this knife is the overall proportions that are characterized by harmony and simplicity. In my eyes, they are a bit ruined by the "bling" in my eyes so maybe one should refrain and instead chose black carbon fiber handle and satin blade? Or is it the other way around, that the simple lines are enhanced by the materials? It is always a choice to make.
But under the flashy surface, there is a simple and well-constructed pocket knife that doesn't make a fool of itself out camping or hiking either. As an example, this knife handled wood much better than expected and the simplicity of the handle doesn't cause any hotspots even during prolonged usage. The clip, on the other hand, is felt after a while like so many deep-carry clips tend to do.
But under the flashy surface, there is a simple and well-constructed pocket knife that doesn't make a fool of itself out camping or hiking either. As an example, this knife handled wood much better than expected and the simplicity of the handle doesn't cause any hotspots even during prolonged usage. The clip, on the other hand, is felt after a while like so many deep-carry clips tend to do.
Hawk, a knife that not only matches a good cup of coffee but also is a nice companion outdoors
One of the strengths of this knife is the blade shape paired with a modest but for the context close to perfect thickness of three millimeters. It doesn't really have to be thicker. But it is sturdy enough that this knife can handle most things it can possibly be faced with as a daily carry knife.
Hawk is also generally a very well-built knife where most quality control boxes can be checked. The blade is centered, the edge even and sharp, there are no traces of machining on frame and sides and almost all edges and corners are softly rounded.
I wrote "almost" because the thumb studs could need another hit by buffing machine. The only small quality miss I found on the whole knife is the rear screw that holds the clip. It does not want to attach properly and therefore protrudes a bit.
However, it is in EDC-use the QSP Hawk really shines
Hawk superficially reminds a bit of another and simpler knife from QSP, namely their model Parrot. Both are sound EDC choices but Hawk has all the improvements that make it a significantly more sophisticated knife. The materials are, of course, considerably finer both in the blade and handle and unlike its relative, Hawk has a blade running on ceramic bearings. But also more subtle differences make it better. One is that the slightly higher blade cuts better despite the same stock thickness. Or that the small increase in size makes the handle considerably more comfortable.
These are differences that make it worthwhile to invest some extra money in your EDC-knife. This version of the QSP Hawk costs around $100 and slightly more in Euro.
For that money, you get a very sophisticated pocket knife for everyday use that can handle more than you might think while looking good doing it.
These are differences that make it worthwhile to invest some extra money in your EDC-knife. This version of the QSP Hawk costs around $100 and slightly more in Euro.
For that money, you get a very sophisticated pocket knife for everyday use that can handle more than you might think while looking good doing it.
Specification:
Length Overall: 187 mm
Length Folded: 105 mm
Weight: 100 g
Blade Length: 82 mm
Blade Thickness: 3 mm
Blade Steel: Stainless pattern-welded, HRC 58-60
Handle: Vera wood on a steel frame
Lock: liner lock
Produced by: QSP, made in China
/ J - birdlover
* Extra attention to the geometry, I think, because at one point QSP had problems with that detail on a specific model. Something that is resolved today.
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