//Strider SMF S35Vn

// Improved rigidity in lock up over standard G10 versions because of Aluminum scale

// The style of pivot on a Strider is a female & male screw. This style of pivot relies heavily on the precision placement of these two parts. Microscopic variations can lead to an off center blade. If there is a stop pin that is screwed into place the stop pin can apply twisting pressures to help center the blade. Since Strider knives utilize an integrated thumb stud/stop pin method this is not an option. When evaluating a SMFs centering one should note that this is more a design weakness not an actual quality of manufacturing.
// Specifications & Measurements:
-Overall Length: 9"
-Blade Length: 4"
-Weight: 6.4 Oz
-Blade steel: CPM s35vn
-Blade Thickness: 5mm
-Handle Material: Aircraft Aluminum (presentation side) & Titanium (lock side)

// Despite having a radiused lock bevel & the wear issues associated with this type of blade > frame lock design, the SMF is the toughest of the Strider model line up because of the larger components.

Currently Unavailable In Online Store

//5 Point Review of the Strider SMF Aluminum
//Concept
// Improve upon the one of the best tactical folders in the industry by incorporating more durability & rigidity with the use of aircraft aluminum in the handle.
//Construction & Design
// A normal Strider SMF has g10 on it's non locking side, a synthetic material composed of fiberglass layers soaked in resin that's impervious to liquids. Aluminum when combined with other alloys is one of the hardest metals that's also stainless. The aluminum scale is anodized so there is an added corrosion resistant layer. Aluminum is a soft metal that can be found in everyday objects like music cds & is one of the most abundant metals on the planet but when combined with other alloys to make variations such as aircraft aluminum the Rockwell hardness can exceed 70pts! Hardened aluminum can be found in objects such as stoplight posts. Aluminum's other key feature is it's corrosion resistance. The addition of aluminum to the SMF is the next step in bringing Strider's signature folder towards extreme tactical/hard use.
//Roles & Applications
// High end over built utility knives that fold are pushing the old consensus that a folding knife can't do what a fixed blade can. For long term applications like outdoor use or military functions a folding knife would not be advisable. The many joints and locking mechanism will wear and a pocket clip to secure your knife will not work in a serious combat situation. But as a gift, or everyday civilian option or for the enthusiast knives like these are worth carrying for their convenience and their capabilities.
//Final Thoughts
// There's no doubt in my mind that if you're looking for a folding tactical knife that's got all the features to make a well rounded survival tool that this is it. This knife feels unbreakable & until you hold it you really don't know how ridiculously tough this knife is. Previous G10 versions & these videos really cannot depict it's true nature. The knife is serious machinery. The overall versatility of the knife, because of it being a frame lock, lends itself to low maintenance, less parts & reliability in various environments.
//Performance
// The actual cutting performance & reach of an SMF compared to the smaller SNG model is not much different besides the extra 1mm of thickness on the SMF blade which will help with fracturing if you were to pry with it. If you own neither & are willing to carry the SMF size then I suggest that you start with this knife since it is more robust than the SNG & will last much longer. The SMF is a frame lock knife & therefore the lock bar can slide in further with heavy use & wear out faster this way. While the lock design is sturdy & provides a secure lock up it is designed to not over engage & jam during hard use which means it can wear out quickly or move around. The aluminum handle version cannot receive graphite lubrication to help alleviate this issue.