Versatile, Affordable, Ergonomic, Durable, Sharp
In the restless world of everyday carry, a knife must be a jack-of-all-trades. It's got to be sturdy, reliable, sharp, and yet—much like a favorite song on the radio—capable of surprising you just when you think you've got it all figured out. The Bridgeport Knife Co 395 v2 is a tune you'll want to play on repeat, hitting those high notes of design and function without ever losing its rhythm.
The 395 v2 may not strike you at first glance. It looks like a softened-up Benchmade 940, another popular knife but one that never struck me as an ergonomic or performance masterpiece. But the 395 v2 is a cutting champion. The reverse tanto shape on a tall, very hollow ground blade makes it a maestro in the kitchen or on the trail.
There's a learning curve, a bridge you must cross with this blade, if you will. If you've never used the odd deployment method, or the thumb stud alongside the deployment hole, you might find it a bit perplexing at first. But spend some time with it, get to know its quirks and qualities, and you'll find it's worth every second of your attention.
Speaking of attention, Bridgeport gave a lot of it to this knife, improving on the original with minor touches that elevate it to a higher level. They've contoured Micarta scales, added the option of Fat Carbon or Shred Carbon Fiber, and retained the original deployment hole in some versions. It's all about options here, and the ability to make the knife your own, tailored to your tastes.
That handle might feel a bit boxy at first, no frills, no fuss, but it comes with pleasantly buttered edges. The pocket clip is a star of its own, an ultra-low-profile sculpted clip that's the first I've ever had where it never created a hotspot. Now, that's something to applaud.
Don't let the gentle price tag of $145 fool you. This is no budget knife settling for mediocrity. It's a great value, bucking the trend of crazy expensive knives, yet still delivering top-tier performance. Its blade length of about 3 inches and overall length of about 7 inches might seem modest, but the knife feels like a natural extension of your hand.
The 20CV steel of the blade speaks of resilience and readiness, while the satin or stonewashed or blackwashed finish brings an aesthetic appeal that won't get old. With a blade stock thickness of .11 inches and a handle thickness of about .47 inches, it's robust enough for any task without weighing you down. In fact, it tips the scales at a mere 3 ounces.
Bridgeport's v2 of the 395 is a knife that sings a harmonious melody. Whether you're a seasoned knife enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of everyday carry, this knife has a story to tell, a melody to hum along to. It's a beautifully simple instrument, yet it holds secrets and surprises that you'll come to appreciate with every cut, every slice, and every day it accompanies you.
Highly recommended, the Bridgeport Knife Co 395 v2 is more than just another blade in the market. It's a symphony of great design, with each part playing its role, creating a tune that you'll find yourself humming to, a knife that'll become a part of your daily rhythm.
Pros:
- Great Steel: Made of 20CV steel, the blade is durable and reliable.
- Ergonomic Design: Contoured Micarta scales and buttered edges for comfortable handling.
- Versatile Deployment: Options like thumb stud or hole allow for user preference.
- Cutting Performance: The reverse tanto shape with hollow grind makes it an excellent slicer.
- Excellent Clip Design: Ultra-low-profile clip that never creates a hotspot.
- Affordable Price: At $145, it offers great value without compromising quality.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: The deployment method and shape might require some getting used to for new users.
- Boxy Handle: Some may find the handle a bit too boxy or unrefined.
- Possible Design Limitations: The resemblance to another popular knife, like the Benchmade 940, may not appeal to those looking for a completely unique design.
In conclusion, the Bridgeport Knife Co 395 v2 is a thoughtfully designed and well-priced knife that scores high in both function and form. While some may find the handle design or deployment method not to their liking initially, the knife's strengths far outweigh these minor drawbacks.
$145
