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Review: Vosteed Raccoon Crossbar Lock with Aluminum Scales

By on January 23, 2024 in EDC, Knives

The Vosteed Raccoon Crossbar Lock is one of my favorite EDC knives in recent history. Vosteed recently allowed me to check out one of the latest versions of Raccoon, one with a different steel and some great looking aluminum scale options. I jumped at the chance in large part because I was interested to try Vosteed’s texture treatment of the aluminum scales on these new versions and to try their Nitro-V blade steel in a knife I already know I like.

Stats

Blade Length: 3.25″ | 82.55 mm

Overall Length: 7.60″ | 193.12 mm

Blade Width: 1.07″ | 27.27 mm

Blade Thickness: 0.118″ | 3.00 mm

Blade Material: Nitro-V

Blade Grind: Flat

Blade Style: Drop Point

Blade Finish: Satin

Hardness: HRC 60±2

Handle Length: 4.36″ | 110.75 mm

Handle Width: 1.10″ | 27.95 mm

Handle Thickness: 0.49″ | 12.40 mm

Handle Material: Aluminum

Color: Orange

Weight: 3.66 oz | 103.80 g

Opener: Thumb Stud

Lock Type: Crossbar Lock

Pivot Assembly: Caged Ceramic Ball Bearing

Pocket Clip: Reversible | Stainless Steel

Carry Position: Tip-up

Observations from Use

This is a new version of a knife that I already like very much and a lot of my interest in reviewing it will lies in the comparison to the Raccoon with micarta scales that I have already used extensively. The size and shape are identical but scale material and blade steels differ.

There is a lot to be said for how Vosteed treated the aluminum scales on these knives. Aluminum scales can lend a rigidity and weight to a knife that is very satisfying but they can also be cold and slick. Vosteed used a matte powder coat on these scales that seems durable and feels textured in hand which I appreciate. They also milled an attractive texture pattern into the scale. This is the grippiest and most comfortable aluminum-handled knife I own.

I should note that these really are aluminum scales. They are still screwed to the same stainless steel chassis found on other versions of the Raccoon. The result is a knife that feels even beefier than previous versions of the knife and makes a lot of very satisfying sounds when you flick it like only an all-metal knife can.

Vosteed used Nitro-V steel on this version and I was keen to try this considering all the time I have with their 14C28N. On paper, Nitro-V is very similar to 14C28N and I found that to be true in day to day use. It feels similar on sharpening stones and responds similarly on a strop. Edge holding also seemed very similar. Like the Vosteed’s 14C28N, this Nitro-V steel seems to be an excellent, fine-grained, and tough stainless steel that makes a fine choice for an EDC knife that will be pressed into varied tasks.

During my time with this knife, I tried to figure out what I could tell you about how to choose a Raccoon variant for yourself… then a record cold snap hit my area and it became obvious. If you don’t have to deal with cold temperatures regularly, I actually really like the feel and sounds of the aluminum-scaled version of the Raccoon. If you do have cold temps on the regular, the micarta versions will likely feel warmer in hand. It is nice to have options and I hope that one day Vosteed may even offer accessory scales to their customers as it would be very nice to be able to swap them.

In the end, this is just another option for an already great design. It has the same useful blade size and shape. You get the same great handle design that splits the difference so well between being slim in the pocket but hand filling. It is the same just-right EDC knife with a new scale and steel option.

Wrap Up

I own a number of aluminum-handled knives and found this one to be very comfortable and very grippy. The scale treatment provides both a soft, textured feel and plenty of grip. It also happens to look great in my opinion. The Raccoon Crossbar Lock Knives already feel very stout but these new aluminum versions seem to lean even harder into that impression.

Available from Vosteed.com or at the Vosteed Storefront on Amazon.com: Vosteed Raccoon on Amazon.com.

See our previous review of the micarta version of this knife here.

Review: Real Steel H6 Plus

By on January 20, 2024 in EDC, Knives, Reviews

In a market full of excellent budget knife options, the Real Steel H6 Plus still manages to stand out. In fact, I am willing to make the case that it is the most compelling budget, hard-use folder on the market right now. I think this knife should get a lot more attention and it is absolutely mind boggling how little it costs.

Overview

Blade Length: 3.75″ (95mm)

Cutting Edge: 3.75″ (95mm)

Closed Length: 4.75″ (120mm)

Overall Length: 8.5″ (215mm)

Blade Material: 14C28N

Blade Thickness: 0.136″ (3.5mm)

Blade Style: Drop Point

Blade Grind: Flat

Blade Finish: Stonewash

Handle Material: Black G10

Handle Thickness: 0.46″

Liner Material: Stainless Steel

Locking Mechanism: Frame Lock

Pivot Assembly: Washers

Pocket Clip: Tip-Up, Right

Carry Weight: 5 oz. (145g)

Observations from Use

I have owned several iterations of the Real Steel H6 over the years. In fact, I reviewed one on these very pages that I like a lot and often gave as a gift. I have a long history with this knife and, because of that, I can say that the H6 Plus is the most compelling entry in the H6 lineup to date. This is true in part because of the pricing and in part because of the use of washers (not bearings) in the pivot which is increasingly unusual in this knife market.

Expanding further on the above, it is important to point out that this knife sells for $36.50 (or less, there is currently a 15% coupon that knocks the price down to $31.02. That is an incredible price for a knife with the materials, features, and size of this one.

The Real Steel H6 Plus also runs on washers which is a GREAT choice for a work knife and something Real Steel does more than most value brands. Washers are less susceptible the ingress of dust, dirt, and grime while still being able to offer a smooth action if done well… and these are done well. The action is oily smooth and the detent is great, allowing me to easily thumb flick and reverse flick this knife open.

The H6 Plus’ broad, 3.75″ blade is ground from 14C28N steel which is a tremendous steel at any price point. It has a roughly 3/4 height flat grind with a long swedge. The result is a useful shape that cuts well (it is surprisingly thin behind the edge) and a fine, but strong point.

I have owned several Real Steel knives with steel frame locks and they have all been excellent. This is no different. It locks up strong and early with no play in any direction. The included Beta Plus secondary lock is a nice addition whether you use it or not. It functions like any other frame lock overtravel stop when unsued but it can also be pushed forward to a position that actually locks the frame lock tab into place preventing you from accidentally disengaging the lock.

There are a lot of other niceties in this knife that I will mention but not drag on about. The thumb studs are very comfortable and accessible. The steel frame lock scale actually has a deep pocket milled into it to reduce weight. The back spacer is machined G-10 with a great chunky grip texture. The clip is very strong with a TON of space and clearance for thicker materials like work pants. The locking tab is machined to provide both texture and easy access.

Wrap Up

In reading what Real Steel has said about the H6 Plus, it is clear they made this to be the ultimate entry in the H6 line. Reading between the lines, it seems they were also trying to engineer a lot of the cost out of the line because this is also the most affordable entry. This knife not only offers excellent value, the use of washers makes it somewhat unique in today’s value knife market.

The H6 was a great value when it used to cost $50. Now that it is closer to $35, it is an absolute bargain.

I purchased the Real Steel H6 Plus on Amazon where it is currently on sale for 15% off: Real Steel H6 Plus on Amazon.com

Review: Pokka Pens

By on January 8, 2024 in EDC, Outdoor Gear, Reviews

Pokka Pens are one of my favorite purchases of 2023. These tick all the boxes for me as an EDC pen – they’re affordable, they’re lightweight, they’re easy to carry at the bottom of a pocket, they last of LONG time, and they will write in places that a nicer gel pen or roller ball might not.

The real innovation of the Pokka Pen is the form factor. It is a half-size pen that has a long, snap-on cap. When the cap is posted, it is long enough to create a full-size pen. They are so compact that there is no need to clip them in a pocket. Just drop it into the bottom of your pants pocket and you’ll never know it’s there until you need it.

Pokka Pens can be great as your only pen for EDC or as a second pen. The latter is how I typically use them. I like nice pens and I typically carry one daily. However, when it comes to being able to write on almost anything, it is hard to beat the good old ballpoint pen with its oil-based ink. There are a lot of things like receipts that gel pens, roller balls, and other inks just struggle to write on but the Pokka Pen handles this easily (this includes Rite in the Rain paper).

These are available in several versions and with a variety of add-ons like clips, aluminum caps, and more. All of that is nice, but for how I use these pens, I like the plain-jane ballpoint type (similar to a Bic pen). The basic ballpoint Pokka Pen does everything I need it to very, very well. If you intend to use these in the elements, Pokka Pens does make a slightly more expensive version with pressurized ink that will write in even more challenging conditions.

When I am carrying a nicer pen, there is Pokka Pen in the bottom of my pocket as well. When I only carry one pen, it’s a Pokka Pen.

Where to buy:

Refills are available direct from PokkaPens.com and are very easy to install. I buy my Pokka pens in multi-packs on Amazon where they are available in a variety of colors: Pokka Pens on Amazon

Review: Vosteed Mini Nightshade Crossbar Lock Knife

By on December 21, 2023 in EDC, Knives, Reviews

I recently reviewed the Vosteed Cutlery Raccoon and, if you haven’t read that review, I liked it… a lot. In fact, that Raccoon is within reach as I type this even though this is a review about a different offering from Vosteed. The Nightshade, with it’s bold and unique blade shape, was the knife that put Vosteed on my radar. So, when they asked if I would like to try the Mini Nightshade, I jumped.

Specs

Blade Length: 2.60″ | 66.04mm

Overall Length: 6.31″ | 160.37mm

Blade Width: 1.13″ | 28.28mm

Blade Thickness: 0.098″ | 2.49mm

Blade Material: 14C28N

Blade Grind: Flat

Blade Style: Shilin Cutter

Blade Finish: Stonewash

Hardness: HRC 60±2

Handle Length: 3.71″ | 94.33mm

Handle Width: 0.89″ | 22.6

Handle Thickness: 0.42″ | 10.57

Weight: 1.80 oz | 51.00 g

Opener: Thumb Stud

Lock Type: Crossbar Lock

Pivot Assembly: Caged Ceramic Ball Bearing

Pocket Clip: Reversible | Stainless Steel

Carry Position: Tip-up

There are other finishes and handle materials available but my review sample has a stone-washed blade, black G-10 handles, and red accents.

Observations from Use

You are probably like me and the first thing you notice about any of the knives in the Vosteed Nightshade series is the blade. That blade is what really sets it apart visually and functionally. It is a very unique leaf shape with a continuous curved edge and a point that sits well below the center line of the handle. This isn’t just a design gimmick. I have found that this makes using the tip of the knife for cuts very easy. It also allows you to make use of the curved edge for drawing or scoring cuts without having cock your wrist as much. Both of these are nice for some very common utility tasks like processing cardboard or opening boxes.

Apart from the unique and useful shape, the blade also boasts 14C28N steel which is excellent. The blade features a very tall flat grind which, coupled with the 0.098″ stock, makes this knife a very slicey, very aggressive cutter. Vosteed does a particularly good job tapering the thickness of this knife down to a very acute point so it cuts extremely well from heel to tip.

You may have noticed that I marked one of the stats above in orange text. The weight, or lack there of, on this knife is impressive. This knife comes in under 2 ounces which puts it squarely in the ultralight category of EDC knives. This category is very competitive lately and the price, features, and uniqueness of the Mini Nightshade make it very compelling.

The handle on this knife is excellent. The G-10 slabs are nicely rounded and chamfered for comfort. They also feature a subtle machine texture that is grippy without being rough on your pockets. The blade assembly, bearings, and cross-bar lock all ride in steel inserts that are precisely inlet into the underside of these slabs and the pocket clip threads into brass inserts in the slabs. This setup is rigid but very lightweight.

All of the little details that I have come to expect from Vosteed are present and part of what makes this feel like a great value. The deep carry clip has plenty of clearance for thicker fabrics like denim. There are anodized aluminum elements like the backspacer and thumb studs that provide some color. The ergonomics are on point, providing a full four-finger grip in a compact package.

I also want to bring special attention to the action on this knife. It is up there with the best of any knife I have tried and certainly the best on a cross-bar locking knife. You can’t get a crispy detent on cross-bar locks since the lock itself is the detent so, often, these knives don’t feel quite as snappy as something like a well-tuned liner lock or similar lock. The Mini Nightshade is an exception to that rule. It absolutely flies open when you load your thumb into the thumb stud and yet it also glides smoothly without wanting to outrun your thumb when you slow roll it open.

There are two things I would change. The first is the clip. I was surprised to find that the clip is surface-mounted on this knife and some sort of flush mounting setup like other Vosteed offerings would be nice for something this refined. Second, I would like to see some jumping added to the spine of the knife. This knife offers such great control over the tip and that would really be enhanced with some jumping about midway down the spine.

Wrap Up

The Mini Nightshade manages to pack an ultra-useful blade shape into a knife that straddles the line between EDC and gentleman’s carry. Its incredibly lightweight and compact design make it home as a fifth pocket carry while it’s ergonomic shape and full four-finger grip make it at home in your hand getting stuff done.

You can see the whole Nightshade range at Vosteed.com.

Or, check out the Mini Nightshade Cross-Bar Lock (on sale for 10% off at the time of this writing) at Amazon.com.

Lightning Review: OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmer

By on December 16, 2023 in Preparedness, Reviews, Survival

I have gone through a lot of disposable, chemical hand warmers over the years. I like using them to keep my hands warm without the need for bulky gloves, keeping my hands more free for kung fu and such. I also think having a way to charge up a cell phone on hand is a good idea. So, the more I read about OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmers, the more I wanted to try one.

I purchased the 5200mAh model which features 3 levels of warmth, USB-C charging, and a very pocketable and sleek shape. The single-button interface is easy to use – tap once to view charge level or hold for heat, then tap to change heat levels. These warmers have two aluminum plates (one of each face of the warmer) that give you plenty of surface area to make contact with or even share heat between both hands so I haven’t felt the need to buy a second one.

This hand warmer has surprised me with just how much I use it. It is great for cold hands, obviously, but I have found it to be a decent battery bank as well. It also works well tucked into an inside pocket of a jacket to add a little warmth. My office gets a little cold sometimes so I even use it there for warming hands or tucked under my flannel.

I will say that I think the duration time that OCOOPA states (8 hours of warmth on low) is optimistic. I have noticed that it lasts longer when kept in a pocket so it seems there is some kind of thermal regulation and the insulation provided by the pocket means the warmer heats less often, extending the battery life. I might consider buying a larger capacity model if I was doing this again.

All things considered, I love this thing more than I care to admit. I see it as a battery bank with a very useful bonus feature. If you already carry a battery bank, it would be easy to swap this into your EDC when the weather turns cold.

Given the time of year (as I write this), this would also make a great gift.

I bought mine from Amazon where they are frequently on sale so watch prices: OCOOPA Hand Warmers on Amazon.com

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