Fallkniven U2

The U2 is a small and conventional, lock back design that sets itself apart by the standard of its construction and the materials employed. At the heart is its 64mm long, 2.5 mm wide, laminated SPGS blade comprising a ‘Super Gold Powder Steel’ core flanked by low carbon 420-J2 stainless for strength and rust resistance. The shape is a drop point with the axis of the tip running behind the pivot to the heel of the handle; this reduces the stress on the locking system and the likelihood of it failing when the point is used for boring.

It’s light at 40grams - due to the one-piece, Zytel handle with the lock mounted directly into the moulding. The shape is simple with a semi finger indent to help stop slipping and its stippled finish further enhances the grip.

Different Why?

The steel is hardened to 62 HRC; to give this some perspective even the high end stainless used in this sort of cutlery will top out at around 60HRC. In practical terms this means it can retain a fantastically sharp edge that will shave the hair off your arm in a single light stroke! The powder steel is durable both in itself and in combination with the other used in the blade.

Useful too is the ability to dismantle the knife with a star driver bit, for cleaning and also to adjust the blade tension. A failing with smaller folders is their propensity to become loose at the pivot point so this is yet another well thought out element in the design. The blade has nail nicks on both sides allowing for opening with either hand; having said this, with the tension set properly at the pivot smooth one handed opening is possible by thumb and friction alone.

If you require a small knife in this class then the U2 is a serious consideration as not a lot comes close to this specification and the laminate, 3G steel build and performance it offers. I see only one problem; as you need to part with nearly £70 to own one which on face value is a lot for a small plastic handled pocket knife.

If they could get this down to around £45 the difference from a psychological point would be vast when deciding what to buy. People need to experience this steel to appreciate it and I see the U2 as the most cost effective way of marketing all of the Fallkniven ‘ 3G’ powder steel knives . I own two others in addition to this one and they are all simply outstanding in design, functionality, build and edge retention.

PRICE: £66.95

FOR:
Exceptional little working folder, with some amazing steel

AGAINST:
Not a lot

VERDICT:
One of the best small folding knives you are likely to encounter