I bought this knife because I was looking for a slightly larger and beefier EDC knife with a glass breaker and I didn't wan't to spend a ton of money. I have carried a Gerber 22 FAST DRAW knife with a 3" partially serrated blade for about 2 years now and it is still a fantastic knife. With only minimal upkeep and sharpening it has remained a truly wonderful knife to own and use and I would highly recommend it to anyone. However, this review is about my new S&W SWMP4LS so here goes.
This is a larger knife, it has a 3.6" partially serrated blade, and it is heavier than my Gerber 22. It feels about 50% heavier but it's not so heavy that it feels uncomfortable in either the hand or on my belt. In fact, I rather like the extra heft; it gives the knife a very substantial feel. It comes quite sharp out of the box and remained so for a long time. Even though it comes only roughly ground the blade still gets the job done. A trip to a professional sharpener (or do it yourself if you have the skill and time) and you can really put a fine polished edge on this knife.
This is the first assisted opening knife I've ever owned with a spine flipper; all my other AO knives all use thumb studs only. It took about three openings with the flipper for me to become a convert. I used the thumb knob to deploy the blade several times and found that the spine flipper actually works better and is easier to use. The knife rests very comfortably in my palm when I deploy the blade using the spine flipper.
The "M.A.G.I.C. assist" opening system deploys the blade quickly and locks open with a satisfying "click!" Once open the liner lock keeps the blade firmly in place and you can even use the side safety lock as an added measure of protection. When closing the blade there is a nice little bit of tension as the blade locks shut in the frame. It's just enough resistance to let you know the blade is closed and once again you get a satisfying "click!" that tells you the blade is properly closed.
A frame lock would be a bit more secure but would also raise the price. I've found that a liner lock in a good knife from a reputable company is a good locking mechanism for AO knives.
The glass breaker works like a charm. I never used a glass breaker before but was easily able to punch through several car windows and a windshield with minimal effort. I would recommend gloves and glasses for safety.
The side safety is designed like a safety toggle on a gun. I always prefer some type of safety on my AO knives and this one is quite nice. It toggles up (off) and down (on) like a safety on a handgun. When it is off you see a standard red dot; Warning! Safety is off!
The overall construction seems to be quite good. The frame is rugged, there is no play in the blade when it's deployed and the pocket clip is sturdy but easy to use. Unlike many other folders this knife only comes with one pocket clip option; right handed, tip down. I gave it to a left handed friend and he was able to carry it comfortably enough in his pocket but said he would prefer a sheath. The knife has an aggressive and unique look and I find it to be aesthetically pleasing. Some jimping along the top of the knife where your thumb comes to rest would be a good addition and would make for a better grip. The 4034 stainless steel blade keeps an edge well and is wearing well. S30V steel would be better but would also drive up the cost.
All things considered, the Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS is an excellent EDC knife. For an AO knife in the $30-$50 range this one is hard to beat. I give this knife 5 stars. It's an exceptional value and a wonderful knife.
| Recommended Uses For Product | Fighting |
|---|---|
| Brand | Smith & Wesson |
| Model Name | SWMP4LS |
| Special Feature | Folding Knife,Pocket Clip |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Included Components | Knife |
| Handle Material | Aluminum |
| Color | Black |
| Blade Material | Stainless Steel |
| Style | Partially Serrated Edge |
| Blade Length | 3.6 Inches |
| Product Care Instructions | Hand Wash Only |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Item Weight | 7.52 ounces |
| Blade Shape | Drop Point |
| Blade Edge | Plain/Serrated |
| Is Cordless? | Yes |
| Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Item Length | 8.6 Inches |
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 5.08 x 1.85 x 0.91 inches |
| Package Weight | 0.21 Kilograms |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.4 x 2 x 1 inches |
| Brand Name | Smith & Wesson |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| Warranty Description | Limited Lifetime, https://store.smith-wesson.com/warranty-info.html |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Suggested Users | Unisex-Adult |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Part Number | SWMP4LS |
| Model Year | 2014 |
| Size | One Size |
| Sport Type | Hunting |
