When we began asking knife companies for donations for our 100 Knives in 100 Days Giveaway at this year’s SHOT Show, there were few who answered more enthusiastically than Browning Knives. They sent us nine knives from their lineup. Ok, technically 8 knives and a Wihongi Tomahawk. If you have an objection to that, go ahead and say that in the comments. Designer Jared Wihongi is also a martial arts expert and will visit you shortly.
If you are not yet registered for our 100 Knives in 100 Days Giveaway, you must Register for a free account, and leave a comment on our official contest thread (here)
As I said, Browning sent us quite the spread.
Today we will be giving away a Joint Venture. Slipjoints are experiencing quite the resurgence of late, and at $24.95 MSRP, the Joint Venture would be a solid choice for someone beginning their journey into traditional pocketknives.
The Joint Venture Browning sent us is the sheep horn version, though there is a jigged bone version as well.
Strangely, the scales did not match in color, while their website example did. Also strange is the packaging and website both list the Joint Venture as having a 2″ blade. The blade is most certainly 3″.
Personal Observations.
The fit and finish are a bit of a mixed bag, as is typical of budget-class imported folders, but the knife seems to have it where it matters most. While one would wish the sheep horn scales would fit a bit tighter to the bolster, the grind of the blade was very even along the length of the edge. The springs are firm, the blade snaps nicely. The 8Cr13Mov gets a bit of a bad rep in this age of the Latest and Greatest Super Terrific Fantastic Steel! ™, the fact is it is easy to sharpen, awfully darn stainless, and comes at a price that anyone can afford.
Ergonomics are just fine. It is most comfortable if I choke back slightly on the knife to better align my index finger.
Good blade centering:
All in all, it is a solid entry-level knife for the budding slipjoint user or collector.
Outside Review:
I could not find an outside review of this knife, so I am unable to share the thoughts of others, and since I can’t do much testing of a knife we are giving away, I hope the eventual winner can jot down some thoughts and let us know how it does.
We’d like to thank Browning for their enthusiastic support of our 100 Knives in 100 Days Giveaway. It is greatly appreciated.
Remember, we are having a Father’s Day Photo Contest as well. Check it out.