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Alright, it’s time to review the second knife from the Sheldon Knives package. This time, we’ll take a look at a knife with a Damascus steel blade. It’s a very budget-friendly knife, and I’m curious to see what they were able to create at this price point.
When I first laid eyes on the Shieldon Tranchodon, I knew I was dealing with something special. As a knife enthusiast, I’ve handled countless blades, but this one immediately stood out due to its unique combination of materials, design, and functionality. The Tranchodon falls under Shieldon’s “Alchemist” segment, and I could see why—this knife is like a carefully crafted potion of style and performance.
Out of the box, the Tranchodon feels solid and well-balanced in hand. Weighing in at 159 grams, it strikes a good balance between heft and maneuverability. The handle, crafted from G10 and carbon fiber, offers a tactile and secure grip. The black and dark-green color of the handle provides a distinct yet subtle aesthetic that I find appealing without being overly flashy.
One of the first things that caught my eye was the 67-layer Damascus steel blade. The acid-etched finish accentuates the intricate pattern of the steel, giving it a classic, timeless look. This attention to detail in the blade finish makes the knife not only a tool but also a collector’s item.
Performance is where the Tranchodon truly shines. The blade is made from 9Cr18MoV stainless steel, known for its excellent corrosion resistance and ability to hold an edge. With a hardness rating of 60-62 HRC, this blade is no slouch in the toughness department. The reverse tanto point design is a smart choice for a folding knife, as it offers a robust tip while maintaining excellent slicing capabilities.
The blade came razor-sharp out of the box, with a sharpened angle between 15-20 degrees. In practical use, it sliced through various materials—cardboard, rope, and even some light wood—without losing its edge. The flat grind on the blade ensures a clean, precise cut, and I found it easy to control the depth and pressure, thanks to the consistent thickness of 3.5mm.
The Tranchodon’s handle is another area where Shieldon’s design team excelled. The combination of G10 and carbon fiber creates a handle that is both lightweight and extremely durable. The 16.67mm thickness of the handle feels just right in my hand, offering a secure grip without being bulky. The texture of the G10 material adds to the grip, especially in wet conditions, which is a significant advantage for outdoor use.
Opening the knife is smooth and satisfying, thanks to the ceramic ball bearings in the pivot. The flipper mechanism, paired with a fuller, allows for quick and easy deployment of the blade. The liner lock mechanism engages with a solid click, giving me confidence that the blade will stay securely in place during use.
When it comes to carrying the Tranchodon, Shieldon designed it with the user’s convenience in mind. The tip-up pocket clip is sturdy, and it rides comfortably in my pocket. I appreciate that the clip is designed for right-hand carry, but I do wish there was an option for left-handed users as well. The overall size and weight of the knife make it an ideal EDC tool—noticeable but not intrusive.
At a price of $45, the Shieldon Tranchodon offers outstanding value for what you’re getting. It’s rare to find a folding knife with Damascus steel, premium handle materials, and excellent ergonomics at this price point. The Tranchodon is not just a knife; it’s a testament to Shieldon’s commitment to quality and design.
Shieldon is both a knife brand and an OEM knife manufacturer with a background in precision engineering and detailed craftsmanship. With extensive experience in producing knives for various brands, Shieldon has built a notable presence in the industry. Their in-house R&D team focuses on advancing knife design by integrating innovative materials with refined craftsmanship. The Tranchodon exemplifies this approach, showcasing the quality and performance that are characteristic of their work.
Author: Aleks Nemtcev | Connect with me on LinkedIn
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