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Whether you're a recreational boater or a freshwater rescue professional, the NRS Pilot knife fits the bill with convenient access and a quick-release design.
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View all NRS Fixed-Blade KnivesBest Use | Watersports |
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Knife Blade Type | Partially Serrated |
Number of Blades | 1 Blade |
Max Blade Length (in.) | 3 inches |
Handle Material | Glass-reinforced polypropylene with TPR overmold |
Blade Construction | 420 HC stainless steel |
Lanyard Ring | Yes |
Weight | (Knife) 3.5 / (knife with sheath) 5.5 ounces |
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The highlight is the confidence inspiring sheath which locks tight and releases without a snag. the knife itself fits the bill as an emergency knife for watersports but isn't exceptional in any way. The grips are disappointing and are pealing away, it will be going back and i'll give it one more chance. until i get a replacement with grips that work i couldnt recommend the knife
This emergency knife travels well, and has been durable for me. The quillon on mine is a bit different, and it doesn't have a cord notch, or saw teeth (just a double grind). I think the cord notch should be on the other side, however. It's nice to have an emergency knife that is less likely to stab me, and allows for throwing cuts rather than just pulling cuts. Makes a decent emergency screwdriver and wedge, also. Overall, it has been useful. Thankfully I have not had to slash through webbing with it, but have confidence that I could. Worry free sheath-lock is solid, and allows for rapid deployment even from awkward angles, but does require ability to pinch and grip simultaneously. That could be a problem in certain situations.
I carry this knife mostly for emergencies (overboard, caught by line, etc.) while boating. It han't been put to the ultimate test yet, but it could save someone's life some day. The sheath is a bit difficult to clip on/off a belt, but once on, it is secure. The knife has always stayed in the sheath, but is in my hand instantly when the release is squeezed. It's not the most comfortable knife to hold for extended work. I wouldn't choose it as my only knife, but it's extremely practical for a quick job or an emergency. Its other potential functions (bottle opener, glass breaker, light pry bar) increase its utility. The blade was reasonably sharp out of the box. I've had it out on the water several times (although not actually immersed) without corrosion issues.
I got this knife after I purchased another kayak and new PFD. The kayak PFD has the latching system that this knife sheath attaches to perfectly. The knife is easy to get out of the sheath in the event of an emergency or if it was needed fast, but it is held very secure when not needed. It is a perfect addition to my PFD, I never kayak with out a knife,
The knife seems to be of good quality and the sheath is excellent. The design of the knife needs some slight improvements though. The base of the tang comes to a point which is uncomfortable in your hand, a few minutes on a sharpening stone to round those edges and it is much more comfortable. The knife definitely isn't Benchmade sharp out of the box, but it isn't Benchmade price either. I did have to sharpen it to bring it up to what I would consider an acceptable level for quick and accurate use in an emergency situation. The locking mechanism positively locks the knife in place but is easy to remove, re-sheathing the knife is a little more cumbersome but not bad for how well the knife is locked into the sheath. Overall I'm very happy with the size and quality compared to the price.
Very useful tool, very well designed, sharp blade and the flat head screwdriver tip comes in handy, quick release is awesome and goes back into sheath easily.
this is the best deal ever
I had a Gerber river knife which detached unexpectedly. So I ordered this one, and it's great in looks and ease of detaching from the sheath, but I am still trying to figure out how to attach it to my pfd.