Finding a high-quality folding knife that fits within a budget can often feel like a balancing act. The Tenable Prometheus Folding Knife is a standout option for those who prioritize both cost-effectiveness and functionality.
As a budget-friendly line from the established Concept Knives brand, Tenable aims to provide a blend of innovation and practicality without the hefty price tag.
In this article, we will review and explore the various aspects of the Tenable Prometheus, offering a comprehensive look at its design, materials, performance, and user experience.
What Is Tenable?
Tenable is a new line from Concept Knives that focuses on providing quality knives at lower prices. Concept Knives is famous for its high-end, well-made knives, and Tenable brings that same commitment to a more budget-friendly range. Tenable blends smart design with practical features to offer great value.
Key Points About Tenable
Affordability: Tenable knives cost less than Concept Knives’ premium models but still offer good quality.
Innovation: The brand includes clever features often found in more expensive knives.
Accessibility: By offering affordable options, Tenable makes high-quality knives available to more people.
The Tenable Prometheus Folding Knife Features
➡️Design and Build Quality
The Tenable Prometheus Folding Knife is designed to offer both style and functionality. Its design elements are crafted to enhance the user experience while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Blade Length and Overall Size
With a blade length of approximately 3.25 inches and an overall length of 7.12 inches, the Prometheus strikes a balance between compactness and usability. This size is ideal for both everyday carry (EDC) and various cutting tasks.
Blade Shape and Finish
The blade features a sheep’s foot design, which is excellent for precision work and controlled cuts. The black wash finish not only adds a sleek look but also helps conceal scratches and wear. For those who prefer different finishes, the Prometheus is available in satin and tumbled options.
Handle Material and Construction
The handle is made from layered G10, which consists of a black G10 layer over a red G10 base. This layering not only enhances the knife’s appearance but also improves its grip and durability. The handle’s red pivot collar adds a unique touch, setting the knife apart from other models in its price range.
Ergonomics
While the Prometheus offers a solid grip, the pocket clip’s placement may cause minor discomfort during prolonged use. The clip can be a bit long for some users, and its positioning may not be ideal for extended cutting tasks.
➡️Blade Steel and Performance
The choice of blade steel significantly impacts a knife’s performance. The Tenable Prometheus Folding Knife uses 14C28N steel, a popular option in the budget knife category.
Edge Retention and Toughness
14C28N is known for its balanced performance, offering a good mix of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. While it may not match premium steels in edge retention, it performs well enough for most everyday tasks.
Maintenance
One of the advantages of 14C28N is its ease of maintenance. It resists corrosion and is relatively simple to sharpen, making it a practical choice for users who prefer low-maintenance knives.
➡️Build and Construction
The Tenable Prometheus Folding Knife boasts several key construction features that enhance its overall functionality and durability.
Handle and Clip
The titanium pocket clip is a notable feature in this price range. Although the clip is well-made, its length and design may not be the most comfortable for all users. Additionally, the handle features steel liners, which add weight but contribute to the knife’s overall sturdiness.
Pivot and Hardware
The knife’s pivot is a T8, which is generally a robust choice. However, the pivot has a tendency to spin freely, which can be inconvenient during maintenance. The body screws are T6, and the knife lacks a left-handed clip mount, which could be a limitation for left-handed users.
Size Comparisons
To help you understand how the Prometheus stacks up against other popular folding knives, here are some size comparisons:
| Knife Model | Overall Length | Blade Length | Cutting Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tenable Prometheus | 7.12 inches | 3.25 inches | 3.0 inches |
| Benchmade Griptilian | 8.07 inches | 3.45 inches | 3.23 inches |
| Spyderco PM2 | 8.28 inches | 3.44 inches | 3.38 inches |
| Spyderco Para 3 | 7.27 inches | 3.0 inches | 2.75 inches |
| Benchmade Hogue Deca | 7.75 inches | 3.45 inches | 3.25 inches |
Practical Use Cases
The Tenable Prometheus Folding Knife is versatile enough for a range of practical applications, including:
Everyday Carry (EDC): Its compact size and functional blade make it an excellent choice for everyday tasks such as opening packages and cutting tape.
Light Utility Work: The knife’s design allows for effective slicing and precision work, making it suitable for tasks like preparing food or handling small repairs.
Outdoor Activities: While not designed as a heavy-duty survival knife, the Prometheus can handle light outdoor tasks such as cutting rope or performing camp chores.
Performance
The Tenable Prometheus Folding Knife is designed with everyday users in mind. Its blade shape and size make it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks, from opening boxes to slicing through materials. The knife’s ergonomic design, while generally comfortable, may present some minor issues during extended use. The pocket clip’s length and placement could lead to discomfort, especially if you’re using the knife for prolonged periods.
Specs
Overall Length: 7.12″
Blade Length: 3.25″
Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N
Handle Material: G-10
Color: Black, Red
Pros
Design: G10 handle and titanium pocket clip are stylish and durable.
Affordable: Offers great value for the price.
Blade Steel: 14C28N steel provides good edge retention and resists rust.
Cons
Free-Spinning Pivot: Makes maintenance and adjustments difficult.
Conclusion
The Tenable Prometheus Folding Knife is a strong contender in the budget-friendly knife market, offering a blend of style, functionality, and value. While it may not match the performance of higher-end knives, it provides a solid option for those seeking a reliable and affordable everyday carry knife. With its balanced blade steel, distinctive design, and practical features, the Prometheus is worth considering for anyone in need of a dependable folding knife without breaking the bank.