A practical, hands-on review of a classic folding knife, tested against the unique sandstone formations and rugged trails of Castle Rock State Park.
THE BOTTOM LINE UP FRONT
After a rewarding day of hiking the technical trails at Castle Rock State Park, the YOUSUNLONG Olive Wood Damascus folder proved itself to be more than just a beautiful object. It’s a highly capable and comfortable cutting tool that successfully merges timeless aesthetics with modern functionality. The knife excels in its ergonomic design, its efficient slicing performance, and its lightweight nature, making it an ideal companion for the hiker who appreciates natural materials but doesn’t want to compromise on performance. While its classic design may seem less “tactical” than some modern alternatives, its real-world utility is undeniable. It’s a gentleman’s folder with the heart of a workhorse.
SPECIFICATIONS AT A GLANCE
Objective analysis begins with the facts. Here are the key specs for this model:
- Model: YOUSUNLONG Damascus Steel Folding Knife (Olive Wood Handle)
- Blade Steel: Pattern-Welded Damascus Steel (Likely a 10Cr15CoMoV Core or similar, based on their other models)
- Handle Material: Natural Olive Wood Cover
- Overall Length: Approx. 8.5 inches (21.6 cm)
- Blade Length: Approx. 4.7 inches (11.9 cm)
- Weight: 4 oz (100 g) – as measured
- Locking Mechanism: Steel Liner Lock
- Pivot System: Ball Bearings
- Country of Origin: China
DESIGN & AESTHETICS: CLASSIC MATERIALS, MODERN EXECUTION
This knife’s identity is rooted in its classic materials, executed with modern precision.
- The Olive Wood Handle: The first thing you notice is the handle. The olive wood scales are genuinely beautiful. The grain is complex and organic, with waves of light tan and dark brown that ensure no two knives are exactly alike. Unlike synthetic materials, the wood has a natural warmth and depth. The scales on my model were smoothly contoured and perfectly fitted against the polished steel bolsters, showing a high level of fit and finish. It’s a refreshing departure from the sea of black G10 and carbon fiber that dominates the market.
- The Damascus Blade: The blade’s Damascus pattern is more subtle than a CuMai construction, but equally intricate. The swirling, layered steel evokes organic patterns found in nature—like flowing water or wood grain itself, which felt particularly fitting for this knife. The blade shape is a functional drop-point, versatile enough for a wide range of tasks. It’s a pattern that rewards a closer look, revealing its complexity without being overly flashy.
ERGONOMICS & IN-HAND FEEL: THE ADVANTAGE OF WOOD
This is where the YOUSUNLONG Olive Wood model truly shines. The in-hand feel is exceptional.
The handle has been shaped with thoughtful, ergonomic contours. It fills the palm comfortably, and there are no “hot spots” or sharp angles that would cause discomfort during extended use. The natural texture of the polished wood, while smooth, provides a surprising amount of traction. It feels secure and organic in a way that cold metal or even textured G10 sometimes cannot replicate.
The balance of the knife is excellent, making it feel lively and easy to maneuver. At a weight of just over 4 ounces, it hits a sweet spot: it feels substantial and durable, not flimsy, but it is light enough that it doesn’t become a burden on a long hike. The liner lock is solid and easy to operate one-handed. From an ergonomic standpoint, it’s clear this knife was designed to be used, not just admired.
A PRACTICAL FIELD TEST AT CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK
Castle Rock State Park offers a different kind of challenge than other local trails. The terrain is rugged, with technical, rocky paths and unique tafoni sandstone formations that invite scrambling.
Portability and Carry: On a trail that requires occasional use of your hands for balance, a knife must be secure. The YOUSUNLONG’s pocket clip held the knife firmly in my pocket throughout the hike, even while navigating steep, rocky sections of the Saratoga Gap Trail. Its light weight was a definite asset; a heavier knife can become a noticeable annoyance, but this one was easy to forget until it was needed. It carried discreetly and comfortably for over four hours.
Cutting Performance: At the iconic Castle Rock overlook, with a view stretching across the Santa Cruz Mountains, I stopped to prepare a simple lunch.
- Apple Slicing: The Damascus blade’s full flat grind performed as expected: beautifully. It sliced cleanly through a Fuji apple with no wedging or splitting. The blade is thin enough to be an efficient slicer, which is exactly what you want for food prep.
- Bread Slicing: I used it on a baguette. The razor-sharp factory edge easily handled the crusty exterior, making a clean cut without compressing the soft bread inside. The 3.4-inch blade is a versatile length, long enough for this task but compact enough for finer work.
The knife handled these fundamental tasks with ease and control, proving that its classic looks are paired with very real, modern cutting performance.
PROS & CONS SUMMARY
Here’s a balanced look at the knife’s strengths and potential considerations:
Pros:
- Superb Ergonomics: The contoured olive wood handle is exceptionally comfortable.
- Excellent Slicing Ability: The blade geometry is well-suited for everyday and outdoor tasks.
- Timeless, Beautiful Aesthetics: A classic look with unique materials that stand out.
- Lightweight & Easy to Carry: A great companion for hiking and daily use.
- High-Quality Fit and Finish: The seamless transition between wood and steel shows attention to detail.
Cons:
- Natural Material Care: Olive wood is durable, but like all natural woods, it may benefit from occasional treatment with mineral oil to prevent it from drying out over the long term.
- Less Impact Resistant Than Synthetics: While plenty tough for its intended use, wood as a material is inherently less resistant to hard drops or prying than a G10 or titanium handle would be (though prying should be avoided with any folding knife).
CONCLUSION: WHO SHOULD CONSIDER THIS KNIFE?
The YOUSUNLONG Olive Wood Damascus folder is an outstanding choice for a specific type of user. It’s for the individual who appreciates the beauty and feel of natural materials but still demands a high level of performance from their tools.
I would strongly recommend this knife to:
- The Traditionalist Hiker: You love the classic aesthetic of a wood-handled knife but want the performance of a modern folder with a great edge and smooth action.
- The “Gentleman’s EDC” User: You need a knife for daily tasks that is elegant and sophisticated enough for an office or casual setting, but still rugged enough for a weekend adventure.
- Anyone looking for a high-value gift. The combination of Damascus steel and beautiful olive wood makes this a truly memorable and impressive gift for any occasion.
It’s a knife that proves you don’t have to choose between classic style and modern capability. It’s a tool that feels as good as it looks, and it performed admirably on the rugged trails of Castle Rock.
