A detailed, hands-on review of YOUSUNLONG’s newly launched Damascus series. We break down the Clip Point vs. Tanto/Sheepfoot blades and the Zebrawood vs. Carbon Fiber handles to help you find your perfect EDC.
THE BOTTOM LINE UP FRONT
YOUSUNLONG has just launched a new series of Damascus steel folding knives, and it’s immediately clear they’ve focused on offering meaningful choices for the end-user. This isn’t just one knife; it’s a platform available in four distinct configurations. After handling all the variations, my initial conclusion is that this is a very successful launch. All models are built upon a solid foundation featuring a comfortable ergonomic profile, a smooth ball-bearing action, and a practical size for everyday carry. The choice between a versatile Clip Point or a robust Tanto/Sheepfoot blade, paired with either classic Zebrawood or modern Carbon Fiber, comes down to your specific needs and aesthetic preferences. This is a well-executed lineup with a compelling option for almost every type of user.
THE SHARED DNA: CORE SPECIFICATIONS
Before we dive into the differences, let’s look at what all four models have in common. This is the core platform you’re investing in, and it’s a strong one.
- Overall Length: 199mm / 7.83 in
- Blade Length: 86mm / 3.38 in
- Handle Length: 113mm / 4.45 in
- Weight: 125g / 4.4 oz Carbon fiber 107g / 3.77 oz Zebrawood
- Blade Steel: Damascus Steel
- Locking Mechanism: Steel Liner Lock
- Pivot System: Ball Bearings
At around 4 ounces and with a 3.4-inch blade, this knife hits the sweet spot for a daily driver—large enough for serious work, but not so large that it becomes a burden in the pocket.
THE GREAT DIVIDE, PART 1: THE BLADES
This is the most critical functional choice you’ll make. YOUSUNLONG is offering two very different, purpose-driven blade shapes.
The All-Rounder: The Clip Point The Clip Point is one of the most classic and versatile blade shapes in existence, and for good reason.
- Strengths: The primary advantage of the Clip Point is its versatility. The fine, sharp tip is excellent for piercing tasks and detailed work. The gentle curve, or “belly,” of the blade makes it a fantastic slicer, ideal for everything from food prep to cutting cordage.
- Ideal User: This blade is for the user who wants one knife to do it all. If you need a general-purpose tool for a wide variety of tasks—opening packages, outdoor use, simple food prep—the Clip Point is a reliable and time-tested choice. It’s the Jack-of-all-trades in this lineup.
The Utility Powerhouse: The American Tanto / Sheepfoot Hybrid This is a more specialized and fascinating design. It combines the strength of an American Tanto tip with the straight-edge utility of a Sheepfoot blade.
- Strengths: This blade is built for durability and precision utility cuts. The angular Tanto tip is incredibly strong and reinforced, making it highly resistant to breaking. The long, flat cutting edge of the Sheepfoot portion provides maximum control for tasks like opening boxes, scoring materials, or even scraping, as you can apply pressure evenly along the entire edge. It sacrifices the slicing belly of the Clip Point for raw strength and control.
- Ideal User: This blade is for the user whose daily tasks are more demanding and utility-focused. If you frequently cut tough materials like zip ties or plastic strapping, or if you value a super-strong tip and a controlled, straight edge over a slicing belly, this hybrid shape is an outstanding, modern choice.
THE GREAT DIVIDE, PART 2: THE HANDLES
This choice is about aesthetics and feel. It’s about the personality of your knife.
The Natural Classic: Zebrawood
- The Look & Feel: The Zebrawood handle is warm, organic, and timeless. The wood gets its name from its beautiful striped grain, with dark lines running through a lighter, golden-brown background. Each piece is unique. In the hand, it has that satisfying warmth and texture that only natural wood can provide. It feels classic and sophisticated.
- The Vibe: This handle is for the traditionalist, the user who appreciates the beauty of natural materials. It pairs well with leather goods and a more classic, rustic aesthetic. It has a character that will develop a patina and tell a story over years of use.
The Modern Performer: Carbon Fiber
- The Look & Feel: The Carbon Fiber handle is the epitome of modern performance. The material has a deep, almost three-dimensional weave that shimmers as it catches the light. It’s smooth to the touch but not slippery, and it feels incredibly rigid and strong. It’s also famously lightweight and completely stable, unaffected by changes in temperature or humidity.
- The Vibe: This handle is for the modernist, the user who values technical materials and a sleek, low-profile look. It pairs well with titanium wallets, modern watches, and a more tech-focused or minimalist EDC. It’s clean, precise, and all about performance.
ERGONOMICS, CARRY, AND REAL-WORLD USE
Regardless of the configuration you choose, the fundamental ergonomics of the knife are excellent. The handle shape is neutral and comfortable, fitting well in my medium-sized hands without any discomfort.
For everyday carry (EDC), the 125g weight is noticeable but not heavy. It carries well in a jeans pocket, and the pocket clip provides secure retention. The smooth ball-bearing pivot makes one-handed deployment fast and satisfying.
I used both blade shapes for simple tasks like slicing an apple and cutting bread. As predicted, the Clip Point was a slightly more efficient slicer due to its belly. However, the Tanto/Sheepfoot hybrid performed admirably, producing clean, controlled cuts with its straight edge. The quality of the Damascus steel and the sharpness of the factory edge were evident on all models.
SO, WHICH ONE IS FOR YOU? A QUICK BUYER’S GUIDE
Let’s simplify the decision-making process.
- For the Traditionalist All-Rounder: If you love classic looks and need a knife for a bit of everything, the Clip Point blade with the Zebrawood handle is your perfect match.
- For the Modern All-Rounder: If you value modern materials but want that same all-purpose slicing capability, the Clip Point blade with the Carbon Fiber handle offers a lightweight, high-tech package.
- For the Rugged Traditionalist: If you appreciate the warmth of wood but need a tougher, utility-focused blade, the Tanto/Sheepfoot blade with the Zebrawood handle is a unique and compelling combination.
- For the Ultimate Modern Utility User: If you want the strongest blade shape combined with the most advanced handle material, the Tanto/Sheepfoot blade with the Carbon Fiber handle is the clear choice for a durable, high-performance tool.
CONCLUSION
YOUSUNLONG’s new Damascus series is a thoughtfully designed lineup that successfully caters to a wide range of tastes and needs. By building on a solid, ergonomic platform and offering meaningful choices in both blade shape and handle material, they’ve created more than just a new knife—they’ve created a new family of knives from which users can choose their perfect companion. The build quality is solid, the materials are excellent, and the value proposition is strong. This is a launch that deserves the community’s attention.