Doing this I will try not to repeat all other reviews, that were done by pretty much everyone online.
First of all I liked the new packaging, especially the new Firebird branded microfiber cloth that now comes instead of the previous low quality one.
Out of the box impressions - the knife came pretty stiff, although oiled and pretty hard to disengage, due to the hard springs of the Axis lock. Sharpness out of the box was great, so was the cutting edge symmetry. One thing I noticed right out of the box was the knife's excellent fit and finish, a rare thing to see on a sub $20 blade.
Because the knife was stiff - I gave it my new-knife-treatment - disassembly, cleaning of the factory oil. polishing the washers (and the blade tang) and tweaking. The knife had 2 washers - one was nylon and the other made from a yellow metal (probably bronze) and the knife was pretty dirty inside. Also I understood what needed to be done to smoothen the knife - because of the coating the G7533 needed to be broken in longer than other blades. After I did all the procedures and opened/closed it about 200 times - the knife became much smoother (even the Axis lock became much softer).
Pros:
1. The Firebird logo - definitely a plus, would be happy if it will replace the Ganzo logo completely.
1. The Firebird logo - definitely a plus, would be happy if it will replace the Ganzo logo completely.
2. The grey coating - doesn't look cheap and seems to be more durable than paint. Same coating is applied to the pocket clip and even the liners - that is a huge plus!
3. The geared G10 backspacer and the oversized lanyard hole - 2 definite keepers.
4. Lockup is excellent both ways, even when the blade runs smoothly.
5. Ergonomics and gimping are good.
6. The weight reducing cutouts in the liners - Finally they listened.
Cons:
1. The centering is a bit off (not touching the liner).
- The blued hardware and the sandwitched Carbon Fiber G10 laminate - Was on the fence about both. I mean they look nice and done well, but I probably could live without any of them as in my opinion they disturb the overall look, especially when the Axis stayed silver color. Also - I would really like to see Ganzo put real CF scales on a knife, even if it will cost $10 more.
Overall - I really liked this knife, the fit and finish, the action and the attention to details.
I believe it can make an excellent EDC knife, but also as an inexpensive gift or a first knife.
This is the most technologically advanced one in a while and I wish Ganzo will continue to improve and cheer us with their future products.
Knife can be found on Gearbest: CF versions - https://goo.gl/solMrt
https://goo.gl/V0K9ATG10 versions - https://goo.gl/qDXEO2
