QSP Jumping Jack Slip Joint knife, back to basics

Once upon a time, pocket knives were almost all equipped with a friction mechanism, aka a "slip joint". This is a system which, unlike those more commonly used today, such as a liner lock or an axis lock, does not rely on an active mechanical blade lock or pin, but only on a back or side spring. The blade is held open by the spring force alone, and to close it, the force only needs to be overcome. The disadvantage is that a certain amount of force is also required to deploy the blade, and it is virtually impossible to open a slip joint knife quickly and with one hand. For this reason, in many countries carrying of liner lock knives is prohibited, while friction knives are permitted. This is because the knife that opens in the blink of an eye is perceived as more dangerous than one that requires time, strength and both hands to be deployed.

QSP Jumping Jack knife in a nutshell

The QSP Jumping Jack is a folding knife designed by Spencer Marquardt, founder of the American Finch Knife Company. It is a knife with a delightfully retro style, reminiscent of British and American products of the last century, with its Spey point profile blade, very suitable for cutting paper, ropes, cords and face small daily tasks with precision. The choice of this profile was certainly correct. The blade is made of 14C28N steel with a satin finish and is 70-mm long with a thickness of 3 mm. The stated hardness of the blade is 59-61 HRC and its level of workmanship is excellent, with perfectly made surfaces and good factory sharpening. The handle has a modified "Coffin" profile, which echoes that of classic pocketknives and is characterised by bolsters on both ends and smooth scales, which in our case are made of bone in a beautiful blue colour – but abalone, precious wood and resin versions are also available. The handle is extremely smooth and pleasant to the touch, with rounded edges that do not annoy you when holding it in your pocket. The overall length of the handle is 89 mm, not a lot if you have large hands, but still enough long to grip it firmly. Such a compact size is counterbalanced by a weight of 93 g, which is noticeable, but contributes to the solid feel of this interesting folder. Admittedly, despite the presence of a double nail nick blade opening is rather difficult, but nothing that a drop of oil and a little care can't overcome.

Also nice is the packaging, a cardboard box with a molded foam interior, which contains the knife, the guarantee certificate and two cute stickers depicting the penguin, mascot of the Chinese company. The retail price of $89 (around 90 euros) for the model we are presenting here is certainly fair, given the good workmanship. It is a nice knife to keep on your desk for opening packages and to carry in your pocket when needed, with the knowledge that when you use it it will give that vintage touch that so many people like.

QSP Jumping Jack Slip Joint technical specifications and price