Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the QSP Parrot, a knife that's been creating quite a buzz in the EDC community, especially given its unbelievably affordable price tag of just $19.99. Yes, you read that right! A knife with a D2 steel blade and G10 scales for under $20? It almost sounds too good to be true, so let's put it to the test. In this comprehensive review, we'll dissect everything from its design and ergonomics to its performance and overall value. We'll explore the blade steel, handle material, locking mechanism, and how it performs in real-world cutting tasks. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear understanding of whether the QSP Parrot deserves a spot in your pocket or if it's just another budget blade that falls short. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's get started!
Unboxing and First Impressions: What to Expect
When you first get your hands on the QSP Parrot, the initial impression is surprisingly positive. For a knife in this price range, the fit and finish are quite commendable. The knife arrives in a simple but functional box, securely packaged to prevent any damage during transit. Inside, you'll find the knife itself, often accompanied by a QSP information card. Right away, the G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The texture is aggressive enough to provide solid traction without being overly abrasive. The blade, a 3.25-inch drop point made from D2 steel, looks well-centered and has a clean, satin finish. The overall weight and balance feel good in the hand, making it feel like a more expensive knife than it actually is. The deployment is smooth thanks to the ceramic ball bearings, and the lockup is solid with no blade play. Of course, at this price point, you might notice some minor imperfections upon closer inspection, such as slight inconsistencies in the G10 texture or minor variations in the blade finish. However, these are typically cosmetic and don't detract from the knife's overall functionality. The pocket clip is positioned for tip-up carry and feels sturdy enough for everyday use. Our first impressions are crucial, setting the stage for our expectations. This knife, given its price, has already exceeded expectations in terms of initial quality and feel. Let's dig deeper into the blade and handle to understand the materials and construction better.
Blade and Steel: D2 Performance on a Budget
The heart of any knife is its blade, and the QSP Parrot boasts a 3.25-inch drop point blade made from D2 tool steel. D2 steel is a high-carbon, high-chromium steel known for its excellent wear resistance and edge retention. This means it can hold a sharp edge for a considerable amount of time, even with regular use. For a budget knife, D2 steel is a significant upgrade over softer steels commonly found in this price range. The drop point blade shape is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks, from slicing and piercing to general utility work. The blade has a satin finish, which not only looks good but also helps to resist corrosion. The grind is even and consistent, indicating good manufacturing quality. Now, let's talk about performance. In our testing, the D2 blade performed admirably, slicing through cardboard, rope, and other common materials with ease. The edge held up well, showing no signs of chipping or rolling even after some demanding cutting tasks. While D2 steel is known for its toughness and wear resistance, it's also slightly more prone to corrosion than stainless steels. Therefore, it's essential to keep the blade clean and dry, especially in humid environments, and perhaps apply a thin coat of oil periodically. Sharpening D2 steel can be a bit more challenging than some other steels, but with the right tools and technique, it's certainly manageable. Overall, the blade and steel on the QSP Parrot are a standout feature, providing excellent performance and value for the price. The choice of D2 steel is a testament to QSP's commitment to quality, even in their budget-friendly offerings. Next, we'll examine the handle and ergonomics, crucial aspects of a knife that determine its comfort and usability.
Handle and Ergonomics: Comfort and Grip
The handle of the QSP Parrot is made from G10, a fiberglass laminate material known for its strength, durability, and excellent grip. G10 is resistant to moisture, temperature changes, and chemicals, making it an ideal choice for knife handles. The handle scales are textured to provide a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. The ergonomic design of the handle is well-thought-out, fitting comfortably in the hand with no hotspots or areas of discomfort. The handle has a slight contour that conforms to the natural shape of the hand, enhancing control and reducing fatigue during extended use. The finger choil provides a secure grip and prevents the hand from slipping onto the blade. The jimping on the spine of the blade adds further traction and control, especially during precision cutting tasks. The handle is available in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose one that suits your personal preferences. The pocket clip is positioned for tip-up carry, which is the preferred method for many users, allowing for quick and easy access to the knife. The clip is sturdy and provides a secure hold in the pocket. The overall balance of the knife is excellent, with the weight evenly distributed between the blade and handle. This balance contributes to the knife's comfortable feel in the hand and makes it easy to control during use. The ergonomics of the QSP Parrot are surprisingly good for a knife in this price range. The combination of the G10 handle, thoughtful design, and comfortable grip make it a pleasure to use. Now that we've looked at the handle and ergonomics, let's move on to the action and locking mechanism, two critical components that determine the knife's reliability and safety.
Action and Lock: Smooth Deployment and Secure Lockup
The action of the QSP Parrot is remarkably smooth, thanks to its ceramic ball bearings. The blade deploys quickly and effortlessly with a satisfying snap, whether using the flipper tab or the thumb studs. The flipper tab is well-positioned and easy to access, providing excellent leverage for smooth and reliable deployment. The thumb studs offer an alternative deployment method for those who prefer a more traditional approach. The blade glides open smoothly and locks securely into place with a solid click. The lockup is tight and secure, with no blade play in any direction. The Parrot features a liner lock mechanism, which is a common and reliable locking system. The liner lock engages firmly with the blade tang, providing a strong and secure lockup. The lockbar is easily accessible and disengages smoothly, allowing for easy closing of the blade. The detent is well-tuned, providing just the right amount of resistance to keep the blade securely closed in the pocket without being too difficult to deploy. The smooth action and secure lockup of the QSP Parrot are impressive, especially considering its budget-friendly price. The ceramic ball bearings contribute significantly to the smooth deployment, and the liner lock provides a reliable and safe locking mechanism. Now that we've examined the action and lock, let's consider the overall value and compare the QSP Parrot to other knives in its price range.
Overall Value and Alternatives: Is the Parrot a Steal?
When it comes to overall value, the QSP Parrot truly shines. For a price of just $19.99, you're getting a knife with impressive features and performance that rival those of knives costing much more. The D2 steel blade, G10 handle, smooth action, and secure lockup make it an exceptional value proposition. In terms of alternatives, there are a few other budget-friendly knives worth considering. The Ontario Knife Company RAT Model 1 and Model 2 are popular choices, known for their durability and reliability. However, they typically cost more than the QSP Parrot. The Civivi Elementum is another excellent option, offering similar features and quality, but it also comes at a higher price point. Compared to these alternatives, the QSP Parrot stands out for its unbeatable price-to-performance ratio. It offers a compelling combination of quality materials, solid construction, and smooth action at a fraction of the cost of its competitors. Of course, there are always trade-offs at this price point. The fit and finish might not be as refined as on more expensive knives, and the D2 steel requires more care to prevent corrosion. However, these are minor compromises compared to the overall value you're getting. The QSP Parrot is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and capable EDC knife on a tight budget. It's also a great option for those who want to try out D2 steel without breaking the bank. In conclusion, the QSP Parrot is a steal. It's a knife that punches far above its weight class, offering exceptional value and performance for the price. Now, let's wrap up with our final thoughts and recommendations.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In summary, the QSP Parrot is an outstanding budget knife that exceeds expectations in many areas. The D2 steel blade provides excellent edge retention and cutting performance, the G10 handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, and the smooth action and secure lockup make it a pleasure to use. For a price of just $19.99, the QSP Parrot is an incredible value, making it a top contender in the budget knife category. We highly recommend the QSP Parrot to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable EDC knife. It's a great option for beginners who are just getting into knives, as well as experienced users who appreciate a good value. It's also a fantastic backup knife or a gift for friends and family. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive knives, the QSP Parrot delivers where it counts: performance, durability, and value. If you're in the market for a budget-friendly knife that doesn't compromise on quality, the QSP Parrot is definitely worth considering. Just remember to keep the blade clean and dry to prevent corrosion, and you'll have a dependable cutting tool for years to come. So, there you have it – our comprehensive review of the QSP Parrot. We hope you found this review helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thanks for reading, and happy cutting!
