I haven’t had a knife that’s really got my attention for a while. That changed a couple of days ago when I received a few of the Castillo Torre Knives. Made in Spain, I have to give them credit for doing things up right.
Before we get to the knife, here’s what comes in the box (besides the knife). You get really nice leather slip, fine grit ceramic sharpening stone, Ballistol Wipe sample, a slick little decal for your kids bike, and a card with the DOB, inspectors initials and web address for warranty info. It was also nice to see them list their membership with the AKTI.
The Torre C3 I’m reviewing is 4″ closed and just a fraction under 7″ open. This one comes with Black Micarta handles with a red spacer and some nice clean file work on the liners.
I’ll compare it to my recent EDC Fallkniven U2 as they are somewhat similar in design, (both are mid-back locks, synthetic/micarta handles, mid size pocket knives) and general purpose pocket knives. The U2 is slightly smaller but has a bit thicker blade.
The Blade
The slightly larger Carillo has a thicker profile but a thinner and longer blade then the Fallkniven U2. I like that longer thinner blade for a lot of applications.
It’s particularly nice if you’re slicing or making fine cuts. The thicker blade is a bit more robust if your pushing through a tougher material but the thicker blade also will split rather then slice. I can definitely see this as a great knife for camping and even as a fillet knife in a pinch.
The blade steel is Sandvik 14C28N which is a very popular blade steel. Edge retention is excellent and re-sharpening is relatively effortless. It’s highly resistant to corrosion and takes a wicked sharp edge. While its not in the same category as some of the high end powder steels, it’s a great all around blade steel at a fraction of the price.
Perfect Size and Features
Not an overly large knife it still fits my hand quite well. The jimping is perfect for maximum control and the chubby handle just feels good. With the solid lockup it feels like you can really go to town on a tough cutting job.
I’m not a huge fan of the pocket slips. Usually, I want my pocket knife ready to go and sure as hell I’m going to take my knife out of the slip and leave it lying somewhere. Now, if you like the slips, this is a nice one. It looks good and the construction is top notch. All leather and it fits the knife nice and snug.
I’ve only carried the Torre for a couple of days but I’ve gotten attached to it. A bit bulkier then my Fallkniven U2, it’s still a comfortable EDC knife that carries well. It came with a terrific edge on the blade and so far a few apples, some envelopes, card board boxes and fiber tape haven’t had any effect. It’s still shaving sharp. Coming in just over $100 I feel the Castillo Knives are a great bargain. The cost of the leather slip plus a decent ceramic stone bring the package cost well into line with the competition. Like I’ve said before, I won’t sell it if I wouldn’t use it. This is a ‘user’!