Proponent Folding Knife 1820P Green - D2 Steel EDC

Our review of the Proponent Folding Knife 1820P Green finds it best suited to outdoorsmen and serious EDC users who want a heavy-duty folder that can be relied on in the field. The cleaver-style D2 steel blade and textured G10 handle combine to deliver a confident cutting tool that stays sharp and offers secure grip even when conditions are rough. It is not a lightweight pocket slip; instead this knife stands out for durability, edge retention and a solid, almost fixed-blade feel when locked for use.

Key Features

• One-handed opening: Thumb studs on the blade back allow quick, ambidextrous deployment for fast access in the field.
• Durable steel: The cleaver-style blade is made from D2 steel hardened to roughly 59-61 HRC for strong wear resistance and long edge life.
• Secure handle: Lightly textured G10 material and a unique pattern give a non-slip grip that improves safety during heavy tasks.
• Lock pin conversion: A built-in lock pin can be inserted to convert the folder into a fixed-like blade for added stability during demanding cutting.
• All-purpose use: The knife is designed for hunting, camping and general outdoor chores, serving as a practical EDC and field tool.

Who It's For

This knife suits hunters, campers and outdoors enthusiasts who prefer a robust, substantial folder that can act like a fixed blade when needed. Its weight and size make it ideal for users who need high wear resistance and a blade profile that handles heavy-duty cutting and slicing.

Those who want a minimalist, ultralight keychain blade or a slim everyday carry might look elsewhere; this model is intentionally substantial and feels heavy compared with compact folders, so it rewards users who prioritize strength and edge retention over minimal weight.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent edge retention from hardened D2 steel makes it low maintenance between sharpenings.
• G10 handle gives a confident, non-slip grip even in damp conditions.
• Thumb studs provide smooth, ambidextrous one-hand opening praised by owners for ease of use.
• Lock pin option effectively secures the blade for fixed-blade stability during tough tasks.

Cons

• Feels somewhat heavy and large in the pocket compared with lighter EDC folders, which some customers noted.
• The knife's size and cleaver profile may be overkill for users only needing light everyday tasks.

Specifications

Blade steel	D2 tool steel
Handle material	G10 textured handle (green)
Opening method	Thumb studs for one-handed, ambidextrous opening
Special feature	Lock pin converts folder to fixed-like blade
Hardness	Hardened to about 59-61 HRC
Design	Cleaver-style blade by Dirk Prikerton

Our Verdict

The Proponent Folding Knife 1820P Green is a solid choice for outdoors users who want a heavy-duty folder that holds an edge and offers a secure grip. Its D2 blade and G10 handle deliver real value when durability matters, and the lock pin option adds versatility for tougher jobs. It is best for people who accept a larger, heavier carry in exchange for performance and long-term reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the knife be opened with either hand?
Yes. The thumb studs are ambidextrous and allow easy one-handed opening for both left and right hands.

How hard is the blade steel?
The D2 blade is hardened to about 59-61 HRC, offering strong wear resistance and good edge retention.

Is the handle slip resistant?
Yes. The lightly textured G10 handle pattern is designed to improve grip and reduce slipping during use.