The James Brand Wayland Pocket Knife

When it comes to EDC essentials, The James Brand always sit at the top table in our opinion here at The Coolector and their latest release, the Wayland Pocket Knife, is exactly why this is the case. Billed as a classic slipjoint done right, this versatile and functional pocket knife from The James Brand is the workshop’s interpretation of the Barlow, which is considered the epitome of the American “folding knife.”

The James Brand Wayland Pocket Knife has a price tag of $199 and will be your go-to implement for any outdoor adventures this spring and summer. Inspired by a knife conceived over three centuries ago in England and perfected in America, the Barlow quickly became Americans’ preferred blade, regardless of class or creed. The Barlow’s traditional pattern—long bolster, teardrop-shaped handle, and clip point blade—made it the perfect EDC accessory and the Wayland carries on this tradition wonderfully well.

A Knife for the Ages

The Barlow Knife has had a storied history and it is such an accomplished instrument that Presidents Washington and Lincoln never left home without theirs, and Mark Twain referenced the tool in two of his iconic works. If ever a knife belonged to the people, it was the Barlow. The Wayland Pocket Knife from The James Brand aims to carry on the tradition of this accessory and bring it well and truly into the 21st century.

If you’re after a supremely functional tool for your adventures, the Wayland Pocket Knife from The James Brand ($199) will more than fit the bill. TJB’s take on this classic slip-joint knife boasts an understated design aesthetic and high quality materials throughout. The Wayland is based on the classic Barlow pattern: namely, a rounded end, sheepsfoot blade shape, large bolsters and centre-line symmetry through the scales.

For this release, The James Brand have leveraged some of their favourite high-end materials like rosewood, titanium and S35VN steel into the design and it gives a tangible sense of quality to proceedings. The goal is a contemporary look and feel, with exceptional materials but a very clear lineage to the original Barlow concept. And it’s mission well and truly accomplished from what we can see at Coolector HQ.

Contemporary Classic

The Wayland’s three-inch Sheepsfoot blade consists of CPM-S35VN stainless steel, which delivers a no-nonsense knife which is capable of avoiding accidental point-piercing mishaps—making it ideally suited for whittling, slicing a chunk out of an apple, or assisting on a rescue mission.

The classic non-locking slip joint design produces the smooth “walk and talk” one would demand from a well-built tool and the Wayland Pocket Knife is already flying off The James Brand’s digital shelves – and for good reason. At $199, it represents excellent value for money and you just won’t find a more versatile pocket knife for the price point.