The Puma Backpacker (Model 230465) is classified on the company's website in the "sporting folders, outdoor, folding" category.  When I first opened the box and removed the knife from its carrying case, I was surprised at how heavy it felt, especially compared to some of the other blades I possess. At 120 grams, my first assessment was that this knife would be good to carry in the black nylon pouch, but might be too much of a burden to carry around in my pocket.

The Puma Backpacker with its factory Nylon sheath.

I field-tested the Backpacker, carrying first in my work slacks and later in my jeans pocket. I even took it along in my summer shorts for a family adventure. Contrary to my initial expectations, I didn’t notice the knife in my pocket unless I was seeking it out for use. The weight of this knife ensured that it would stay buried in the pocket bottom and not ride up high enough to fall out. The Backpacker's design provides a solid foundation for hiking/camping and everyday utility purposes. The profile is sleek and well rounded at both ends, easy to put in and take out of my pockets.

Puma Backpacker deployed from sheath, which can ride horizontally.

The Backpacker has a very nice clip point design. The locking mechanism is a standard rocker bar lock. The blade was very sharp out of the box and is attractively accented with the Puma logo and model designation. There is a hairsbreadth of play where the blade meets the body, but this is the case in every single folding knife I own.

Backpacker blade with through-and-through groove.

The Puma is exceptionally stable compared to many of the other blades in my collection. Blade length is 3.125 inches with a blade thickness (measured by the manufacturer) at 3 millimeters. The blade is made from “Special D1.4 Cutlery Stainless Steel” with a reported hardness (Rockwell Hardness Test) between 57 and 59.

The overall length of the Backpacker is 7.5 inches fully extended. Folded footprint is 4.33 inches long and 0.5 inches thick. Three pins hold the knife together, one near the blade and two at the back end. There is a small 1/8th inch diameter lanyard hole between the two rear pins. Scales are ABS and nicely accent the pewter-colored bolsters with a nice, soft green. This knife is an attractive addition to any collection.

ABS scales are textured and, well, green.

The Puma Backpacker is designed specifically for outdoor recreational use. The blade requires two hands to open by design, but, I was able to open the blade with a single hand by holding onto the blade and snapping the handle downward. I do not recommend this opening method for self-defense purposes, nor with this knife design, but it is possible to perform.

Overall, the Puma Backpacker is a very solid and dependable knife. It is easy to carry and simple to manipulate in use. I highly recommend this knife, whether you are an avid outdoorsman or simply like to putter around in the back yard.