REVIEW: Pohl Force Alpha 3

What looks sharp, is sharp, and is also one of the pocket knives that are really suitable for use? Definitely the Alpha 3 from Pohl Force, whose name stands for the highest quality "Made in Germany". We extensively tested the Alpha 3 and will let you know what you can expect from it (click all images to enlarge):

First of all, the technical data:

• Blade made of D2 (1.2379), approx. 58-59 HRC, with black coated PTFE surface
• Partial serration
• Blade length 11.3 cm
• Blade thickness 5mm
• Scales made of glass fiber reinforced plastic with a special Mold-Tech - 11050 structure, approx. 4mm thick
• Plates made of 2 mm stainless steel
• Hollow axles with 11mm diameter
• Wire clip
• Lanyard made of Flexcord
• Total length 26 cm
• Weight 280g

In the opening image, the structuring of the scales is very well visible. Thanks to the sophisticated shape of the handle, it always fits perfectly in your hand. The Tanto blade with partial serration is razor sharp out of the box and very durable. Even after all tortures, it has not needed to be sharpened.

In the image above you can see the contents of the knife package, including Alpha 3 with shock cord, collector's case, patch. Not pictured are the authenticity certificate and a small but very fine instruction manual for the knife, which focuses mainly on the different correct ways to hold it.

Here is the knife folded and next to a standard lighter for size comparison. The Alpha 3 is large and therefore only partially suitable for urban EDC. Also visible is the pants clip, which can be easily moved to the other side of the handle or completely removed. The knife can only be carried in the tip-up position. Only a 2 cent coin is needed for adjusting the blade axis or changing the pants clip, or better yet, a screwdriver. In the lower right corner is a detailed view of the detachable glass breaker.

Here is the interior and structure of the Alpha 3. The body is held together precisely at five points. The back lock mechanism is very nicely visible, which locks the blade in place with a satisfying click every time. There is no play in any direction with the blade. Also visible is the blue screw glue, which from the factory holds all screws in place.

As optional accessory, there is a blade opener included, which makes it easier to open the knife with one hand (but is illegal for our German friends). It is attached with a small slotted screw and then holds firmly. A very nice construction detail of the blade can be seen on the right side of the image, namely the hand position when closing the blade. With the correct grip, it is impossible to cut or amputate your finger.

Now to our impressions with the knife. We cut and chopped nearly everything with it, whether onions in the kitchen or thick branches in the woods. Even fine carving work was no problem. The glass breaker also allowed for smashing medium-sized stones. The blade remained sharp and overall the knife showed no signs of wear at any point. This knife is definitely an ideal tool for survival.

CONCLUSION: A knife of master class. Here you can tell that a lot of thought and skill went into the creation of the Alpha 3. It more than lives up to its slogan: "Robust, reliable, and ready for action. Anywhere - anytime." The only drawback could be that due to its size, it might be a bit conspicuous for urban EDC.

The Alpha 3 is available at Pohl Force for €179.00 excluding shipping in Black (Survival) and Tan (Desert).