The Lark’s handle is sleek and symmetrical, aside from a thoughtful index finger groove. This groove gives you a natural spot for your grip, with just enough room to access the liner lock. I appreciated the subtlety here; the cutout isn’t exaggerated, making for a clean, uninterrupted handle shape that still allows easy lock access. The carbon fiber feels great in hand, and it’s refreshing to see companies doing unique things with this material—each one feels like its own experience.
When it comes to grip, the Lark feels comfortable in hand, with the jimping on the blade spine falling right under my thumb for control. The deep-carry clip is functional, but it’s the one element that gets in the way of comfort, especially if you’re bearing down on a task. The loop on the clip can dig into the palm, which is noticeable under pressure, though it’s easy to overlook in day-to-day use.
In terms of performance, the Lark’s drop point blade with a full flat grind is where it truly shines. I’ve always loved flat grinds for their cutting efficiency, and QSP doesn’t hold back here—they take the grind all the way up the blade, which enhances slicing ability significantly. It’s a nice change from the halfway or partial grinds seen on too many knives. The satin finish on the 14C28N blade contrasts beautifully with the handle, a welcome break from the usual bead-blasted or coated options. 14C28N, that budget-friendly super steel, is ideal for a knife like this. It’s tough, holds an edge well, and sharpens up beautifully without a premium price tag—a choice that’s hard to beat for a daily-carry blade.
For deployment, QSP provides both a front and rear flipper, and, as expected, the front flipper delivers the snappier action. Both flippers maintain the Lark’s clean, symmetrical look, with no thumb studs or thumb holes to interrupt the flow. The overall design is streamlined, making it a compact but capable tool for the pocket.
The Lark is a bird of a different feather, sporting standout aesthetics with reliable performance at an affordable price. With its unique “plumage,” it’s built for those who want a dependable, eye-catching daily carry that excels in the essentials. If you’re looking for an EDC knife that’s both attractive and effective, the QSP Lark will feel right at home.
