Tapirus - 4 Spork to Go Set Review: A Must-Have for Outdoor Enthusiasts
In the world of outdoor adventures, where space is limited and functionality is king, multi-use tools reign supreme. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker, a weekend camper, or just someone who enjoys eating lunch at the park, the Tapirus 4 Spork to Go Set offers an efficient, lightweight, and practical solution to your portable utensil needs.
With its clever combination of spoon, fork, and knife all rolled into one sleek tool, and the inclusion of a compact carrying case, Tapirus has made a strong pitch for a place in your gear bag. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the strengths and weaknesses of this spork set, what you can expect from it, and answer some frequently asked questions from potential buyers.
First Impressions: Design and Packaging
The Tapirus 4 Spork to Go Set arrives in a simple yet functional package that highlights its utility. Inside, you’ll find four identical sporks and a sturdy, zippered carrying case designed to keep the utensils clean and organized.
Each spork measures 7 inches in length, a comfortable size for adults and older children. The design is minimal but smart: one end features a standard spoon, and the other a fork with a serrated edge on one side to act as a knife. The colors vary by set—some options include bright, fun tones while others come in neutral, muted shades.
The carrying case is a thoughtful addition. It’s compact and made of a durable synthetic material that resists wear and tear. It also makes keeping track of your utensils much easier when you’re out in the wild—or just your office lunchroom.
Materials and Build Quality
The sporks are made of high-quality BPA-free plastic, which is important for health-conscious users. BPA (Bisphenol A) has long been a concern in plastics due to its potential health risks, so its absence here is reassuring.
At first glance, these sporks might appear lightweight or even fragile—but they’re surprisingly tough. The plastic is rigid and doesn’t bend easily under pressure, which is key when eating denser or tougher foods like pasta, rice, or cooked meats. The finish is smooth, making it comfortable to hold and easy to clean.
While these aren’t indestructible (and we’ll get into that in the cons section), they definitely surpass your average disposable plastic utensils in both durability and usability.
Functionality: Spoon, Fork, and Knife in One
Let’s break down the three core functions:
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Spoon: Deep enough to hold a good amount of soup or stew, the spoon end works well for liquid or semi-liquid meals. It’s not quite as deep as a standard soup spoon, but it’s effective enough for oatmeal, yogurt, chili, and broths.
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Fork: The fork tines are reasonably long and can pierce most food items without issue. Whether you're digging into salad, meat, or roasted vegetables, the fork side holds up quite well.
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Knife (Serrated Edge): The serrated edge is more of a sawing tool than a sharp blade, which is expected with plastic. It can cut through soft and medium-density foods (like cooked chicken, soft fruits, or bread), but it struggles with tougher items like steak or dense vegetables. Still, for camp cooking and general use, it’s a solid addition.
Having all three utensils in one item really does save space and reduces clutter in your backpack, picnic bag, or glove compartment.
Portability and Convenience
One of the biggest selling points of this spork set is portability. Each spork is lightweight, and the case keeps them neatly packed and protected from dirt. You don’t need to worry about them getting mixed up with dirty clothes or gear in your backpack.
The fact that you get four sporks in a single set means you can share them with family or friends, or keep extras in different bags for convenience. They're also dishwasher safe, so clean-up is a breeze when you get home.
Ideal Use Cases
The Tapirus spork set is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideal use cases:
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Camping & Backpacking: These are perfect for backpackers looking to cut down on weight and bulk. They’ll handle most meals cooked over a campfire or backpacking stove.
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Hiking Day Trips: Just toss one into your lunch container or pocket—no need for multiple utensils.
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School & Office Lunches: Great for kids or adults who want a reusable, eco-friendly alternative to disposables.
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Emergency Kits: Keep a few in your emergency preparedness bag. They're compact, hygienic, and reusable.
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Picnics & Travel: These are TSA-safe (because they're plastic), making them great for air travel meals or eating on-the-go.
Advantages of the Tapirus 4 Spork to Go Set
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Multi-functional Design
Combines three utensils into one simple tool, reducing clutter and increasing portability. -
Durability
Made of sturdy BPA-free plastic that resists bending and snapping under normal use. -
Lightweight & Compact
Extremely portable, ideal for minimalist packers or daily use. -
Hygienic Carrying Case
Keeps utensils clean and easy to find, even in a chaotic backpack or car trunk. -
Eco-Friendly
Reusable utensils help reduce waste compared to single-use plastic cutlery. -
Family-Friendly Quantity
Comes with four utensils, making it great for small groups or families. -
Easy to Clean
Dishwasher-safe and smooth surfaces make cleanup fast and easy.
Disadvantages and Limitations
No product is without its downsides. Here are a few things to consider:
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Knife Functionality is Limited
The serrated edge is more suited for soft items; it doesn’t truly replace a good camp knife. -
No Metal Option
While the plastic is strong, it’s not indestructible. Users who want metal for longevity or higher heat resistance may be disappointed. -
Awkward for Some Foods
The hybrid design means compromises—neither the fork nor spoon is perfect. It's more a jack-of-all-trades than a specialist. -
Bulky Compared to Folding Utensils
At 7 inches, they don’t fold or telescope, so while they're portable, they’re not the most compact utensils on the market. -
Not Ideal for Tough Cutting
Don’t expect to slice through tough steak or crusty baguettes with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the sporks dishwasher safe?
Yes! They are completely dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup quick and convenient.
Q: Is the plastic really durable?
Yes, for typical usage—eating meals at camp, school, or work—it holds up well. That said, extreme bending or prying can cause them to snap.
Q: How many people is this set suitable for?
The set includes four sporks, making it suitable for a small family or a group of friends. You could also keep extras in different locations.
Q: Can I use these for hot meals?
Yes, but keep in mind they are plastic. They won’t melt from hot soups or meals, but avoid exposing them to direct flame or boiling water for extended periods.
Q: Will the knife edge cut meat?
It can cut through soft and some medium-cooked meats, but it won’t perform well on tougher cuts. It’s meant more for light duty.
Q: Is the carrying case washable?
Yes, the case can be hand washed. Just make sure to let it dry thoroughly before sealing it back up.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Tapirus Spork to Go Set?
Absolutely, yes—if you need practical, reusable utensils for outdoor or daily use.
The Tapirus 4 Spork to Go Set is a smart investment for campers, hikers, travelers, or even office workers who want a dependable, eco-friendly utensil option. It’s affordable, well-built, and includes thoughtful touches like the carrying case that boost its value significantly.
While it won’t fully replace a quality knife or your home flatware set, it’s not meant to. It shines in situations where convenience, portability, and versatility matter more than luxury. Whether you're eating chili in the backwoods or noodles at your desk, these sporks have you covered.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Pros:
✔ Multi-functional design
✔ BPA-free and eco-conscious
✔ Durable and lightweight
✔ Dishwasher safe
✔ Great value for the price
Cons:
✘ Knife is only moderately effective
✘ Not compact/foldable
✘ Not suitable for very tough foods
