10Best.Guide

Fixed Blade Knife

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Affordable price
  • Durable and sturdy construction
  • Very sharp blade
  • Comfortable handle
  • Versatile for various outdoor activities
Cons
  • Sheath may not be secure for some users
  • Blade may have imperfections
Bottom Line
The Morakniv Companion is an affordable, durable, and versatile knife that is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping and bushcraft. It has a very sharp blade and a comfortable handle, but the sheath may not be secure for some users and the blade may have imperfections. Overall, it is a great value for its price.
Pros
  • Gets razor sharp and stays sharp for a long time.
  • Incredibly tough and sturdy.
  • Thick enough to baton wood and still whittle well.
  • Full tang and carbon steel.
  • Ergonomic handle.
Cons
  • Inconsistent sharpness out of the box.
  • Handle may not be comfortable for everyone.
Bottom Line
The Mora Garberg Carbon is a high-quality, sturdy, and reliable knife that is great for bushcraft and outdoor activities. However, buyers should be aware of potential issues with the sharpness out of the box, handle comfort, and sheath system.
Pros
  • Great knife design for hiking and foraging.
  • Very sharp blade out of the box.
  • Sturdy and well-made knife.
  • Ergonomic handle with a solid feel.
  • Good price for the quality.
Cons
  • Sheath is not secure and the knife falls out easily.
  • Grinds are not even.
Bottom Line
The Oerla Fixed Blade Outdoor Duty Knife is a great option for those looking for a sturdy and sharp knife at an affordable price. However, the sheath is not very secure and the knife may not be comfortable for people with larger hands.
Pros
  • Great materials and craftsmanship
  • Factory edge is razor sharp
  • Solid piece of equipment
  • Beefy enough without being too heavy
  • Gorgeous knife
Cons
  • Handle came unfinished and lighter than pic
  • Kydex sheath does leave a bit to be desired
Bottom Line
The ESEE knife is a great quality knife made in the USA with great materials and craftsmanship. It is full tang and holds an edge very well. However, the handle may be too short and the knife is not the most ergonomic. The knife is not cheap but is worth the investment for those who need a reliable knife for outdoor activities.
Pros
  • Shipped fast
  • Excellent EDC
  • Razor sharp out of the box
  • High-quality sheath
  • Great value for the price
Cons
  • Rust spots
  • Uneven scandi grind
Bottom Line
This knife is a great value for the price, with a sharp blade and high-quality sheath. However, some customers have reported issues with rust spots, uneven grind, and rough scales. With some sanding and oiling, the knife can be improved. Overall, it is a sturdy and well-crafted knife with a great design and nice sheath.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Fixed Blade Knives: Types, Key Considerations, Features, Prices, Tips, and FAQs

Overview

A fixed blade knife is an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and survivalists. It is a reliable and sturdy tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including hunting, camping, and self-defense. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. In this buying guide, we will discuss the different types of fixed blade knives, key considerations, features, prices, tips, and FAQs to help you make an informed decision.

Types

1. Hunting Knife: These knives are designed for hunting and skinning game. They typically have a drop point or clip point blade, which is ideal for piercing and slicing. Hunting knives can have a full tang or partial tang, and the blade can be made of stainless steel or high-carbon steel.

2. Survival Knife: As the name suggests, survival knives are designed for survival situations. They are typically larger and heavier than hunting knives and have a thick and durable blade. Survival knives can have a serrated edge, which is ideal for cutting through tough materials such as rope or wood.

3. Tactical Knife: Tactical knives are designed for military and law enforcement personnel. They are typically lightweight and have a durable blade that can be used for self-defense or combat situations. Tactical knives can have a tanto or drop point blade, and the blade can be made of stainless steel or high-carbon steel.

Key Considerations

1. Blade Material: The blade material is an essential consideration when choosing a fixed blade knife. Stainless steel is a popular choice because it is durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. High-carbon steel is another option, which is ideal for hunting and survival knives because it is strong and holds an edge well.

2. Handle Material: The handle material is also an essential consideration. Common materials include wood, rubber, and synthetic materials. The handle should provide a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet or slippery.

3. Blade Length and Thickness: The blade length and thickness are important considerations, depending on the intended use of the knife. A longer blade is ideal for hunting and survival situations, while a shorter blade is ideal for everyday carry. The blade thickness should be proportional to the blade length and should be thick enough to handle heavy-duty tasks.

Features

1. Full Tang: A full tang knife has a blade that extends through the handle, providing additional strength and durability.

2. Partial Tang: A partial tang knife has a blade that only extends partially into the handle, making it lighter and more comfortable to carry.

3. Blade Shape: The blade shape can vary depending on the intended use of the knife. Common shapes include drop point, clip point, and tanto.

4. Point Type: The point type can also vary depending on the intended use of the knife. Common point types include spear point, drop point, and clip point.

5. Serrations: Serrations are small teeth on the blade that are ideal for cutting through tough materials such as rope or wood.

6. Sheath Material: The sheath material should be durable and provide a secure fit for the knife. Common materials include leather, nylon, and kydex.

Prices

Fixed blade knives can range in price from under $20 to over $500, depending on the brand, materials, and features. A high-quality fixed blade knife can cost between $100 and $200.

Tips

1. Choose a knife that is comfortable to hold and easy to use.

2. Consider the intended use of the knife and choose one that is suitable for the task.

3. Look for a knife with a durable blade and handle material.

4. Choose a knife with a sheath that provides a secure fit and easy access to the knife.

FAQs

Q: What is a fixed blade knife?

A: A fixed blade knife is a knife with a blade that does not fold or retract into the handle.

Q: What is the best blade material for a fixed blade knife?

A: Stainless steel and high-carbon steel are both popular choices for fixed blade knives.

Q: What is the best handle material for a fixed blade knife?

A: The best handle material for a fixed blade knife is one that provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet or slippery.

Q: Can I sharpen a fixed blade knife myself?

A: Yes, you can sharpen a fixed blade knife yourself using a sharpening stone or other sharpening tools.

Q: How do I care for my fixed blade knife?

A: To care for your fixed blade knife, keep it clean and dry, and oil the blade and handle regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right fixed blade knife can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and information, you can make an informed decision. Consider the intended use of the knife, the blade and handle material, and the features and prices to choose the best fixed blade knife for your needs.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Super sharp out of the box
  • Comfortable handle
  • Beautiful design
  • Well-made sheath
  • Retains edge well
Cons
  • Blade has no heft
  • Not truly full tang
Bottom Line
The KA-BAR Becker BK18 is a well-made, durable knife that is great for outdoor use. It is super sharp out of the box and has a comfortable handle. However, the blade has no heft and is not truly full tang. The cutting edge geometry may be off and the knife may arrive with a paint finish on the cutting edge. The knife is also smaller than expected and may be dull out of the box. Overall, it is a good choice for those looking for a lightweight, durable knife for outdoor activities.
Pros
  • Affordable price
  • Scary sharp blade
  • Good gift option
  • High-quality carbon steel blade
  • Rugged and durable
Cons
  • Not indestructible
  • Easily nicked and quick to dull
Bottom Line
The Morakniv Craftline Basic 511 High Carbon Steel Fixed Blade Utility Knife is an affordable, high-quality, and durable knife that is perfect for general utility tasks, gardening, and pruning. It is easy to maintain and comes with a secure clip-on case. However, it is not indestructible and can easily get nicked and dull. The handle grooves and lettering can also be difficult to clean, and the color may not be as advertised.
Pros
  • Good quality for the price
  • Secure sheath
  • Perfect size for everyday carry
  • Comfortable handle
  • Versatile sheath angles
Cons
  • Weak belt clip
  • Sheath grommets too small
Bottom Line
This knife is a great value for its price point and is perfect for everyday carry. The sheath is secure and versatile, but the belt clip can be weak and snap off. The knife itself is well-made, but the machining on the thumb stop and glass breaker is unrefined. Overall, it's a good option for those looking for an affordable, reliable knife.
Pros
  • Holds an edge well
  • Durable powder coating
  • Solid and sturdy
  • Good for EDC and small tasks
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
  • Difficult to remove from sheath
  • Sheath has high tension and may need modification
Bottom Line
The ESEE Izula is a durable and sturdy knife that holds an edge well and is good for everyday carry and small tasks. However, the sheath may need modification and the handle may be small for larger hands.
Pros
  • Good price
  • Robust design
  • Top-notch quality
  • Good size
  • Nice handle and sheath
Cons
  • Dull blade
  • Warped blade
Bottom Line
This S&W knife is a good option for those looking for a budget self-defense knife with a robust design and super sharp blade. However, buyers should be aware of potential issues with the blade and sheath.
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