10Best.Guide

Fixed Blade Tactical Knife

Top Picks

Last Updated: November, 2023
Pros
  • Very sharp out of the box
  • High quality and well made
  • Good weight and balance
  • Great for heavy duty tasks
  • Good value for the price
Cons
  • Ineffective saw
  • Unbalanced
Bottom Line
The Gerber StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife is a high-quality, well-made knife that is great for heavy-duty tasks. It is very sharp out of the box and has good weight and balance. However, the saw is ineffective, the blade is split into two parts that are too small to be useful, and the plastic sheath can come undone when mounted vertically. Overall, it is a good value for the price and made in America.
Pros
  • Thick and heavy blade
  • Well-balanced in hand
  • Comes razor sharp
  • Easy to sharpen
  • Holds edge well
Cons
  • Grip may not be comfortable for everyone
  • Factory edge may not be good
Bottom Line
The Ka-Bar knife is a durable and versatile tool that comes razor sharp and holds its edge well. While there may be some issues with the grip and factory edge, overall it is a reliable and high-quality knife.
Pros
  • Excellent for self-defense and survival situations.
  • Razor-sharp out of the box.
  • Good value for money.
  • Comfortable handle.
  • Beautiful steel and finish.
Cons
  • Heavy for some users.
  • Handle could have better grip.
Bottom Line
The Cold Steel Recon Tanto is a great value for money knife that is razor-sharp out of the box and excellent for self-defense and survival situations. However, it may be heavy for some users and the handle could have better grip.
Pros
  • Good price for the quality
  • Versatile and can handle outdoor tasks
  • Comfortable grip
  • Very sharp and even grind
  • Thick blade
Cons
  • Handle can become loose with heavy use
  • Sheath is too tight and difficult to remove
Bottom Line
The Cold Steel SRK is a good quality knife for the price and can handle most outdoor tasks. However, there are some quality control issues with the grind and sheath, and the handle can become loose with heavy use.
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.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Fixed Blade Tactical Knives

Overview

When it comes to tactical gear, a fixed blade tactical knife is an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and military personnel. With their sturdy construction and versatile design, these knives are built to handle tough situations and demanding tasks. In this comprehensive buying guide, we will explore the various types of fixed blade tactical knives, key considerations to keep in mind, important features to look for, price ranges, expert tips, and frequently asked questions.

Types

1. Drop Point: Known for its strong and versatile blade shape, the drop point is ideal for general-purpose use and survival situations.

2. Tanto: Characterized by a thick, angular blade, the tanto design excels in piercing and stabbing tasks.

3. Clip Point: Featuring a concave back and a sharp, fine point, the clip point is excellent for precision cutting and piercing.

4. Bowie: Originating from the legendary Jim Bowie, this knife boasts a large, sweeping clip point blade, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

Key Considerations

1. Blade Material: Look for high-quality materials like stainless steel or carbon steel, which provide durability and corrosion resistance.

2. Tang: Full tang knives offer superior strength and stability, as the blade extends through the handle.

3. Handle Material: Consider materials like G10, Micarta, or textured rubber for a secure grip and comfort during extended use.

4. Blade Length: Choose a blade length based on your intended use, keeping in mind local laws and regulations.

5. Sheath: A reliable sheath is crucial for safe storage and easy access to your knife. Look for options made from durable materials like Kydex or nylon.

Features

1. Serrated Edge: Some tactical knives feature a partially serrated edge, offering versatility for cutting through tough materials.

2. Finger Guard: A finger guard provides added safety and prevents your hand from slipping onto the blade during use.

3. Lanyard Hole: A lanyard hole allows you to secure your knife to your gear or wrist, preventing accidental loss.

4. Blade Coating: Coatings like black oxide or titanium nitride enhance durability, reduce glare, and provide corrosion resistance.

Prices

Fixed blade tactical knives come in a wide range of prices, typically starting from around $30 for budget-friendly options and going up to $200 or more for premium models. Consider your budget and intended use to find the best balance between quality and affordability.

Tips

1. Research and Read Reviews: Prioritize reputable brands and read customer reviews to ensure you're investing in a reliable and high-quality knife.

2. Consider Your Intended Use: Determine the tasks you'll be using the knife for, such as camping, hunting, or self-defense, and choose a blade type accordingly.

3. Maintenance and Care: Regularly clean and maintain your knife to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for sharpening and lubrication.

FAQs

Q: Are fixed blade tactical knives legal to carry?

Q: How do I sharpen a fixed blade tactical knife?

Q: Can I use a tactical knife for self-defense?

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

A: With this comprehensive buying guide, you are now equipped with the knowledge to choose the perfect fixed blade tactical knife that suits your needs and preferences. Happy shopping and stay prepared!

Runner-Ups

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.
Pros
  • Excellent feel and balance
  • Versatile and secure sheath
  • Sharp blade
  • Comfortable grip
  • Good size blade
Cons
  • Handle is thicker than desired
  • Questionable authenticity of Damascus steel
Bottom Line
This Karambit knife offers excellent feel and balance, with a sharp blade and versatile sheath. However, the handle may be thicker than desired and the authenticity of the Damascus steel is questionable. The sheath may also have issues with securely holding the knife.
Pros
  • Good grip and length.
  • Sturdy and well-made.
  • Perfect combat knife.
  • Holds an edge well.
  • Good weight and feels solid.
Cons
  • Insanely dull out of the box.
  • Rubber handle peels in layers.
Bottom Line
The Smith & Wesson 10.6 combat knife is a sturdy and well-made knife with a good grip and length. It holds an edge well and is great all-around knife. However, it may arrive dull out of the box and has some issues with the handle and pommel. The included kydex holster is well-designed, but the hard plastic belt loop may be too tight and inflexible.
Pros
  • Sturdy and practical design
  • Strong full-tang knife
  • Decent balance and fits hand well
  • Comes sharp out of the box
  • Good quality for the price
Cons
  • Not stainless steel as advertised
  • Blade may not be as sharp as expected
Bottom Line
The KCEDGE Tactical Knife is a sturdy and practical knife with a good balance and decent sharpness. However, it may not be as advertised in terms of stainless steel and size. The sheath quality is also a drawback. Overall, it offers good value for the price.
Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • Razor sharp out of the box
  • Fits snuggly onto molle vest
  • Solid and appears to be full tang
  • Cuts through zip ties and rope easily
Cons
  • Horrible "belt clip" on the sheath
  • Blade isn't super sharp
Bottom Line
This knife is an inexpensive option that comes razor sharp out of the box. It is solid and appears to be full tang, making it suitable for outdoor activities. However, the sheath and blade may have some quality issues, and the grip may not be suitable for larger hands. Overall, it is a decent knife for the price, but there are some drawbacks to consider.
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