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Best Fixed Blade Knives
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Durability
The blade on a knife is arguably the most important component. Determining the type of knife you want will most of the time, come down to how effective you want the blade to be. In the evaluation phase, there are a number of leading factors to consider. First and foremost is the type of alloy being used to construct the blade. This could range from multiple alloys but one of the best is stainless steel. Anytime you see stainless steel you know it will possess superb toughness and resistance to rust. However, 1095 steel and high-carbon steel are also terrific in their own right. In addition, a high-carbon steel blade will hold an edge longer.
However, the type of coating used on the blade also plays a determining role in the sharpness and effectiveness of it. A common coating is that of black ceramic; which is absolutely outstanding and will provide an extra layer of resistance to corrosion. If not black ceramic, you could also see a coating such as titanium riptide; which is arguably even better. Lastly, take note of the type of tang utilized. Most people will prefer a full-tang blade. What this means is the knife is one solid piece and the handle is merely pinned to it. Typically, these types of blades offer the most strength as, essentially, the entire knife is the blade itself.
Comfort
Knives are dangerous tools, there is no way to get around that fact. They are designed to slice through tough and gritty objects and most will excel at it. However, while knives are dangerous in their own right, fixed blade knives are arguably tenfold. After all, the blade is locked in a fixed position and can’t be put away. Thus, this makes the grip of the handle an essential component of a fixed blade knife. On warm and sunny days, you do not want moisture to come between your palm and the handle causing an accidental slip. The same principle applies when it is raining and you need to use it.
This is where a rubberized handle comes in handy as it provides you with a phenomenal grip, one which will not be hindered by moisture. But, as long as the handle is reinforced to be slip-free you should be fine. But, there are also additional features that are typically integrated into the handle. For example, this could include a striking pommel for emergency situations, a blade spine rasp to allow for easy thumb placement, a nickel silver guard to keep your finger away from the blade, and a belt loop clip.
Portability
A fixed blade knife can’t be transported and carried like a pocket knife. As opposed to a pocket knife where the blade can be concealed, a fixed blade knife keeps the blade exposed at all times. So, you need a safe means to transport it and that is why sellers will, generally, provide you with an included sheath. Not only are they practical but most are also stylish. Of course, the real area you should be concerning yourself with is the practicality and design. It became a theme rather quickly, but some knives (as great as they are) come with a sheath that leaves a lot to be desired.
Besides the overall appeal, take note of the mounting positions that it provides for you (vertical, horizontal, etc.) if the sheath will hinder the sharpness of the blade by the material rubbing against it and any other issues that have been presented. Thankfully, even if you invest in a superb knife that has a lackluster sheath, you could simply invest in an alternate as long as it fits with the blade.
Size
When looking at the specifications of a knife such as the overall length, length of the blade, and overall weight, most of it comes down to user preference. While specific types of blade widths and lengths can offer different advantages, it is really your preference on how large you want the knife to be. In other words, do you want it kept to a minimal length to avoid the frustration of dealing with a longer blade? However, for some advantages, take for example a blade that is thicker than another version.
While you may think, this would be an advantage, it could be the other way around. A knife that is too thick and bulky may be too much of a hassle to cook and eat with, skin animals with and tempered too hard. Personal preference plays a role in weight, as well, as you may want a lighter knife.
Top Ten Fixed Blade Knives
1. Gerber Strongarm
It is worth noting that second place on this list would be first place in 99 percent of product guides. That should inform you of all you need to know about the Gerber StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife.
Read moreBlade Construction
Being designed around the fundamentals of military training, this blade packs a punch. It is a full-tang 420HC blade with the black ceramic coating. This coating will prevent the blade from corroding and extend its shelf life.
Handle Design
No matter the condition outdoors, you will have a firm grip on the diamond-textured rubberized handle. Past this, there is also a striking pommel that is designed on the base of the handle that can come in handy in emergency situations.
Included Sheath
The included sheath gives you various carrying options thanks to its snap-together components. You could mount the knife vertically, horizontally or in a drop-leg position.
Length and Weight
It weighs a total of 7.2 ounces and the blade measures 4.8 inches, while the total knife measures 9.8 inches.
Seller Options
There are both color options and design options available. These include either black or coyote, and either a fine or serrated edge.
Overall
When first using, you may feel the need to sharpen the blade right away. Once you do that, you will get an absolutely superb knife that has a handle and blade construction to keep you using it for hours.
2. Ka-bar 1217 Straight Edge USMC
Very rarely should a product ever achieve a perfect rating, but that is the case here. Besides having historical value, being a general issue knife during World War II, it has a design that will blow even the toughest of skeptics away.
Read moreBlade Construction
Using top-of-the-line coating combined with top-notch steel, this blade achieves an outstanding hardness. The blade is also sharpened so that it has amazing edge retention.
Handle Design
This sports the classic stacked leather handle of the original and it is both comfortable and visually appealing. No need to worry about an accidental slip as the handle will provide you with great grip.
Included Sheath
A durable, rugged and strong leather sheath will keep you and your knife safe. As opposed to some of its counterparts with plastic, you need not concern yourself with breaking. The sheath itself will also not begin to hinder the sharpness of the blade.
Length and Weight
Overall, it is nearly a foot long but the blade itself measures seven inches. However, it is not too heavy at just under one pound (0.7).
Seller Options
As this is a vintage piece of history, there is no need for further options. Just the lone choice is available for you and that is all that is really needed.
Overall
While this may not exactly replicate the original’s design and toughness, it comes as close as you possibly could get. What this results in is the best-fixed blade knife that you will find, bar none.
3. SOG SealPpup Elite
While the SOG SEAL Pup Elite Fixed Blade does not sport the longest blade in the world, it remains as practical and sufficient as you could ask. Other great features are present, but the blade is what makes this remarkable.
Read moreBlade Construction
It is a partially-serrated, AUS8 stainless steel blade and it has undergone a heat treatment process from SOG. This ensures that the blade will be as strong, durable and long-lasting as physically possible. It is also coated in one of the toughest veneers in the world, titanium nitride.
Handle Design
For the best performance, the handle has been ergonomically contoured. Being crafted from glass-reinforced Zytel it is both slip-free and well-balanced. For easy thumb placement, there is also a blade spine rasp.
Included Sheath
The sheath is not the most impressive in the world. While it is endured for practicality, it feels weak and cheap as opposed to top-model sheaths. However, it still works and gives you a viable way to carry the knife.
Length and Weight
A little lighter and shorter than other knives, with a 5.4-ounce weight and 4.85-inch blade.
Seller Options
Do not be too picky here as there is only one option.
Overall
If you can look past the below-average sheath, this is a knife that you can get years of use out of. If nothing else, you can invest in an additional sheath just to be able to enjoy the functionality and design of this fixed blade knife.
4. Kershaw Camp 10
This is a great knife from Kershaw and made out of highly durable steel to ensure it will get you out of any issues you may run into. This knife has a machete look but is small enough to hand on your belt. Great from hiking and hunting and if you are in the market for a new knife, this just may be the one for you.
Read moreBlade Construction
This blade is made from high-quality steel and will hold up to multiple uses and with proper care last your quite a number of years. This blade comes with a powder coat for extra protection and makes sure when you strike, that the blade will not damage or wear.
Handle Design
Not only is the blade on this knife durable and strong but the handle is just as durable. It is made from rubber for a comfortable feel and offers great grip so this knife will not slip out of your hands when in use.
Included Sheath
This knife comes with a great and protective sheath that will protect it while the knife is not in use. The sheath is made from high-quality plastic and allows for the knife to easily slide in and out of the sheath for quick access. It also has the ability to connect to your belt or pants for easy transport.
Length and Weight
This knife comes n three sizes which are a 10-inch blade, 14-inch blade, and an 18-inch blade so no matter what size you are looking for Kershaw has an option for you. The blade weighs just under 2 pounds which is quite lightweight for a fixed blade knife. This means you will have no issues carrying it with you without strain.
Seller Options
The seller offers this knife in three sizes as stated above.
Overall
Overall if you are looking for a durable knife that is a bit bigger than the others on our list, than this just may be the knife for you. it comes from a trusted brand and will last you quite a number of years if you decide to go ahead with this knife.
5. Benchmade Bushcrafter 162
You may be beginning to see a theme with the last few knives and that is that their blade and handle design are phenomenal, but the manufacturers skimp on the sheath. Would it shock you to know that this is the best description of the Bushcrafter knife?
Read moreBlade Construction
Premium stainless steel provides the blade with excellent resistance to corrosion. Plus, the superb edges and balance make it ideal for daily tasks and various outdoor uses.
Handle Design
Thanks to a contoured G10 handle that is impervious to any type of moisture, your grip and fit will be similar in torrential downpours and sunny days. In addition, the handle has a belt loop clip.
Included Sheath
Depending on the handle design that you choose you will either get a full-grain leather clip (green and red) or a molded Kydex sheath (the sand handle). No matter, the sheath can have issues with screws breaking and loosening.
Length and Weight
The blade is only 4.4-inches long and weight 7.7 ounces.
Seller Options
It is up to you what type of handle you want, but you can choose between green and red or sand. Both will alter whether you get a full-grain leather clip or molded Kydex sheath.
Overall
It is hard to argue with a stainless steel blade that holds up tremendously to corrosion and a handle that does so with moisture. No doubt, it succeeds in the two most important aspects making it a no-brainer.
6. Smith & Wesson Dagger Points
This is essentially a carbon copy of the previous knife as it is constructed and designed very well, but may not be enough for fixed blade gurus. Still, you can’t ignore the sheer amount of quality and practicality of this full-tang blade.
Read moreBlade Construction
The blade is crafted from high-carbon stainless steel and has a dual-edged point with a blood groove. Stainless steel is one of the top alloys in the world and many of its benefits play directly into knives.
Handle Design
To ensure the best handle possible, it is quality-tested for the maximum amount of durability. Providing a comfortable grip, even in the icy cold weather, is the rubber material. To top it off, there is a lanyard hole in the black rubber handle.
Included Sheath
Included with this knife is a leather sheath with a pocket clip. While it is not the most advanced or spectacular sheath out there, it will get the job done and deliver an adequate way to transport with the knife.
Length and Weight
The handle and blade make up for a 9-inch length, with 4.75 of that being strictly from the blade and 0.5-ounce weight.
Seller Options
There is one option and one option only.
Overall
Even this far down the list, there are not too many issues to be wary of. Just know, while it will work great outdoors and on adventures, it is not designed to handle intense use.
7. Gerber Ghoststrike
Gerber is back on the list and they have another impressive knife, the Ghoststrike. Unfortunately, you may want to scratch the included sheath as it has a major flaw, but the blade and the handle speak for themselves and make it worth an investment alone.
Read moreBlade Construction
This blade is constructed from and coated with substances that have made a living on this list. This is a reference to 420HC steel, which is what it is constructed from, and ceramic coating, which is what it is coated with. Combined, you are promised a blade with corrosion-resistance.
Handle Design
To adapt for as many hands as possible, it is sized for a subtle presence. Not only does it have a diamond-textured rubber over-molding but also a finger groove to provide you with a great amount of grip and control.
Included Sheath
Multiple choices are available, in terms of carrying methods, for how you store your knife with the included sheath. It is a modular glass-filled nylon sheath and allows you to wear it either vertically or horizontally, depending on your needs at the time. But, it rubs against the blade and hinders the sharpness of the blade.
Length and Weight
It totals 6.9 inches in length, with the blade only being 3.3-inches, and weighs 3.6 ounces.
Seller Options
While you can’t pick between color handles, you can choose either a sheath or a sheath and an ankle wrap.
Overall
The issue with the sheath rubbing against the blade is detrimental, but there is a way around it. If this becomes an issue, buy a different sheath as the knife itself is more than worth it.
8. Uncle Henry PH1N Pro Hunter
This knife is proof that even a cheaper model, in terms of price, can still provide top-notch quality. While some flaws are there and noticeable, they can’t take away from the overall quality of the blade.
Read moreBlade Construction
Uncle Henry made sure that their Pro Hunter Knife would adapt for several uses including dressing a deer and as a camping knife. The blade itself is constructed from high carbon, stainless steel.
Handle Design
For enhanced durability, this is riveted to a full-tang and has staglon grip panels. In addition to this, a lanyard hole delivers an attachment for a leather lanyard, which is included. To keep your finger away from the blade there is a nickel silver guard, as well.
Included Sheath
A sheath is included with this blade to not only allow you to carry it wherever you go but as a safety measure for properly storing the knife away. Also, it is accessible at all times.
Length and Weight
A smaller blade than usual, at 3.58-inches, and a small weight of only 0.44 pounds. Altogether, it has a length of 8.12-inches.
Seller Options
What you see is what you get and there are no further design choices available.
Overall
It is hard to expect much more than this from Uncle Henry. When you have a fixed blade knife that has a tremendous blade, great handle, and more than adequate sheath you know it is money well spent.
9. Morakniv Companion
For light use, even if that is outdoors, this is a perfect fixed blade knife, no doubt about it. However, do not think that this knife is incompetent as that is simply untrue.
Read moreBlade Construction
Providing excellent edge performance and sharpness is high-quality 12C27 steel. In addition, this stainless steel also has a high hardness rating to provide superb toughness and resistance to corrosion. Plus, it is less prone to rust.
Handle Design
For the most control, performance, and safety possible, the handle features a high-friction grip and sits comfortably in the palm of your hand. This grip also assists in wet conditions, as you do not need to worry about the blade slipping from your grasp.
Included Sheath
The sheath is color-coated to match the knife of your choosing and is made from hard plastic. For convenient carrying, it also features a belt clip.
Length and Weight
With the sheath, it weighs around 4 ounces. The blade itself is just about four inches long, while the entire knife is 8.6-inches in length.
Seller Options
There are several color options you can choose from, for the handle, including orange, green, military green, cyan, and black. Plus, there is one option for a black blade.
Overall
This is a highly-revered and raved fixed blade knife. Maybe the only reason why it is so low is due to its blade. While it is terrific, it will not go to the depths that other top-notch blades will.
10. Survivor HK series
This list wraps off with an extremely unique fixed blade knife. What is noteworthy here is the handle, as it is wrapped with a nylon cord.
Read moreBlade Construction
This sports a tanto stainless steel blade with a grooved top. Sure, it may not be the most impressive blade that has ever been placed on a knife but it is still more than competent.
Handle Design
Indeed, the handle is wrapped in a nylon cord. In the wettest of conditions, this gives you a superior grip. However, when you need it, you have nylon cord at your fingertips that can easily be unwrapped from the handle.
Included Sheath
Giving you a great way to transport and carry your knife around is an included sheath. This will perform its designed purpose and keep you safe from the sharpness of the blade.
Length and Weight
Overall, it measures seven inches in length. The blade only takes up three inches of that and is extremely lightweight.
Seller Options
A good variety of colors are available including two-tone green, black, pink and original green.
Overall
The blade itself may not overly-impress you, even though it is sufficient, but the nylon-wrapped handle is innovative and provides you with additional uses. Kind of like a mini swiss army knife!