Fixed blade knives are typically larger than folding knives and not as popular for those looking for an everyday carry knife. However, while they are not ideal for everyday carry, they find their utility in a multitude of applications ranging from hunting knives to bushcraft knives to modern-day specialized survival knives.
ESEE Knives 6P Fixed Blade Knife
The ESEE 6P builds on a line of great fixed blade knives. Larger but lighter than the 5P, this is an excellent all-around fixed blade knife. You won’t regret owning it.
Best Overall
The ESEE Knives 6P gets our nod for the best overall fixed blade knife. This is slightly lighter than the 5P offering from ESEE hits the sweet spot when it comes to size, weight, and durability. No matter how large your collection, this is a knife you won’t regret owning.
Best Value For Money
Gerber is one of those reliable brands that does not overcharge you and the Gerber 22-01400 LMF II is no exception. They have been responsible for some of the best fixed-blade knives on many occasions and at this price point, the LMF II is worth every penny.
Best Budget Fixed Blade
We are so used to the prices of SOG products being a little expensive, but in the case of the SOG SEAL Pup Elite, considering the quality of the materials being used, we actually think this is a great budget fixed-blade knife. It’s not a large knife, but there’s a reason it’s being used by a variety of active military units.
Best Heavy-Duty Fixed Blade
It is almost impossible to read a review of the Ka-Bar BK-22 without it being referred to as “The Beast”, and rightfully so. The Ka-Bar BK 22 is a serious fixed blade knife with a 6.6 mm 1095 Cro-Van blade that is basically indestructible. The handle material and design builds on this ethos. If you plan to do a lot of chopping and other heavy-duty knife tasks, buy this knife.
Why a Fixed Blade Knife?
When you’re looking to purchase a knife, you should have a good idea of what you’re intending to use it for and what you require from it. For instance, while folding knives are good for everyday carry, they lack in many of the areas that a fixed blade knife excels at. Fixed blade knives are the better choice for more intensive tasks where the longer blade and sturdier construction make for an easier process.
Because fixed blade knives are made from fewer components, they are typically more reliable in their build quality, lasting better for extended periods of time. We know all too well how quickly things like waist clips and stop pins can break, even on the more expensive brands and models.
There are also advantages in how quickly fixed blade knives are able to be deployed in a tactical situation, though this also then comes down to how you’re storing your fixed blade knife on your person. Finally, another advantage is the ease at which one can clean and maintain the knife. Folding knives may often be tough to thoroughly clean, especially for hunters. A fixed blade knife will allow you to quickly and easily clean and sharpen it.
Fixed Blade
Folding Knife
In this article, we explore some of the best fixed blade knives on the market today. To be honest, there is a massive selection to choose from, but not all of them can be considered the best. We have waded through a couple of the top options, making sure that you understand the key features and find the right one for the job.
Round-Up Of The Best Fixed Blade Knives On The Market Today
The features of these knives might be similar to one another, especially considering they are designed to do the same job. However, many of them have that added spark that puts them a cut above the competition. We have done the research and legwork to find the knives that stand out from the crowd, offering high-quality performance. Here are the top knives to choose from:
1. ESEE Knives 6P Fixed Blade Knife
The ESEE Knives 6P Fixed Blade Knife is slightly smaller when compared to the SOG Bowie. It is designed from 1095 steel for durability, but the length is only around 6.50-inches when you are looking at the blade itself. This knife is quite compact and has been designed for survival purposes outdoors.
Having an extremely sharp blade is typically preferable, and this is the benefit of the ESEE 6P Fixed Blade Knife. The blade does not really get dull and it stands out heavily for those who need to cut through meat on their survival expeditions. The sharp tip is where you get all the control when filleting your favorite steaks.
Length and Weight
The overall length of the knife is 11.75-inches, putting it towards the larger side on our list. The 12-ounce weight is not something that you should worry about and all the carbon steel mass that has been integrated needs to go somewhere. All of this will combine to give you some excellent durability.
The knife itself is not really that thick and this lack of thickness makes it perfect for tasks that require a delicate touch. You have a molder polymer sheath that has been added for the housing of the knife as well. Using it, I have found the knife to simply slide in and out of the sheath with no real issues or concerns for the user.
A lanyard is an important part of using your knife, especially in precarious situations. Fortunately, this one includes a rounded pommel that will ensure you can actually add a lanyard for some extra control. One thing we have not mentioned about the sheath is that you can set it up just as you please. The sheath is completely ambidextrous.
Design
The Micarta handle offers a lot of grip to users in all conditions. As for the blade itself, users need to be aware that it may rust or corrode if not looked after, the 1095 high carbon steel is an excellent option for overall durability but needs some TUF- Cloth to ensure that the blade itself is cared for. If you don’t apply this, you might find that it does rust and get damaged over time, weakening the overall structure.
The ESEE 6P also made it high onto our list of the best survival knives and there’s a reason for that. This is a well-balanced, high-quality product by a reputable knife maker. We would happily recommend almost any knife in the ESEE fixed blade range, but why not start by looking at this one. You won’t regret it.
2. Ka-Bar BK-22 Becker Companion Fixed Blade Knife
Having worked and played with many fixed blade knives, it is nice to occasionally find something that you have never seen or used before. The Ka-Bar BK-22 Becker Companion Fixed Blade Knife is one of those knives that you don’t see around every day and it has many features that few people actually know about when they see it.
It has been constructed from 1095 steel and when treated correctly or looked after, it will be really durable and withstand quite a lot of punishment. The steel for this blade has been coated to make it more resistant to the elements and it will last through the battering that we see when things are left or even used in wet conditions.
Length
The 5.25-inch blade is more than enough for sculpting and working through those tough bushcraft materials. In total, the knife is around 10.5-inches long, which is not too long to cause carrying discomfort. This also leaves ample space for your hands to feel the ergonomic touch that has been added to the handle.
Design
Grivory is a heavy-duty polymer and the handle has been designed from this material to spice up the durability a little more. The complete shape is ergonomic as we have mentioned, but it does tend to be a little slippery when the handle does get wet. However, you don’t need to worry about any maintenance on the handle.
The sheath perhaps feels a little cheap when you take into account that most brands now use nylon. However, the polyester sheath will still get the job done and can easily be attached to your belt buckle on either side. It also includes an additional front pocket for storing some of your smaller tools.
In practice, the knife actually holds up well when it is used for survival purposes. You need to keep the blade sharp and have it looked after to avoid any potential issues in the long term, but it should not really budge.
Weight
At 14.88-ounces, this is not a light knife and it can be a little frustrating to carry it around all day if you’re someone who prefers lighter knives. Once you get used to it, it is comfortable, but you need to play around with it to get a feel for it. If needed, the knife can be used in tactical situations, but this is not recommended.
While the knife is marketed for service members, it is also ideal for outdoor lovers. It has an affordable price that ensures you are not stifled when you want it. Additionally, you will also receive a limited lifetime warranty. Having peace of mind is a great way to buy the knife without too many worries for the future.
3. Gerber 22-01400 LMF II Survival Knife
In the outdoor world, few brands really step up to the plate as much as a brand like Gerber does. They have been in the game for many years and have found the solution to a lot of commonly encountered problems. The Gerber 22-01400 LMF II Survival Knife is a timeless classic and it is used by many people when it comes to survival and outdoor ventures.
It has been constructed from 420HC stainless steel and while this cannot compete with carbon steel, it is perfect for smaller tasks that need less strength from the blade. One of the upsides is that it will remain sharp for a longer period of time and it will not catch you with a dull blade in the middle of your outdoor sessions.
Length
The knife is one of the lightest options when looking at fixed blade knives. You won’t need to worry about the weight being too heavy and even children can use it if they have decent knife safety skills. At 10.59-inches, the length of the knife is about average, but the 4.84-inch blade can be considered a little shorter than needed. With the blade being shorter, that leaves more area for the handle. Glass-filled nylon is the material of choice for the handle and it has been chosen for its versatility. It comes with decent grip patterns and an ergonomic design.
Users also don’t need to worry about it in the wet weather and the handle will resist any elements. The biggest differentiator this knife brings to the table lies in the design of the blade. You will have a smooth area that will be ideal for filleting. However, the serrated part brings more versatility to the table and now the knife can also be used for cutting through tougher materials. This is ideal for outdoor survivalists.
Sheath
The sheath continues the trend of durability and versatility. It has been constructed from ballistic nylon, but also includes a fire-retardant coating for even more protection. The blade slips in quite easily and you can carry it on either side. With an ambidextrous design, you have a great sheath for all purposes outdoors.
The versatility and design of the blade can also be one of the downsides. The blade area is rather small and this has many people wondering if it can actually do everything they need to be done outdoors. It is not recommended for heavy-duty tasks and this knife is mostly used for the finesse that it can actually bring to the table.
Gerber is one of those reliable brands that does not overcharge you. They have been responsible for some of the best fixed blade knives on many occasions and this one definitely tries to make it up there. Once again, you have a limited lifetime warranty to keep you protected from any damages. However, you might never need to use it.
4. SOG Super SOG Bowie Fixed Blade SB1T-L
The SOG Bowie Fixed Blade SB1T-L is designed as an adaptation of the smaller SOG Bowie. Designed from high-quality steel, the knife has a massive reputation when it comes to quality and durability. Looking at the design, one might think that it is near perfect with the exact grid lines.
Length and Weight
The knife itself is around 12.99-inches in overall length and with the blade being 7.5-inches, that leaves a lot of handle space for users to comfortably hold and use it. The AUS-8 steel that has been used is extremely durable when you start using the knife. However, the Hardcase Tini coating gives it an added touch of protection. At 17.4-ounces, the weight could be considered run-of-the-mill for a fixed blade knife.
The straight-shaped design is something we found really helpful when it comes to using it. The knife itself might not be designed for combat with the edge being a little bent, but it can easily cut through most of your bushcraft objects with ease when it is sharp.
Design
Once you start moving down the knife and you reach the handle, you will find that leather washers have been used for the handle. While leather is one of my personal favorites, it does mean you need to actually keep it treated. Leather does not bode well for those using it in wet conditions outside and this could make it a little slippery.
However, when you use the blade in dry conditions, the finger adaptations in the handle make it extremely comfortable to work with. There should be no problems with the blade slipping and you can actually use the tip at the front for small intricate jobs that require a lot of detail to complete. This has helped a few people in bushcraft settings.
Sheath
Moving on to the sheath, we find that it has been specifically designed for carrying. The durable leather sheath will comfortably hold the blade without any problems. You simply need to unsnap the enclosure and your knife will be ready for use.
Having an additional loop added, also makes it possible to carry it on your person. My biggest complaint is with the sheath itself. The sheath might be durable, but the design is a little frustrating. Yes, your knife has been nicely coated, but unfortunately, it scratches the knife every time you remove it from the sheath without taking care. Eventually, it could leave a few stray lines in the knife and create a vulnerability.
As for the price, it is expensive, but this is what you should expect when you are looking for great quality in your products. The knife is designed to work hard and it will last you many years at this price. SOG has also included a limited lifetime warranty for the user. This is definitely worth the price and offers you good value for your money.
5. SOG SEAL Pup Elite Outdoor Knife
SOG is one of the leading brands when it comes to top-quality fixed blade knives and much like the previous SOG Super Bowie, this one has a lot to offer users. The knife has been constructed from the same solid AUS-8 steel and the black TiNi coating will offer a lot of protection from the elements and keep the blade from rusting or potentially showing any weaknesses.
Length and Weight
Being the smallest knife we have looked at so far, it is comfortable to carry along and perhaps even conceal. The overall length is a mere 9.5-inches in total and this will make it much easier for users to actually use it for those small intricate tasks. As we have mentioned, the overall blade length is also short at 4.85-inches with a drop point tip for detailed work. With a weight of only 5.4-ounces, you might not even notice that the knife is with you, especially if you have been carrying it for some time.
This reduction in weight means that you won’t be dragged down by added weight just to have a survival knife that could help you when it comes to surviving the outdoors and completing your journey.
Sheath
Instead of having a sheath that constantly needs to be maintained along with your knife. SOG has designed it from durable nylon materials. This does not really seem like it is something special, but your knife easily slides in and out of the sheath without you having to do too much to get it inside before locking the holsters. Glass-reinforced nylon is also one of the more affordable materials that are being used for fixed blade knives. It looks incredible and while it might not have the same durability as many of the other materials, it won’t cost you any real maintenance.
It can resist almost all elements, but we don’t recommend holding the handle near hot fires. In practice, one might think that the sheath is the main selling point. This MOLLE compatible sheath offers users multiple mounting points to use. The mounting points will ensure that the knife is never in your way. Many combat professionals might also use it as part of a backup knife that could be mounted to the ankles with comfort.
The downside is not really something to complain about but will vary from person to person. The handle itself does feel a little cheap and not as ergonomic as the Super Bowie. Many users might want to compare the 2, but this is not the right thing to do. The knife is really functional and holds up well against many rivals.
We are so used to the prices of SOG products being a little expensive, but with the materials being used for this knife, it is actually much more affordable and can be used by virtually anyone. I would recommend it as a tactical survival knife and recommend it to people looking for something that can be carried along every day.
6. Benchmade Fixed Contego 183 Knife
Benchmade is one of those underrated brands that have been designing top-quality blades for a very long time. The company has been in the industry for over 30-years now and the Benchmade Fixed Contego 183 Knife is a true showing o the quality that they can bring to the table when they want to make something special.
Design
At first glance, the knife itself might not be the most pleasing aesthetically to the eye. It looks a little stale with the design, but the aesthetic is not what determines the viability of a blade. The CPM-S30V steel that has been used is one of the most durable on the market today and it has been originally designed for kitchen cutlery and high-end knives.
What makes this knife so special is the ability to help users when it comes to the balance between edge retention, toughness, and hardness. The blade has been coated to preserve it from the elements making it more durable. It can resist moisture and belting rain easily to ensure that you won’t need to hoe it replaced.
The knife itself is one of the smaller options we have on the market today. It is only 10.18-inches in length and the blade itself is a mere 4.97-inches. This might not sound like it is sufficient, but keep in mind that the knife is not designed to hack your way through tough bushes and you might be better off with some sort of an ax.
Handle
The G-10 handle is something that more and more manufacturers are turning to. It is a molded version of fiberglass, but it comes at a fraction of the cost. Once the handle has been attached and treated, it can resist all the elements with ease and still produce a lot of grips. Since the knife is short, the downside might be the space available.
With the handle, we have also seen that it does not absorb any moisture and with the patterns being added, this will intensify the grip. The handle itself features an ergonomic construction that keeps it in your hands. Many users have seen that it does an excellent job when you need to do fine work or crafting with the tip.
Sheath
As for the sheath, it might not be as flexible as many users are expecting, but it still offers a ton of real benefits. The injection-molded plastic does not need to be treated and it is resistant to the elements. The additional MOLLE-compatible Malice Clip is the perfect addition to ensure that you can basically attach it to an object.
Unfortunately, Benchmade is not the cheapest of brands on the market today and this is one of their most expensive fixed blade knives. The knife is not for playing around and it can do some serious work. It comes with the standard Benchmade limited lifetime warranty that will give you peace of mind when you are spending so much.
7. Tops TP6010-BRK Screaming Eagle Hunter
Now that we have made it to the middle of the list, we have decided to add something new. The Tops TP6010-BRK Screaming Eagle Hunter is not a popular knife that you see everywhere, but it is an effective knife that can be used outdoors. It definitely does the job if you are looking for something with aesthetic features to work with.
Length
Made from 5160 steel, the knife is actually quite durable when put in action. The overall length of the knife is around 11.50-inches and this does not seem like a lot. However, the blade part takes up 5.63-inches, giving you a massive blade that can be used for doing virtually any task outdoors. The longer blade also makes it easier to chop through certain materials.
Design
The blade features a straight design and while the handle is made from black linen Micarta, it also features an opening above the ensure that your hands do not accidentally slide over the handle and onto the blade itself. This additional level of protection means that it can actually work as a tactical knife as well.
We have mentioned that the steel itself is already quite durable and offers a lot to users. However, the blade also includes a black traction coating that will definitely help to ensure it can resist all the elements with ease. A hunter’s point shape indicates that the knife can be used for filleting and even skinning your animals on your hunts.
Black Ballistic Nylon has been used for the sheath and this is something that more people are gravitating towards. The reason for this is flexibility and it allows the blade to simply slide in with ease. While it does have a MOLLE-compatible attachment, it is ambidextrous and can be carried on either side of your body without any issues.
Most of the other knives we have seen only come with one edge. However, this specific blade has been designed with a smaller 2.50-inch edge on the other side. It might not have the same level of sharpness but can still help when cutting through various vines or other obstacles from the bottom in an upward motion.
Weight
As for the downside. The knife does not really have one. The original reason for the design was to honor the 101st Airborne Division. After being used by them, it came back with mostly positive feedback. My only real complaint is the additional weight. 22-ounces can be a little daunting to carry around when you already have a lot of gear and renders it useless for everyday carry.
The knife itself is definitely worth the price that you will need to pay. However, the sheath could have been made from more durable materials. If you are only a casual outdoor lover, it might be a little expensive, but you can rest assured, you won’t need another knife. We would recommend it to users who love to be outdoors often.
8. Buck Knives 822 Sentry Kryptek Highlander
Carrying a firearm is actually the best way to protect yourself in the modern era, but many people prefer to stay away from guns. In this case, a knife can be an excellent tool to defend yourself if you are in a precarious situation. The Buck Knives 822 Sentry Kryptek Highlander Fixed Blade Tactical Knife is one of these knives you can use.
Length
The knife itself shares many of the same features that you see in the Gerber. However, it is slightly shorter with an overall length of only 9.5-inches in total. The blade is 5-inches and offers you ample space for cutting through whatever you feel you need to when you are outdoors or trying to build a shelter.
As with many of the other knives, this one has also been thoroughly coated to amp up the durability. The knife does a great job when you are in all conditions and the manufacturer also claims that it is corrosion-resistant. This gives the user more versatility and exactly what you need when looking for the best fixed-blade knives on the market today.
Blade
The blade itself also shares the serrated edge that we have seen in the Gerber. This gives you more cutting possibilities to work with as well. The injection-molded nylon handle also keeps the weight down, but it gives a custom feel to the knife that helps when you need a great grip. This handle is durable and ideal in all weather conditions. The handle features do not stop there. Users will note that it feels really comfortable in your hands, given you have smaller hands.
Design
The ergonomic handle has been designed to enhance the comfort of the user and to ensure that you don’t need to worry about it slipping from your hands or causing any discomfort when it is used. Heavy-duty polyester has been used for the handle and this will ensure you can effectively store the knife when it is not in use. Since it is also considered a tactical knife, the sheath is MOLLE compatible, giving you even more options when you need to mount it. This helps a lot with the overall placement of the knife.
Weight
The biggest downside is probably the handle. The knife might not be ideal for those who have larger hands. Since it is one of the smaller blades, it is used for finesse work. At 6.6-ounces. We can see that it is really lightweight. This makes carrying much easier and ensures that you don’t need to worry about it dragging you down.
As we have mentioned, it does share similar features to what you will find in the Gerber. However, it is slightly more expensive and this might be due to the handle. Additionally, you have a lot of aesthetics and there is no denying the fact that it is pleasing to the eye. We would recommend it as a tactical knife that can be used outdoors.
9. CRKT Ultima Fixed Blade Knife
CRKT is another extremely popular brand in the world of knives. They have mostly specialized in the design of tactical knives, but with recent knives, you can rest assured that they are catering to the rest of the market as well. The CRKT Ultima Fixed Blade Knife is one of their top knives that will ensure you have a lot of versatility.
With stainless steel being used for the blade, you have decent tensile strength and also edge retention when you are using it. The TiNi coating contains one of the strongest elements known to man. The Titanium coating will definitely enhance the overall durability and ensure that the blade does not give you any trouble.
Weight
Looking at the tip of the blade, it is not only designed for combat and tactical purposes but also serves as a pry tip that can be used to pry open tips and other things. At 8.4-ounces, it might be a little light for some, but others will use this to their advantage, especially when considering the knife offers a lot of everyday carry.
Design
Continuing the trend that most of the best fixed-blade knife brands are doing, you will notice that some part of the blade has been serrated. This serrated edge is crucial when you are outdoors and it gives you, even more, cutting options. Now, you can fillet your meat, while also working through each piece when you are eating.
Glass-filled nylon is the option for the sheath and as we have mentioned, using this gives the manufacturer a lot of versatility to play with. Not only is it resistant to the elements, but allows the manufacturer to add grip patterns. The downside is that it is not designed to mold along with your body as many would like.
Grip
When it comes to the handle, you have something special. The Veff Serrations design has been used with an injection-molded plastic that almost has a rubber feeling. The handle itself is really comfortable and it can actually absorb moisture. It is worth noting that your handle will also have an ergonomic touch to it.
One of the most common complaints is something that many people would love. The sheath has a few great features that complement the design but looks too militarized. It can be a hassle to get the blade out of the sheath if you don’t have the experience. Others love the sheath and bring them closer to the military.
Not to be outdone by the other brands, you can actually pick up this knife at an affordable price. It is considered a great tactical knife. We believe it might work as one of the best fixed blade knives and this is thanks to the versatility it offers. Lastly, the limited lifetime warranty will give you all the peace of mind you might need.
10. Tops TPHOFHARMINI-BRK Mini Hoffman Harpoon
Design
The Tops TPHOFHARMINI-BRK Mini Hoffman Harpoon is something different than you might be used to. It is not a blade that you will be using often and it has been designed as a backup option in tactical circumstances. The reason it is called the harpoon might be that users with knife skills can actually throw it if needed as well.
Since it has been made from 1095 carbon steel, you can be sure that the durability will be off the chart. The knife has a reputation for its edge retention and tensile strength that offers users all they need when doing heavy-duty tasks. Additionally, you also have the black traction coating that will add to the durability and make it corrosion resistant.
Length and Weight
Your first look at the knife might not be something special and the knife itself is really small. The total length of it is around 5.50-inches. The small 2.50-inch blade does not penetrate deep, which means it will not kill. However, the sharp tip can still be used for stabbing and your knife will do a little bit of damage to the victim.
In terms of weight, it is only 1.7-ounces and can easily be concealed almost anywhere you choose. A small neck is part of the design between the blade and the handle, allowing you to use it without the fear that your hands will slip and accidentally go over onto the blade. Users have noted that it provides the perfect finger spot.
As for the handle, it has a skeletonized design, which does not mean a lot for the newcomer to the knife world. However, it has been limited to keep the weight down to as low as possible. Paracord is wrapped around the handle for grip, but it can also be removed and used in situations where you might require a rope of some type.
Sheath
While you don’t actually need a sheath, the knife does come with one for your own protection. The sheath is constructed from black leather and allows you to store the knife comfortably when it is not in use. This will not only protect the blade but keep you from accidentally harming yourself with the open and sharp blade.
It might be the ideal knife for concealed carry and tactical users, but for the outdoors, the knife is a little small and does not really hold up all that well with your tasks. Instead of solely relying on it, you might need to have it as a backup. It will remain sharp for long periods of time and give you some sharpness at crucial times.
We like the knife for all the features that have been added, but it is a little bit expensive when you start comparing it to similar knives. You might not want to buy this as your first knife and rather wait until you have a collection. It does come with a limited lifetime warranty to keep you protected, but the high carbon steel should do the trick for many years.
Key Features To Consider When Buying The Best Fixed Blade Knives
Now you have seen some of the very best fixed blade knives that are currently available on the market today. However, choosing them is not that easy and it does require a lot of searching and research. If you need to buy a new knife and you don’t like these, you should read through these features to understand some of the most important features.
Size
The size of your knife is important and will depend on what you plan on using it for. Smaller knives are perfect for tactical purposes and can easily be concealed. However, they lack when it comes to bushcraft and you might not always be able to do everything you need to, especially when crafting objects or making a fire.
A bigger knife is a little more of a drag to carry around and it will be daunting to actually use it every day. Larger knives are mostly designed for the outdoor enthusiast, looking for something that will do all the work for them. Since the handles also tend to be a bit bigger, you have moiré comfort when you are using it outdoors.
Knife Point Options
The purpose dictates many of the features that knife users might be looking for. Knives can be designed for different uses and most small fixed blade knives tend to work for tactical purposes as we have just mentioned. When you need to buy a knife the type of tip design will make a lot of difference to ensure it works as intended.
- Drop Point: The drop point is one of the most common knife tips you will ever find. It is defined by the drop at the back of the knife that provides a sharper point. These knives are commonly used for hunting and they give the user a little more control over the knife when cutting through the hide and onto the meat.
- Straight Back: if you look at many of the first designs and also your cutlery, you will commonly find the straight back knife. Many argue that it is one of the oldest designs. The design allows a lot of versatility and the users will be able to do most outdoor things using it.
- Clip Point: The clip point knife is defined by the concave drop in the point that occurs to give it a little more of a lighter tip. These tips are generally found on knives in the kitchens of chefs and also gives the user the ability to do more precise work.
- Trailing Point: This is not one of the most common knife types you will find, but it does have a much longer blade until you find the tip. This added blade is perfect for long slices. However, it does reduce the amount of control that the user has when using it.
- Needle Point: The needlepoint is one of the most common options when you are looking for an extremely sharp point. These knives are considered part of the dagger family and they are mostly used for stabbing. You might only need this knife in the military.
While there are many more different point types you could find, these are the most common that you will use for your fixed blade. Depending on the purpose that you will use the knife for, you will need to choose the right tip design. The straight back is the most common for the multifunctional use that it offers users.
Blade Material
By now, you should all know that not all knife steels are designed the same and many steel types are a little stronger than others. When choosing your knife, you need to keep your budget in mind and it will play a massive role in the material type for your blade. While we all know carbon steel or stainless steel is commonly used, you need the right type.
The most common steel is 420HC stainless steel. It has decent edge retention and high tensile strength. The steel type is also one of the most affordable when compared to many of the others on the market today. When you are looking for something affordable, this will be the ideal steel to choose for your blade.
Moving on to something a little better, we have 1095 steel and this can be in the form of stainless steel of carbon steel. The carbon steel is much more durable but does not offer you any flexibility that you might need. Stainless steel is really great and more affordable, but for tactical purposes, I would always choose carbon steel.
Handle
The handle is the biggest source of comfort that one can ask for. Whether you have the best and most durable blade will not matter much if the handle is not comfortable. Before you look at the material that has been used for the handle, it is important to focus on the design. Modern knife handles all have an ergonomic design, which means they will comfortably fit in your hands without any issues.
Material
Next, we start looking at the materials of the handle. Modern technology offers you numerous different materials that can be used, but glass-filled nylon seems to be the most common. It is lightweight and affordable while allowing the manufacturer to add studs for the grip. It also does not absorb moisture. Another great option is rubberized materials and while it can become a little slimy, you can add studs to the handle that will allow you to have a much better grip on it. The handle should be something that matches your taste and you can choose the different types of appearance as well.
Weight
Knives are available in different weights and you need to understand that the weight is important when using a blade, but can also be important when carrying the knife. If it is too heavy, you might find it to be uncomfortable for long-term carry. The best fixed blade knives have the perfect balance between the weight and the features that add to the weight.
Sheath
Once you have the knife you like, you will notice that all of them come with a sheath. The sheath is one of the most important parts of the knife and it will not only keep the blade protected but make it more comfortable to carry it along with you. However, the sheath is much like the handle and there are numerous different sheath types you can choose from.
Nylon is probably the most common material used and offers great durability while making the sheath a little flexible as well. Nylon is designed to protect the blade, but polyester can do the same. The downside of polyester is the lack of durability. However, it is a little more affordable for most users. Lastly, you have military-style sheaths that you can find occasionally. These are commonly designed from Kydex materials and it will ensure the knife remains fixed in place. The downside is that it can be hard to access from time to time. Kydex is a polymer form of molded plastic, but it adds a little bit to the overall price and weight.
Brand
When it comes to knives, you can easily find them for cheap prices. However, many brands try to rip off some of the top brands, but the materials are not on the same level as your elite knives. The top brands have a massive reputation to protect and they try to use the best materials to ensure you get value for your money.
It is important to do a little bit of research before simply buying your knife. Most brands will have a lot of information available for you to scan through, especially the top brands. Brands like Gerber, Benchmade, and CRKT are some of the best brands you can find and you will never be disappointed by the quality of their products.
Price
What price are you willing to pay for a knife? This is a simple, but very important question you need to ask yourself. Knives vary in price and this does have a lot to do with the materials and the design. If you are not using the knife that often, you won’t have any need to splash out too much money. We have included a few more affordable fixed blade knives that are also considered as some of the best fixed blade knives on the market today.
Warranty
Knives are not electronic products that have many things that could go wrong. However, you might occasionally find a bad batch of steel that will be used for your knife. Since they are a little expensive, a good warranty will give you peace of mind. If the knife does not live up to the expectations, your warranty will have you covered and you might have it replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions:
If by now you don’t know everything about the best fixed blade knives, you might better off reading this first section again. However, there are still a few questions that we have seen among the people who want to buy these knives. To ensure that you have a complete understanding of the fixed blade knives, we have done the research to answer a few common questions:
What Should I Get – Fixed Blade or Folding Knife?
This is probably the most common question that you will find and many people ask why they should choose the fixed blade and not the folding knife. The folding knife is much more portable and carrying it around seems much easier. You also don’t need to worry about injuring yourself with a blade that is constantly exposed.
However, fixed blade knives are much better at performing heavy-duty tasks. The stability factor of the blade is much better and you can actually cut through tough objects with more ease. The downside is the weight and the lack of portability, but with a sheath, it will still be concealed and portable to carry around your body.
There is no real difference aside from the folding mechanism and the quality of the blade. The one you choose will depend on the purpose you have for it and why you need to use a knife. One should note that folding knives tend to be a little more affordable than fixed blade options.
Should I Buy A Smooth Or Serrated Blade?
When you start looking for a blade, the most common blade types are smooth edges. The smooth edges are used for most outdoor tasks and this is because they can simply glide through most objects with relative ease. However, serrated edges are also great to have if you need them for your outdoor adventure.
Hunting knives are commonly found with serrated edges. Your smooth edges will help to skin the animal, but with the serrated edges, you can also penetrate the bone when needed. Serrated edges help a lot when it comes to meat. Most modern knives have the perfect combination of both on the blade.
How Often Should I Sharpen My Knife Blade?
Unfortunately, your knife won’t remain sharp forever. Eventually, you will need to sharpen it if you want to continue using the blade. One of the best ways to sharpen your blade is with a sharpening stone. Sharpening the blade after it has been used or before using it again is recommended. This will ensure that you get the best possible results.
Are All Knives Corrosion Resistant?
Since you will be using your knife often and in different weather conditions, you might notice that it will retain a little bit of water. A coating is generally applied to the knife to make it corrosion-resistant when it is constructed. You will notice this before you purchase the knife. It is impossible to know if all knives have this coating, but you can rest assured that the best fixed-blade knives will be corrosion resistant.
Does Fixed Blade Knives Require Oiling?
One of the best parts of the fixed blade knife is the limited amount of maintenance that is needed. These blades don’t need oiling since they don’t have a bearing that will allow you to fold them. However, you might need to treat the leather from time to time. Leather can be found as part of the handle or the sheath can be constructed from it.
At What Angle Should I Sharpen My Knife?
We have mentioned that sharpening your knife is an important part of being a knife owner. However, you need to sharpen it the right way to ensure that it remains sharp. For most western fixed blade knives, the best angle is around 20-degrees. This will ensure that it does sharpen and you won’t be damaging the blade. However, you might want to consult with a professional to assist you with your specific knife.
Does A Sharpening Steel Wear Out?
With the technology being used in the modern ones, the sharpening steel should not be able to wear out. However, they might smoothen up and then you can have a few problems or it can take a little longer to actually sharpen the blade. This does not happen often and most sharpening steels will hold up quite well.
Will My Knife Wear Out?
The sad truth is that knives do wear out eventually, but this takes a lot of time and you need to place a lot of strain on the knife. They generally wear out after more than 100-years, but this also depends on the steel. If you buy a good knife, you probably won’t be alive to see the blade or the steel wear out and it can be passed on for generations.
Does Honing A Knife Help?
Most knife experts will know the importance of honing a knife, especially your kitchen knives. A hone is a rod-shaped object that is made from ceramic or steel. It is not made for sharpening the knife, but only to keep sharp knives sharp. It is best to hone your knives quite often and to only sharpen them once or twice a year. This will protect the steel on the blade itself.
Is It Legal To Carry Fixed Blade Knife?
Depending on the state that you live in, you might need to have a permit to carry certain types of knives. In most states, you can carry a knife with a blade of up to 5-inches without any real trouble. However, longer blades might require a permit for open or concealed carry. Consider concealed carry rather than open carry. For self-defense, your blade should also be under 5-inches. It can still do a lot of damage, but the damage might not be fatal. It is best to ask a professional for advice on your blade or knife to ensure that you are within the law.
Should I Use A Knife Or Gun For Self-defense?
While it is best to use a gun in states that allow you to carry it, the knife can be one of the best self-defense weapons you could find. The knife is ideal for close-quarter combat. Experts have revealed that with the right training, your knife can be more effective than a gun in spaces that are smaller than 20-feet. However, we don’t recommend taking a knife to a gunfight or even trying to defend yourself without the right skills and training.
Conclusion
Fixed-blade knives can make a massive difference to your life in the wild or for self-defense. Having one is not just another way that could help you stay safe, but also a way to help you survive. Choosing the best one is daunting, but all of the knives we have reviewed can definitely help you in some way or another.
ESEE Knives 6P Fixed Blade Knife
The ESEE 6P builds on a line of great fixed blade knives. Larger but lighter than the 5P, this is a great all-round fixed blade knife. You won’t regret owning it.
Jean lives in Vanderbijlpark, South Africa. He is an outdoor enthusiast with years of experience reviewing gear. Jean holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from North-West University.
