Let’s Dive into Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length
The Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length is a unique offering from Cold Steel, a company known for its innovative and sometimes controversial designs. This isn’t your typical steel blade; it’s crafted from Griv-Ex, a fiberglass-reinforced plastic, making it a lightweight and weather-resistant training tool. It’s designed to mimic the feel and form of a real push dagger, allowing users to practice self-defense techniques without the risk of serious injury.
My journey to finding this particular blade started with a need for safe training tools. I wanted something I could use for practicing knife-defense scenarios without the inherent dangers of a live blade. After researching various training knives, including rubber and aluminum models, the Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II caught my eye due to its unique material and affordable price point.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of surprise at how incredibly light it felt. The Griv-Ex construction makes it almost weightless in the hand, which is both a positive and a negative. The build quality seemed decent for a plastic knife, with the Kraton handle providing a surprisingly good grip.
Compared to other training knives I’ve used, such as aluminum trainers or rubber knives, the FGX Push Blade II is significantly lighter and lacks the realistic weight and feel of steel. I chose this over heavier options because I specifically wanted something for practicing speed and agility drills without the fatigue associated with heavier trainers. It also offered a safer alternative for practicing disarms, as the reduced weight minimizes the force of impact.
My first impression was a mix of curiosity and slight disappointment. While the light weight was appealing for my intended purpose, I was also concerned about its long-term durability and whether it would truly replicate the feel of a real push dagger. However, for the price, I was willing to give it a try.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my home gym, where I used the Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II for practicing knife-defense techniques against a heavy bag. I also incorporated it into my shadow boxing routines to improve my speed and footwork. I tested it under relatively dry conditions, as it was an indoor workout.
The performance in this controlled environment was adequate. The light weight allowed me to move quickly and execute techniques fluidly. The Kraton handle provided a secure grip, even when my hands were slightly sweaty.
The ease of use was immediate; there was no learning curve. The push dagger design is inherently simple, and the FGX Push Blade II replicates that simplicity well.
After the first session, I noticed a few minor issues. The Griv-Ex material, while durable, felt a bit too flexible, lacking the rigidity of a real blade. Also, I found myself occasionally overextending my movements due to the lack of weight, which required some adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of major damage or breakage. However, some minor scratches and scuff marks have appeared on the blade.
The durability has been better than expected for a plastic knife. It has withstood repeated impacts against the heavy bag and simulated disarm attempts without any significant wear and tear.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. There’s no need to worry about rust, corrosion, or sharpening.
Compared to my previous experiences with rubber training knives, the FGX Push Blade II offers a superior grip and better simulates the shape of a real push dagger. However, it falls short in terms of realistic weight and feel. It’s a decent training tool for specific purposes, but it doesn’t fully replace the need for heavier, more realistic trainers for certain drills.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length
Specifications
- The Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length is manufactured by Cold Steel. This is a well known manufacturer of knives and self-defense tools.
- The blade length is 2.25 inches. This short blade length makes it a concealable training aid.
- The overall length is 5 inches. The small size contributes to its portability and ease of handling.
- The blade material is Griv-Ex. This fiberglass-reinforced plastic offers a balance of durability and flexibility.
- The blade is plain edged. This simplifies training exercises, as there are no serrations to snag or cause unintended cuts.
- The handle material is Kraton. This synthetic rubber provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- The handle color is black. This color is unobtrusive and professional-looking.
- The handle length is 2.75 inches. This size provides ample gripping surface for most hand sizes.
- The blade thickness is 6.5 mm. This relatively thick blade adds to the overall durability of the knife.
- The handle finish is Kraton. This offers improved gripping surface
- The weight is 1.1 oz. This extremely lightweight design allows for quick and agile movements.
These specifications are important because they define the FGX Push Blade II as a training tool focused on safety and speed. The Griv-Ex construction and lightweight design prioritize user safety and allow for rapid repetitions without fatigue. The Kraton handle ensures a secure grip, even in challenging conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length performs adequately as a training tool for practicing push dagger techniques. It allows users to safely drill movements, disarms, and pressure points without the risk of serious injury.
The strengths lie in its lightweight design, comfortable grip, and durable construction. However, the weaknesses include a lack of realistic weight and feel, as well as a certain degree of flexibility in the blade.
It meets expectations as a safe and affordable training tool. It doesn’t exceed expectations in terms of replicating the feel of a real push dagger.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for a plastic knife. The Griv-Ex material feels durable, and the Kraton handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The lightweight design, at only 1.1 ounces, allows for extended training sessions without fatigue.
It is user-friendly with no learning curve. The push dagger design is simple and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper use. The Griv-Ex material is resistant to cracking and breaking.
Maintenance is extremely simple; just wipe it down with a damp cloth as needed. No special cleaning solutions or treatments are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. Due to its Griv-Ex construction, it is not compatible with aftermarket sheaths designed for steel knives without modification.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length
Pros
- Extremely lightweight, allowing for fast and agile movements.
- Kraton handle provides a secure and comfortable grip.
- Durable Griv-Ex construction resists cracking and breaking.
- Safe training tool for practicing push dagger techniques.
- Very affordable price point.
Cons
- Lacks the realistic weight and feel of a real push dagger.
- Griv-Ex blade exhibits some flexibility.
- No accessories or customization options available.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length?
The Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length is perfect for martial artists, self-defense enthusiasts, and law enforcement professionals who want a safe and affordable training tool for practicing push dagger techniques. It is also suitable for those who need a lightweight and durable training knife for practicing speed and agility drills.
Those who should skip this product are individuals looking for a realistic training knife that closely replicates the weight and feel of a real push dagger. Also, anyone needing a blade for actual cutting tasks should avoid this as it is not designed or intended for that purpose.
A must-have modification for this product would be sanding down the edges for safe training or customization by creating a custom kydex sheath for ease of carry.
Conclusion on Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length
The Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II Knife w/ 5.00in Overall Length is a specialized training tool that serves a specific purpose. While it may not fully replicate the feel of a real push dagger, it offers a safe, affordable, and durable alternative for practicing knife-defense techniques.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. At around $7, it’s an inexpensive way to add a push dagger trainer to your collection.
I would personally recommend it to those who need a lightweight and safe training tool for practicing push dagger techniques. It’s a valuable addition to any martial artist’s training arsenal. So, if you’re looking for an affordable and durable training knife, give the Cold Steel FGX Push Blade II a try. You might be surprised by its versatility and usefulness.
