Let’s Dive into United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL
The United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL is a fixed blade knife designed with a focus on tactical applications and outdoor use. Designed by the renowned knife maker Gil Hibben and produced by United Cutlery, this knife aims to deliver a reliable cutting tool with a blend of aesthetics and functionality. With its 7CR17 stainless steel blade and Micarta handle, it presents itself as a sturdy option for those seeking a dependable knife for various tasks.
I was searching for a robust knife that could withstand demanding outdoor activities. My previous knife lacked the blade length needed for certain tasks like batoning wood for a fire, so I needed a dependable blade with substantial reach. Unboxing the United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL revealed a surprisingly lightweight yet solid tool. The Micarta handle felt secure in my grip, and the blade had a menacing presence.
Compared to my old Ka-Bar USMC fighting knife and a smaller Gerber Strongarm, the Gil Hibben Assault Knife stood out due to its longer blade and more pronounced clip point. I chose this knife because I wanted a longer blade for bushcraft tasks while still maintaining a strong point for piercing. My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about the steel type, as I typically prefer higher-end steels.
Real-World Testing: Putting United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was moderately humid with occasional light rain. I primarily used it for tasks such as preparing firewood, cutting rope, and food preparation.
The knife performed adequately in dry conditions, easily slicing through paracord and preparing kindling. However, when the handle got wet, the grip became noticeably slicker, requiring a tighter hold. I was initially impressed with its ability to baton smaller pieces of wood but noticed edge deformation on harder wood.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Gil Hibben Assault Knife has shown some wear and tear, mostly in the form of minor scratches on the blade coating. The edge retention of the 7CR17 stainless steel is acceptable but not exceptional; it requires frequent touch-ups with a sharpening stone. The leather sheath has softened and conformed to the knife well, but I can already see the need for eventual replacement.
The knife is relatively easy to clean with soap and water, and I regularly apply a thin coat of mineral oil to the blade to prevent rust. Compared to my experience with knives featuring higher-end steels like CPM S30V, the Gil Hibben Assault Knife requires more frequent sharpening to maintain a keen edge. The handle construction remains solid and comfortable after repeated use.
Breaking Down the Features of United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL
Specifications
The United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL features a 7CR17 stainless steel blade, known for its moderate corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening. The knife boasts an overall length of 12 inches, with a 1.5 inch blade length, providing ample reach and leverage for various tasks. The handle is constructed from Micarta, a durable and water-resistant composite material.
The knife also comes with a leather sheath for secure carry and protection. The Micarta handle is important because it offers a relatively secure grip, even when wet, while the overall length makes it a useful tool for various applications such as chopping and self-defense. The 7CR17 stainless steel blade means the user will need to sharpen the blade more often than higher-end steels.
Performance & Functionality
The United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL performs reasonably well for general outdoor tasks. It excels at chopping small branches, cutting rope, and performing other utility tasks. The blade’s sharpness is adequate out of the box, but it benefits from additional sharpening to achieve optimal cutting performance.
The knife’s main strength is its combination of size, weight, and relatively low price point. One weakness is the edge retention of the 7CR17 stainless steel, which requires frequent sharpening during heavy use. For its intended purpose, the knife meets expectations but does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Gil Hibben Assault Knife features a classic tactical knife design with a clip point blade and a contoured handle for comfortable grip. The build quality is solid, with no noticeable gaps or imperfections. The Micarta handle provides a secure grip, even when wet, and the overall weight is well-balanced.
The knife is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal learning curve. The sheath securely retains the knife and allows for convenient carry.
Durability & Maintenance
The United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL is built to withstand moderate use and abuse. The 7CR17 stainless steel blade is reasonably resistant to corrosion, and the Micarta handle is highly durable. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade will help to prolong its lifespan and maintain its performance.
The knife is relatively easy to maintain and repair. Sharpening can be done with a standard sharpening stone or sharpening system. The leather sheath may require occasional conditioning to prevent cracking or drying out.
Accessories and Customization Options
The United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL comes with a standard leather sheath. Customization options are limited, as the knife is a fixed blade design. However, users can customize the sheath with aftermarket attachments or replace the Micarta handle scales with custom-made alternatives, though this may require some modification.
The knife is not particularly compatible with accessories from other brands, as it is designed as a standalone tool. Potential accessories include a sharpening stone, a lanyard, or a fire starter.
Pros and Cons of United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL
Pros
- Durable Micarta handle provides a secure grip.
- The 12-inch overall length makes it useful for chopping tasks.
- Classic tactical design by Gil Hibben.
- Good value for the price point.
- Reasonably easy to sharpen.
Cons
- 7CR17 stainless steel has below-average edge retention.
- The included leather sheath is of decent quality but may not last long.
Who Should Buy United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL?
The United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and those looking for an affordable tactical knife. It is also suited for those who appreciate the design aesthetic of Gil Hibben knives. This knife is a great option for those who need a general-purpose knife for light to medium-duty tasks.
This is not the right knife for professional guides, survival instructors, or anyone who requires a knife with exceptional edge retention and durability. Anyone expecting a high-end knife experience should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a high-quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL
The United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL is a decent knife for the price, offering a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Its value proposition is strongest for those seeking an affordable and visually striking tactical knife for general outdoor use. At $77.99, the price is justified for what you get, however, one should not expect premium performance.
I would recommend this knife to anyone looking for an entry-level tactical knife or a backup blade for camping and hiking. If you’re on a budget and appreciate a classic design, the United Cutlery Gil Hibben Assault Knife w/ 12in OAL is worth considering – but don’t forget to buy a good sharpening stone!