Let’s Dive into China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade
The China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade enters the market as a budget-friendly option in a sea of expensive knives. It promises durability and functionality for various cutting tasks. As someone who has spent years evaluating tactical gear, I was intrigued by this offering from China Made, especially given its incredibly low price point of $9.99.
I’ve seen plenty of budget blades fail spectacularly, so I approached this review with a healthy dose of skepticism. What drew me to this knife was the seemingly practical size and the inclusion of a nylon sheath. The cord-wrapped handle also suggested a focus on grip, which is crucial in a fixed blade.
Upon unboxing, my first impression was that this is a very lightweight knife. The overall construction felt… utilitarian. While the black blade finish looked decent, the steel used felt noticeably less substantial than higher-end knives I’ve handled.
I considered purchasing a Mora Companion, another budget fixed blade known for its reliability. I also looked at the Kershaw Skyline, a similarly sized folding knife with a strong reputation. Ultimately, the China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade’s extremely low price was the deciding factor, making it a worthwhile experiment.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. I knew not to expect miracles at this price, but I hoped it could serve as a decent backup blade or a tool for light tasks. Only real-world testing would reveal its true worth.
Real-World Testing: Putting China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade through its paces during a weekend camping trip. The tasks ranged from food preparation (cutting vegetables and opening packages) to basic camp chores like whittling small kindling for the fire. I also tested it’s ability to baton small pieces of wood.
The weather was damp, with occasional light rain. This provided a good test of the handle’s grip in less-than-ideal conditions.
Initially, the knife felt adequately sharp, though not razor-sharp like some of my higher-end blades. The plain edge cut through cardboard and packaging with relative ease. I did not need too much time to adjust to the knife, although it feels much smaller than other knives I own.
However, the cord-wrapped handle, while providing some grip, started to feel uncomfortable after extended use. The thin cord offered minimal padding, and the underlying steel felt harsh against my hand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade for various tasks, its limitations became more apparent. It held up well to some minor cutting, but did not do much beyond that. The blade showed several signs of wear.
The black finish scratched easily, and I noticed some minor chipping along the edge after batoning wood. Cleaning the blade was relatively straightforward.
Maintaining the blade was okay, but the steel’s edge retention proved to be subpar. It required frequent sharpening to maintain a usable edge. Compared to my experience with knives made from high-carbon steel, the China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade was notably less durable. It definitely did not outperform, and in fact, it disappointed.
Breaking Down the Features of China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade
Specifications
The China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade features a 3.38-inch blade and an overall length of 7 inches. The blade material is listed as simply “Steel,” which likely indicates a lower-grade stainless steel. This means it is more resistant to corrosion, but less capable of retaining an edge.
It has a plain edge, a black blade finish, and a black cord-wrapped handle. The included accessories consist of a nylon sheath and a lanyard slot. The sheath material is nylon, and the knife application is a fixed blade.
These specifications suggest a knife designed for basic utility rather than heavy-duty tasks. The blade length is suitable for everyday carry, but the unspecified steel and cord-wrapped handle hint at potential durability and comfort issues.
Performance & Functionality
The China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade performs adequately for light cutting tasks. It’s suitable for opening boxes, cutting rope, and preparing food in a pinch. The blade’s sharpness is acceptable out of the box.
However, its limited edge retention means it requires frequent sharpening. The knife struggles with tougher materials like hardwood. The edge rolls over and loses its sharpness quickly.
The knife certainly does not exceed expectations. I would not recommend this for more than opening a box.
Design & Ergonomics
The China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade’s design is simple and functional. The black finish gives it a tactical appearance. The cord-wrapped handle is intended to provide a secure grip, but the thin cord and lack of contouring make it uncomfortable during extended use.
The knife is lightweight, which can be an advantage for carrying, but also contributes to the feeling of flimsiness. There is no real learning curve as it is a simple knife to use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the lower-grade steel, the China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade’s long-term durability is questionable. The blade is prone to scratching and chipping, and the handle’s cord wrap may unravel with heavy use. Frequent cleaning and oiling are necessary to prevent rust and maintain its performance.
Repairing the knife is likely not feasible. Replacing the cord wrap might be possible, but the blade’s steel quality limits its overall lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade comes with a basic nylon sheath. It includes a loop for belt carry. There are no other included accessories.
Customization options are limited. The cord wrap could be replaced with a different material, but the knife’s overall design offers little opportunity for significant modification. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is minimal, as it’s a budget-oriented product not designed for extensive customization.
Pros and Cons of China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade
Pros
- Incredibly low price point.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Basic functionality for light cutting tasks.
- Simple design.
- Includes a nylon sheath.
Cons
- Poor edge retention.
- Uncomfortable cord-wrapped handle.
- Questionable durability and lower-grade steel.
Who Should Buy China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade?
The China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade is perfect for individuals seeking an extremely affordable, disposable knife for light tasks. It may also suit those who need a backup blade for emergencies. It is also suitable for casual campers, and as a first knife.
This product should be skipped by anyone who needs a reliable and durable knife for demanding tasks. It is also not suitable for survivalists or serious outdoor enthusiasts.
Must-have modifications would include wrapping the handle with thicker paracord or tape to improve comfort.
Conclusion on China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade
The China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade is a testament to the adage, “you get what you pay for.” Its incredibly low price makes it an accessible option, but its performance and durability are severely limited. The knife may be adequate for minimal usage, but will not hold up to much more.
The value proposition is questionable. While the price is appealing, the knife’s lack of durability and poor edge retention mean it may not be a worthwhile investment in the long run. Spending a bit more on a higher-quality blade would ultimately be more cost-effective.
I would not personally recommend the China Made 7 in. Fixed Blade for anyone seeking a reliable tool for outdoor activities or tactical purposes. It’s best suited as a disposable utility knife or a very basic backup option. Consider investing in a more durable and comfortable knife.