Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife

The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife is a compact and intriguing offering from Kellam, blending a traditional aesthetic with a modern carry style. It’s a diminutive fixed blade designed for pocket carry, featuring a hand-forged carbon steel blade and a sisal-wrapped handle. The appeal lies in its simplicity and potential for everyday carry, especially for those who appreciate the charm of a fixed blade without the bulk of a larger knife.

I was looking for a small, easily carried fixed blade that didn’t scream “tactical.” I wanted something discreet, useful, and with a touch of old-world craftsmanship, so this looked like it would fit the bill.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife’s size. It truly is a pocket knife in the truest sense. The hand-forged blade has a rustic charm, and the sisal wrap, while unusual, feels surprisingly secure in hand. The leather sheath is simple but functional, providing good retention. The weight is negligible; it feels like a pen in my pocket.

I considered a Spyderco Dragonfly, a Benchmade Proper, and a CRKT Pilar before settling on the Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife. I picked the Kellam because I wanted a fixed blade, the others were all folders, and because of the unique look, compared to more “standard” knives.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the size and the classic design but questioned how the sisal handle would hold up with consistent use.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife during a week-long camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it primarily for food preparation, such as slicing cheese, sausage, and opening packages of dehydrated meals. The blade was also employed for some light carving and feathering sticks for fire starting.

The knife performed surprisingly well in these conditions. Despite its small size, the Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife’s hand-forged blade was sharp enough to handle most tasks. The sisal wrap offered decent grip even when wet. However, the small handle size became noticeable during prolonged use, causing some hand fatigue.

It took very little time to become accustomed to the Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife. The size makes it extremely maneuverable, and the fixed blade eliminates any concerns about blade lockup or closing mechanisms. There were no immediate issues; the knife performed as expected, though I did find myself wishing for a slightly longer handle for more comfortable extended use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife has held up fairly well. The carbon steel blade has developed a nice patina, and the edge has retained its sharpness with only occasional stropping.

There are some signs of wear and tear, particularly on the sisal wrap. It has started to fray slightly in a few spots, but this hasn’t affected the grip or structural integrity. The leather sheath has also softened with use, molding nicely to the knife.

Maintenance has been minimal. I clean and oil the blade after each use and occasionally apply a leather conditioner to the sheath. The sisal wrap has proven to be more resilient than expected and requires no special care. Compared to my experience with other, more modern knives, the Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife requires more frequent cleaning to prevent rust. However, I enjoy the ritual of caring for the knife.

Breaking Down the Features of Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife

Specifications

• The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife features a 2-inch hand-forged carbon steel blade. The blade’s small size makes it ideal for detailed work and close-quarters tasks.
• The handle is wrapped in sisal cord, providing a unique and textured grip. The handle length is relatively short which impacts overall ergonomics.
• The overall length of the knife is 4.63 inches. Its small size makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a keychain.
• It includes a form-fitted leather sheath for secure carry. The sheath protects the blade and ensures it stays in place.
• The knife is a fixed blade. This design provides strength and reliability.
• The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife weighs approximately 2 ounces. It’s lightweight for convenient carry.

These specifications contribute to the knife’s overall portability and discreet carry. The carbon steel provides excellent edge retention, while the sisal wrap adds a touch of rustic charm.

Performance & Functionality

The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife performs well for its intended purpose: small, detailed cutting tasks. It excels at opening packages, slicing food, and performing light carving.

Its strengths lie in its size, portability, and ease of use. The small blade is easy to control, and the fixed blade design ensures reliability. The primary weakness is the handle length which can cause discomfort during extended use. The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife meets expectations for a small, easily carried fixed blade, but it’s not designed for heavy-duty tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife boasts a simple, yet attractive design. The hand-forged blade and sisal wrap evoke a sense of traditional craftsmanship.

The build quality is generally good, with the blade being well-tempered and the sheath being well-stitched. The weight is negligible, making it comfortable to carry. The ergonomics are decent, though the short handle may not be suitable for larger hands. There’s no significant learning curve; it’s a straightforward and easy-to-use tool.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife is built to last, provided it’s properly maintained. The carbon steel blade is prone to rust, so regular cleaning and oiling are essential.

The sisal wrap is surprisingly durable, but it will eventually wear down with use. The leather sheath should last for years with proper care. Maintenance is relatively simple: clean, oil, and sharpen the blade as needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife comes with a form-fitted leather sheath. There are limited customization options available directly from Kellam.

However, the knife can be customized with different handle wraps, such as paracord or leather. The sheath can also be upgraded to a custom-made version. Due to the knife’s small size and simple design, it is not compatible with many standard accessories.

Pros and Cons of Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife

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Who Should Buy Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife?

The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife is perfect for: EDC enthusiasts, backpackers, campers, and anyone looking for a small, easily carried fixed blade with a touch of rustic charm. It is especially well-suited for those who appreciate the simplicity of a fixed blade and are willing to perform basic maintenance to keep it in good condition.

Who should skip this product? Those who require a larger, more robust knife for heavy-duty tasks or who are unwilling to regularly maintain a carbon steel blade. People with large hands might also find the handle too small for comfortable use.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality sharpening stone or strop to maintain the blade’s edge. A small bottle of mineral oil or similar protectant for rust prevention.

Conclusion on Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife

The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife is a unique and charming tool that offers a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern carry convenience. Its compact size, sharp blade, and rustic aesthetic make it a compelling option for those seeking a discreet and reliable everyday carry knife.

At $59.99, the price is justified considering the hand-forged blade and quality materials. The Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife is not a replacement for a larger, more capable knife, but it excels at what it’s designed to do: provide a sharp, reliable blade in a small and easily carried package.

I would personally recommend the Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife to anyone looking for a unique and functional EDC knife with a touch of old-world charm. If you appreciate simplicity, quality craftsmanship, and are willing to put in a little extra maintenance, this knife is sure to become a treasured companion. Grab a Kellam Fixed Blade Pocket Knife today and experience the timeless appeal of a well-made tool!