Let’s Dive into Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall
The Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall promises an affordable entry into the world of knife throwing. Z-Hunter, known for their zombie-themed blades, presents this set as a stress-relieving and durable option for both beginners and experienced throwers. With a full tang construction from SUS tempered steel and a nylon sheath for convenient carry, this set aims to deliver a balance of performance and value at a budget-friendly price point.
I’ve always been fascinated by the skill of knife throwing. My experience is primarily with larger blades used for bushcraft, and I wanted to test my skills at this specialized branch. After damaging my camping knife trying to throw it I thought I need to acquire a set of throwing knives that I can practice with without worrying about harming my more expensive blades.
Upon unboxing the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall, I immediately noticed their slim profile and satin finish. The knives felt surprisingly lightweight, which raised a few questions about their durability, but also sparked curiosity about their throwing characteristics. The included nylon sheath seemed functional, but not particularly robust.
I considered other throwing knife sets, like the Cold Steel True Flight Thrower and the SOG Fling Throwing Knives, but ultimately chose the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall because of its low price point. I was looking for an inexpensive set to start with, and this fit the bill perfectly. I figured if I got into the sport in a more serious way I can always invest in higher quality products later on.
My first impression was a mix of intrigue and slight apprehension. The knives looked the part, but I was unsure if they would hold up to repeated throws. The lightweight design made me question their penetrating power, but I was eager to find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall in my backyard, using a homemade target made from stacked cardboard boxes. The knives felt comfortable enough in my hand during my initial practice throws. I experimented with different throwing techniques to find what worked best.
The weather was dry and mild during my initial testing, which provided ideal conditions. However, even with the perfect weather, I found that the knives required consistent technique to stick. I was not successful in sticking the blades in the target during my first throws.
The knives definitely required some getting used to. I initially struggled to achieve consistent throws, but with practice, I started to get the hang of it. I noticed after the first few throws one of the knives started to chip at the blade edge.
After my first throwing session, I was underwhelmed by the performance of the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall. The chipping and the lack of sticking, even in cardboard, was concerning. It felt like I needed to compensate for the lightness by putting too much force behind each throw, which was difficult to maintain over many throws.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall shows noticeable wear and tear. The satin finish is scratched, and the edges have chipped further despite me being more careful with the throws. The more I use the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall the less I enjoy it.
The durability is definitely a weak point. The steel seems prone to chipping, and I worry about the knives eventually breaking under stress. I occasionally sharpened the edges after a throwing session in an attempt to avoid the chips.
Maintaining the knives is relatively simple; I just wipe them down with a cloth after each use. I do not like that I have to sharpen the edges so often. The sheath is starting to show signs of wear, with a few loose threads, but so far has held up.
In comparison to my experience with more robust bushcraft knives, the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall is disappointing. I guess this is expected when dealing with throwing knives at such a low price point. I find myself hesitant to throw them with full force because of their fragile feel.
Breaking Down the Features of Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall
Specifications
The Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall has a blade length of 3.38 inches and an overall length of 7.5 inches. The knives are constructed from 440 steel and have a satin handle finish. This compact size makes them easy to handle, but might limit their throwing range.
The Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall is considered a tactical knife, and the accessories include a 600D nylon sheath. This sheath allows for convenient carrying and storage. The 440 steel offers a decent balance of hardness and corrosion resistance, but might not be as durable as higher-end steel types.
Performance & Functionality
The Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall struggles to consistently penetrate cardboard targets, especially at longer distances. Accuracy is heavily dependent on throwing technique, and even with practice, it can be difficult to achieve consistent results. These knives are not performing as intended.
The strength of the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall lies in their affordability, but they lack the performance and durability of higher-end throwing knives. These knives are not living up to expectations. There needs to be an improvement in steel quality to make these worth buying.
Design & Ergonomics
The Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall is lightweight and easy to grip, but the balance feels slightly off. The satin finish provides a decent grip, but can become slippery when wet. The knives could benefit from a more ergonomic handle design.
The design of the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall is simple and functional, with a focus on ease of use. However, the build quality feels somewhat cheap, and the lightweight design may not appeal to experienced throwers. The design is good for a beginner, but needs to be improved to match the needs of a more experienced thrower.
Durability & Maintenance
The Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall is not built for long-term abuse. The 440 steel is prone to chipping, and the satin finish scratches easily. These knives will likely require frequent sharpening and maintenance.
The maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. However, the lack of durability makes this set a less appealing long-term investment. The steel quality of the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall must be addressed to improve durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall comes with a basic 600D nylon sheath, but offers no other accessories or customization options. There are no aftermarket grips or blade options available for this model. The lack of customization limits the appeal to more serious throwers.
The sheath is functional but lacks any MOLLE compatibility or other advanced features. It is unlikely that accessories from other brands would be compatible with these knives. The sheath does not have any additional storage for a sharpener.
Pros and Cons of Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to beginners.
- Lightweight design makes it easy to handle.
- Simple and functional design.
- Nylon sheath provides convenient carrying.
- Decent grip.
Cons
- Poor durability; steel is prone to chipping.
- Inconsistent accuracy and penetration.
- Cheap build quality.
Who Should Buy Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall?
The Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall is perfect for individuals who are new to knife throwing and want to try it out without spending a lot of money. This is also a great product for someone who wants to experiment with throwing knives for stress relief. The lightweight design and low price make it an accessible entry point.
Those seeking durable, high-performance throwing knives should skip this product. Experienced throwers or individuals who demand consistent accuracy and longevity should invest in a higher-quality set. Those who prefer a heavier blade, or a more ergonomic handle, would be better off buying a more expensive set of throwing knives.
A sharpening stone is a must-have accessory for maintaining the Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall. Upgrading the sheath to a more durable option might also be a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion on Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall
The Z-Hunter ZB-163-3 Throwing Knife Set 7.5″ Overall offers an affordable entry point to the world of knife throwing, but its limitations in durability and performance cannot be ignored. The value proposition is questionable.
While the low price is attractive, the poor steel quality and lack of consistent accuracy ultimately detract from the experience. I would not personally recommend this set, unless you are on an extremely tight budget and understand its limitations.
If you’re serious about knife throwing, investing in a higher-quality set will provide a far more rewarding and long-lasting experience. Look elsewhere for quality blades.