Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK Review

Let’s Dive into Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK is a formidable-looking knife promising a blend of tactical aesthetics and functional design. Made by Survivor, this fixed blade boasts a 12-inch overall length with a stainless steel black blade and a rubber handle, accompanied by a nylon sheath. I’ve spent years evaluating knives for their utility in the field, from survival scenarios to everyday carry, and the HK-731BK immediately piqued my interest with its size and price point.

For a long time, I needed a reliable, inexpensive fixed blade for general camp tasks and as a backup tool in my bug-out bag. I was looking for something robust, easy to maintain, and that I wouldn’t be afraid to put through some abuse. The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK presented itself as a possible solution.

Unboxing the HK-731BK, the knife has a definite presence due to its size. The rubber handle feels decent enough in hand, and the blade’s black finish gives it a tactical look. The nylon sheath is basic but functional, providing a way to carry the knife securely.

Compared to a Mora Companion and a Ka-Bar USMC fighting knife (both standards in my collection), the HK-731BK is significantly longer than the Mora and offers a different feel than the Ka-Bar. I chose the Survivor for its potential as a large, multi-purpose blade that wouldn’t break the bank, unlike potentially sacrificing my Ka-Bar. Its value for the cost makes it worth an initial trial.

My first impression was a mix of curiosity and slight apprehension. It appears to be a functional tool for a specific range of tasks and the value seems compelling; however, I had doubts about the quality of the steel and edge retention, especially given the price.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK during a weekend camping trip in the local woods. The tasks included batoning firewood, preparing tinder, and some light carving. The weather was dry, with temperatures hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.

The knife performed reasonably well in batoning smaller pieces of wood, although the relatively thin blade profile required some care to avoid binding. It struggled a bit when trying to split larger logs. I needed to exert extra force, which raised concerns about the blade’s strength over time.

It took some getting used to the blade length and balance, particularly for fine carving tasks. After repeated use, the rubber grip started to feel a little slick, especially with sweaty hands. The large size of the blade made it more cumbersome than shorter knives.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK shows some wear on the black blade coating. The edge has dulled significantly, requiring frequent sharpening, which is expected from a stainless steel at this price point.

The nylon sheath has held up well, showing only minor signs of fraying at the edges. The rubber handle has remained intact, although it has developed some minor scuffs and scratches. Rust also started to form where the blade meets the handle.

Compared to my experiences with other knives, the HK-731BK‘s performance is adequate but not exceptional. It serves its purpose as a general-use camp knife, but it doesn’t outperform higher-quality blades in terms of edge retention, durability, or overall feel. I would prefer my Ka-Bar over this knife.

Breaking Down the Features of Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK

Specifications

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK features a 12-inch overall length. The blade is made of stainless steel with a black finish. The handle is constructed from rubber and is black in color. It comes with a nylon sheath for carrying.

These specifications define the knife as a large, budget-friendly option designed for general-purpose use. The stainless steel blade offers decent corrosion resistance, while the rubber handle provides a comfortable grip. The overall length makes it suitable for tasks requiring reach and leverage, but it may be less ideal for intricate work.

Performance & Functionality

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK performs adequately for basic cutting and chopping tasks. However, its edge retention is not exceptional, requiring frequent sharpening to maintain optimal performance.

Its main strength lies in its size and leverage, making it useful for batoning firewood and clearing brush. The weakness is the blade steel’s lack of hardness, making it unsuitable for heavy-duty tasks without risking damage. Given its price, it meets expectations as a basic, affordable tool, but it falls short compared to higher-end knives.

Design & Ergonomics

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK offers a functional design with a focus on simplicity and affordability. The rubber handle provides a decent grip, but its texture could be improved for better traction, especially in wet conditions.

The blade’s black finish gives it a tactical aesthetic. However, the overall build quality feels somewhat cheap, with noticeable gaps and imperfections in the fit and finish. The lack of a finger guard or pronounced pommel also detracts from the ergonomic design.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction and materials, the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK is not expected to last as long as higher-quality knives. Regular use will likely result in blade wear, handle degradation, and potential sheath failure.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. However, the stainless steel blade is prone to rust if not properly cared for, particularly in humid environments. The rubber handle can be cleaned with soap and water.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK comes with a basic nylon sheath as its only included accessory. There are limited customization options available for this knife, due to its design and construction.

Aftermarket grips and sheaths are not readily available, as this knife is not intended for extensive modification. However, users may choose to add a lanyard or paracord wrap to the handle for improved grip and retention.

Pros and Cons of Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK

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Who Should Buy Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK?

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK is perfect for those on a very tight budget who need a large knife for occasional use. This includes casual campers, beginner survivalists, or anyone seeking an inexpensive backup blade for their vehicle or emergency kit.

Those seeking a high-quality, durable, and reliable knife for demanding tasks should skip this product. Pro campers, bushcrafters, hunters and anglers should invest in a more robust tool. A sharpening stone is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK is an entry-level knife that offers decent functionality at an extremely affordable price. While its build quality and edge retention leave something to be desired, it serves its purpose as a general-use camp knife for light to medium tasks.

The price is justified for what you get – a large, usable blade that won’t break the bank. However, buyers should be aware of its limitations and be prepared to invest in regular maintenance and sharpening.

I would recommend the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-731BK to budget-conscious users seeking a basic camp knife for occasional use. But, don’t expect performance on par with higher-end alternatives. Grab one for your bug-out bag, but don’t rely on it for serious survival situations without a backup.