Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife

The Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife is a no-nonsense tool designed for personal defense and utility. Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with firearms, brings their expertise to edged weapons with this compact, dual-edged dagger. At a price point that won’t break the bank, it promises discreet carry and reliable performance.

I’ve always prioritized having a backup blade, something easily accessible in a pinch, and I needed a knife designed for discreet carry. I was specifically looking for a fixed blade that wouldn’t accidentally close on my fingers, offering immediate deployment when needed. This boot knife concept intrigued me with its compact size and readily available sheath.

Unboxing the Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife, my initial impression was that it’s surprisingly lightweight. The rubberized handle felt secure, and the dual-edged spear point blade looked menacing. The thermoplastic sheath seemed durable enough for its intended purpose, but I immediately questioned its long-term retention.

I considered the Gerber Guardian Back-Up, a similar fixed blade dagger, but its price was significantly higher. The SOG Daggert 2 was another contender, but its longer blade made it less ideal for boot carry. Ultimately, the Smith & Wesson offered a balance of affordability and practicality that swayed my decision.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a solid backup blade, but I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios. I wondered if the low price point would translate to subpar quality in the long run.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife during a weekend camping trip. I wanted to assess its utility in basic camp chores and its suitability for its intended concealed carry role. The weather was mild and dry, so I didn’t get to test its performance in truly adverse conditions at first.

During the camping trip, I used the knife for tasks like cutting rope, preparing kindling, and opening food packages. The dual-edged blade proved effective for piercing and slicing. I also practiced drawing the knife from the sheath in different positions to evaluate its accessibility and security.

The knife felt comfortable enough in my hand, and the rubberized grip provided adequate purchase, even when slightly damp. However, the thermoplastic sheath felt a bit flimsy, and I noticed that the knife wasn’t held as securely as I’d like during vigorous movement. I also found that it took some practice to reliably draw the knife smoothly from the sheath without fumbling.

The biggest surprise was how quickly the initial sharpness of the blade seemed to diminish after only light use. While it was still functional, it definitely wasn’t shaving sharp anymore, requiring more force to cut through tougher materials.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of sporadic use, the Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife has held up reasonably well, but its limitations have become more apparent. I’ve used it in various outdoor settings, including hiking, fishing, and even as a backup in my vehicle. The blade has seen some minor scratches, but the full tang construction has prevented any significant structural damage.

The rubberized handle has remained intact, although it’s started to show some signs of wear. The thermoplastic sheath, however, is a persistent weak point. The retention has loosened further, and I would not trust it for inverted carry or situations requiring extreme physical activity.

Maintenance is simple; I just wipe the blade clean after use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Compared to my other fixed blade knives with higher-quality steel, the Smith & Wesson requires more frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge. Ultimately, it falls short of the performance I expect from knives in a higher price bracket.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife

Specifications

• The Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife boasts a 4.75 inch blade length, making it compact enough for concealed carry but still offering decent cutting power. The overall length is 9.25 inches, providing sufficient handle length for a secure grip.

• The blade material is 8Cr13MoV high carbon stainless steel. While not a premium steel, it offers a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, especially at this price point.

• It features a dual-edged spear point blade with a blood groove. This design is primarily intended for thrusting and piercing, making it a viable self-defense option.

• The black grooved rubberized handle with guard provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. The brown rubber insert adds a touch of visual appeal and improves grip texture.

• The knife includes a lanyard hole, allowing for easy attachment to gear or for creating a wrist loop. It also comes with a premium black thermoplastic belt/boot sheath, designed for convenient and discreet carry.

These specifications make the Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife a lightweight, easily concealed option with a focus on self-defense applications. The choice of 8Cr13MoV steel keeps the cost down while offering adequate performance for its intended role.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife performs adequately for its intended purpose as a backup blade and self-defense tool. Its dual edges and spear point design make it effective for piercing and thrusting attacks.

However, the edge retention of the 8Cr13MoV steel is only average, requiring more frequent sharpening than higher-end knives. The thermoplastic sheath is also a weak point, providing insufficient retention for rigorous activities.

While it meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly boot knife, it doesn’t exceed them in any particular area. Its performance is adequate but not outstanding.

Design & Ergonomics

The Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife features a practical and functional design. The rubberized handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, and the full tang construction ensures durability.

However, the thermoplastic sheath feels cheap and offers poor retention. The handle, while grippy, may be too small for users with large hands. There is a slight learning curve in drawing the knife smoothly from the sheath.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife is reasonably durable for its price point. The full tang construction adds to its overall strength, but the 8Cr13MoV steel is susceptible to corrosion if not properly maintained.

Maintenance is straightforward; cleaning and oiling the blade regularly will help prevent rust and maintain its edge. The sheath, however, is likely to be the first component to fail with heavy use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife comes with a basic thermoplastic sheath, and there are no readily available aftermarket accessories or customization options specifically designed for this model. The sheath does have a belt clip.

Generic sheaths might be adaptable, but there are no direct-fit replacements for the factory sheath. Customizing the handle would likely require significant modification.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife

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Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife?

The Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife is perfect for individuals seeking an affordable and easily concealable backup blade for self-defense. It’s suitable for casual campers, hikers, or anyone wanting a discreet fixed blade option without breaking the bank. It is also a great knife for a bug-out bag or survival kit.

Those requiring a high-performance knife for demanding tasks or expecting superior edge retention should skip this product. Anyone planning on using it in extreme environments or relying on it for primary self-defense should also consider a higher-quality alternative.

A higher-quality aftermarket sheath would be a must-have accessory. Sharpening stones are also a necessity for frequent maintenance.

Conclusion on Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife

The Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife is a budget-friendly option that offers decent performance for its price. It’s a practical choice for those needing a discreet and easily accessible backup blade.

While it has limitations in terms of edge retention and sheath quality, its full tang construction and comfortable handle make it a viable option for basic utility and self-defense purposes. The price is justified, considering its functionality and limitations.

I would recommend it to someone looking for an inexpensive and readily available fixed blade knife for light duty or as a backup. It’s a decent tool for the price, but be aware of its limitations and consider upgrading the sheath. Don’t hesitate to give the Smith & Wesson M&p Full Tang Fixed Blade Boot Knife a try if you’re seeking a budget-friendly concealed blade.