Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife

The Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife isn’t just another piece of steel; it’s a meticulously crafted tool designed for those who demand uncompromising performance in a compact package. Manufactured by Bark River, a name synonymous with quality and American craftsmanship, this knife promises to be a reliable companion for outdoor adventures and everyday tasks.

I’ve always been on the lookout for a neck knife that balances utility, durability, and ease of carry. My primary need was for a compact blade that could handle basic camp chores, food preparation, and self-defense if needed, all while being easily accessible.

Upon unboxing, the Bravo Necker II immediately impressed me with its solid feel and evident build quality. The green canvas micarta handle offered a secure and comfortable grip, while the CPM-154CM blade exuded sharpness and durability. It felt like a serious tool, despite its diminutive size.

Compared to similar neck knives like the ESEE Izula II and the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter, the Bravo Necker II stood out with its premium blade steel and more refined handle ergonomics. While the Izula II is a robust and affordable option, and the Hidden Canyon Hunter boasts excellent edge retention, the Bravo Necker II’s combination of materials and design felt like a step up. I chose it for its superior steel and the overall premium feel that Bark River is known for.

My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. It felt like a quality knife designed for real-world use. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Bark River reputation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The conditions were moderately humid, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

The knife excelled at various camp tasks, including preparing food, feathering sticks for fire starting, and cutting cordage. The blade’s size and shape made it incredibly maneuverable, while the canvas micarta handle provided a secure grip even with slightly damp hands. There were no immediately apparent issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Bravo Necker II has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable tool. The CPM-154CM steel has held its edge exceptionally well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the blade or handle, despite repeated use in various conditions. The green canvas micarta has aged beautifully, developing a slightly darker patina that enhances its grip and visual appeal. Maintaining the knife is simple: a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a thin coat of mineral oil to the blade to prevent corrosion. It easily outperforms less expensive knives that I’ve used previously, especially in edge retention and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

• The Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife has an overall length of 6 7/8 inches. This compact size makes it ideal for neck carry and discreet everyday use.
• It features a 3 1/2 inch CPM-154CM blade. CPM-154CM is a high-end stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance.
• The knife is constructed with a full tang. A full tang provides maximum strength and stability, ensuring the blade won’t separate from the handle during heavy use.
• The handle is made from green canvas micarta. Canvas micarta offers a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions, and is exceptionally durable.
• A lanyard hole is included. This allows for added security and carrying options.
• It comes with a brown leather neck sheath with an internal retention magnet and dual lanyard holes. The leather sheath offers a secure and comfortable carry option, while the internal magnet ensures the knife stays in place.
• Bark River includes a manufacturer’s warning that caution should be used if wearing with a pacemaker. The retention magnet in the sheath could interfere with pacemakers.

The choice of CPM-154CM steel is crucial for a knife of this size, as it needs to hold an edge well despite potential hard use. The full tang construction and durable micarta handle guarantee longevity and reliability, making it a dependable tool for various tasks.

Performance & Functionality

The Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife excels at a variety of tasks, from fine cutting and slicing to more demanding chores like carving and feathering. Its small size and nimble blade make it a joy to use for detailed work, while the robust construction ensures it can handle tougher jobs without complaint.

The knife’s edge retention is exceptional, requiring minimal maintenance even after extended use. The only minor weakness might be its limited size for processing larger pieces of wood, but that is expected given its intended purpose. It meets and even exceeds expectations for a neck knife, providing a level of performance that is typically found in larger blades.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bravo Necker II boasts excellent build quality, utilizing premium materials that are expertly assembled. The green canvas micarta handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet hands.

The knife feels well-balanced and comfortable in the hand, inspiring confidence during use. The ergonomic design minimizes fatigue, allowing for extended use without discomfort. There is a slight learning curve in becoming accustomed to drawing and sheathing the knife quickly and safely, but this is minimal.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the high-quality materials and robust construction, the Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife is expected to last for many years with proper care. The CPM-154CM blade is highly resistant to corrosion, and the canvas micarta handle is virtually indestructible.

Maintaining the knife is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s required to keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife comes standard with a high-quality brown leather neck sheath, featuring an internal retention magnet and dual lanyard holes. While there aren’t extensive customization options directly from Bark River, the handle scales are detachable and interchangeable with those from the Necker I series, allowing for some personalization.

The knife is compatible with various aftermarket lanyards and beads, allowing users to further customize its appearance and functionality. Aftermarket sheaths may also be available.

Pros and Cons of Bark River Bravo Necker II Green Canvas Fixed Blade Knife