Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife

The Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife is a robust tool designed for serious outdoor use. Manufactured by Bark River, this knife blends classic design with modern materials, aiming to be a reliable companion in demanding environments. It’s a substantial knife, boasting a 7-inch blade made from CPM S35VN steel, known for its excellent balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.

I have always appreciated a good fixed blade, and my existing collection felt like it was missing a sturdy, all-purpose option for more demanding tasks. I was searching for a knife that could handle everything from processing firewood to preparing game, all while holding an edge and providing a comfortable, secure grip.

Upon unboxing the Bark River Bravo 2, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel and heft. The black canvas Micarta handle felt incredibly secure in my hand, even before putting it to any real use. The fit and finish were excellent, and the blade arrived razor-sharp, indicating a high level of attention to detail.

I considered the ESEE 6 and the Fallkniven F1, both reputable knives with similar target applications. Ultimately, the Bravo 2 won me over due to its reputation for exceptional edge geometry and the proven performance of CPM S35VN steel, coupled with Bark River’s renowned convex grind.

My initial reaction was excitement tempered with respect. The Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife felt like a serious tool, not a toy. I knew I needed to put it to the test to truly appreciate its capabilities.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it extensively for various camp chores, including batoning firewood, preparing food, and whittling kindling. The knife performed admirably in all tasks.

The Bravo 2 handled the wet conditions without any issues. The Micarta handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were damp. The factory edge held up surprisingly well, even after repeated use on hardwood.

I found the knife immediately comfortable to use, and the balance felt natural in my hand. The handle’s ergonomic design minimized fatigue during prolonged use. There were no hot spots or discomfort, even during extended carving sessions.

After the initial use, I noticed some minor scuffing on the blade, but nothing unexpected for a knife used in a demanding environment. The edge remained sharp, requiring only a few passes on a strop to restore its original sharpness.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Bark River Bravo 2 has proven to be an incredibly reliable tool. It’s accompanied me on numerous hiking trips, hunting expeditions, and even a few fishing outings. It has consistently performed well in a variety of conditions.

The knife’s durability has been impressive. Despite heavy use, there are no signs of structural weakness or damage. The CPM S35VN steel has proven its worth, resisting chipping and maintaining a keen edge.

Maintenance has been straightforward. The CPM S35VN steel is relatively easy to sharpen, and the Micarta handle requires minimal care. A simple cleaning after each use and occasional oiling of the blade is all that’s needed to keep the Bravo 2 in top condition.

Compared to my previous experience with knives using softer steels, the Bravo 2 has significantly outperformed them in edge retention and overall durability. It has become my go-to fixed blade for any task that demands strength and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

• Overall Length: 12.25 inches, providing a substantial yet manageable size for a variety of tasks. This length allows for effective chopping and slicing, while still being controllable for finer work.
• Blade Length: 7 inches, striking a balance between reach and maneuverability. This length is ideal for tasks such as batoning, game processing, and general camp chores.
• Blade Material: CPM S35VN Stainless Steel, renowned for its exceptional balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. S35VN’s ability to hold a sharp edge for extended periods makes it a preferred choice for serious outdoor knives.
• Handle Material: Black Canvas Micarta, offering a secure and comfortable grip in various conditions. Micarta is known for its durability and resistance to moisture, providing a non-slip surface even when wet.
• Full Tang Construction, ensuring maximum strength and stability. The tang extending the full length of the handle minimizes the risk of breakage under heavy use.
• Brown Leather Belt Sheath, providing a secure and convenient carrying option. The leather sheath is well-made and designed for easy access to the knife.
• Standard Edge Grind (Convex), known for its strength and ability to slice efficiently. Bark River’s convex grind is highly regarded for its performance and ease of maintenance.
• Lanyard Hole, allowing for secure attachment to a lanyard or tether. This is a useful feature for preventing loss of the knife in demanding environments.

These specifications are crucial because they define the knife’s capabilities and its suitability for various tasks. The combination of a durable steel, a comfortable handle, and a robust design makes the Bravo 2 a dependable tool for any outdoor enthusiast.

Performance & Functionality

The Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife excels in its primary role as a versatile outdoor knife. Its performance is characterized by excellent edge retention, comfortable handling, and overall reliability. It performs equally well whether you’re notching sticks to split wood or building a survival shelter.

The knife’s strength lies in its ability to handle demanding tasks without sacrificing precision. The convex grind allows for smooth, efficient slicing, while the robust blade can withstand heavy use without chipping or bending. The main weakness might be its overall size. The larger size may not be ideal for fine, detailed work.

The Bravo 2 consistently exceeds expectations, delivering a level of performance that justifies its price point. Its durability and versatility make it a valuable asset in any outdoor setting.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife features a classic and functional design. The blade shape is optimized for both slicing and piercing, while the handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The knife weighs enough to feel solid and substantial, but not so much as to cause fatigue.

The black canvas Micarta handle is exceptionally comfortable, even during prolonged use. Its ergonomic shape minimizes hot spots and provides excellent control. While there is a minimal learning curve due to the knife’s size and weight, it quickly becomes an extension of your hand with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife is built to last. The CPM S35VN steel and full-tang construction ensure exceptional durability, even under heavy use. The Micarta handle is also highly resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s required to keep the Bravo 2 in top condition. The CPM S35VN steel is relatively easy to sharpen, and the Micarta handle is virtually maintenance-free.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife comes with a high-quality brown leather belt sheath. The sheath is well-made and provides secure retention of the knife. It allows for easy carry on a belt.

While the Bravo 2 is not designed for extensive customization, there are aftermarket options available for handle scales and sheaths. Some users may choose to replace the factory sheath with a custom Kydex or nylon sheath. The lanyard hole also allows for personalization with decorative knots or beads.

Pros and Cons of Bark River Bravo 2 Black Canvas CPM S35VN Fixed Blade Knife