Let’s Talk About China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife
The China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife enters a crowded market promising utility at an extremely accessible price point. With an overall length of 7 inches and a 3.25-inch stainless steel blade, it mimics the classic Sharpfinger design, aiming to provide a reliable cutting tool for various tasks. Its Staglon handle adds a touch of traditional aesthetics, while the included nylon sheath offers convenient carry.
I was on the hunt for an affordable, general-purpose fixed blade to keep in my tackle box. I needed something that could handle basic tasks like cutting line, cleaning small fish, and even opening stubborn clamshell packaging, without worrying too much about abuse or loss. This knife seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the lightweight nature of the knife. The Staglon handle, while visually appealing, felt a bit hollow and less substantial than real stag. The blade arrived with a decent edge, but not shaving sharp, suggesting it would need some initial honing.
Compared to my Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter (a premium hunting knife) and a Mora Companion (a budget-friendly workhorse), the China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife clearly occupies a different tier. I chose this knife over other similarly priced options because of its classic design and the perceived utility of the Sharpfinger blade shape. The others seemed too flimsy.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the materials and construction didn’t scream high-end, the knife seemed functional and potentially useful, especially considering its very low price of $10.99. I was curious to see how it would perform under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife during a recent weekend fishing trip. The environment consisted of saltwater exposure, sandy conditions, and the general grime associated with handling fish. I used it for tasks such as cutting fishing line, bait preparation, and light food prep at the campsite.
The knife performed adequately for basic tasks in dry conditions. However, when wet, the Staglon handle became noticeably slippery, requiring a firmer grip to maintain control. I found myself cleaning the knife more often because I noticed rust spots forming on the blade.
The initial edge wasn’t particularly sharp, but it was sufficient for most tasks. It did require some effort to get used to the balance. The handle felt a bit small in my larger hands, making prolonged use slightly uncomfortable.
After the first use, I noticed some minor scratches on the blade and some slight discoloration on the handle from the saltwater. This didn’t inspire confidence in its long-term durability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use, the China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife has held up surprisingly well, though with some caveats. The edge retention is mediocre at best. It required frequent touch-ups to maintain a reasonable level of sharpness.
Durability is a concern. The blade shows more scratches and minor rust spots despite regular cleaning. The handle still feels solid, but the Staglon material is susceptible to scratching and chipping if not handled carefully.
Maintenance involves regular cleaning with freshwater after exposure to saltwater or other potentially corrosive elements. Sharpening is required frequently. This is needed to get the blade ready. The knife is easy enough to clean, but the materials don’t inspire confidence in its longevity.
Compared to my Mora Companion, which has seen years of abuse and still holds a decent edge, the China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife falls short in terms of durability and edge retention. However, considering the price difference, this isn’t entirely unexpected.
Breaking Down the Features of China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife
Specifications
- Overall Length: 7 inches, providing a compact size for easy carry and maneuverability.
- Blade Length: 3.25 inches, offering a suitable length for various cutting tasks while remaining compliant with many legal restrictions.
- Blade Material: Stainless Steel, which provides reasonable corrosion resistance, particularly important for outdoor use.
- Handle Material: Staglon, a synthetic material designed to mimic the appearance of stag horn, providing a traditional look at a lower cost.
- Blade Finish: Satin, reducing glare and providing a smooth surface.
- Blade Grind: Standard, offering a balance between strength and cutting ability.
- Sheath Material: Nylon, a lightweight and durable material for carrying and protecting the knife.
These specifications translate to a lightweight and easily carried knife suitable for general utility tasks. The stainless steel blade should resist corrosion to some degree, while the Staglon handle provides a comfortable grip.
Performance & Functionality
The China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife performs adequately for light-duty cutting tasks such as opening packages, cutting rope, and preparing food. Its sharp tip allows for detailed work, while the curved blade facilitates slicing motions.
The knife’s biggest strength lies in its affordability and general utility. However, its weaknesses include mediocre edge retention, a potentially slippery handle when wet, and questionable long-term durability. It only meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The knife’s design is a classic Sharpfinger style, known for its comfortable grip and versatile blade shape. The Staglon handle provides a traditional aesthetic, but it doesn’t offer the same level of grip as more modern materials like G10 or Micarta.
The build quality is adequate for the price point. The knife is lightweight and relatively comfortable in hand, although the handle might feel small for users with larger hands. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The knife’s long-term durability is questionable due to the use of lower-grade stainless steel and Staglon handle material. Regular maintenance is required to prevent rust and maintain a reasonable edge.
Maintaining and repairing the knife is relatively easy. Sharpening can be done with basic tools. However, replacing damaged parts is unlikely due to the knife’s low cost.
Accessories and Customization Options
The China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife comes with a basic black nylon belt sheath. No other accessories are included.
Customization options are limited due to the knife’s simple construction and low price. It’s unlikely that aftermarket grips or other modifications are readily available.
Pros and Cons of China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife
Pros
- Affordable: Extremely budget-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Classic design: The Sharpfinger blade shape is versatile and aesthetically pleasing.
- Lightweight and compact: Easy to carry and maneuver.
- Decent initial sharpness: Ready to use out of the box for basic tasks.
- Functional nylon sheath: Provides convenient and safe carry.
Cons
- Mediocre edge retention: Requires frequent sharpening.
- Questionable durability: Susceptible to rust and scratching.
- Slippery handle when wet: Reduces grip and control.
Who Should Buy China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife?
The China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for casual campers, beginner anglers, or anyone needing a very inexpensive utility knife for light tasks. It’s suitable for those who prioritize affordability over premium materials and long-term durability.
This knife should be skipped by serious outdoorsmen, survivalists, or anyone who requires a reliable and durable knife for demanding tasks. It’s also not ideal for those who prefer knives with superior grip and edge retention.
A must-have accessory would be a sharpening stone or honing steel to maintain the blade’s edge. Adding some grip tape to the handle could improve control in wet conditions.
Conclusion on China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife
The China Made Sharpfinger Staglon Fixed Blade Knife offers a functional and affordable cutting tool for basic tasks. While it lacks the durability and performance of higher-end knives, its low price point makes it an attractive option for casual users.
The price is justified for what you get. It is an entry-level knife that performs adequately for light-duty tasks.
I would cautiously recommend it to someone looking for a very cheap, general-purpose knife and understands its limitations. It’s a serviceable tool for occasional use. Just don’t expect it to last a lifetime or perform like a premium blade. If you’re in a bind and need a cheap knife, buy it.