Let’s Talk About China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife
The China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife. It’s a name that doesn’t exactly inspire visions of high-end craftsmanship. This budget-friendly knife promises survival functionality in a compact package. With its OD green rubber handle and black-finished blade, it certainly looks the part of a tactical tool.
I’ve spent years testing high-end knives, from custom-made blades to premium production models. But I also recognize the need for affordable options, especially for beginners or those who need a backup blade. My mission here was simple: to see if this inexpensive knife could actually perform, or if it’s just another cheap imitation.
Upon unboxing, the lightweight nature of the knife was immediately apparent. The rubber handle felt surprisingly grippy, but the overall build felt… economical. Comparing it to my Benchmade Bushcrafter and my ESEE 6, the China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife felt less substantial. I picked this particular knife because of its price point and purported “survival” capabilities.
My initial excitement was tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism. At this price, I wasn’t expecting perfection. I was hoping for a usable tool that could handle basic tasks.
Real-World Testing: Putting China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife on a weekend camping trip to the local state park. I intended to use it for basic camp chores like food prep, feather sticking, and light batoning (splitting small pieces of wood). The weather was dry but cool, with temperatures dipping into the low 40s at night.
The blade struggled with even basic tasks. The edge dulling noticeably after feathering just a few sticks. The rubber handle, while grippy, also started to feel slippery when wet.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of light use, the China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife shows significant wear. The black finish on the blade is already chipping off. There are several dings on the blade despite only using it for light-duty tasks.
Maintaining the knife is relatively easy. The stainless steel blade resists rust, but the edge retention is poor. Sharpening is required almost every time I use it. It definitely disappoints when compared to my experiences with knives made with premium steels.
Breaking Down the Features of China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife
Specifications
The China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife features a 7 1/2″ overall length with a 4 1/4″ black finish stainless clip point blade. The blade shape is a clip point. Its OD green grooved rubber handle provides a grip. A black nylon belt sheath is included for carrying.
- Blade Length: 4.25 inches. This offers a decent amount of cutting edge for general tasks.
- Overall Length: 7.5 inches. This makes the knife relatively compact and easy to carry.
- Blade Material: Steel. The product description only states “steel,” with no specifics on type or hardness.
- Handle Material: Rubber. This should provide a decent grip, even in wet conditions.
- Sheath Material: Nylon. This is a standard, lightweight material for sheaths.
These specifications are important because they dictate the knife’s capabilities. The lack of specific blade steel information is concerning. It suggests a low-grade stainless steel that won’t hold an edge well.
Performance & Functionality
The China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife struggles to perform consistently. Its edge retention is poor. The blade dulls quickly, requiring frequent sharpening.
Its strengths are its low price and relatively compact size. Its weaknesses lie in its durability and edge retention. It does not meet my expectations for a survival knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife boasts a simple design. The rubber handle offers decent grip and a full tang construction theoretically adding strength, although the quality of the steel used in the tang is questionable. The knife is lightweight, which makes it easy to carry, but also contributes to a feeling of flimsiness.
The user experience is not particularly pleasant. Sharpening is frequently necessary. The sheath is basic and functional but lacks any retention features beyond a simple Velcro strap.
Durability & Maintenance
The China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife isn’t built to last. The blade finish scratches easily. The edge dulls quickly.
Maintenance is simple. Cleaning and oiling the blade after each use will help prevent rust. Sharpening will be a frequent requirement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife includes only a basic nylon sheath. There are no other accessories included. Customization options are limited due to the low cost and basic design.
It is unlikely that aftermarket grips or sheaths designed for other knives will fit this model.
Pros and Cons of China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife
Pros
- Low Price: The most significant advantage is its affordability.
- Lightweight Design: Easy to carry and handle.
- Rubber Handle: Provides a decent grip, even when wet.
Cons
- Poor Edge Retention: Requires frequent sharpening.
- Low-Quality Steel: The blade material is not specified and likely of low quality.
- Questionable Durability: The blade finish scratches easily, and the overall construction feels flimsy.
Who Should Buy China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife?
The China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife is best suited for individuals on an extremely tight budget who need a knife for very light tasks. It could be useful as a backup knife in a survival kit or for occasional use by campers who don’t want to risk damaging a more expensive blade. This knife could also be a training blade to learn about knife care and sharpening before investing in a better knife.
This knife should be avoided by anyone who needs a reliable, durable tool for serious outdoor activities or survival situations. People needing a knife to rely on for protection, or for sustained hard work should look elsewhere.
A must-have modification would be a good quality sharpening stone. Keeping the blade sharp will maximize its limited performance.
Conclusion on China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife
The China Made Survival Fixed Blade OD Green Fixed Blade Knife is a very inexpensive knife that offers basic functionality. Its low price point makes it accessible to almost anyone. However, its poor edge retention, questionable durability, and cheap materials make it a risky choice for serious use.
The value proposition is questionable. While the price is low, the performance is even lower. You are better off saving a bit more money and buying a better knife.
I cannot personally recommend this knife for anything beyond very light tasks. If you are serious about survival, bushcraft, or any other outdoor activity, invest in a higher quality blade.
Final thoughts? You get what you pay for and this is a knife that reflects that sentiment, but if you’re on a tight budget or need a knife that you won’t mind beating up, this is an option.