Let’s Talk About Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife
The Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife presents itself as a compact and affordable option for those seeking a small, easily carried knife. Manufactured by Sawmill, this knife boasts a stainless steel blade made from a file and a pakkawood handle, all within a 5.5-inch overall length. Its most compelling feature is undoubtedly its price point, clocking in at just $15.99, making it an accessible choice.
I was looking for a compact fixed blade knife for small game processing and general camp chores that wouldn’t break the bank. I needed something easily carried on my belt and capable of handling light tasks without being overly bulky.
Upon unboxing, the Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife felt surprisingly solid for its size and price. The pakkawood handle had a decent weight and felt comfortable in my hand. The fact that the blade is made from a file is intriguing.
Compared to the CRKT Minimalist, which I also considered, the Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife seemed a bit more substantial, though less ergonomically refined. The Mora Eldris is another competitor, but its price is significantly higher. The Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife’s price was the deciding factor.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked decent, but the low price raised questions about its long-term durability. Would it hold an edge?
Real-World Testing: Putting Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife on a weekend camping trip focused on small game hunting and general bushcraft tasks. The knife saw use in cleaning squirrels, preparing tinder for a fire, and whittling small pieces of wood. It performed admirably in the dry conditions of the late summer forest.
Using it was straightforward; the small size allowed for precise control when skinning and gutting small game. There wasn’t much of a learning curve; it’s a knife. After cleaning two squirrels, I noticed a slight dulling of the blade, but nothing alarming.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife is showing some expected wear, primarily in the form of minor scratches on the blade and some slight discoloration of the leather sheath. The full tang construction is proving its worth. The handle remains secure and comfortable.
The blade does require frequent sharpening to maintain a decent edge, which isn’t unexpected for a stainless steel blade at this price point. Cleaning is simple: a quick wash with soap and water, followed by drying and a light oiling of the blade, keeps it in good condition. Compared to my Benchmade Bushcrafter, the Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife obviously doesn’t compare in edge retention or overall durability, but it also costs a fraction of the price. It’s adequate for light tasks.
Breaking Down the Features of Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife
Specifications
- Overall Length: 5.5 inches – This compact size makes it easy to carry and conceal. It’s a great option for a small, unobtrusive blade.
- Blade Length: 2 inches – The short blade is suitable for detailed work and small tasks. It might be limiting for larger cutting jobs.
- Blade Material: Stainless Steel – Stainless steel offers decent corrosion resistance, but may not hold an edge as well as high-carbon steels. It’s a trade-off between ease of maintenance and edge retention.
- Handle Material: Pakkawood – Pakkawood is a durable and attractive material that provides a comfortable grip. It’s resistant to moisture and temperature changes.
- Blade Grind: Standard – A standard blade grind is versatile and suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. It’s a good all-around option.
- Sheath Material: Leather – The included leather sheath provides a safe and convenient way to carry the knife. It adds a touch of class to the package.
- Full Tang Construction – The full tang is a significant feature, enhancing the knife’s strength and durability. This means the steel extends the full length of the handle.
- Blade Made from a File – The fact that the blade is made from a file is unique and speaks to its potential hardiness, although the specific type of steel is not specified. This could be a pro or a con depending on the quality of the original file.
These specifications mean the knife is designed for portability and ease of use for smaller tasks. The stainless steel is an advantage for someone who wants low maintenance.
Performance & Functionality
The Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife performs adequately for its intended purpose: small cutting tasks. It’s sharp enough out of the box to handle basic chores, though the edge retention is not exceptional. It gets the job done.
The main strength is its compact size and ease of carry. Its weakness is its limited blade length and the need for frequent sharpening. It meets expectations for a $15.99 knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price, with the pakkawood handle providing a comfortable grip. The weight is well-balanced and feels good in the hand. The design is simple and functional, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics.
The knife is fairly user-friendly. There’s no significant learning curve. It’s a straightforward, no-frills design.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife should last for a reasonable amount of time, especially with its full tang construction. Regular cleaning and sharpening are essential to maintain its performance. The blade is easy to sharpen with a basic sharpening stone.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife comes with a simple leather sheath. There are no other included accessories, and customization options are limited. Aftermarket sheaths are available in various materials if you prefer something other than leather.
Pros and Cons of Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife
Pros
- Inexpensive price point makes it accessible to almost anyone.
- Compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry.
- Full tang construction enhances durability.
- Pakkawood handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- The leather sheath is included.
Cons
- Stainless steel blade requires frequent sharpening.
- Limited blade length may not be suitable for larger tasks.
- Sheath quality may not be the best, but it is functional.
Who Should Buy Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife?
The Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for:
- Budget-conscious campers and hikers who need a small, general-purpose knife.
- Beginners who are just starting to explore bushcraft and knife skills.
- Anyone looking for a backup or secondary knife for their gear kit.
- Hunters on a budget.
Who should skip this product? Those who need a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks or prioritize edge retention above all else. Those who want a premium knife.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good sharpening stone and potentially an upgraded sheath for improved durability and carry options.
Conclusion on Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife
The Sawmill Colorwood Hunter Fixed Blade Knife is a decent little knife for the price. It’s not going to win any awards for performance or durability, but it’s a functional tool that gets the job done for light tasks.
The price is definitely justified. You’re getting a usable knife for under $20, which is hard to beat.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive, compact fixed blade knife for light use. Don’t expect it to perform like a $100 knife, but for the price, it’s a solid value. Grab one and toss it in your pack – you might be surprised at how useful it is.