Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife

The Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife is a compact, easily concealed blade designed for personal defense and utility. Manufactured by Hoffner Knives, it promises a lightweight, ultra-flat profile for discreet carry, combined with a spearpoint blade for piercing and slicing. This knife immediately struck me as a potentially excellent option for those prioritizing discreet carry and quick deployment.

For years, I’ve struggled to find a truly comfortable and easily accessible concealed carry knife. My search has been about balancing effective cutting ability with minimal bulk. The promise of the Bodyguard Neck Knife’s flat profile and neck carry system seemed like it might finally solve this problem.

Unboxing the knife, my first impression was that it was smaller than I anticipated. The construction felt solid for its size, and the black stonewash finish on the blade looked durable and discreet. The stainless-steel handle, also with a stonewash finish, added a touch of quality.

I considered other popular neck knives from brands like CRKT and Ka-Bar before settling on the Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife. The deciding factors were the ultra-flat design and the unique RGH (Rear Grip Hold) system that Hoffner Knives promotes. The price point was also attractive compared to some of the more premium options.

My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The size made me question its usefulness for heavier tasks, but the design seemed promising for discreet carry. It’s time to see how it performs.


Real-World Testing: Putting Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for light tasks like opening food packages, cutting cordage, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The knife performed adequately in these situations.

I also tested the knife during a particularly wet morning, and the stonewash finish on both the blade and handle provided a decent grip. The molded polymer sheath held the knife securely even during moderate activity, which was reassuring. However, deploying the knife with wet hands proved slightly more challenging due to its small size.

Initially, I found the grip to be a bit awkward, requiring some practice to get comfortable with the RGH system. The hole in the handle, designed for grip security, took some getting used to. But after some time, I began to appreciate its function in aiding grip transitions.

The blade felt sharp, but the short length limited its usefulness for larger cutting tasks. I noted the limitations of the Bodyguard Neck Knife during that first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife for daily carry, it has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of rust or significant wear on the blade, and the stonewash finish has proven to be quite durable. The handle also shows no signs of loosening or damage.

The edge retention of the blade is acceptable, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain a reasonable level of sharpness. The molded polymer sheath has also held up well, showing no cracks or loss of retention. The Hoffner Knives sheath has stood the test of time.

Cleaning the knife is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a cloth is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a light coat of oil to the blade to prevent corrosion. Overall, the knife is very easy to maintain.

Previously, I used a larger folding knife for everyday carry, and the Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife is noticeably less versatile. However, its discreetness and ease of carry are significant advantages. It fills the niche of a backup or last-ditch defense tool quite well.

Breaking Down the Features of Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

  • Blade Length: 2.38 inches – This short blade length prioritizes concealability over extensive cutting power. It’s suitable for small, precise tasks rather than heavy-duty work.
  • Overall Length: 6.13 inches – The compact overall length further enhances concealability, making it easy to wear around the neck or attach to a belt. Its small profile makes it easy to stash.
  • Blade Shape: Spear Point – The spear point is a versatile blade shape that excels at piercing and offers reasonable slicing capabilities. This shape lends itself well to self-defense applications.
  • Blade Material: Stone – The description states “Stone,” which is likely a misprint or placeholder. This likely refers to the blade finish, not material.
  • Knife Application: Fixed Blade – The fixed blade design ensures strength and reliability, as there are no moving parts that can fail under stress. It’s ready for use at a moment’s notice.
  • Handle Material: Stainless – The stainless steel handle adds durability and corrosion resistance. It also contributes to the knife’s overall sleek and discreet appearance.
  • Blade Finish: Black Stonewash – The black stonewash finish provides a non-reflective surface, minimizing visibility, and offers some protection against scratches and wear. The finish looks good too.
  • Handle Color: Black – The black handle complements the black stonewash blade, creating a uniform and discreet aesthetic. Black also aids in concealing the knife.
  • Handle Finish: Stonewash – The stonewash finish on the handle provides a textured surface for improved grip and a less reflective appearance. This is a practical finish for a tactical knife.
  • Sheath Material: Molded Polymer – The molded polymer sheath offers secure retention and protection for the blade while being lightweight and durable. Polymer is a great choice for sheaths.

Performance & Functionality

The Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife performs well as a discreet, easily accessible self-defense tool. Its spear point blade is sharp enough for basic cutting tasks and offers reasonable piercing capability. The Hoffner Knives blade will get the job done.

One of its strengths is its low profile and easy concealability, making it ideal for situations where carrying a larger knife is impractical or undesirable. However, its small size limits its usefulness for more demanding tasks like batoning wood or preparing food in a survival situation. The Bodyguard Neck Knife isn’t designed for those tasks.

The knife meets expectations as a backup defensive tool, but it falls short as a primary utility knife. It is not the perfect knife for everything.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife features a slim, minimalist design that prioritizes concealability. The stainless steel handle is comfortable enough for short-term use but can become slightly uncomfortable during extended cutting tasks due to its narrow profile. A wider handle would improve ergonomics.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the RGH system, but once mastered, it provides a secure and balanced grip. The hole in the handle aids in grip transitions and allows for a variety of carrying options. Hoffner Knives made a good design decision.

Durability & Maintenance

The combination of a stainless steel handle and a black stonewash blade suggests good long-term durability. The molded polymer sheath provides adequate protection for the blade and is resistant to wear and tear. Hoffner Knives seems to have prioritized durability.

The knife is relatively easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling are sufficient to prevent corrosion and keep the blade in good working order. It’s also easy to sharpen.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife comes with a molded polymer sheath designed for neck carry or belt attachment. There are no additional accessories included with the knife. The sheath is the only included accessory.

There are limited customization options for this knife, as the handle is integral to the blade. Aftermarket sheaths might be available, but the molded polymer sheath is functional and well-suited to the knife’s design. Don’t expect many customization options.

Pros and Cons of Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife

Pros

  • Ultra-flat and lightweight design for easy concealability. The design truly lends itself to concealability.
  • Durable stainless-steel handle and black stonewash blade. The blade will stand the test of time.
  • Secure molded polymer sheath for neck or belt carry. The polymer sheath is well made.
  • Spear point blade suitable for piercing and basic cutting tasks. Good for basic, small tasks.
  • Affordable price point. The low price makes it a great deal.

Cons

  • Small size limits versatility for heavier tasks. It isn’t designed to be a heavy-duty knife.
  • Handle can be uncomfortable during extended use. Handle ergonomics are less than ideal.


Who Should Buy Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife?

The Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for individuals who prioritize discreet carry and need a readily accessible self-defense tool. This includes urban dwellers, law enforcement officers looking for a backup weapon, and anyone who wants a small, easily concealed knife for personal protection. The size will appeal to this audience.

This knife is not suitable for survivalists, bushcrafters, or anyone who needs a robust, multi-purpose knife for demanding tasks. It’s not designed to be an all-in-one survival tool.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality paracord for neck carry if the included chain is not preferred. Also, consider a sharpening stone or strop to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife

The Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife is a specialized tool designed for discreet carry and self-defense. Its small size, lightweight design, and durable construction make it a viable option for those seeking a readily accessible backup knife. Consider this knife if you value concealability.

At its price point, the value is justified for what it offers: a discreet, reliable, and easily accessible self-defense tool. It is a worthwhile purchase.

I would recommend the Hoffner Knives Bodyguard Neck Knife Fixed Blade Knife to anyone looking for a discreet and affordable neck knife for personal protection. If you’re in the market for a neck knife, check this one out.

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