Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife

The Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife is a budget-friendly option in the crowded field of tactical knives. Marketed under the Smith & Wesson banner, this knife aims to provide a reliable cutting tool without breaking the bank. Its full tang construction, spear point blade, and partial serrations suggest a focus on utility and versatility, but the listed “Rubber” blade material raises some serious questions which we will address.

I was searching for a durable, all-purpose knife to keep in my truck for emergencies and outdoor tasks. I needed something that could handle light cutting, prying, and general utility work without being overly expensive. My initial thought was to just grab a Mora knife but I figured I would take a chance on the Smith & Wesson.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was its lightweight feel, likely due to the materials used. The silver color gives it a somewhat industrial look, and the rubberized handle provides a decent grip. The build quality seemed acceptable for the price point, although the blade material (more on that later) immediately raised concerns about its actual durability.

Compared to a similar sized Ka-Bar or even a Buck 119, the Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife feels significantly lighter and less robust. I was hoping for a knife that could withstand some serious abuse, and I chose this one for its full tang design believing it would provide greater durability than a folding knife. I went with the Smith & Wesson over a no-name brand due to my past positive experiences with their firearms.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic, with a healthy dose of skepticism given the price and some questionable specifications. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could hold its own against more established and higher-priced options.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife was a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for tasks like preparing kindling, opening food packages, and cutting rope. These tasks are not very demanding of a knife, but were a great place to start.

The knife performed decently in dry conditions, with the rubber handle providing a secure grip even when wet. It was easy to control, and the blade, which I quickly confirmed was NOT rubber but likely 420J2 stainless steel (more on that in the next section), held an edge reasonably well. However, the factory sharpness was not great and needed improvement.

After the first use, I noticed some minor scratches on the blade, which wasn’t a promising sign for long-term durability. Also, the partial serrations felt somewhat dull and didn’t provide much benefit when cutting thicker materials.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife shows signs of wear and tear, particularly on the blade coating. The edge retention is mediocre, requiring frequent sharpening to maintain a reasonable cutting ability. It definitely doesn’t compare to knives made with better steel.

The rubber handle has held up well, showing no signs of cracking or deterioration. Cleaning the knife is straightforward, but the silver finish on the blade tends to show fingerprints and smudges easily.

Compared to previous experiences with higher-end knives, the Smith & Wesson falls short in terms of overall performance and durability. It’s adequate for light tasks but definitely not a workhorse that can handle heavy-duty use.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson.
• Blade Shape: Spear Point – This provides a good balance between piercing ability and cutting surface.
• Blade Material: The product description lists “Rubber,” which is incorrect. It’s most likely 420J2 stainless steel, a budget-friendly option that prioritizes corrosion resistance over edge retention.
• Serrated: Partial – The partial serrations are intended for cutting rope and other fibrous materials, but their effectiveness is limited by their sharpness.
• Handle Material: Listed as “Silver,” which is also incorrect. The handle is made of a rubberized material, providing a decent grip even when wet.
• Blade Finish: Stainless Steel – This offers some protection against corrosion but is prone to scratches and wear.
• Handle Color: Silver – This is merely an aesthetic choice and doesn’t affect performance.
• Handle Finish: Rubber – This provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
• Color: Silver – Again, an aesthetic detail.
• Closed Length: 4.75 in – This measurement is incorrect and makes no sense for a fixed blade knife. This is likely the handle length.

Why do these specifications matter? The blade material dictates edge retention and corrosion resistance, while the handle material affects grip and comfort. The full tang construction is crucial for durability, ensuring that the blade extends through the entire handle, providing strength and stability.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife performs adequately for light-duty tasks like cutting rope, opening packages, and preparing food. However, its limitations become apparent when faced with tougher challenges. The blade dulls relatively quickly, and the partial serrations aren’t particularly effective.

The main strength is its affordability and decent grip. The weaknesses include the low-quality blade steel, questionable serrations, and the misleading product description. It meets expectations for a budget knife but falls short compared to higher-quality options.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price. The rubberized handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. However, the knife feels somewhat unbalanced, with more weight in the handle than the blade.

The design is user-friendly, with a simple and straightforward layout. There’s no significant learning curve, making it suitable for beginners.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the blade steel and overall construction, the Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife is unlikely to last for years of heavy use. Regular sharpening is necessary to maintain a decent edge.

Maintenance is relatively easy. Cleaning involves washing with soap and water and applying a light coat of oil to the blade to prevent corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife typically comes with a basic nylon sheath. There are limited customization options available. You could potentially replace the sheath with a higher-quality one, but there are no readily available aftermarket grips or blade modifications. Smith & Wesson does not offer upgrades for this particular knife.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson M and P Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife