BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife Review

First Impressions of BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife

The BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife promises a blend of traditional craftsmanship and practical design, appealing to both seasoned outdoorsmen and those just starting to explore the wilderness. BucknBear aims to deliver a reliable hunting tool with a focus on aesthetics and comfortable ergonomics. Its 256-layer Damascus steel blade and maple burl handle immediately caught my eye, suggesting a level of quality often absent in knives at this price point.

I was looking for a compact, fixed-blade knife that could serve as a reliable companion on my backcountry fishing trips. Size and portability were key, but I didn’t want to compromise on blade strength or edge retention.

Upon unboxing, the BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife felt surprisingly substantial. The weight distribution felt balanced, and the maple burl handle offered a secure, comfortable grip. The Damascus pattern was striking, indicative of the BucknBear’s attention to detail, and the included leather sheath seemed well-made and functional.

I considered the Morakniv Companion and the CRKT Minimalist before settling on the BucknBear. While the Morakniv is known for its exceptional value and the CRKT for its ultra-compact design, the BucknBear’s Damascus steel and unique handle material gave it a distinct edge in terms of aesthetics and perceived durability. I hoped the BucknBear’s premium materials would translate to superior performance.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife certainly looked the part of a high-quality hunting knife, and I was eager to put it through its paces in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife on a three-day backcountry fishing trip in the Cascade Mountains. This environment offered a range of tasks from preparing kindling to cleaning fish.

The knife performed admirably in dry conditions. I used it to feather sticks for starting a fire, and the blade held its edge remarkably well. The maple burl handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were slightly damp, although prolonged exposure to moisture made it a little slick.

After using it to clean a couple of trout, I noticed some slight discoloration on the blade. The extended belly edge was helpful for filleting, however, cleaning up the knife right after each use was mandatory.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife has proven to be a capable, albeit somewhat temperamental, tool. The Damascus steel, while beautiful, requires diligent care to prevent rust and maintain its appearance.

Despite regular cleaning and oiling, I noticed some minor pitting on the blade after a particularly humid camping trip. The leather sheath has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear, and the stitching remains intact.

Compared to my trusty old Gerber Strongarm, the BucknBear requires significantly more maintenance, but it offers a more refined cutting experience. The Gerber is undoubtedly more rugged, but the BucknBear’s Damascus blade offers superior slicing performance, especially when preparing food or performing delicate tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife

Specifications

• The BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife features a 256-layer Damascus steel blade composed of 1095 and 15n20 steel. This layering creates a visually appealing pattern and contributes to the blade’s strength and flexibility.

• The handle is crafted from maple burl. This provides a unique aesthetic and a comfortable grip.

• The knife is designed for hunting applications. Its shape and size are optimized for dressing game.

• It comes with a leather sheath with a belt loop for easy carry. The sheath is stitched and riveted for durability.

• The Damascus steel composition (1095 & 15n20) is known for its ability to hold a sharp edge, but it also requires careful maintenance to prevent corrosion.

Performance & Functionality

The BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife excels at slicing and detailed cutting tasks. The extended belly edge is particularly useful for skinning and filleting.

Its strength lies in its ability to maintain a sharp edge and perform precise cuts, although the steel can be prone to chipping if used for heavy-duty tasks. The maple burl handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, enhancing control and reducing fatigue during prolonged use.

While the blade is excellent for fine work, it’s not ideal for chopping or batoning. I believe BucknBear could improve it by specifying the Rockwell hardness of the blade.

Design & Ergonomics

The BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife boasts a classic hunting knife design. The combination of Damascus steel and maple burl creates a visually striking aesthetic.

The knife feels well-balanced in hand. The handle’s ergonomic shape contributes to a secure and comfortable grip, even with wet or gloved hands. The decorative jimping along the spine provides additional grip and control during detailed cutting tasks.

Durability & Maintenance

The BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife requires diligent maintenance to prevent rust and corrosion. The Damascus steel is susceptible to oxidation if not properly cleaned and oiled after each use.

The leather sheath is durable and well-constructed, but it also requires periodic conditioning to prevent drying and cracking. With proper care, the BucknBear should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife comes with a high-quality leather sheath. This is designed for belt carry and protection of the blade.

There are limited customization options available directly from BucknBear. However, aftermarket knife handle scales could be fitted with some modification. Many users may choose to personalize the sheath with decorative stitching or tooling.

Pros and Cons of BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife

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Who Should Buy BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife?

The BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife is perfect for hunters, anglers, and outdoorsmen who appreciate a blend of traditional craftsmanship and practical functionality. It’s ideal for those who prioritize a sharp, versatile blade for detailed cutting tasks.

Those seeking a low-maintenance, heavy-duty knife for survival or bushcraft should consider other options. The BucknBear requires more care and is best suited for users who are willing to invest the time in maintaining its appearance and performance.

A sharpening stone and quality knife oil are must-have accessories to ensure the BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife remains in top condition. Leather conditioner for the sheath will also prolong its life.

Conclusion on BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife

The BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife is a visually appealing and functionally capable tool. It excels at slicing and detailed cutting tasks, making it a valuable companion for hunters and anglers.

At $69.00, the price is justified for those who appreciate the beauty and performance of Damascus steel and are willing to invest the time in proper maintenance. The BucknBear offers a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality that is hard to find in other knives at this price point.

I would recommend the BucknBear Small Green Hunter Fixed Knife to anyone looking for a stylish and versatile hunting knife, provided they are prepared to care for its Damascus steel blade. Consider adding this fine tool to your gear collection and elevate your outdoor experience!