First Impressions of Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife
The Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife immediately grabs attention with its classic lines and striking red handle. At $27.95, it sits firmly in the budget-friendly category, promising a blend of aesthetics and functionality without breaking the bank. This knife aims to deliver a reliable cutting tool for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures.
I was seeking a compact, aesthetically pleasing fixed blade for light camp tasks and as a general utility knife. Something easily carried and deployed was key. I considered options like the Morakniv Companion and the CRKT Minimalist Bowie, both respected in their own right.
Upon unboxing, the Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The pakkawood handle looks appealing, and the full tang construction inspires confidence. The satin finish blade is clean and the included leather sheath adds a touch of class.
The Morakniv is renowned for its functionality but lacks the visual appeal, while the CRKT, though stylish, is significantly smaller. The Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife seemed to strike a balance between form and function. Initially, I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would perform as well as it looked.
Real-World Testing: Putting Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife was on a weekend camping trip. It was used for tasks like preparing kindling, food prep, and some minor gear repairs. The weather was dry, but temperatures dipped into the low 40s overnight.
The knife performed adequately for light tasks. Feathering sticks for fire starting proved manageable, although the blade wasn’t exceptionally sharp out of the box. The handle provided a secure grip even with slightly damp hands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of sporadic use, the Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife shows expected wear. The satin finish blade exhibits some light scratches from normal use. The red pakkawood handle, while still attractive, has darkened slightly.
The edge retention is decent, requiring occasional honing to maintain sharpness. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down after use keeps it in good condition. Compared to my usual EDC blade, a Benchmade Griptilian, the Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife requires more frequent sharpening but is much easier to clean after messy tasks.
Breaking Down the Features of Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife
Specifications
The Manufacturer of this knife is Infinite Blades.
The blade length is 3.5 inches, offering a compact size for easy carry. This makes it suitable for detailed tasks and general utility.
The overall length is 7.88 inches, providing a comfortable grip without being unwieldy. The smaller size lends itself well to belt carry.
The blade material is stainless steel, providing corrosion resistance and ease of maintenance. However, edge retention might not be as great as with high-carbon steels.
The handle is crafted from red pakkawood, offering a unique aesthetic appeal and comfortable grip. Pakkawood is known for its durability and resistance to moisture.
It weighs in at 0.42 lb, making it lightweight and easy to carry all day. This is an important consideration for extended use in the field.
An integrated lanyard hole provides an option for attaching a lanyard for added security. This can be helpful when working around water or in precarious situations.
The full tang construction enhances durability and provides better balance. This feature makes the knife more robust and reliable for demanding tasks.
Performance & Functionality
The Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife performs adequately for light to medium-duty tasks. Its 3.5-inch blade is suitable for slicing, carving, and basic camp chores. The edge holds up reasonably well, requiring occasional sharpening.
Its strengths lie in its aesthetic appeal and comfortable grip. The relatively low price point also makes it an attractive option. However, the steel is not the hardest, requiring more frequent sharpening.
Design & Ergonomics
The Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife boasts a visually appealing design, with the red pakkawood handle providing a touch of elegance. The handle is comfortable to hold for extended periods. Its full tang construction ensures a balanced feel in the hand.
The knife is generally user-friendly. The sheath is functional and allows for easy access. Some may find the handle a bit small if they have larger hands.
Durability & Maintenance
The Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife appears to be reasonably durable for its price point. The stainless-steel blade resists corrosion. The pakkawood handle is resilient to moisture and wear.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep it in good working order. The stainless steel blade is easy to resharpen.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife comes with a brown leather belt sheath. This provides convenient carry and protects the blade when not in use. There are limited customization options available directly from Infinite Blades.
However, the lanyard hole offers an opportunity to personalize the knife with custom lanyards. Aftermarket sheaths might also be an option for those seeking alternative carry methods.
Pros and Cons of Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife
Pros
- Aesthetically Pleasing Design: The red pakkawood handle and satin finish blade make this a visually appealing knife.
- Comfortable Grip: The pakkawood handle is ergonomically designed for a comfortable and secure hold.
- Full Tang Construction: Enhances durability and provides a balanced feel.
- Affordable Price: At $27.95, it’s a budget-friendly option for those seeking a decent fixed blade.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry for extended periods without adding significant weight.
Cons
- Blade Steel Quality: The stainless steel may not hold an edge as well as higher-end steels.
- Sheath Quality: The leather sheath is functional but not exceptionally durable.
- Initial Sharpness: May require sharpening out of the box to achieve optimal cutting performance.
Who Should Buy Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife?
The Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and general outdoor enthusiasts seeking an affordable and aesthetically pleasing utility knife. It would also suit individuals looking for a backup blade or a general-purpose knife for everyday tasks. Collectors of knives on a budget who enjoy aesthetically pleasing pieces would like it.
This product is not ideal for those who require a high-performance, heavy-duty blade for demanding tasks or survival situations. Professionals or serious outdoorsmen should opt for knives with higher-quality steel and more robust construction. A sharpening stone is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife
The Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife offers a blend of style and functionality at an attractive price point. While not a top-tier performer in terms of blade steel, it provides adequate performance for general utility and light outdoor tasks. The aesthetic design and comfortable grip are definite selling points.
The price is certainly justified, making it a worthwhile purchase for those on a budget or seeking an attractive backup blade. I would recommend it to casual users who prioritize aesthetics and affordability over ultimate performance. For those needing a dependable, attractive, and inexpensive fixed blade, give the Infinite Blades Red Pakkawood Fixed Blade Knife a try.