First Impressions of Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade
The Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade is a compact, one-piece knife designed for neck carry or discreet everyday carry. Boker Plus, known for its collaborations and value-driven designs, has crafted a small, yet robust tool from D2 tool steel. The Bad Moon’s distinctive finger ring and stonewash finish immediately caught my eye, promising both functionality and a touch of unique styling.
I needed a small, easily accessible fixed blade for tasks where a larger knife would be cumbersome. My search focused on finding something lightweight, durable, and capable of handling basic cutting chores during hikes and camping trips.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for its size. The stonewash finish on the D2 steel gave it a rugged, almost pre-worn look, while the one-piece construction inspired confidence. Compared to my Ka-Bar TDI Law Enforcement Knife (larger, different purpose) and a CRKT Minimalist Bowie (similar size, different steel), the Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade seemed to strike a good balance between concealability and usability, but the steel should prove harder than the CRKT. My first impression was a blend of intrigue and optimism; this little blade looked like it could punch above its weight.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade primarily on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for tasks like cutting cordage, preparing kindling, and opening food packages. The knife performed surprisingly well for its size, easily handling the tasks I threw at it.
While it wasn’t raining, the humidity was high, and everything was damp. The stonewash finish provided a decent grip, even with slightly sweaty hands, and the finger ring offered added security. Getting used to the small handle took a little time, but after a few minutes, the knife felt comfortable and secure in my hand. My only real issue was how small the blade was for larger tasks.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of sporadic use, the Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade is holding up remarkably well. There are no signs of chipping or significant wear on the blade, despite some use on harder woods. Maintaining the blade is straightforward; a quick wipe down after use and occasional honing keeps it sharp.
Compared to cheaper, softer steel knives I’ve used in the past, the D2 steel of the Bad Moon holds an edge much longer and resists corrosion effectively. This knife is exceeding expectations in its edge retention.
Breaking Down the Features of Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade
Specifications
- Overall Length: 5 inches (12.7cm) provides a compact size, ideal for concealed carry and situations where space is limited. This makes it easily manageable and discreet.
- Blade Length: 2.5 inches (6.35cm) is short but practical for most EDC tasks, offering good control and maneuverability. The short blade is ideal for fine tasks, but can still tackle general duties.
- Blade Material: D2 Tool Steel is a high-carbon, high-chromium steel known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance. This ensures long-lasting sharpness and durability, critical for demanding tasks.
- Construction: One-Piece adds to the knife’s strength and durability, minimizing potential failure points. The one-piece design makes for a robust tool you can trust.
- Finish: Stonewash provides a non-reflective surface that hides scratches and wear, contributing to the knife’s rugged aesthetic. This adds a layer of protection and helps maintain the knife’s appearance over time.
- Sheath: Black Kydex Neck Sheath offers secure retention and easy access, making it ideal for neck carry or attaching to gear. The Kydex sheath ensures the knife stays put and is readily available.
- Weight: 0.44 lbs, a very light weight to carry around, but still feels substantial in hand.
Performance & Functionality
The Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose – light to medium duty cutting tasks. The blade’s geometry allows for precise cuts, and the finger ring enhances grip security. While not designed for heavy-duty work, it excels at everyday tasks and emergency situations.
Its strengths lie in its concealability, ease of carry, and reliable cutting ability. A potential weakness is its small size, which may limit its effectiveness for larger tasks. It more than meets my expectations for a small, EDC fixed blade.
Design & Ergonomics
The one-piece construction feels solid and well-balanced in hand. The finger ring is a functional design element, improving grip and control. The handle is undeniably small, but the ergonomics are surprisingly good, providing a secure and comfortable hold for most hand sizes.
The stonewash finish not only looks good but also provides a slightly textured surface that enhances grip. There is a bit of a learning curve getting used to the smaller handle and finger ring, but it soon becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The D2 tool steel blade is highly durable and resistant to wear, ensuring a long lifespan with proper care. Maintaining the Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade is simple; regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed. The stonewash finish helps to hide any minor scratches or scuffs.
This knife is built to last and withstand regular use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade comes with a black Kydex neck sheath and a ball chain lanyard. There are no readily available aftermarket scales or customization options due to its one-piece construction. While not customizable in the traditional sense, the Kydex sheath can be easily attached to a belt or pack using aftermarket clips or MOLLE attachments.
Pros and Cons of Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade
Pros
- D2 Tool Steel Blade: Excellent edge retention and wear resistance for reliable performance.
- Compact Size: Easy to conceal and carry, perfect for EDC.
- One-Piece Construction: Enhances strength and durability, minimizing potential failure points.
- Kydex Sheath: Secure retention and easy access for quick deployment.
- Finger Ring: Provides added grip security and control, especially in wet conditions.
Cons
- Small Handle: May not be comfortable for users with larger hands during extended use.
- Limited Customization: One-piece design restricts aftermarket modification options.
Who Should Buy Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade?
The Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade is perfect for anyone looking for a discreet, reliable EDC knife. It is ideal for hikers, campers, and urban dwellers who need a small, capable cutting tool for everyday tasks and emergency situations. Anyone who values a small, concealable fixed blade will appreciate the design and functionality of the Bad Moon.
Those needing a larger knife for heavy-duty tasks should skip this product. If you anticipate needing a knife for processing large game, batoning wood, or other demanding tasks, a larger blade with a more substantial handle would be a better choice.
A small sharpening stone or steel and a paracord bracelet would be great additions.
Conclusion on Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade
The Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade is a well-designed, robust little knife that offers excellent value for its price. The use of D2 tool steel, coupled with the one-piece construction, makes it a durable and reliable tool for everyday carry. While its small size might not be for everyone, it excels at its intended purpose – providing a discreet and capable cutting tool in a compact package.
At a price point of $50.11, the Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade offers exceptional value. You’re getting a quality blade made from high-performance steel in a thoughtfully designed package.
I would absolutely recommend the Boker Plus Bad Moon Fixed Blade to anyone in the market for a small, reliable EDC fixed blade. It’s a fantastic addition to any gear kit and provides peace of mind knowing you have a capable tool always at hand. Check it out, you won’t regret it.