CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black Review

First Impressions of CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black

The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black is a compact, EDC-friendly fixed blade knife from CIVIVI, a company known for producing high-quality knives at affordable prices. Its sleek design, combined with the robust 10Cr15CoMoV stainless steel blade, immediately suggests a knife that’s both capable and convenient. I was drawn to this knife because I needed a small, easily concealable fixed blade for everyday carry and occasional outdoor tasks.

The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black arrived in CIVIVI‘s standard packaging, well-protected and showcasing the knife’s features. My first impression was of its surprising heft, despite its small size, lending it a sense of solid construction. The black stonewash finish on both the blade and handle gives it a rugged, understated aesthetic.

I considered the CRKT Minimalist and the ESEE Izula II before deciding on the CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black. I favored the Circulus over the CRKT Minimalist because of the full stainless steel construction, whereas the Minimalist uses a handle wrap. The ESEE Izula II is a great knife, but the CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black is significantly more compact.

Initially, I was excited by the potential of this knife as a reliable and discreet EDC option. My initial reaction was excitement. The size, build quality, and materials seemed promising, suggesting a knife that could handle a variety of everyday cutting tasks.

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Real-World Testing: Putting CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. It was used for tasks such as food preparation (cutting vegetables and opening packages), feathering sticks for fire starting, and general camp chores. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions, but rain arrived on day two, testing its grip and corrosion resistance.

Even with wet hands, the stonewashed stainless steel handle provided a surprisingly secure grip. The blade retained its edge well after moderate use, showing no signs of rust despite the damp environment. The compact size made it easy to carry and deploy quickly.

There were no issues during the initial testing, but the small blade did require some adjustment to my cutting technique. Getting used to the smaller size was the only hurdle.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular carry and use, the CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. It’s been used for everything from opening boxes and cutting rope to preparing food and carving wood. The knife has seen use in all four seasons now.

The stonewash finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The blade has maintained its sharpness, requiring only occasional stropping to keep it in top condition. The Kydex sheath has also retained its shape and retention, ensuring secure carry.

Cleaning is straightforward, and a simple wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient. I have used a mild soap and water solution a few times when cutting food. This CIVIVI knife has exceeded expectations in terms of durability and performance, easily outperforming other small fixed blades I’ve used in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black

Specifications

• The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black has a 5-inch overall length, making it a very compact knife for EDC.
  This small size contributes to its discreet carry and maneuverability in tight spaces.
• The blade is 2 inches long and features a drop point shape, finished with a black stonewash.
  This blade shape and size are well-suited for a variety of everyday tasks.
• It is made of 10Cr15CoMoV stainless steel.
  This steel offers a good balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance.
• The handle is constructed from black stonewashed stainless steel.
  This material provides excellent durability and grip.
• The knife features a full tang construction, enhancing its strength and stability.
  Full tang knives are known for their robustness, as the blade extends throughout the handle.
• It comes with a black Kydex belt sheath, ensuring secure and convenient carry.
  Kydex is a durable and weather-resistant material, making it ideal for sheaths.
• The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black includes a ball chain lanyard and a paracord lanyard for versatile carry options.
  These lanyards offer flexibility in how the knife is attached and carried.
• The knife weighs just 0.28 lb, making it exceptionally lightweight for its construction.
  This minimal weight is a significant advantage for EDC.

Performance & Functionality

The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose as an EDC knife. The 2-inch blade is surprisingly capable, handling a wide range of cutting tasks with ease. It’s perfect for opening packages, cutting rope, preparing food, and other everyday chores.

The stonewash finish on the blade not only looks good but also helps to hide scratches and wear. The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black‘s design meets and even exceeds expectations for a small fixed blade.

Design & Ergonomics

The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black features a minimalist, yet functional design. The full stainless steel construction provides a solid and durable feel in the hand. The handle, despite its small size, offers a surprisingly comfortable and secure grip, thanks to the stonewashed texture.

There is no real learning curve, the knife is easy to deploy. The design is simple and effective.

Durability & Maintenance

The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black is built to last. The 10Cr15CoMoV stainless steel blade is highly resistant to corrosion and wear. The full tang construction ensures that the knife can withstand significant stress without failing.

The stainless steel handle is virtually indestructible, and the Kydex sheath provides excellent protection for the blade. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black comes with a Kydex sheath, a ball chain lanyard, and a paracord lanyard. The sheath is well-made and offers secure retention, and the lanyards provide versatile carry options.

There are limited customization options specifically designed for the CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black, but the lanyard can be swapped out for aftermarket options. Aftermarket belt clips are also available for Kydex sheaths, offering additional carry configurations.

Pros and Cons of CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black

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Who Should Buy CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black?

• Perfect for: Individuals seeking a discreet and reliable EDC fixed blade, urban dwellers needing a compact cutting tool, and outdoor enthusiasts wanting a backup knife for lightweight tasks.
• Who should skip this product? Those needing a larger, more robust knife for heavy-duty tasks, or those prioritizing ergonomics and comfort over compactness.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider an aftermarket belt clip for the Kydex sheath for enhanced carry options.

Conclusion on CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black

The CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black is a well-designed and well-executed EDC fixed blade. Its compact size, durable construction, and versatile carry options make it an excellent choice for those seeking a discreet and reliable cutting tool. The $61.99 price tag is more than justified, considering the quality of materials and construction.

I would highly recommend the CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black to anyone looking for a high-quality, compact fixed blade for everyday carry. It’s a practical, durable, and stylish knife that will serve you well in a variety of situations. Consider adding the CIVIVI Circulus Fixed Blade Black to your EDC lineup today!