CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black Review

First Impressions of CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black

The CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black immediately caught my eye with its no-nonsense, tactical aesthetic and what appeared to be robust construction. I’ve been a fan of CJRB’s value-driven approach for years, seeing them consistently deliver quality materials and thoughtful designs at prices that don’t break the bank. This fixed blade, with its sleek black PVD coated AR-RPM9 blade and grippy G10 handle, looked like a promising addition to my outdoor gear.

I needed a reliable fixed blade for various tasks ranging from processing firewood on camping trips to preparing food while hunting, and even some occasional light-duty tasks around the property. I was hoping the CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black would deliver the right balance of strength, edge retention, and ergonomics.

Unboxing the Silax, I was impressed with the overall feel. The G10 handle felt secure in my grip, and the blade had a nice weight to it without being overly heavy. The included Kydex sheath was a welcome addition, providing secure retention and multiple carry options.

Compared to my Benchmade Bushcrafter and ESEE 6, the CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black is noticeably lighter and more compact. While the Benchmade boasts a premium steel and the ESEE is practically indestructible, the Silax offers a more budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing essential performance, or so I hoped.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black seemed to offer a lot of value for its price point, but I was eager to see how it would perform in the real world.

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Real-World Testing: Putting CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black was a weekend camping trip in the local national forest. The weather was typical for the area – damp and cool, with a chance of rain. I used the Silax for various camp chores, including batoning small firewood, feathering sticks for fire starting, and food preparation.

The blade performed admirably in all tasks. The black PVD coating seemed to provide good corrosion resistance in the damp environment, and the G10 handle offered a secure grip even when wet. I did not experience any hotspots, and the knife felt well-balanced in hand.

I had no issues during the initial usage. The Kydex sheath provided secure retention while hiking, and the knife was easily accessible when needed. The factory edge was reasonably sharp, though I planned to refine it later for optimal performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve taken it on several more camping trips, used it for yard work, and even tested its capabilities during a recent hog hunt. The blade has held up well with only minor scratches to the PVD coating.

The AR-RPM9 steel has proven to offer good edge retention. I only needed to touch up the edge a couple of times with a ceramic rod to maintain a working sharpness. The G10 handle still feels secure and shows no signs of wear.

Maintaining the Silax is straightforward. After each use, I simply wipe the blade clean with a damp cloth and apply a thin coat of oil to prevent corrosion. The Kydex sheath is also easy to clean with soap and water. Compared to my experience with softer steels, the Silax requires less frequent sharpening and is less prone to chipping.

Breaking Down the Features of CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black

Specifications

The CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black boasts impressive specifications for its price range. The 9.75″ overall length provides a substantial feel without being unwieldy. The 5.13″ blade is a practical size for various tasks, and the AR-RPM9 stainless steel offers a good balance of toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.

The black PVD coating not only enhances the aesthetics but also provides added protection against rust and wear. The black G10 handle is durable and offers excellent grip in all conditions. The full tang construction ensures strength and stability, while the Kydex sheath provides secure carry and quick access. The weight of 0.4 lb makes it easy to carry all day long.

These specifications translate to a knife that’s well-suited for a variety of outdoor and tactical applications. The blade length is sufficient for tasks like batoning and game processing, while the steel and handle materials ensure durability and reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black performs admirably as a general-purpose fixed blade. The blade’s shape is well-suited for slicing, chopping, and piercing. The full tang construction provides confidence during heavy use, and the G10 handle offers a comfortable and secure grip.

The main strength of the Silax lies in its balance of performance and affordability. The AR-RPM9 steel holds an edge well, and the G10 handle is both durable and comfortable. The only area for improvement might be the factory edge, which could be sharper out of the box.

Overall, the CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black meets and even exceeds expectations, particularly considering its price point. It’s a reliable and capable tool that can handle a wide range of tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The black PVD coating gives it a sleek and tactical look, while the G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The knife feels well-balanced in hand, making it easy to control.

The ergonomics are well-considered. The handle has a subtle contour that fits comfortably in the palm, and the finger choil provides added control during detailed tasks. The Kydex sheath is also well-designed, offering secure retention and multiple carry options. The sheath can be mounted vertically or horizontally.

There’s virtually no learning curve with the Silax. It’s a simple and straightforward design that’s easy to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black is built to last. The full tang construction and durable materials ensure that it can withstand heavy use. The AR-RPM9 steel is tough and resistant to chipping, while the G10 handle is impervious to moisture and temperature changes.

Maintaining the Silax is easy. Simply wipe the blade clean after each use and apply a thin coat of oil to prevent corrosion. The Kydex sheath is also easy to clean with soap and water. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black comes with a Kydex sheath and a cord lanyard. While there are no specific accessories designed solely for the Silax, the standard MOLLE-compatible Kydex sheath allows for easy attachment to packs or belts.

The G10 handle is removable, allowing for customization with aftermarket scales if desired. The full tang construction also provides a solid platform for modifications like custom handle wraps or paracord lanyards. There are numerous aftermarket Kydex sheaths available as well if the stock sheath is not to your liking.

Pros and Cons of CJRB Silax Fixed Blade Black