First Impressions of WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade
The WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade immediately presents itself as a substantial tool, despite its budget-friendly price tag of just over $25. Its 10-inch overall length and 5-inch blade, coupled with a full tang construction and G10 handle, suggest a knife designed for more than just casual tasks. I’ve always been drawn to fixed blades for their reliability in the field, and the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade piqued my interest due to its potential as a general-purpose outdoor knife at an unbeatable price.
I was looking for an inexpensive, yet durable, fixed blade to use as a backup knife on my camping trips and for some light yard work. Durability and grip security were my primary concerns.
Upon unboxing, the weight (around 1 lb) feels solid, indicating robustness. The two-tone stonewash finish on the 440C stainless blade adds a touch of ruggedness, and the black G10 handle offers a promising grip. Initial impressions suggest a decent level of build quality, especially considering the price point; however, it doesn’t compare to my Benchmade A1 or Fallkniven F1 which are significantly more expensive, higher quality knives.
Compared to similarly priced knives like the Morakniv Companion or the Schrade SCHF36 Frontier, the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade appears larger and more robust, potentially offering more leverage for heavier tasks. The Morakniv is known for its exceptional sharpness out of the box, while the Schrade is known for its toughness, but the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade seems to strike a balance between size and potential durability. I picked the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade over the other budget options to test if a cheaper knife with more steel is better than more expensive knives with less steel.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price was low enough to take a risk, but the listed specifications and full-tang construction gave me hope that this could be a surprisingly capable tool.
Real-World Testing: Putting WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade was during a weekend camping trip in the nearby Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for tasks around the campsite, such as preparing kindling, batoning small pieces of wood for the fire, and food preparation. The two-tone stone wash finish held up well to abrasive materials, and the G10 handle provided an excellent grip even when wet.
The knife performed admirably in dry conditions, however, performance decreased when the handle became wet, though never becoming unsafe. It took a little getting used to, as the balance point is slightly forward, but after a few minutes, I was comfortable with it. The initial edge wasn’t razor-sharp but adequate for basic tasks.
After the first use, I noticed a slight loosening of the handle scales. It was easily remedied with tightening the screws, but was something to note.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a couple of months of intermittent use, the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade has held up reasonably well. There are some visible scratches on the blade from batoning, but the edge retention is surprisingly decent for 440C steel. I’ve used it for everything from cutting rope and opening packages to preparing meals and light yard work.
The durability is acceptable for the price. While the steel isn’t the hardest or most wear-resistant, it’s proven to be tough enough for most common outdoor tasks. Cleaning and maintaining the knife is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the blade is all it takes to keep it in good condition.
The WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade doesn’t outperform my higher-end knives in terms of edge retention or overall fit and finish, but it certainly provides excellent value for the money. It has exceeded my expectations considering its price, proving to be a reliable and functional tool for basic tasks.
Breaking Down the Features of WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade
Specifications
The WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade boasts a 10-inch overall length, making it a substantial knife. Its 5-inch blade is crafted from 440C stainless steel, known for its decent corrosion resistance and moderate edge retention. The knife features a full tang construction, meaning the blade extends through the entire length of the handle, enhancing its strength and durability.
The handle is made from black G10, a durable and grippy composite material. The knife weighs approximately 1 lb, giving it a solid feel in hand. Its full tang construction ensures enhanced strength and stability, making it more reliable for heavy-duty tasks. The blade’s two-tone stonewash finish not only looks appealing but also helps to hide scratches and wear.
Performance & Functionality
The WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade performs adequately for its intended purpose as a general-use outdoor knife. The blade is sharp enough for basic cutting tasks, and the full tang construction inspires confidence when batoning wood. Its functionality is somewhat limited by the relatively soft 440C steel, which requires more frequent sharpening than higher-end steels.
The strengths of this knife lie in its robust construction, comfortable grip, and budget-friendly price. The weaknesses include its average edge retention and the basic synthetic sheath. It meets expectations for a knife in this price range, providing a functional and durable tool without breaking the bank.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade is straightforward and functional. The black G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. The knife feels well-balanced in hand, despite its size.
The knife has a simple design with a focus on functionality. There is no steep learning curve, even for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 440C stainless steel blade and full tang construction, the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade is designed to be reasonably durable. While the steel isn’t as hard as some high-end options, it’s resistant to corrosion and capable of withstanding moderate use. Regular cleaning and oiling are recommended to prevent rust and maintain the blade’s sharpness.
The knife is easy to disassemble, clean, and maintain. A field knife should be easy to care for in the field, and WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade fits the bill.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade comes with a basic black synthetic belt sheath. There are limited customization options directly from WithArmour, but the G10 handle scales could potentially be replaced with aftermarket options if desired.
Aftermarket sheaths may be a worthwhile upgrade, as the included sheath is a basic but functional model. Due to the knife’s common design, compatible accessories from other brands should be available.
Pros and Cons of WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade
Pros
- Full tang construction provides excellent strength and durability.
- G10 handle offers a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- 440C stainless steel blade offers good corrosion resistance.
- Budget-friendly price makes it an excellent value for the money.
- Two-tone stonewash finish hides scratches and wear effectively.
Cons
- 440C steel requires more frequent sharpening than higher-end steels.
- Basic synthetic sheath lacks some of the features and durability of higher-end sheaths.
Who Should Buy WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade?
The WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade is perfect for campers, hikers, and budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and durable general-purpose knife. It is also a good choice for those seeking a backup knife or a starter fixed blade.
This knife may not be suitable for users who demand high-end steel and superior edge retention, or those who require a tactical knife with advanced features. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade
The WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade is a surprisingly capable and durable knife for its price. While it may not compete with high-end models in terms of edge retention or overall fit and finish, it offers exceptional value for the money. Its full tang construction, G10 handle, and decent 440C stainless steel blade make it a reliable tool for a variety of outdoor tasks.
The price is definitely justified considering its construction and functionality, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. I would personally recommend the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable fixed blade knife for general outdoor use. If you’re in the market for a dependable, no-frills knife that won’t break the bank, give the WithArmour Mammoth Fixed Blade a try!