First Impressions of Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade
The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade, manufactured by Boker Plus, immediately struck me as a knife designed for serious outdoor work. This isn’t your average camping knife; the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade exudes a ruggedness that hints at its potential for demanding tasks. Its hefty size, the menacing curve of its blade, and the secure feel of the micarta handle all suggest a tool built for survival.
My search for a robust, multi-functional outdoor knife led me to the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade. I needed something that could handle everything from chopping firewood to batoning wood for kindling, and even some light digging if necessary. The unique blade design of the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade, with its distinct chopping and slicing zones, seemed like the perfect solution.
Unboxing the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade revealed a well-constructed and solid piece of equipment. The black-coated 1095HC steel blade felt substantial, and the brown micarta handle provided a secure and comfortable grip. The Kydex sheath, while simple, offered a secure and reliable way to carry the knife.
I considered the TOPS Knives Tom Brown Tracker T-1 and the ESEE Junglas as potential alternatives. Ultimately, the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade won me over due to its more compact size and more budget-friendly price point, while still appearing to offer similar functionality. I also considered the Condor Tool & Knife Bushcraft Basic 5 inch Knife due to it’s simplicity, but the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade was better suited for harsher tasks.
I was initially excited by the prospect of owning a knife that could potentially replace multiple tools in a survival situation. I had high hopes that the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade would live up to its potential as a versatile and reliable outdoor companion.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The dense forest and unpredictable weather conditions provided an ideal setting to evaluate its performance. I used it for various tasks, including chopping small branches for firewood, preparing kindling, and even creating a makeshift shelter.
The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade performed admirably in dry conditions, easily splitting small logs and creating feather sticks for starting a fire. However, when the rain started, the micarta handle became slightly slick, requiring a firmer grip to maintain control. The steel held an edge well even when wet.
The learning curve was minimal, thanks to the knife’s well-balanced design and intuitive feel. The chopping section of the blade excelled at clearing brush and preparing larger pieces of wood. The straight edge was very useful for slicing.
After my initial use, I noticed some minor chipping on the black coating of the blade, particularly near the chopping edge. This raised concerns about the coating’s long-term durability, but did not affect the blade itself.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade has proven to be a capable and reliable tool, though not without some minor drawbacks. It has accompanied me on several more camping trips and has seen action in various backyard tasks. The steel holds up well.
The black coating has continued to show wear, with more noticeable scratches and chipping along the blade’s edge. The handle, however, remains in excellent condition. The blade still maintains a good edge even after batoning wood and digging small holes.
Maintaining the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade has been relatively easy. I simply clean the blade after each use, dry it thoroughly, and apply a thin coat of oil to prevent rust. Honing and sharpening of the blade is required more frequently due to the 1095HC steel.
In comparison to other fixed blade knives I’ve owned, the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade offers a unique combination of chopping power and versatility. While it doesn’t outperform specialized axes or smaller bushcraft knives in their respective areas, it provides a solid middle ground that makes it a useful tool in a pinch.
Breaking Down the Features of Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade
Specifications
The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade boasts an overall length of 12.25 inches (31.12 cm), with a 7.25-inch (18.42 cm) blade. The blade is constructed from 1095HC steel, known for its toughness and edge retention, but also its susceptibility to rust if not properly maintained. The handle is made of brown micarta, a durable and grippy composite material.
The knife features a full tang construction, meaning the steel extends throughout the entire handle, adding to its strength and stability. It also includes a lanyard hole for added security and carrying options. A black Kydex belt sheath is included for convenient and safe carry. The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade weighs in at 1.92 lbs.
These specifications are crucial for a knife intended for heavy-duty outdoor use. The full tang ensures the knife can withstand significant stress without breaking. The 1095HC steel provides a sharp and durable edge, while the micarta handle ensures a secure grip even in wet conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade performs reasonably well in various tasks, thanks to its unique blade design. The curved section near the handle is excellent for chopping, while the straight edge is suitable for slicing and carving. The blade is thick enough to handle batoning wood, but not so thick that it becomes unwieldy.
The knife’s strength lies in its versatility, but its weaknesses are that it isn’t exceptional at any one task. A dedicated axe will chop better, and a smaller knife will slice more efficiently. The weight can also be fatiguing during prolonged use.
It meets the basic expectation of a survival knife, providing a reliable cutting tool for a range of outdoor tasks. However, it doesn’t exceed expectations in any specific area.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade’s design is both functional and visually appealing. The micarta handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The balance is slightly forward, which aids in chopping.
The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade is relatively user-friendly, although the size and weight may require some getting used to. The Kydex sheath provides secure retention and allows for multiple carrying options.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade should last for many years. The 1095HC steel is tough and durable, but it requires regular cleaning and oiling to prevent rust. The micarta handle is resistant to wear and tear and should hold up well over time.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning and oiling. Sharpening may be required more frequently compared to stainless steel blades.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade comes with a basic Kydex belt sheath, which is functional but lacks advanced features. There are no readily available aftermarket grips or blade modifications.
The lanyard hole allows for the addition of a paracord lanyard for added security. While the sheath is serviceable, users may want to explore other options such as leather or nylon sheaths.
Pros and Cons of Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade
Pros
- Versatile Blade Design: The unique blade design allows for a wide range of tasks, including chopping, slicing, and batoning.
- Durable 1095HC Steel: The high carbon steel provides excellent edge retention and toughness.
- Secure Micarta Handle: The brown micarta handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- Full Tang Construction: The full tang ensures strength and stability for demanding tasks.
- Relatively Affordable: Compared to other tracker-style knives, the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade offers good value for its price.
Cons
- Susceptible to Rust: The 1095HC steel requires regular maintenance to prevent rust.
- Black Coating Not Durable: The black coating on the blade is prone to scratching and chipping.
Who Should Buy Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade?
The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade is perfect for campers, backpackers, and survivalists who need a versatile and reliable knife for a variety of outdoor tasks. It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate the unique design and functionality of a tracker-style knife.
Those who prioritize corrosion resistance or require a knife for fine detail work should skip this product.
Must-have accessories include a sharpening stone, gun oil, and a better sheath if desired.
Conclusion on Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade
The Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade is a solid and versatile knife that offers a good balance of performance and value. Its unique blade design makes it suitable for a wide range of outdoor tasks, while its durable construction ensures it can withstand demanding use. The steel type means regular maintenance is required.
At $145.95, the price is justified for the quality and functionality you receive. It’s a good choice for those who want a reliable and versatile outdoor knife without breaking the bank.
I would personally recommend the Boker Plus Tracker Fixed Blade to anyone looking for a capable and affordable tracker-style knife. Be sure to keep the blade clean and oiled!