Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife Review

First Impressions of Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife

The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife immediately screams purpose. This isn’t your grandpa’s hunting knife; this is a tool designed for serious work, likely born from the mind of someone who understands tactical applications and close-quarters defense. The collaboration with Doug Marcaida, known for his expertise in edged weapons and the “Forged in Fire” TV show, adds significant credibility and intrigue.

I’ve been searching for a compact, yet robust fixed blade for my search and rescue pack. Many knives I’ve handled felt either too flimsy for heavy tasks or too bulky for comfortable carry. The promise of a high-quality blade and a finger ring for enhanced control piqued my interest in the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife.

Upon unboxing, the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife makes a statement. The black Kydex sheath speaks to its tactical nature, offering secure retention and quick deployment. The knife itself feels substantial, yet surprisingly balanced in hand; the handle provides a confident grip, and the overall design exudes quality.

Compared to my Benchmade Bushcrafter, which is excellent for wilderness tasks, the SPADE is noticeably more compact and purpose-driven; unlike a Gerber Strongarm, which can feel clunky, the SPADE offers a more refined and agile feel. I chose the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife because it seemed to strike the ideal balance between a dedicated fighting knife and a practical tool for everyday carry in demanding environments.

My first impression is one of excitement. The design suggests serious capability, and I’m eager to see how it performs under real-world stress. The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife gives me confidence I’ve found a high-end knife.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife during a weekend search and rescue training exercise in the mountainous terrain of the Pacific Northwest. The tasks included everything from cutting rope and webbing to preparing kindling and creating improvised shelters. The weather was predictably damp, with intermittent rain and persistent fog.

The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife performed admirably under these demanding conditions. The finger ring proved invaluable for maintaining a secure grip when my hands were wet or muddy, and the blade’s sharpness allowed for precise and efficient cutting. The Kydex sheath ensured quick and reliable access, even while wearing gloves.

Initially, I was slightly concerned about the blade’s relatively short length for some of the larger tasks, but its exceptional edge retention and ergonomic design quickly alleviated those concerns. There were no surprises after first use. The knife delivered exactly what it promised: a reliable and capable tool for demanding situations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife has become an indispensable part of my kit. It has accompanied me on numerous hiking trips, survival training exercises, and even a few unexpected real-world search and rescue operations. The knife has consistently performed reliably.

Despite heavy use, the blade shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The coating has held up remarkably well, and the edge remains impressively sharp after only occasional stropping. The Kydex sheath also continues to function flawlessly, providing secure retention and easy access.

Compared to my previous experiences with other fixed-blade knives, the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife stands out for its exceptional balance of durability, ergonomics, and cutting performance. It consistently outperforms my expectations, and it is clear that this knife is built to last. The build quality is remarkable.

Breaking Down the Features of Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife boasts several noteworthy specifications. Its defining feature is the inclusion of a finger ring for enhanced grip and control. The knife is part of the third ACE series, a four-knife collaboration with Doug Marcaida, a martial arts expert.

The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife includes a black Kydex sheath for secure carry. The knife arrives boxed, adding to the sense of quality. These specifications are essential because they reflect the knife’s design as a compact, easily deployable, and exceptionally controllable tool for close-quarters situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife excels at various tasks. This knife is designed for self-defense, utility cutting, and other precision tasks. Its performance is exceptional due to its sharp blade and ergonomic design.

The main strength of the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife lies in its secure grip, which the finger ring enhances. A potential weakness might be its shorter blade length compared to larger fixed blades, limiting its effectiveness for heavy-duty tasks. It meets and exceeds expectations given its size and design intent.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife features a well-thought-out design. The materials used are high-quality, lending to the overall durability. The weight is perfectly balanced, and it feels comfortable and secure in hand.

The design is highly user-friendly with minimal learning curve. The finger ring and handle ergonomics make it easy to deploy and use effectively, even under stress. This design makes the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife a solid performer.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of materials and construction, the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife is expected to last for many years with proper care. The blade is made from a high-quality steel known for its edge retention and resistance to corrosion. This build makes the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife a reliable tool.

The Kydex sheath requires virtually no maintenance. Cleaning the blade is simple. Wipe it down with a clean cloth and apply a small amount of oil as needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife comes with a black Kydex sheath. There are limited options to customize the knife directly, but one might consider aftermarket clips for the Kydex sheath to change the carry configuration. One could also potentially swap out the factory handle scales.

While Bastinelli Creations may offer other sheaths or accessories separately, the compatibility with aftermarket accessories such as MOLLE clips is high.

Pros and Cons of Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife

Who Should Buy Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife?

The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for: tactical professionals, law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who prioritizes a compact, easily concealable, and highly controllable fixed-blade knife for self-defense or utility purposes. This knife is perfect for preparedness-minded individuals.

Who should skip this product? Individuals seeking a large, heavy-duty fixed blade for wilderness survival or bushcraft tasks may find the SPADE’s blade length limiting. Those who prefer extensive customization options may also want to consider other knives.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Upgrading the Kydex sheath’s clip for enhanced carry versatility is a worthwhile consideration. Also, invest in a quality sharpening stone or strop to maintain the blade’s exceptional edge.

Conclusion on Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife

The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife is a well-designed and expertly crafted tool that excels in its intended role. It delivers exceptional grip, control, and cutting performance in a compact and easily concealable package. The name Bastinelli Creations speaks for itself with respect to quality.

The price of $160 is justified given the quality of materials, the attention to detail, and the overall performance of the knife. It may seem like a significant investment, but it is well worth it for those who demand a reliable and capable fixed-blade knife for serious use. The Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife is a worthwhile purchase.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife to anyone seeking a top-tier tactical fixed blade. Its exceptional design, durable construction, and reliable performance make it an outstanding choice for professionals and prepared citizens alike. Invest in a Bastinelli Creations SPADE Fixed Blade Knife and experience the difference that quality craftsmanship can make.