First Impressions of China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife
The China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife enters the market at a fascinating intersection of price and practicality. For a mere $12.99, it promises the functionality of a fixed blade knife, complete with a saw back and a glass breaker. This begs the question: can something so affordable truly deliver on its promises, or is it simply a cheap imitation? My decade of experience in the outdoor and tactical gear industry has taught me that price isn’t always the best indicator of quality, but it certainly sets expectations.
My need for a readily accessible, low-cost knife in my emergency preparedness kit is what led me to this particular product. I had been searching for a blade that could handle basic cutting tasks and potentially serve as a makeshift saw in a survival situation, without breaking the bank. My initial reaction upon receiving the knife was one of cautious curiosity. The plastic handle felt lightweight, and the blade, while seemingly sharp, lacked the heft and finish of more expensive knives I’ve handled.
I was initially considering a Mora Companion or a basic SOG fixed blade, both of which are known for their durability and value. I ultimately chose the China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife because of its incredibly low price point and the allure of the added features like the saw back and glass breaker, hoping it could be a viable option for a backup or secondary tool. My first impression was a mixture of intrigue and skepticism. It was clear this wouldn’t compete with high-end knives, but the potential for utility at such a low cost was undeniable.
Real-World Testing: Putting China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the nearby state forest. I primarily used it for tasks like cutting rope, preparing kindling, and opening food packages. The knife performed adequately for these basic tasks, although the plastic handle didn’t provide the most comfortable grip, especially during extended use.
The saw back, while functional, was noticeably less efficient than a dedicated saw. It took significantly more effort to cut through even small branches. I encountered some minor issues when attempting to baton the knife through a small piece of firewood. The blade showed a slight wobble under the pressure, making me question its long-term durability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of sporadic use, primarily around the house and on occasional hikes, the China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife began to show some signs of wear. The blade’s edge dulled relatively quickly, requiring frequent sharpening. The black coating on the blade also began to chip in certain areas.
The plastic handle, while still intact, developed some minor scratches and felt less secure in my grip after being exposed to moisture. Maintenance was relatively simple; I just needed to wipe the blade clean after each use and occasionally apply a bit of oil to prevent rust. Compared to my experiences with higher-quality knives, the China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife underperformed in terms of edge retention and overall durability. I have knives I’ve used for years with less visible wear than this one accumulated in a matter of weeks.
Breaking Down the Features of China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife
Specifications
The China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife boasts a fixed blade construction ideal for many cutting needs. The blade is made from an unspecified type of steel. It features a saw back and measures approximately 5 inches in length.
The handle is constructed from black plastic. It includes a glass breaker at the pommel and a lanyard hole for added carry options. The knife comes with a black plastic belt sheath for easy carry and protection.
Performance & Functionality
The China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife performs adequately for light-duty cutting tasks. The blade is initially sharp enough to handle basic tasks. However, the steel’s quality limits its edge retention. The saw back is a functional addition. It is not as effective as a dedicated saw. The glass breaker could be useful in emergency situations. Its effectiveness depends on the user’s technique and the hardness of the glass.
The knife’s strengths lie primarily in its low price point and basic functionality. The weaknesses include its subpar steel quality, uncomfortable handle, and questionable long-term durability. The China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife generally meets expectations for a $12.99 knife. It does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife has a simple, utilitarian design. The black plastic handle is lightweight. It does not offer the most comfortable or secure grip, especially when wet. The overall build quality reflects its price point. The materials used feel inexpensive and somewhat flimsy.
The knife is relatively easy to use. The plastic sheath allows for convenient belt carry. However, the handle’s ergonomics could be improved to provide a more secure and comfortable grip. There isn’t much of a learning curve with this knife.
Durability & Maintenance
The China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife‘s long-term durability is questionable. The blade steel is prone to dulling quickly and may be susceptible to corrosion if not properly maintained. The plastic handle is durable to an extent. It may crack or break under significant stress.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. However, the blade’s steel quality may necessitate more frequent sharpening than higher-end knives. The ease of maintenance is a plus. The overall durability remains a significant concern.
Accessories and Customization Options
The China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife comes with a simple black plastic belt sheath. There are no included accessories beyond this. Customization options are extremely limited due to the knife’s low cost and basic construction.
The sheath is functional. It lacks the quality and versatility of aftermarket sheaths. It is unlikely that popular accessories from other brands will be directly compatible without modification. The lack of customization options is a consequence of the knife’s budget-friendly design.
Pros and Cons of China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife
Pros
- Extremely affordable price point makes it accessible to anyone.
- Lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for a backup knife.
- Includes a saw back and glass breaker, potentially useful in survival situations.
- Simple design makes it easy to use with minimal learning curve.
- Functional for basic cutting tasks, suitable for light-duty applications.
Cons
- Low-quality steel requires frequent sharpening and is prone to corrosion.
- Uncomfortable plastic handle offers a poor grip, especially when wet.
- Questionable long-term durability, may not withstand heavy use or harsh conditions.
Who Should Buy China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife?
The China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife is perfect for budget-conscious individuals. It is also ideal for those who need a disposable or secondary knife. This knife is a good fit for casual campers or hikers who require a basic cutting tool for light tasks. This is an ideal tool to have in an emergency preparedness kit.
This knife is not suitable for serious survivalists or professional outdoorsmen. It is also not a good fit for anyone requiring a high-quality, durable knife for demanding tasks. A must-have accessory would be a reliable knife sharpener. This tool will help maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife
The China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife represents a compromise between price and performance. While it offers basic functionality and a few added features at an incredibly low cost, it falls short in terms of durability and overall quality. Its value proposition hinges on its affordability, making it a viable option for those on a tight budget or in need of a disposable tool.
The price is justified for what it offers: a functional, albeit basic, cutting tool with a few extra features. I would personally recommend it as a backup or emergency knife, understanding its limitations. For serious outdoor enthusiasts or professionals, investing in a higher-quality knife is undoubtedly the better choice. If you’re looking for a super cheap knife to stash in your glove compartment or bug-out bag, the China Made Saw Back Plastic Handle Knife is worth considering. Just don’t expect it to perform like a $100 blade.