CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade Review

First Impressions of CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade

The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade enters a crowded market of EDC and outdoor knives, promising a blend of practicality, aesthetics, and value. CIVIVI, known for its budget-friendly yet well-made knives, aims to deliver a fixed-blade version of their popular Elementum folder. My interest was piqued by the promise of a robust, simple design suitable for everyday tasks and light outdoor adventures.

For years, I’ve been searching for a compact fixed blade that disappears on my belt but is ready for serious work. Too often, I find myself reaching for a folder when a fixed blade would be quicker and more reliable. When I needed a knife that could handle bushcrafting tasks without the added complexity of a folding mechanism, I started seriously considering the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade.

Upon unboxing, the sleek profile and comfortable G10 handle of the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade immediately stood out. The satin finish on the blade looked clean and professional, and the weight felt balanced in hand. The black leather sheath seemed functional and well-constructed, completing the package.

Compared to my Benchmade Bushcrafter and ESEE Izula II, the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade offers a more refined, EDC-friendly aesthetic. While the Benchmade is a dedicated bushcraft tool and the ESEE is a rugged, no-nonsense survival knife, the Elementum seems designed for versatility. Its simple design and manageable size made me eager to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios. My reasoning for choosing it was based on my need for something more compact, stylish, and discreet than my bushcrafting knife.

My first impression was positive; the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade felt like a well-thought-out design that could bridge the gap between a tactical tool and an everyday carry companion. It surprised me with its balanced feel and simple elegance. I was excited to see if its performance matched its good looks.

Real-World Testing: Putting CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade on a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. The weather was typical for the area this time of year: damp and cool. I tasked it with various camp chores, including preparing kindling, food prep, and some light carving.

The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade handled all tasks with ease. The blade’s shape proved versatile for slicing vegetables and feathering sticks for fire starting. The G10 handle provided a secure grip, even with slightly wet hands. There were no hot spots or discomfort during extended use.

The knife’s edge retention was noticeable, as I didn’t need to touch it up even after preparing an entire evening meal. There were no surprises other than the fact it felt really comfortable and smooth to handle, exceeding my expectations of what a sub-$100 blade should deliver.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to cleaning fish on a weekend fishing trip. It still performs exceptionally well.

The blade has shown minimal signs of wear, with only minor scratches on the satin finish. The G10 handle remains grippy and comfortable. The leather sheath has broken in nicely and provides secure retention.

Compared to my previous EDC knives, the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade has held up exceptionally well. Cheaper knives tend to dull quickly and show signs of rust after only a few weeks of use, but the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade continues to impress. It has outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and overall value, even compared to knives costing twice as much.

Breaking Down the Features of CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade

Specifications

• The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade has an 8.5″ (21.59cm) overall length, providing a comfortable and manageable size for various tasks. This overall length makes it convenient for everyday carry while still offering enough blade for more demanding cutting tasks.
• The 4″ (10.16cm) blade is made of 10Cr15CoMoV stainless steel with a satin finish, offering a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. 10Cr15CoMoV is a Chinese stainless steel similar to AUS-10.
• The handle is made of black G10, a durable and lightweight material that provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions. The red liners add a subtle aesthetic touch.
• It features a full tang construction for increased strength and stability, ensuring the blade can withstand heavy use.
• The knife weighs 0.7 lb, providing a substantial feel without being overly heavy.
• It also includes a lanyard hole for added carry options and customization.

These specifications matter because they translate to a knife that is well-balanced, durable, and comfortable to use. The steel quality and construction make it a reliable tool for a variety of tasks, while the ergonomic design ensures it is a pleasure to handle.

Performance & Functionality

The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade performs admirably in a variety of cutting tasks. Its blade geometry allows for both slicing and piercing, making it versatile for EDC and outdoor use. It’s useful for everything from opening packages to preparing food.

The knife’s edge retention is commendable, requiring minimal sharpening even after prolonged use. It has no problem cutting through cardboard, rope, and wood with ease. The only major flaw is the sheath that comes with it.

Overall, the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade has exceeded my expectations, delivering reliable performance and versatility in a compact package. It offers much more value than I initially anticipated.

Design & Ergonomics

The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade features a clean, minimalist design that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. The blade’s drop point shape is versatile for various cutting tasks. Its satin finish gives it a sleek, modern look.

The G10 handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip. The handle shape and texture prevent slippage, even when wet. It strikes a nice balance between offering enough grip without being overly aggressive.

The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade feels very user-friendly, with no learning curve required. It’s lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to maneuver. The simple design ensures that it is intuitive to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade is built to last, with its full tang construction and durable materials. The 10Cr15CoMoV stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion and wear. The G10 handle is virtually indestructible.

Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that is required to keep it in top condition. The stainless steel blade resists rust, and the G10 handle is impervious to moisture. Disassembling the knife isn’t necessary for cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade comes with a black leather belt sheath, which provides a secure and convenient carry option. It has decent retention, and the leather is of reasonable quality. The sheath is the biggest weakness of this package.

While the knife itself offers limited customization options, the lanyard hole allows users to add their own personal touch with lanyards or beads. Aftermarket sheaths are available from various custom knife makers, offering an opportunity to upgrade the carry system. Custom scales are not currently available.

Pros and Cons of CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade

Who Should Buy CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade?

The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade is perfect for:

• Everyday carry enthusiasts seeking a reliable and stylish fixed blade.
• Outdoor adventurers who need a versatile knife for light tasks.
• Anyone looking for a high-quality knife at an affordable price.

Who should skip this product? Those who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks or prefer a more specialized blade shape.

Must-have accessories or modifications? An upgraded aftermarket sheath would significantly improve the overall experience.

Conclusion on CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade

The CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade is a standout performer in its price range, offering a compelling combination of quality, design, and value. Its durable construction, comfortable ergonomics, and versatile blade make it a reliable companion for everyday carry and light outdoor tasks. The biggest drawback is the sheath that it comes with.

The price of $87.99 is more than justified by the quality of materials and craftsmanship. It feels like a much more expensive knife. It compares very favorably to many other knives in the sub-$100 price range.

I would definitely recommend the CIVIVI Elementum Fixed Blade to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable fixed blade. It’s a solid choice that offers excellent performance without breaking the bank. It’s a great knife to add to your collection. Go ahead and get yourself one!