First Impressions of CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green
The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green is a collaboration between CIVIVI and the renowned knife designer Bob Terzuola. This knife immediately catches the eye with its sleek lines, practical design, and distinctive OD green G10 handle. It promises a blend of everyday carry (EDC) utility and tactical readiness, a combination that often excites knife enthusiasts.
I was looking for a capable fixed blade that wouldn’t break the bank but could still handle a variety of outdoor tasks. I’ve always appreciated Bob Terzuola’s designs, known for their ergonomics and functional aesthetics. The Tamashii seemed like a perfect fit.
Unboxing the Tamashii, I was impressed by the immediate feel of quality. The weight, though not excessive at 0.72 lbs, felt substantial and balanced in my hand. The G10 handle offered a secure and comfortable grip.
I considered the ESEE Izula and the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter as alternatives. However, the Tamashii’s design felt more versatile, and the price point was significantly more attractive than the Benchmade. The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green felt like the right blend of features and affordability.
My initial impression was one of pleasant surprise. The knife felt better in hand than I expected, and the overall fit and finish seemed excellent for the price. I was excited to put it to work.
Real-World Testing: Putting CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green was on a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for various tasks around the campsite, from food preparation to feather sticking for fire starting. The D2 steel blade performed admirably, holding its edge through moderate use.
While the weather was dry during the day, a brief rain shower tested the grip of the G10 handle. Even with damp hands, the handle remained secure and comfortable. The knife was easy to control even when wet.
Initially, I found the Kydex sheath’s retention to be quite tight. After a few draws and re-sheaths, the action smoothed out considerably, and it now provides a secure but accessible carry. The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green felt very natural in my hand, with no learning curve whatsoever.
The only minor issue was some slight discoloration on the blade after cutting some acidic fruit. A quick cleaning and oiling resolved the problem, but it was a reminder to properly maintain the blade after use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from processing small game on a hunting trip to basic yard work around the house. The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green has truly proven itself.
The D2 steel has proven to be quite durable, showing only minor scratches on the satin finish despite some fairly hard use. The edge retention remains excellent. I’ve only needed to strop the blade a couple of times to maintain a razor-sharp edge.
Cleaning the Tamashii is simple; a quick wash with soap and water, followed by drying and oiling the blade, keeps it in top condition. The G10 handle is also easy to clean and hasn’t shown any signs of fading or wear. Compared to a similarly priced Mora knife I previously owned, the CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green offers significantly better edge retention and a more comfortable, secure grip. The superior sheath is a huge plus.
Breaking Down the Features of CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green
Specifications
The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. The 4.13-inch satin-finished D2 tool steel blade offers a good balance between cutting ability and durability. D2 steel is known for its excellent wear resistance.
The overall length of the knife is 8.88 inches, providing ample reach for a variety of tasks. The OD green G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. The handle also features a lanyard hole for added security and carry options.
The full tang construction ensures strength and stability, making the knife capable of withstanding hard use. The included black Kydex sheath with a T-Clip offers secure and versatile carry options. The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green weighs in at a comfortable 0.72 lbs.
These specifications translate into a knife that is well-suited for EDC, outdoor adventures, and even some tactical applications. The blade’s size and shape make it versatile for various cutting tasks. The ergonomic handle ensures comfortable and controlled use.
Performance & Functionality
The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green performs its intended job exceptionally well. The blade’s shape and D2 steel provide excellent cutting performance, whether slicing, chopping, or performing fine detail work. The blade has proven to be very capable.
The knife’s strengths lie in its balance, comfortable grip, and durable blade. One weakness is the D2 steel, while durable, is not stainless and requires regular maintenance to prevent corrosion, especially in humid environments. Overall, the CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green exceeds expectations for a knife in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality. The OD green G10 handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in adverse conditions. The satin finish on the blade adds to the knife’s overall appeal.
The knife is exceptionally user-friendly, with no real learning curve. The ergonomic handle design ensures a comfortable and secure grip for extended use. The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green feels like a natural extension of the hand.
Durability & Maintenance
The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green is built to last. The full tang construction and D2 steel blade ensure that it can withstand hard use. With proper care and maintenance, the CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning, drying, and oiling of the blade are essential to prevent corrosion. The G10 handle requires minimal maintenance. The knife is simple to disassemble for thorough cleaning, if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green comes with a black Kydex sheath with a T-Clip, providing secure and versatile carry options. While there are no official accessories offered by CIVIVI specifically for the Tamashii, the knife’s design allows for some customization.
The lanyard hole allows for the addition of a custom lanyard or fob. The Kydex sheath can be easily modified or replaced with aftermarket sheaths to suit individual preferences. The handle scales could be replaced with custom-made G10 or micarta scales from various aftermarket suppliers.
Pros and Cons of CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green
Pros
- Excellent value for money: The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green offers premium features at an affordable price.
- Durable D2 steel blade: The blade provides excellent edge retention and wear resistance.
- Comfortable and secure G10 handle: The handle ensures a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- Versatile design: The knife is well-suited for EDC, outdoor adventures, and tactical applications.
- Quality Kydex sheath: The sheath provides secure and convenient carry options.
Cons
- D2 steel requires regular maintenance to prevent corrosion.
- The Kydex sheath’s initial retention may be too tight for some users.
Who Should Buy CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green?
The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, and anyone looking for a reliable EDC fixed blade. It’s also a great option for those interested in bushcraft or basic survival skills. The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green can handle nearly any task.
Someone who prioritizes stainless steel over edge retention or prefers a smaller, more concealable blade should skip this product. Anyone who requires a dedicated heavy-duty survival knife may want to consider a larger, more robust option. A sharpening stone and quality knife oil are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green
The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green is an outstanding fixed blade knife that offers excellent value for money. Its durable D2 steel blade, comfortable G10 handle, and versatile design make it a reliable companion for a wide range of tasks. The CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green is a great choice.
The price of $66.99 is more than justified given the quality of materials and construction. I would wholeheartedly recommend the CIVIVI Tamashii Fixed Blade Green to anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable fixed blade knife. Don’t hesitate; pick one up today and experience the Tamashii for yourself!