Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 Review

First Impressions of Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039

The Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 immediately commands attention. This isn’t just another fixed blade; it’s a statement piece blending rugged functionality with a touch of aesthetic flair. The combination of a black PVD coated blade, green micarta handle, and red liners hints at a knife designed for serious use, while still possessing a distinct personality.

I was looking for a durable, reliable fixed blade knife that could serve multiple purposes, from general outdoor tasks to more demanding bushcraft scenarios. I needed a knife that could take a beating and hold its edge, while also feeling comfortable and secure in my hand. My current go-to knife, a cheaper stainless steel model, simply wasn’t cutting it (pun intended!).

The unboxing experience was impressive. The knife felt substantial and well-balanced, immediately instilling confidence in its build quality. The Green micarta handle provided a secure grip, and the red liners added a subtle but appreciated visual touch.

I was also considering the Benchmade A2 Fixed and the ESEE 6. Both are excellent knives with established reputations. However, the Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039’s CPM-3V blade steel and unique color combination ultimately won me over. The CPM-3V steel promised exceptional toughness, and the distinctive aesthetic set it apart.

My initial impression was one of excitement. This felt like a knife that was built to last, ready for any challenge I threw its way. The design details, like the red liners against the green micarta, gave the knife an appealing character, something often missing in purely utilitarian tools.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 on a week-long backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for everything from preparing food to building a makeshift shelter. The knife performed admirably in all conditions, even with damp, early morning fog clinging to the forest.

The Green micarta handle provided excellent grip, even when wet, and the blade sliced through wood with ease. No matter how I gripped it, there was no hotspots, and the grip always felt secure in hand. I found it particularly useful for batoning firewood and feathering sticks for fire starting.

Initially, the edge retention was amazing. However, after some intensive use, it seemed that I needed to adjust my sharpening angle from my standard pocket knives to a steeper degree.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of regular use, the Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are no signs of blade chipping or handle damage, despite some serious abuse. The black PVD coating has held up surprisingly well, with only minor scratches.

The blade has maintained a good edge with minimal sharpening. A quick strop after each use keeps it razor sharp. The Kydex sheath has also held up well and provides secure retention.

Compared to my previous knives, the Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 surpasses them in every way. It offers a superior combination of edge retention, durability, and comfort. Its CPM-3V steel is significantly tougher than the 1095 steel used in one of my other knives, and the micarta handle provides a much more secure grip than the polymer handles I’m used to.

Breaking Down the Features of Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039

Specifications

• Overall Length: 10.5″ (26.67cm) – Provides ample reach for a variety of tasks.
• Blade Length: 5″ (12.7cm) – A versatile length, balancing maneuverability and cutting power.
• Blade Material: CPM-3V Carbon Steel – Known for its exceptional toughness and wear resistance.
• Handle Material: Green Micarta – Provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
• Sheath: Black Kydex – Offers excellent retention and durability.
• Weight: 1.32 lb – A substantial weight that conveys durability without being overly cumbersome.
• Additional Features: Lanyard Hole, Red Liners – Adds convenience and aesthetic appeal.

These specifications are crucial to the knife’s performance. The CPM-3V steel allows for aggressive cutting and resistance to damage. The Micarta handle provides confidence in grip, and the Kydex Sheath ensures safety and ease of carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 excels in its role as a versatile outdoor knife. It performs exceptionally well in chopping, slicing, batoning, and other general camp tasks. The full, extended tang provides added strength and stability.

Its primary strengths are its exceptional edge retention and rugged durability. The only minor weakness is that the CPM-3V steel can be slightly more challenging to sharpen than some other steels. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-quality fixed blade knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 is outstanding. The materials feel premium, and the construction is solid and precise. The weight feels substantial in the hand, instilling confidence.

The knife is incredibly user-friendly, with a comfortable and intuitive grip. There’s no significant learning curve. The handle fills the hand nicely, and the Lanyard hole allows for additional security.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 should last a lifetime. The CPM-3V steel is incredibly tough and resistant to wear. The Kydex sheath will likely outlast the user.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and oiling will keep the blade in top condition, and the micarta handle requires minimal upkeep. Sharpening may require some practice, but the results are well worth the effort.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039 comes with a Kydex sheath and a box. There are no other included accessories. Aftermarket modifications are limited primarily to paracord wraps for the handle or potential upgrades to the sheath’s belt attachment.

While the knife itself doesn’t have extensive customization options, the Kydex sheath can be easily modified with different belt clips or attachment systems from various brands.

Pros and Cons of Fobos Knives Alaris Fixed Blade Grn/Red FOB039