First Impressions of Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives
The Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives promise an affordable entry point into the world of knife throwing. Gil Hibben’s name carries weight, suggesting a certain level of design and functionality, though often geared towards the more budget-conscious enthusiast. These knives are marketed as a complete set, ready for immediate use, and that simplicity is appealing.
I’ve been throwing knives for years, mainly as a way to hone focus and unwind after long days on tactical gear testing. I was seeking a reliable, inexpensive set to introduce friends to the sport without risking damage to my higher-end blades. The promise of a three-knife set with a sheath, all for around $50, piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the satin finish of the 3Cr13 stainless steel was the first thing I noticed. The one-piece construction appeared solid, and the clip point blade offered a classic, functional design. Compared to my more expensive throwing knives from SOG and Cold Steel, these Gil Hibben knives felt noticeably lighter and the finish wasn’t quite as refined.
The price point was the deciding factor in choosing these over slightly more expensive options from brands like Smith & Wesson or Perfect Point. I was cautiously optimistic but prepared for a mixed experience given the budget-friendly price. My initial impression was a blend of intrigue and mild skepticism, ready to see if they could hold up to practical use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place in my backyard, a well-worn space with a dedicated knife-throwing target made from stacked plywood. The knives felt light in the hand, almost too light, requiring a more deliberate throwing motion than I’m accustomed to. I tested these knives in dry conditions; it was a calm spring day.
The light weight initially made consistent sticking difficult, and I found myself adjusting my technique considerably. I experienced several wobbles and bounce-backs, more than usual. No major problems cropped up during this initial testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives have shown both strengths and weaknesses. The satin finish has proven surprisingly resistant to rust, despite being left outdoors accidentally on a couple of occasions. The edges, however, have begun to show slight dings from repeated impacts on the target.
The one-piece construction has held up well, with no signs of bending or loosening. Maintaining these knives is simple: a quick wipe down with oil after use is usually sufficient. While they haven’t outperformed my higher-end throwing knives in terms of accuracy or sticking power, they’ve proven to be a decent, affordable option for practice and introducing beginners to the sport.
Breaking Down the Features of Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives
Specifications
The Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives offer the following specifications: a satin finish 3Cr13 stainless steel clip point blade, one-piece construction, lanyard hole, and a black nylon belt sheath. The blade length is 5.88 inches, with an overall length of 9.75 inches. The set weighs 1.42 pounds.
The 3Cr13 stainless steel provides reasonable corrosion resistance at a low cost, though it won’t hold an edge like higher-end steels. The one-piece design enhances strength. The lanyard hole offers an option for adding a wrist strap.
Performance & Functionality
The Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives perform adequately for recreational throwing. Their light weight requires adjusting your throwing style. Accuracy is decent at shorter distances (10-15 feet), but consistency drops off beyond that.
The knives stick reliably into soft targets like plywood or softwood, but often bounce off harder targets. A key weakness is the blade’s tendency to dull relatively quickly, requiring frequent sharpening. These knives meet the basic expectations for a budget throwing knife set.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional, with a classic clip point blade shape. The light weight makes them easy to handle for extended periods, but it sacrifices some throwing momentum. The lack of any specialized grip texture can make them slippery when wet.
There’s minimal learning curve for experienced throwers, but beginners may need time to adjust to the light weight.
Durability & Maintenance
The one-piece construction enhances durability, reducing the risk of handle separation. However, the 3Cr13 stainless steel is softer than higher-grade steels, making it prone to edge damage and bending under stress. Regular sharpening and cleaning are necessary to maintain performance.
With proper care, these knives should last for a reasonable amount of time under recreational use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives come with a basic black nylon belt sheath. There aren’t many readily available customization options for these specific knives. The lanyard hole allows for adding a wrist strap.
Due to their basic design, compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited. These knives are primarily designed for out-of-the-box use.
Pros and Cons of Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives
Pros
- Affordable price point: Excellent for beginners or those on a budget.
- One-piece construction: Enhances durability and reduces the risk of breakage.
- 3Cr13 stainless steel: Offers decent corrosion resistance.
- Complete set: Comes with three knives and a sheath, ready for immediate use.
- Lightweight design: Easier to handle for extended practice sessions.
Cons
- Light weight: Makes consistent sticking more challenging, especially for experienced throwers.
- Softer steel: Prone to edge damage and bending.
- Basic sheath: Offers minimal protection and durability.
Who Should Buy Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives?
The Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives are perfect for beginners who are just starting out with knife throwing. They are also good for casual users seeking an inexpensive set for recreational practice. This set is also ideal for people who want to introduce friends or family to the sport without investing in high-end equipment.
Experienced knife throwers looking for professional-grade performance should skip this product. People who require knives for heavy-duty use or competitive throwing should also choose a different product. A sharpening stone is a must-have accessory to maintain the blades’ edges.
Conclusion on Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives
The Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives offer a solid entry point into the world of knife throwing, especially for beginners. While they lack the premium materials and performance of higher-end options, their affordability and decent build quality make them a worthwhile investment for casual use. The price is justified given the complete set and functional design.
I would personally recommend these knives to anyone looking for an inexpensive and easy-to-use set for recreational throwing. If you’re ready to start throwing knives without breaking the bank, give the Gil Hibben Triple Set Throwing Knives a try!