First Impressions of Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta isn’t just another knife; it’s a statement. Manufactured by Hoback Knives, it promises rugged performance in a compact package, blending tactical utility with everyday carry appeal. This fixed blade boasts a CPM-20CV blade, known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, coupled with a comfortable micarta handle.
I needed a reliable fixed blade for wilderness excursions and occasional tactical training. I was searching for something more substantial than my everyday folding knife, yet not unwieldy like a larger survival knife. The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta’s dimensions seemed to strike the perfect balance.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt substantial and well-balanced. The black DLC coating on the blade gives it a stealthy, no-nonsense appearance, and the black canvas micarta handle offers a secure grip. The Kydex sheath felt solid and provided excellent retention.
Compared to a Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 and a TOPS Knives Silent Hero, the Goliath felt more compact and geared towards tactical use. While the Bushcrafter excels at wood processing and the Silent Hero offers a larger blade for heavier tasks, the Goliath appeared to be a versatile middle ground. I picked this knife for its balance of size, steel quality, and its promise of comfortable, secure handling.
My first impression was positive and enthusiastic. The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta felt like a serious tool built for serious use, and I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta during a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. This involved various tasks, from food preparation to making feather sticks for fire starting and even some light batoning. The weather was mixed, with periods of dry sunshine interspersed with light rain.
The knife performed admirably in most conditions. The CPM-20CV blade sliced through food with ease and held its edge surprisingly well when making feather sticks from seasoned wood. The micarta handle provided a secure grip even when wet.
The only issue I encountered was some difficulty with the Kydex sheath when re-sheathing the knife with wet hands. The tight fit required a bit of extra effort, which could be a concern in a high-stress situation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta continues to impress. The black DLC coating shows minimal signs of wear, even after being exposed to dirt, mud, and frequent use. The CPM-20CV blade remains remarkably sharp with only occasional stropping.
Durability has proven to be a strong point. The full tang construction provides exceptional strength, and the micarta handle has shown no signs of cracking or loosening. I make sure to clean and dry the blade after each use and occasionally apply a thin coat of oil to prevent corrosion.
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta has exceeded my expectations compared to other knives I’ve used in the past. It’s a well-built, reliable tool that has become an indispensable part of my outdoor gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta
Specifications
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta boasts a 6.5″ overall length, making it a compact and manageable fixed blade. The 3.25″ black DLC coated CPM-20CV stainless tanto blade offers a robust and versatile cutting edge. The black canvas micarta handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
The full tang construction enhances durability, and the lanyard hole offers additional carry options. The knife weighs in at just 0.18 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to carry. The black Kydex belt sheath ensures secure and convenient carry.
These specifications translate to a knife that is easy to carry, offers excellent edge retention, and provides a secure grip in various conditions. The compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for everyday carry and outdoor adventures.
Performance & Functionality
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta performs exceptionally well in a variety of tasks. The tanto blade is excellent for piercing and slicing, making it ideal for both tactical and utility applications. The CPM-20CV steel holds an edge exceptionally well, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
The knife’s strengths lie in its versatility, durability, and edge retention. One area for possible improvement is the sheath retention, as mentioned earlier. Overall, the Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta meets and often exceeds expectations for a knife in this category.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta features a well-designed and ergonomic handle. The micarta provides excellent grip and feels comfortable in hand, even during extended use. The knife’s balance is excellent, making it easy to control and maneuver.
The simple, functional design is appealing and avoids unnecessary embellishments. There is a slight learning curve to safely and efficiently use the Kydex sheath.
Durability & Maintenance
The full tang construction and CPM-20CV blade steel ensure long-lasting durability. The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta is built to withstand the rigors of hard use. Cleaning and maintaining the knife is relatively simple; regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the blade will keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta comes with a high-quality Kydex belt sheath. The sheath provides secure retention and allows for convenient carry on a belt or pack. There are limited customization options directly from Hoback Knives, but aftermarket lanyard beads can be added for personalization.
Due to its fairly standard size, aftermarket belt clips or MOLLE attachments can be affixed to the Kydex sheath for varied carry options.
Pros and Cons of Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta
Pros
- The CPM-20CV blade steel offers exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- The black canvas micarta handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- The compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for everyday carry and outdoor adventures.
- The full tang construction ensures durability and reliability.
- The included Kydex sheath offers secure and convenient carry.
Cons
- The Kydex sheath can be tight, requiring extra effort to re-sheath the knife, especially with wet hands.
- Limited customization options directly from the manufacturer.
Who Should Buy Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta?
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta is perfect for outdoorsmen, survivalists, and tactical enthusiasts seeking a reliable and versatile fixed blade knife. It’s also a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality everyday carry knife that can handle demanding tasks.
Those who prioritize specialized tasks such as heavy wood processing or require a larger blade for specific purposes might find the Goliath’s size limiting. A dedicated bushcraft knife or larger survival knife may be more suitable in these cases.
A suitable upgrade to consider for the Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta would be a higher quality aftermarket belt clip for the included Kydex sheath. This could allow for faster and more secure re-sheathing of the blade, especially with wet or gloved hands.
Conclusion on Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta is an outstanding fixed blade knife that delivers on its promise of rugged performance and versatility. Its high-quality materials, durable construction, and excellent edge retention make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a reliable cutting tool.
At $149.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the knife’s overall performance. I would highly recommend the Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Black Micarta to anyone looking for a dependable and capable fixed blade knife. Add this beast to your collection today!