First Impressions of Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB is a compact, robust knife designed for everyday carry and tactical applications. Hoback Knives is known for its precision engineering and use of high-quality materials, and the Goliath seems to uphold that reputation at first glance. What immediately grabbed my attention was the tanto blade shape and the striking blue G10 handle.
I’ve been searching for a smaller fixed blade knife that I can comfortably carry on my belt without it being too cumbersome. My main concern was finding something that felt solid in hand but was also easy to deploy and versatile enough for various tasks. I was hoping the Goliath would bridge the gap between a dedicated tactical blade and a practical EDC tool.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Goliath’s solid feel and clean lines. The stonewash finish on the CPM-20CV blade looked fantastic, and the blue G10 handle offered a comfortable and secure grip. The Kydex sheath was simple but functional, providing good retention.
I considered the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter and the ESEE Izula II, both popular choices in this size range. The Hoback stood out because of its CPM-20CV steel (known for its excellent edge retention) and the aggressive tanto blade, which I felt would offer superior piercing capabilities. My initial feeling was excitement tempered with curiosity to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB was during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling, food prep, and cutting cordage. The tanto blade proved surprisingly effective for carving and creating feather sticks.
The weather was damp, with occasional rain, which provided a good test of the G10 handle’s grip. The handle remained secure even when wet, and I experienced no slippage. One slight surprise was the blade’s tendency to hold moisture due to the stonewash finish, requiring more frequent wiping to prevent potential rust.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The CPM-20CV blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. The Kydex sheath has also held up without any issues, retaining the knife securely.
The G10 handle shows no signs of wear, and the overall construction feels as solid as it did on day one. I’ve primarily used it for camping, hiking, and general utility tasks around the house, and it hasn’t disappointed. It outperforms my previous EDC fixed blade, a Gerber Strongarm, in terms of edge retention and overall build quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB
Specifications
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB boasts some impressive specifications for its size. It features a 3.25-inch CPM-20CV stainless steel tanto blade, known for its exceptional hardness and corrosion resistance. The overall length is 6.5 inches, making it a compact and easily concealable fixed blade.
The handle is crafted from durable blue G10, offering a secure and comfortable grip. It is a full tang construction, ensuring strength and stability. Other features include a convenient lanyard hole and a black Kydex belt sheath. These specifications contribute to the knife’s overall performance by providing a balance of cutting power, durability, and ease of carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB excels in tasks that require precision and piercing power. The tanto blade’s sharp point makes it ideal for opening packages, piercing materials, and performing detailed cutting tasks. It struggles slightly with slicing tasks compared to a drop-point blade, but it more than makes up for it with its strength and piercing ability.
The knife’s strengths lie in its robust construction, excellent edge retention, and secure grip. The main weakness is its relatively small size, which might not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks. It meets my expectations as a reliable and versatile EDC fixed blade, exceeding them in terms of edge retention.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB features a simple yet effective design. The stonewash finish on the blade not only looks great but also helps to hide scratches and wear. The blue G10 handle is both visually appealing and highly functional, providing excellent grip and comfort.
The knife feels well-balanced in hand, and the handle’s ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use for extended periods. There is no significant learning curve, as the knife is intuitive to use and requires no special techniques.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB is built to last. The CPM-20CV blade is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, and the G10 handle is virtually indestructible. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and stropping. The blade can be easily sharpened using standard sharpening methods.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB comes with a basic black Kydex belt sheath. Aftermarket options are limited due to the knife’s specific dimensions, but custom sheath makers could create alternative carry systems. The lanyard hole allows for adding a paracord lanyard for added grip and security.
It is compatible with universal Tek-Lok attachments for the sheath. I’ve found that adding a small ferro rod to the lanyard enhances its survival capabilities.
Pros and Cons of Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB
Pros
- Exceptional edge retention thanks to the CPM-20CV steel blade.
- Durable and secure blue G10 handle.
- Compact and easily concealable size.
- Robust full tang construction for added strength.
- Functional Kydex sheath with good retention.
Cons
- Tanto blade is not ideal for all slicing tasks.
- Limited aftermarket accessories.
Who Should Buy Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB?
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB is perfect for those seeking a high-quality, compact fixed blade knife for everyday carry or tactical use. It is ideal for hikers, campers, and anyone who appreciates a durable and reliable tool. It’s also a great choice for those who prefer a tanto blade style and value excellent edge retention.
Those who need a larger knife for heavy-duty tasks or prefer a more traditional blade shape should skip this product. Must-have accessories include a high-quality sharpening stone and a small ferro rod for survival situations.
Conclusion on Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB
The Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB is an outstanding knife that delivers exceptional performance in a compact package. The $153.99 price is justified by the quality of materials, precision engineering, and overall durability. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile EDC fixed blade.
If you’re looking for a compact and capable knife that can handle a variety of tasks, the Hoback Knives Goliath Fixed Blade HOB020SB is an excellent choice. Invest in quality, and you won’t be disappointed!