First Impressions of Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive immediately presents itself as a knife crafted for purpose and beauty. From Lionsteel, a company renowned for its dedication to quality and innovative design, the M2M promises to be a dependable companion for any outdoorsman. This knife features a high-end steel, a comfortable handle, and a practical sheath.
I needed a reliable fixed blade for a multi-day backpacking trip where I’d be processing firewood and preparing meals. I was looking for something more substantial than my folding EDC, but not so large as to be unwieldy. The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive seemed to strike that perfect balance.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the heft and balance. The olive wood handle felt smooth and secure in my hand, and the blade arrived razor sharp. The satin finish on the Bohler M390 steel is visually appealing and speaks to the quality of the steel.
I considered the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 and the Fallkniven F1, but the M2M’s more traditional design and the allure of the M390 steel ultimately swayed me. The Benchmade felt too bulky, and the Fallkniven’s handle didn’t quite fit my hand as well. I chose the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive because it seemed to offer the best blend of classic aesthetics, high-performance materials, and comfortable ergonomics.
My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. The knife exuded quality, and I couldn’t wait to put it to the test in the field. This knife felt more like a tool than a weapon, and I valued the difference.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test for the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive was a three-day backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was varied, with periods of rain and sunshine, giving me a good opportunity to assess its performance in different conditions. I primarily used the knife for batoning firewood, preparing food, and some basic camp chores.
The knife performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The olive wood handle, while smooth, provided a surprisingly secure grip even when wet. I was impressed by how easily the M390 steel sliced through wood, maintaining its edge even after repeated batoning.
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive required almost no getting used to. The ergonomics were excellent, and the blade length felt perfect for the tasks at hand. The balance point felt natural, and I was able to use it for extended periods without fatigue.
The only minor issue was the leather sheath, which retained some water after a heavy downpour. It wasn’t a major problem, but something to be aware of. Otherwise, the initial experience was overwhelmingly positive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive has proven to be an exceptionally reliable tool. I’ve used it on numerous camping trips, hiking excursions, and even around the house for various tasks. It has become one of my go-to knives.
The blade has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The M390 steel is incredibly durable and resistant to chipping and corrosion. The olive wood handle has also remained in excellent condition, showing no signs of cracking or warping.
Maintaining the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive has been relatively easy. After each use, I simply wipe the blade clean and apply a light coat of oil. The leather sheath requires occasional conditioning to keep it supple and prevent cracking.
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive has exceeded my expectations. It outperforms my previous knives in terms of edge retention, durability, and overall comfort. It’s a testament to Lionsteel’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Breaking Down the Features of Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive
Specifications
- Overall Length: 8 inches (20.32cm). This provides a good balance between portability and utility.
- Blade Length: 3.5 inches (8.89cm). This makes it maneuverable for finer tasks while still being capable of heavier work.
- Blade Material: Bohler M390 Stainless Steel. This is a premium steel known for its exceptional edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.
- Handle Material: Olive Wood. This provides a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing grip.
- Weight: 0.54 lb (approximately 8.64 ounces). This is a reasonable weight for a fixed blade knife, allowing for extended use without excessive fatigue.
- Sheath: Brown Leather Belt Sheath. This provides a secure and convenient way to carry the knife.
- Additional Features: Lanyard Hole. This allows for added security and versatility.
These specifications translate to a knife that is well-suited for a variety of outdoor tasks. The M390 steel is the standout feature, ensuring that the blade will hold its edge through extended use. The olive wood handle adds to the comfort and aesthetics.
Performance & Functionality
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive performs exceptionally well in a variety of roles. It excels at tasks such as batoning firewood, preparing food, carving wood, and general camp chores. The blade’s sharpness and edge retention are particularly impressive.
The knife’s strengths lie in its high-quality materials, excellent ergonomics, and versatile design. A potential weakness is the leather sheath’s retention of water. Overall, the knife meets and exceeds expectations for a high-end fixed blade.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a seamless fit and finish. The olive wood handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The weight is well-balanced, making the knife feel natural in the hand.
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive is user-friendly and requires minimal learning curve. The handle shape and size are well-suited for a variety of hand sizes. The full tang construction adds to the overall strength and durability.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive should last for many years. The M390 steel is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, and the olive wood handle is durable and resistant to cracking. The full tang construction further enhances the knife’s overall strength and longevity.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the blade and sheath. The knife is relatively easy to sharpen, though the M390 steel may require specialized sharpening tools.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive comes with a brown leather belt sheath. There aren’t readily available customization options directly from Lionsteel, but the lanyard hole allows for adding a custom lanyard or fob. The knife’s design is compatible with a variety of aftermarket sheaths if the user desires a different carry option.
Pros and Cons of Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive
Pros
- Exceptional Edge Retention: The Bohler M390 steel holds its edge for a very long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The olive wood handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- High-Quality Materials: The use of premium materials ensures durability and longevity.
- Versatile Design: The 3.5-inch blade is well-suited for a variety of outdoor tasks.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The classic design and natural materials give the knife a timeless appeal.
Cons
- Leather Sheath: The leather sheath can retain water.
- Price: The price point may be prohibitive for some buyers.
Who Should Buy Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive?
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive is perfect for serious outdoorsmen, experienced campers, and bushcraft enthusiasts who appreciate quality materials and craftsmanship. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile fixed blade knife for demanding tasks. This knife is also perfect for anyone who appreciates the combination of traditional aesthetics and modern performance.
Those on a tight budget or who only need a knife for occasional light use may want to consider a less expensive option. Someone looking for a dedicated survival knife with a larger blade might also prefer a different model.
A sharpening stone or system specifically designed for high-hardness steels like M390 is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. Leather conditioner will help to keep the sheath supple and prevent cracking.
Conclusion on Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive is an outstanding fixed blade knife that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and aesthetics. Its high-quality materials, comfortable ergonomics, and versatile design make it a valuable tool for any serious outdoorsman. The M390 steel blade’s edge retention is truly remarkable.
The price is undoubtedly an investment, but the quality and performance justify the cost for those who demand the best. You truly do get what you pay for with this knife.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive to anyone looking for a premium fixed blade knife that will stand the test of time. It’s a knife that you can rely on for years to come. If you value quality, performance, and classic design, the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Olive is an excellent choice. Add this to your pack today!