First Impressions of Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos is a compact fixed blade knife that promises versatility and durability in a beautifully crafted package. Lionsteel is a renowned name in the knife world, and the M2M (MOLLE to More) line aims to provide a reliable tool for a variety of tasks. Its 3.5-inch blade and Santos wood handle immediately caught my eye as a potential everyday carry (EDC) fixed blade.
I was searching for a small, robust fixed blade for wilderness excursions and general outdoor tasks. My primary need was a knife that could handle food preparation, light wood processing, and general cutting tasks without being overly bulky. I’ve grown weary of large, unwieldy knives that end up staying in my pack.
Upon unboxing, the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos felt solid and well-balanced. The satin finish on the Bohler M390 steel blade is aesthetically pleasing and promises excellent corrosion resistance. The Santos wood handle provides a warm, natural feel in the hand. The included brown leather sheath is simple, functional, and appears well-made.
I considered the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter and the ESEE Izula II before choosing the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos. The Benchmade offered similar blade steel but felt less robust in hand and had a higher price tag. The ESEE Izula II is a tough contender, but I preferred the aesthetic and ergonomics of the Lionsteel.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos exudes quality and craftsmanship. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The knife was immediately put to work preparing meals and processing small pieces of firewood. The humid conditions presented a good test for the blade steel’s corrosion resistance.
The knife excelled at food preparation, easily slicing vegetables and preparing meat. Feathering sticks for fire starting was also surprisingly easy due to the blade’s geometry and sharp factory edge. The handle provided a secure and comfortable grip, even with damp hands. I experienced no hot spots or discomfort during extended use.
Initially, the sheath felt a little tight, but after a few uses, it became easier to draw and resheath the knife. There were no unexpected issues or surprises after the first use; the knife performed exactly as I had hoped.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos has proven to be a reliable and capable tool. I’ve used it for everything from carving tent stakes to cleaning fish. The knife continues to perform exceptionally well.
The M390 blade has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. The Santos wood handle has darkened slightly with use but shows no signs of cracking or splitting. The leather sheath has also held up well, with only minor scuffing. The knife is very easy to clean and maintain. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Occasional application of mineral oil to the handle keeps the wood moisturized.
Compared to other fixed blades I’ve used, the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos stands out for its excellent balance of size, performance, and aesthetics. It outperforms smaller knives in tasks requiring more leverage and control. It is also more comfortable to carry than larger, heavier knives.
Breaking Down the Features of Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos
Specifications
- Overall Length: 8 inches (20.32 cm) provides a good balance between reach and maneuverability. This allows for effective use in tight spaces and more substantial tasks.
- Blade Length: 3.5 inches (8.89 cm) is ideal for everyday carry and utility tasks. It’s long enough for most cutting needs without being overly cumbersome.
- Blade Material: Bohler M390 stainless steel is a high-end steel known for its exceptional edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. This ensures long-lasting performance and minimal maintenance.
- Handle Material: Santos wood provides a comfortable and secure grip while also adding a touch of natural beauty. The wood also offers a degree of shock absorption.
- Weight: 0.56 lb (approximately 9 ounces) is light enough for comfortable carry but substantial enough to feel robust and capable. This provides a solid feel without being overly heavy.
- Construction: Full tang construction ensures maximum strength and durability. The blade extends through the entire handle, providing a stable and reliable platform.
- Sheath: Brown leather belt sheath offers a secure and convenient carry option. It is also aesthetically pleasing and complements the knife’s overall design.
- Additional Features: Lanyard hole provides an additional carry option and allows for attaching a lanyard or wrist strap. This enhances safety and control during use.
Performance & Functionality
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos excels at a variety of tasks. The M390 steel holds an incredibly sharp edge, making it suitable for precision cutting. The blade geometry is well-suited for slicing, carving, and general utility work.
Its strengths lie in its edge retention, comfortable ergonomics, and well-balanced design. The main weakness is that the smaller blade is not ideal for heavy-duty tasks like batoning large pieces of wood. The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos meets and even exceeds expectations for a knife in its size category.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials used are top-notch, and the fit and finish are impeccable. The Santos wood handle is comfortable in the hand. The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos is very user-friendly, and there is no learning curve required.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos is built to last. The full tang construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand years of use. The M390 blade is highly resistant to corrosion. Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos comes with a brown leather belt sheath. There are no readily available factory accessories or customization options. However, the lanyard hole allows for the addition of aftermarket lanyards. The sheath can be replaced with a custom kydex sheath if desired.
Pros and Cons of Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos
Pros
- Exceptional edge retention due to the Bohler M390 steel. This minimizes the need for frequent sharpening.
- Comfortable and ergonomic Santos wood handle provides a secure grip in various conditions.
- High-quality construction and materials ensure long-lasting durability. The knife is built to withstand hard use.
- Compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for everyday carry. The knife is easily carried without being cumbersome.
- Aesthetically pleasing design combines modern materials with a classic look. The knife is visually appealing.
Cons
- The smaller blade size may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks. This limits its capabilities for larger wood processing.
- Leather sheath requires some break-in and may require occasional conditioning.
Who Should Buy Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos?
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos is perfect for hikers, campers, and general outdoors enthusiasts who appreciate a high-quality, compact fixed blade. It is also well-suited for everyday carry for those who prefer a fixed blade over a folding knife.
This product is not ideal for those who require a large, heavy-duty knife for tasks such as batoning large pieces of wood or heavy chopping. Individuals with larger hands might find the handle slightly small, though I find the grip incredibly comfortable and secure.
A sharpening stone or strop is a must-have accessory to maintain the M390 blade’s edge. A custom kydex sheath may be preferred by some for increased durability and versatility.
Conclusion on Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos
The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos is an excellent fixed blade knife that offers a superb combination of performance, durability, and aesthetics. Its high-quality materials and construction justify the price of $179.99.
I would personally recommend this knife to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile everyday carry fixed blade. The Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos is a testament to Lionsteel’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. It’s a knife that you can depend on for years to come. If you’re seeking a premium, compact fixed blade, the Lionsteel M2M Fixed Blade Santos is an investment you won’t regret.