Let’s Dive into Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113
The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 isn’t your grandpappy’s hunting knife. Manufactured by Mtech, this fixed blade is a budget-friendly option boasting a 10.5-inch overall length and a tanto-shaped blade, designed with a hard rubber handle and a nylon sheath for easy carry.
I was looking for a cheap, beater knife. Something I wouldn’t be afraid to lose or break while clearing brush on my property.
Upon unboxing, the MT-113 certainly looked like a knife. The weight was surprisingly light, and the rubber handle felt…well, rubbery. The blade itself had a decent edge, though not razor-sharp, and the nylon sheath seemed functional enough.
Compared to my Benchmade fixed blade (a true workhorse), the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 felt like a toy. But that’s comparing apples to tanks, and the Benchmade cost twenty times as much. This was chosen for the low price point, not for features. Initial impressions were… cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 to the Test
First Use Experience
The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 got its first taste of the outdoors during a weekend clearing trails on my property. The environment was primarily dry, with temperatures hovering around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Initially, I used it for light tasks such as cutting small branches and clearing vines. It performed adequately, but the blade required frequent sharpening. After about an hour of constant use, the handle started to feel uncomfortable, leading to hand fatigue.
I attempted to baton the knife through a small log. This was a mistake; the nylon sheath was immediately snagged and the rubber grip loosened a little bit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of sporadic use, the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113‘s limitations became more apparent. The edge retention remained poor, requiring constant maintenance.
The blade showed signs of superficial rust despite being stainless steel, which was disappointing. The rubber handle, while initially grippy, started to degrade and became somewhat sticky.
Compared to my tried-and-true Ka-Bar, the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 was a significant letdown. The Ka-Bar held its edge far longer, felt more comfortable in hand, and displayed superior durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113
Specifications
- Overall Length: 10.5 inches. This provides decent reach, but the balance feels off due to the lightweight construction.
- Blade Material: 440 Stainless Steel. A budget-friendly steel that’s corrosion-resistant but doesn’t hold an edge well.
- Blade Shape: Tanto. Offers a strong tip for piercing but sacrifices some slicing ability.
- Handle Material: Hard Rubber. Provides a reasonable grip but lacks long-term comfort and durability.
- Sheath: Nylon. A basic sheath that gets the job done but offers minimal protection.
These specifications result in a tool that is inexpensive and superficially functional but lacks the performance and durability expected of a serious outdoor knife.
Performance & Functionality
The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 performs adequately for light tasks like cutting cord and opening packages. However, it struggles with more demanding activities such as batoning or heavy chopping.
The knife’s main strengths lie in its low price and basic functionality. Its primary weakness is its poor edge retention and lack of durability. In the field, it fails to meet even modest expectations for sustained use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 is designed with a simple, utilitarian aesthetic. The build quality reflects the low price point. The rubber handle offers decent grip initially but quickly becomes uncomfortable during extended use. There is a small learning curve with any knife, but this one isn’t particularly difficult to manage.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 is questionable. The 440 stainless steel blade is prone to chipping and rusting if not properly maintained. It’s relatively easy to sharpen with basic tools, but the edge dulls quickly, so frequent maintenance is a must.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 comes with only a basic nylon sheath. There are virtually no customization options available for this knife. Due to its construction and price point, aftermarket accessories aren’t really a consideration for the MT-113.
Pros and Cons of Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113
Pros
- Extremely Affordable: The price is hard to beat if you need a very basic knife.
- Lightweight Design: Easy to carry and maneuver.
- Basic Functionality: Can handle light cutting tasks.
- Tanto Blade Shape: Offers a strong tip for piercing.
Cons
- Poor Edge Retention: Requires frequent sharpening.
- Low Durability: Prone to chipping and rusting.
- Uncomfortable Handle: Causes hand fatigue during extended use.
Who Should Buy Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113?
The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 is perfect for someone who needs a very inexpensive, disposable knife for light tasks. Think emergency kits, or simply opening packages.
Someone looking for a reliable, durable knife for serious outdoor activities should skip this product. A better sheath would be a must-have modification, but honestly, spending more on a better knife is the wisest move.
Conclusion on Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113
The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 is what it is: a very cheap knife. The value proposition is questionable. For a few dollars more, you can find knives with better steel, more comfortable handles, and greater overall durability.
I would not personally recommend it for anything beyond the most basic tasks. It’s a “get what you pay for” situation. If you need a true tool, look elsewhere. If you just need something sharp in a pinch, and cheap, the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-113 will do in an absolute pinch.