Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 Review

Let’s Dive into Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70

The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 is a 10-inch overall fixed blade knife designed for general utility and outdoor use. Manufactured by Mtech, this knife features a 5-inch stainless steel tanto blade, a black nylon fiber handle, and comes with a nylon sheath. With a price point under $20, it promises affordability, but can it deliver on performance and durability?

I was in the market for a beater knife, something I wouldn’t feel bad about using and abusing for tasks that my higher-end knives were too precious for. I needed a fixed blade for clearing brush around my hunting blind and general campsite tasks, where I didn’t want to risk damaging a more expensive tool. The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70’s low price made it an attractive candidate.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was mixed. The knife felt surprisingly solid for the price, but the nylon handle felt cheap, and the blade had a dull edge. The 1680D nylon sheath seemed adequate but not particularly robust.

I considered the Smith & Wesson CKSUR1, which is similarly priced, and the Morakniv Companion, which is slightly more expensive but has a better reputation. I chose the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 due to its aggressive tanto blade shape, figuring it would be useful for piercing and scraping, and of course, the price. I knew I wasn’t expecting a premium blade, but I was hoping for something functional.

My first impression was a bit skeptical. While the knife looked the part, I wasn’t convinced it would hold up under serious use. I was hoping I hadn’t wasted my money, but the low price point lessened the sting.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for tasks like batoning small pieces of firewood, cutting rope, and preparing food. The weather was dry, but the undergrowth was damp.

The knife struggled with batoning, primarily due to its relatively thin blade. It was adequate for cutting rope and preparing food, but the edge dulled quickly after minimal use. The nylon handle provided a decent grip, even when wet, but the overall experience was underwhelming.

My first use revealed that this knife was more of a “show piece” than a workhorse. It looked aggressive, but its performance was lackluster. I was disappointed but not entirely surprised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use, the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 hasn’t improved with age. The blade is difficult to sharpen to a truly keen edge, and it loses its sharpness quickly. The black coating is already showing signs of wear and scratching.

The edge retention is poor, requiring frequent sharpening even after light tasks. There is some slight play between the blade and the handle, indicating that the full tang construction isn’t as robust as I initially thought. Cleaning is simple, but the nylon handle tends to absorb odors.

Compared to my other fixed blade knives, the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 falls far short in terms of performance and durability. It’s a budget knife through and through, and its limitations become apparent with extended use. It’s definitely a case of getting what you pay for.

Breaking Down the Features of Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70

Specifications

• Overall Length: 10 inches – This is a decent size for a general-purpose fixed blade, allowing for good reach and leverage.
• Blade Length: 5 inches – The 5-inch blade is suitable for various tasks, but a slightly longer blade would be more versatile.
• Blade Material: Steel – The specific type of steel isn’t specified, which suggests it’s likely a low-grade stainless steel that prioritizes affordability over edge retention.
• Blade Thickness: 4mm – A 4mm blade thickness offers a reasonable balance between strength and slicing ability, but the type of steel affects its overall performance.
• Handle Material: Nylon Fiber – Nylon fiber is a lightweight and durable material, but it often lacks the comfort and grip of other handle materials like G10 or Micarta.
• Sheath Material: 1680D Nylon – 1680D nylon is a relatively durable fabric for a sheath, but it won’t offer the same level of protection as Kydex or leather.
• Blade Finish: Stainless Steel – The stainless steel finish provides some corrosion resistance, but it’s prone to scratching and wear.
• Blade Type: Fixed Blade – Fixed blade knives are generally stronger and more reliable than folding knives, making them suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
• Tanto Style Blade: The tanto blade is known for its strong tip, making it ideal for piercing and stabbing. However, it can be less efficient for slicing than other blade shapes.

Performance & Functionality

The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 is adequate for light tasks like cutting rope and opening packages. However, it struggles with more demanding tasks due to its soft steel and poor edge retention.

Its strengths are its aggressive appearance and low price point. The weaknesses include its dull edge, poor edge retention, and flimsy handle. Ultimately, it falls short of expectations for any serious outdoor use.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is what you’d expect for a budget knife. The materials used feel cheap, and the overall construction lacks refinement.

The handle is comfortable enough for short periods of use, but the texturing is minimal, offering a less secure grip. There’s no significant learning curve, but it lacks the intuitive feel of a more well-designed knife.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials and construction, the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 is unlikely to last long under heavy use. The blade steel is prone to chipping and bending, and the handle may crack or break with repeated stress.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. However, the poor edge retention means it will need frequent sharpening, which can be frustrating.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 comes with a basic 1680D nylon sheath. There are no other included accessories.

There are no readily available aftermarket grips or modification options for this knife. The knife is designed as a budget option, not a platform for customization.

Pros and Cons of Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70

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Who Should Buy Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70?

The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 is perfect for someone who needs a very inexpensive knife for light, occasional tasks, like opening boxes or cutting twine. It could also be suitable as a backup knife in a vehicle emergency kit.

This knife is not for: serious outdoorsmen, survivalists, hunters, or anyone who needs a reliable and durable tool. Anyone who values quality and performance should skip this product.

Must-have accessories include a good quality knife sharpener. You’ll definitely need it.

Conclusion on Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70

The Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 is a budget-friendly knife that offers a tactical appearance at a very low price. However, its performance and durability are severely limited by its low-quality materials and construction.

The value proposition is questionable. While the price is low, the knife’s poor performance means it may not be worth the investment.

I would not personally recommend it for any serious use. There are better options available, even at a slightly higher price point. If you’re looking for a reliable fixed blade knife, invest a little more money in a higher-quality product. Otherwise, you’ll likely end up replacing the Mtech Fixed Blade MT-20-70 sooner rather than later.