Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 Review

Let’s Dive into Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035

The Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 is a no-frills, budget-friendly fixed blade knife aimed at filling a general-purpose role. This 7-inch knife from Mtech boasts a 4-inch 440 stainless steel blade, a black Micarta handle, and a Kydex sheath. At a price point around $25, it promises functionality without breaking the bank, but can it deliver?

I was looking for a fixed blade knife to keep in my bug-out bag as a backup. My primary knife is a much more expensive, high-end model, and I wanted something less precious that I wouldn’t hesitate to abuse in a survival situation. The Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035’s price and decent-looking sheath caught my eye.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid for the price. The Micarta handle felt grippy enough, and the Kydex sheath seemed functional, although a bit rough around the edges. The brushed metal finish on the blade was okay, but nothing to write home about.

Compared to my Benchmade A2 fixed blade and even a Mora Companion, the Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 felt less refined. The Benchmade is in a different league in terms of steel quality and overall craftsmanship, and the Mora has a sharper factory edge and a more comfortable handle despite being similarly priced. I chose the Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 for its full-tang construction and Kydex sheath, hoping for better durability and retention.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price was right, the size was manageable, and it seemed like a decent enough tool for basic tasks. Only real-world testing would reveal if it lived up to my expectations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 on a weekend camping trip to the local state forest. I primarily used it for tasks around the campsite, such as cutting cordage, preparing kindling, and food prep. The weather was dry and mild.

The knife performed adequately for light tasks. It sliced through paracord without issue, and I was able to baton it through some small pieces of wood for starting a fire. However, the edge dulled noticeably after only a few uses, and the handle became uncomfortable after extended periods of gripping.

There were no immediate failures, but the initial sharpness of the blade was disappointing. The Kydex sheath held the knife securely, although drawing and re-sheathing required some practice.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 shows its limitations. The blade requires frequent sharpening to maintain even a mediocre edge. The brushed finish is prone to scratching.

The Micarta handle is holding up well, but the Kydex sheath is showing signs of wear. The retention is loosening slightly. Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wash with soap and water, followed by drying and a light coat of oil on the blade.

Compared to my experience with higher-quality knives, the Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 underperforms significantly. My Benchmade holds an edge for much longer and is far more comfortable to use. Even the Mora, despite its simpler design, offers better cutting performance and a more ergonomic grip.

Breaking Down the Features of Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035

Specifications

• Overall Length: 7 inches. This compact size makes it easy to carry.
• Blade Length: 3.75 inches. This length is sufficient for most general-purpose tasks.
• Blade Thickness: 5mm. The thick blade stock lends some strength for batoning.
• Blade Material: 440 Stainless Steel. This is a budget-friendly steel known for its corrosion resistance, but not edge retention.
• Handle Material: Black Micarta. Micarta is a durable composite material that provides a decent grip, even when wet.
• Sheath Material: Kydex. Kydex sheaths offer good retention and are resistant to moisture and abrasion.
• Blade Finish: Brushed Stainless Steel. This finish is purely aesthetic and doesn’t offer any performance advantage.

The specifications suggest a knife designed for basic utility. The 440 stainless steel is a compromise, prioritizing corrosion resistance over edge retention. The Micarta handle and Kydex sheath are welcome features at this price point, providing durability and functionality.

Performance & Functionality

The Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 performs adequately for light-duty tasks. It can cut cordage, prepare kindling, and perform basic food prep. However, it struggles with more demanding tasks.

The knife’s main weakness is its edge retention. The 440 stainless steel dulls quickly, requiring frequent sharpening. The handle, while grippy, becomes uncomfortable during extended use. The blade geometry isn’t optimized for slicing, making food prep somewhat challenging.

Overall, the Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 meets the bare minimum expectations for a budget-friendly knife. It’s functional but not exceptional.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 features a simple, utilitarian design. The full-tang construction lends some confidence in its strength. The Micarta handle provides a decent grip, although the shape could be more ergonomic.

The knife is reasonably well-balanced, but the overall feel is somewhat clunky. The Kydex sheath provides secure retention but can be noisy when drawing and re-sheathing the knife. There’s a slight learning curve to using the sheath smoothly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 seems reasonably durable, considering its price. The full-tang construction should withstand moderate abuse. The 440 stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, which is a plus for outdoor use.

Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning and sharpening. The Micarta handle is easy to clean, and the Kydex sheath can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 comes with only the Kydex sheath. There are no included accessories.

Customization options are limited. Aftermarket scales might be available, but given the knife’s low price, it’s unlikely to be a worthwhile investment. The sheath could potentially be modified with different attachment hardware. The Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 is not widely compatible with accessories from other brands due to its unique dimensions.

Pros and Cons of Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035

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Who Should Buy Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035?

The Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 is perfect for budget-conscious individuals who need a basic, no-frills fixed blade knife for light-duty tasks. It’s suitable as a backup knife in a survival kit or for occasional use around the campsite.

This knife isn’t suitable for experienced outdoorsmen or anyone who demands high performance and durability from their tools. Those seeking a knife for demanding tasks, such as bushcraft or hunting, should invest in a higher-quality model with better steel and ergonomics.

A sharpening stone or a quality sharpening system is a must-have accessory. A more comfortable handle wrap could also improve the user experience.

Conclusion on Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035

The Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 is a serviceable, but unremarkable knife. Its low price makes it an accessible option for those on a tight budget, but its performance limitations are evident.

The value proposition is debatable. While the price is low, the need for frequent sharpening and the uncomfortable handle detract from the overall experience. For a slightly higher price, there are better options available.

I would only recommend the Mtech Fixed Blade MX-8035 to individuals who understand its limitations and are willing to compromise on performance for the sake of affordability. If you’re looking for a reliable, high-performance knife, invest in a better model. If you just need a cheap knife to beat on and don’t mind sharpening it often, then this might fit the bill. Check out some other options before you buy!