First Impressions of Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife
The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife promises to be a versatile tool for various outdoor and tactical applications. Marketed as a “perfect fixed blade knife,” its specifications suggest a balance between a survival tool and a combat knife. I was intrigued to see if this sub-$50 knife could deliver on the promises made about its robustness and edge retention.
My interest in the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife stemmed from a need for a reliable, all-purpose knife for a recent wilderness camping trip. I needed something that could handle tasks from batoning wood and preparing food, to potentially serving as a self-defense tool in a pinch. I was looking for a budget-friendly option that wouldn’t break the bank but could still perform adequately in the field.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the knife’s weight. At 1.3 lbs, it felt substantial, though perhaps a bit heavy for extended carry. The green polymer handle felt sturdy, and the stainless steel blade had a somewhat menacing look, accentuated by the sawback spine. The included nylon sheath seemed adequate, though not particularly impressive in terms of material quality.
I considered options like the Gerber Strongarm and the SOG Seal Pup Elite, both renowned for their durability and performance. Ultimately, I chose the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife due to its lower price point, hoping it would offer a decent level of functionality for a fraction of the cost. The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife provided what I needed at a price I was willing to pay.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. While the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife didn’t exude the same level of quality as some of the higher-end knives I’ve used, it seemed like it could be a decent value for the money. The real test, however, would be how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife came during a three-day camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for tasks such as preparing kindling, cutting rope, and food preparation. The knife performed adequately for these basic tasks, though it did require more effort than some of my sharper, higher-end knives.
The damp conditions presented a challenge, as the stainless steel blade became somewhat slippery when wet. The polymer handle, however, maintained a decent grip even when my hands were damp. I also attempted to use the sawback feature to cut through a small branch, but the saw was relatively ineffective and required a significant amount of effort. The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife blade had me sweating during its first use.
After the first day of use, I noticed the blade had lost some of its initial sharpness. It wasn’t severely dull, but the edge had definitely degraded. The blade didn’t hold its edge like I had hoped.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife on various outdoor excursions, I began to notice some more significant wear and tear. The blade coating started to scratch easily, and the edge retention continued to be a concern. I found myself needing to sharpen the blade more frequently than I would with other knives in my collection.
The durability of the polymer handle proved to be a strong point. It showed minimal signs of wear and remained comfortable to grip, even after extended use. The nylon sheath, however, began to show signs of fraying at the seams. The blade material let me down over time, but the handle has held up.
Maintaining the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife required regular cleaning and oiling to prevent rust. The stainless steel blade was relatively easy to clean, but the serrated portion of the blade proved more challenging to keep free of debris. Compared to my experience with knives featuring higher-quality steel, the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife fell short in terms of edge retention and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife
Specifications
The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife features a 7.8-inch stainless steel blade and has an overall length of 12.75 inches. The blade material is listed as stainless steel, while the handle is made of polymer, and the sheath is constructed from nylon. It has a saw on the blade’s spine and weighs 1.3 lb.
The 7.8-inch blade provides adequate length for most cutting tasks, but the choice of stainless steel impacts its edge retention. Stainless steel is known for its corrosion resistance but often sacrifices hardness, making it more prone to dulling. The polymer handle offers a durable and weather-resistant grip, while the nylon sheath provides a basic means of carrying the knife.
Performance & Functionality
The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife performs adequately for basic cutting tasks, such as slicing rope, preparing food, and whittling wood. The sawback feature, however, is largely ineffective and requires a significant amount of effort to use. The knife’s balance is decent, but the weight can become tiring during prolonged use.
The main weakness of the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife is its edge retention. The stainless steel blade dulls relatively quickly, requiring frequent sharpening. The saw also needs improvement to be a truly useful tool. While it meets the basic expectations of a knife, it doesn’t exceed them in any particular area.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife features a simple, utilitarian design. The green polymer handle is comfortable to grip and provides a secure hold, even when wet. The knife’s weight is noticeable but manageable.
The knife is reasonably user-friendly, with a straightforward design and no complex mechanisms. However, the sawback spine can be awkward to handle during certain tasks. There is a small learning curve to using it effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife‘s durability is a mixed bag. The polymer handle is robust and should withstand significant use. However, the stainless steel blade is more prone to scratching and dulling than blades made from higher-quality steel.
Maintaining the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife requires regular cleaning and oiling to prevent rust and corrosion. Sharpening the blade is also a frequent necessity. The serrated portion of the blade can be more challenging to clean than the smooth portion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife comes with a basic nylon sheath. There are limited customization options available for this knife. Aftermarket sheaths may be available, but compatibility is not guaranteed.
Because of the blade steel, few would consider customization. No accessories are available from the Rite Edge directly. The sheath is the only supplied accessory.
Pros and Cons of Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Durable polymer handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- Full tang construction offers increased strength and stability.
- Adequate for basic cutting tasks and general use.
- The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife includes a sturdy nylon sheath.
Cons
- Poor edge retention requires frequent sharpening.
- The sawback feature is largely ineffective.
- The sheath shows signs of fraying after moderate use.
Who Should Buy Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife?
The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife is perfect for budget-conscious individuals who need a basic, all-purpose knife for occasional use. It would also be suitable for beginner campers or those who need a backup knife in their survival kit. People needing the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife may be occasional campers, or beginning survivalists.
Those who require a high-performance knife for demanding tasks or rely on their knife for self-defense should skip this product. Professional outdoorsmen and serious survivalists would likely find the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife lacking in terms of durability and performance. The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife isn’t for professionals.
A sharpening stone or honing steel is a must-have accessory for maintaining the edge of the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife. An upgraded sheath could also improve its carry and accessibility.
Conclusion on Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife
The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife is a budget-friendly option that offers a basic level of functionality. While it’s not the most durable or high-performing knife on the market, it can be a decent value for the price if your expectations are realistic. The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife is a simple knife.
The price is justified for those who need a cheap, general-purpose knife and don’t mind frequent sharpening. However, those seeking a high-quality, durable knife should invest in a more expensive option. The Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife costs less, but also delivers less.
I would cautiously recommend the Rite Edge M-9 Commando Knife to individuals who understand its limitations and are primarily concerned with price. Just manage your expectations. If you are looking for a workhorse knife, you’ll need to spend more money.