Let’s Dive into Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife
The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife is a no-nonsense tool designed for reliability and functionality. Manufactured by Smith & Wesson, a company with a long history of producing quality tools and firearms, this knife features a full tang construction and a tanto blade known for its strength. For those seeking a robust and affordable fixed blade, the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife aims to deliver.
I needed a reliable fixed-blade knife that wouldn’t break the bank for a variety of tasks around my property and occasional camping trips. I was specifically seeking a full-tang knife that could withstand some abuse, and the tanto blade shape appealed to me for its piercing strength and overall versatility. The promise of a durable tool without an exorbitant price tag is what drew me to this particular model.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-balanced, although the nylon sheath initially seemed a bit basic. The G10 handle scales provided a decent grip, and the blade arrived reasonably sharp, ready for some initial testing. The weight felt reassuring, indicating a sturdy build capable of handling demanding tasks.
I considered the Gerber Strongarm Fixed Blade Knife and the Kershaw Camp 10 before deciding on the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife. The Gerber was more expensive, and the Kershaw, while appealing, felt too large for my everyday carry needs. The Smith & Wesson offered a good compromise between size, price, and apparent durability, making it the preferred choice for my specific requirements.
I was cautiously optimistic about the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife. It appeared to offer decent value, but I was eager to see how it would perform under real-world conditions, especially considering its relatively low price point. It’s hard to get truly excited about a $50 knife, but I was hoping it would be a dependable workhorse.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife during a weekend camping trip in the local state forest. I used it for various tasks, including cutting rope, preparing kindling, and food preparation. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions.
The blade easily sliced through rope and branches, and the tanto tip proved useful for creating feather sticks for starting a fire. While the G10 handle became slightly slippery when wet, it remained manageable. The knife felt comfortable and controlled in my hand during use, requiring minimal getting-used-to time.
After the first day, I noticed some slight scratching on the blade coating but no major issues. The blade held its edge reasonably well, though it required a touch-up after heavier use. Overall, it exceeded my initial expectations for its price.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional use, the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife has held up relatively well. There are noticeable scratches on the blade coating, and the edge requires more frequent sharpening. However, the structural integrity remains sound.
The blade coating shows wear and tear from repeated use, particularly when cutting through abrasive materials like thick cardboard. The G10 handle scales have remained secure, but I’ve noticed slight movement in the full tang construction after some heavy chopping. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring just soap, water, and occasional oiling of the blade.
Compared to my previous fixed-blade knife, a Benchmade Nimravus, the Smith & Wesson obviously does not reach the same level of performance or material quality. However, for the price, it’s a surprisingly capable tool, far exceeding the performance of some similarly priced knives I’ve used in the past. It has proven to be a dependable backup knife.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife features a 4-inch blade, making it a compact yet capable tool. This blade length is ideal for both detailed work and heavier cutting tasks, providing a good balance between maneuverability and cutting power.
The overall length is 8.5 inches, offering sufficient handle length for a secure and comfortable grip. This ensures better control and leverage during use.
The blade shape is Tanto, known for its strong tip and piercing capabilities. This makes it particularly effective for tasks that require puncturing or breaking through tough materials.
The blade material is 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel, a budget-friendly steel that offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. While not a premium steel, it’s a practical choice for an affordable knife.
The included accessory is a Nylon Sheath, which provides a safe and convenient way to carry the knife. While not as durable as Kydex, it’s functional and lightweight.
The handle material is G10, a composite material known for its strength, durability, and resistance to moisture and temperature changes. This ensures a secure and comfortable grip even in wet or challenging conditions.
The knife has a Full Tang construction, meaning the blade extends through the entire length of the handle. This enhances the knife’s strength and durability, making it more resistant to breakage under heavy use.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife performs well as an all-around utility knife, excelling at cutting and piercing tasks. Its strength and durability make it a dependable tool for outdoor activities.
The tanto blade is exceptionally strong at the tip, making it ideal for puncturing and piercing tasks. The edge, while not razor-sharp out of the box, can be easily sharpened to a useful working edge. The knife’s weaknesses lie in its steel quality, which requires more frequent sharpening, and the sheath, which lacks the durability and retention of higher-end models.
It meets expectations for a budget-friendly knife; it’s a capable tool that provides good value for its price. However, it does not exceed expectations in terms of premium materials or exceptional performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife has a functional design with a focus on durability and ease of use. The weight feels well-balanced in hand.
The G10 handle scales provide a secure grip, and the full tang construction adds to the knife’s overall strength. While the handle is comfortable, it could benefit from more aggressive texturing for improved grip in wet conditions. There’s a slight learning curve in terms of sharpening the blade to achieve the desired edge.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, the Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife should last for several years of occasional use. It’s relatively easy to maintain.
Regular cleaning and oiling are essential to prevent rust and corrosion. Sharpening the blade will be necessary to maintain a good cutting edge. The nylon sheath may eventually wear out, requiring replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife comes with a basic nylon sheath, offering simple belt carry. There are limited customization options available directly for this model.
Aftermarket Kydex sheaths designed for similar-sized knives might be compatible, offering a more durable and secure carrying solution. Some users might choose to wrap the handle with paracord for added grip and utility. There are no readily available options for blade upgrades or handle replacements.
Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife
Pros
- Affordable price point: Makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Full tang construction: Enhances durability and strength.
- G10 handle scales: Provide a secure and comfortable grip.
- Tanto blade shape: Offers a strong tip for piercing and puncturing tasks.
- Versatile utility knife: Suitable for a variety of cutting and general tasks.
Cons
- 8Cr13MoV steel: Requires more frequent sharpening.
- Nylon sheath: Lacks the durability and retention of higher-end sheaths.
Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife?
The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for casual campers, budget-conscious preppers, and anyone needing a reliable backup knife. It’s also a good choice for those new to fixed-blade knives looking for an affordable and durable option.
This product should be skipped by individuals seeking a high-performance knife with premium materials or those requiring a knife for heavy, daily use in demanding environments.
A must-have accessory would be a sharpening stone or kit to maintain the blade’s edge. A more durable aftermarket Kydex sheath would also be a worthwhile upgrade for those who prioritize secure carry.
Conclusion on Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife
The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife is a decent knife for the money. It provides a solid, functional tool at an affordable price.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. It’s a reliable option for basic tasks, though it won’t outperform higher-end knives.
I would recommend it to anyone on a tight budget looking for a dependable fixed-blade knife for occasional use. The Smith & Wesson 24/7 Tanto Fixed Blade Knife is a practical and affordable option that won’t let you down when you need it most. Consider picking one up today for your next outdoor adventure or emergency kit!