Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife

The Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife is a no-nonsense tool designed for practical use. It’s crafted by Smith & Wesson, a brand known for its legacy in firearms and now, a growing presence in the edged tools market. This knife presents a straightforward approach to functionality, featuring a tanto blade known for its piercing strength and a paracord-wrapped handle for a secure grip. I was looking for a reliable, compact fixed blade that could be easily carried and wouldn’t break the bank.

My search for an affordable yet dependable fixed blade for my bug-out bag led me to the Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife. I needed something that could handle basic camp tasks and potentially serve as a self-defense tool in a pinch. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by its lightweight design and the aggressive point of the tanto blade. The paracord handle felt surprisingly comfortable, though I did notice some minor fraying.

Compared to my Ka-Bar TDI Law Enforcement Knife, the Smith & Wesson is noticeably lighter and more compact, sacrificing some robustness for increased portability. The Smith & Wesson is also a significant step down from my Benchmade Bushcrafter, but that comparison isn’t really fair due to the price difference; the Benchmade is a premium tool for specific purposes. I chose the Smith & Wesson for its simplicity and affordability, betting on its ability to handle basic tasks without worrying about damaging a more expensive blade. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to Smith & Wesson’s reputation for quality and reliability.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first took the Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was predictably unpredictable, with periods of rain followed by humid sunshine. I primarily used the knife for preparing kindling, cutting rope, and food preparation. It was used to cut small branches for feather sticks.

The Smith & Wesson performed adequately in wet conditions, though I had to periodically wipe the blade to maintain a secure grip. I did find that the paracord handle absorbed some moisture. Initial sharpness was decent. I was able to create small wood shavings for fire starting.

The knife felt small in my hand, and the paracord wrap provided a surprisingly good grip. However, prolonged use resulted in some hotspots. There weren’t any major issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife is holding up surprisingly well, considering the price point. There are some minor scratches on the blade coating, but no significant damage. The edge has dulled somewhat, requiring more frequent sharpening.

The blade hasn’t chipped or bent. I’ve noticed some further fraying of the paracord handle. Maintenance is simple. The knife is easily cleaned with soap and water, and I regularly apply a thin coat of oil to the blade to prevent rust.

Compared to my previous experience with cheaper knives, the Smith & Wesson has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability. It hasn’t replaced my higher-end knives, but it has proven to be a reliable backup option for basic tasks. It’s not in the same league as some of my other knives, but at its price point, it is impressive.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

The Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife boasts a 7Cr17MoV high carbon stainless steel tanto blade. The full tang construction provides added strength and stability. The blade features spine jimping for enhanced grip and control.

The handle is wrapped with black 550 paracord for a secure and comfortable grip. It also has a lanyard hole. The knife comes with a nylon fiber neck sheath for convenient carry. This is classified as a neck knife.

These specifications are important because they dictate the knife’s overall performance and durability. The 7Cr17MoV steel offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. The full tang construction ensures that the blade won’t break easily under stress. The paracord handle provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife performs well for its intended purpose. The tanto blade excels at piercing and detail work. Its small size makes it easy to carry and maneuver.

It is a reliable knife. The blade holds an edge adequately for light tasks. The paracord handle is comfortable but can become slippery when wet.

The Smith & Wesson meets expectations for a budget-friendly fixed blade. It’s not a high-performance tool, but it’s perfectly capable of handling basic cutting tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The materials used are not top-of-the-line, but they are functional. The knife is lightweight and easy to carry, making it a good option for everyday carry or backpacking.

The paracord handle provides a decent grip, but can become uncomfortable with prolonged use. The Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife has no real learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife should last for several years of occasional use. Regular cleaning and sharpening will extend its lifespan. The paracord handle may need to be replaced over time.

Maintenance is straightforward. The blade can be sharpened with a standard sharpening stone. The handle can be cleaned with soap and water.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife comes with a basic nylon fiber neck sheath. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited.

The paracord handle can be replaced with a different color or style of paracord. Aftermarket sheaths may offer improved carry options. You can also add a custom lanyard.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Full Tang Tanto Fixed Blade Knife