First Impressions of Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade
The Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade is a knife that immediately grabs your attention with its aggressive styling and promises of rugged utility. Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with law enforcement and personal defense, lends credibility to this fixed blade, suggesting it’s a tool ready for demanding tasks. At a price point under $30, it begs the question: can a knife this affordable actually deliver on its “Search & Rescue” moniker?
I was searching for a durable, all-weather knife to keep in my truck’s emergency kit. My primary needs were a reliable blade for cutting rope, preparing kindling, and general utility tasks. Upon unboxing the Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade, I was immediately struck by its substantial size and surprisingly comfortable grip. The black oxide coating on the blade looked menacing, and the glass breaker on the pommel hinted at its intended purpose.
Compared to my Benchmade Bushcrafter and my Gerber StrongArm, the Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade felt noticeably lighter and less refined. I chose this knife for my truck kit because I wanted something very affordable that I wouldn’t worry too much about abusing. My initial excitement was tempered with a dose of skepticism, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade through its paces during a weekend camping trip in the nearby Angeles National Forest. I tested it primarily by using it to chop small branches for firewood and preparing feather sticks. The knife performed surprisingly well in dry conditions, easily slicing through seasoned wood.
However, when a light rain started, the handle became a bit slippery. The blade retained its edge reasonably well after batoning through a few small logs, but the edge needed some work after the trip. After the first use, the black oxide coating showed some wear around the serrations, revealing the bare stainless steel underneath.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of sporadic use, the Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade continues to perform adequately, considering its price point. I’ve used it for everything from cutting cardboard boxes to assisting with minor vehicle repairs. The blade has developed a few scratches, and the black oxide coating has worn off in several places.
The polymer handle still feels solid, with no signs of cracking or loosening. The edge requires frequent sharpening, especially after heavy use. Overall, the knife is reasonably easy to clean with soap and water, and I apply a light coat of oil to the blade after cleaning to prevent rust. Compared to my higher-end knives, the Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade requires more frequent maintenance to maintain its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade boasts an overall length of 11.25 inches (28.58cm), making it a substantial tool. The 6-inch (15.24cm) blade is constructed from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel with a black oxide coating and a partially serrated edge. The handle is made from black polymer, and the knife includes a glass breaker on the pommel. It also comes with a sharpening stone and a black synthetic belt sheath. The knife weighs in at 1.12 lbs. These specifications position the Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade as a mid-sized, utility-focused knife suitable for various outdoor and emergency situations.
The blade length provides ample cutting surface, while the stainless-steel construction offers reasonable corrosion resistance. The serrations are intended for cutting rope and other fibrous materials, adding versatility. The polymer handle provides a secure grip, and the glass breaker adds an extra layer of utility for emergency situations. The included sharpening stone is a welcome addition, allowing users to maintain the blade’s edge in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade performs adequately for light to medium-duty tasks. The blade is reasonably sharp out of the box, but it requires frequent sharpening to maintain its edge. The serrations are effective for cutting rope and webbing, but they can make sharpening the main blade more challenging.
The knife’s balance is slightly blade-heavy, which can be helpful for chopping but less ideal for fine work. The handle provides a secure grip, even when wet, but it can become uncomfortable during prolonged use. Overall, the knife meets expectations for its price point, but it falls short of more expensive, higher-quality alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade is functional and utilitarian, but it lacks the refinement of more expensive knives. The polymer handle is durable and provides a decent grip, but it feels somewhat cheap and lacks the ergonomic contours of higher-end handles. The glass breaker is a useful addition, but it can also be uncomfortable if it digs into your hand during regular use.
The sheath is functional but basic, providing secure retention but lacking any MOLLE compatibility or advanced features. The knife is easy to deploy from the sheath with one hand, but re-sheathing can be a bit tricky. There is no significant learning curve, which is good for beginners who might not have knife experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade is reasonably durable for its price point, but it’s not designed for extreme abuse. The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel is prone to corrosion if not properly maintained, and the black oxide coating wears off relatively easily. The polymer handle is durable and resistant to cracking, but it can be scratched and scuffed.
The knife requires frequent sharpening to maintain its edge. The blade is relatively easy to sharpen with the included sharpening stone, but the serrations can make the process more time-consuming. Regular cleaning and oiling are essential to prevent rust and maintain optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade comes with a basic black synthetic belt sheath and a small sharpening stone. There are limited customization options available for this knife. Aftermarket sheaths may provide better retention and carry options.
Due to its construction and intended use, there are no common or official accessories available from Smith & Wesson or third-party manufacturers, like grips or alternative blades. The blade could be professionally reprofiled for a different edge if desired.
Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade
Pros
- Affordable Price: At under $30, it’s a budget-friendly option for a fixed blade knife.
- Durable Handle: The black polymer handle provides a secure and comfortable grip.
- Included Sharpening Stone: Allows for easy edge maintenance in the field.
- Glass Breaker: A useful addition for emergency situations.
- Substantial Size: The 11.25-inch overall length provides ample cutting power.
Cons
- Blade Steel Quality: The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel requires frequent sharpening and is prone to corrosion if not properly maintained.
- Basic Sheath: The synthetic sheath lacks advanced features and durability.
- Black Oxide Coating: The coating wears off easily, exposing the bare steel underneath.
Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade?
The Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade is perfect for individuals seeking an affordable and functional utility knife for light to medium-duty tasks. It’s a good option for casual campers, hikers, or anyone who needs a basic knife for their car emergency kit. People needing a cheap knife that they won’t feel bad about losing or abusing will also enjoy this knife.
Individuals who require a high-performance, durable knife for demanding tasks or survival situations should skip this product. Someone looking for a showpiece or a high-quality, long-lasting tool will be better served spending more money. A better sheath is a must-have accessory for serious use.
Conclusion on Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade
The Smith & Wesson Search & Rescue Fixed Blade is a decent value proposition for those seeking an affordable and functional utility knife. While it has limitations in terms of blade steel quality and overall durability, its low price point makes it an attractive option for casual users. The black polymer handle, included sharpening stone, and glass breaker add to its utility.
The price is justified for those who understand its limitations. I would recommend this knife as a budget-friendly option for general utility tasks or as a backup knife for emergency situations. Consider this knife as a tool, not a treasure, and it will serve you well.