Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 Review

Let’s Dive into Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 is a compact, budget-friendly fixed blade knife designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind. Made by Survivor, it features a 3-inch tanto blade and a paracord-wrapped handle, offering both utility and a touch of survival preparedness. I was looking for an inexpensive, easily packable knife to keep in my bug-out bag, something I wouldn’t be heartbroken about if it got lost or damaged.

When I first received the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320, I was immediately struck by its lightweight design. The handle felt surprisingly secure, thanks to the tightly-wrapped paracord. Compared to my Gerber StrongArm, which is a much more robust and expensive knife, the Survivor felt almost toy-like initially; however, its compact size and included fire starter offered a unique appeal for minimalist kits. I ended up choosing the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 primarily due to its low price and the added functionality of the fire starter.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The knife seemed decent enough for its price point, but I questioned its long-term durability and overall functionality under real-world stress. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could truly live up to its name.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 on a weekend camping trip in the Pisgah National Forest. The weather was fairly mild, with some light rain overnight. I primarily used the knife for basic camp chores like cutting rope, preparing kindling, and food preparation.

The blade’s edge held up surprisingly well during the initial uses. I found it adequate for slicing vegetables and even feathering some small twigs for fire starting. The paracord handle provided a surprisingly secure grip, even when wet; however, after extended use, I noticed the handle could cause some discomfort due to the cord texture.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, primarily during weekend camping and hiking trips, the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 has shown noticeable wear. The black coating on the blade has started to chip in places. While the blade hasn’t chipped or bent, the edge requires more frequent sharpening.

The paracord wrap has remained intact, though it has become slightly frayed in areas. Cleaning the knife is relatively straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my Ka-Bar Becker BK2, which is a tank of a knife, the Survivor doesn’t instill the same level of confidence in terms of sheer durability, but it has surprisingly held up to most tasks, making it adequate for light-duty applications.

Breaking Down the Features of Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320

Specifications

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 boasts the following technical specifications:

• Manufacturer: Survivor
• Blade Length: 3.25 inches. This compact blade length makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
• Overall Length: 7 inches. The overall length is convenient for carrying on a belt or in a pack.
• Blade Material: Steel. The use of “steel” without specifying the type raises concerns about edge retention and corrosion resistance.
• Knife Application: Fixed Blade. The fixed blade design offers inherent strength and reliability.
• Included Accessories: Nylon Sheath. The included nylon sheath provides basic protection and carry options.
• Handle Material: Cord Wrapped. The cord wrapped handle offers grip but could be uncomfortable during extended use.
• Blade Finish: Stainless Steel. While described as having a black stainless steel blade with a satin finish edge, the specifications list just “Stainless Steel” raising questions about clarity of the materials.
• Handle Color: Black. The black handle offers a discreet look.
• Handle Finish: Cord Wrapped. The cord wrapped finish offers grip, but may not be as comfortable as other handle materials.
• Sheath Material: Nylon. The nylon sheath is lightweight but may not be as durable as other sheath materials.
• Blade Type: Fixed Blade. The fixed blade type offers strength and reliability.

These specifications suggest a knife designed for light-duty tasks and convenient carry, prioritizing affordability over premium materials and construction. The lack of specific steel information for the blade and the generic nature of the included sheath are potential concerns.

Performance & Functionality

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. The blade is reasonably sharp out of the box, but it requires frequent sharpening to maintain its edge. The fire starter, while a nice addition, is small and somewhat difficult to use effectively.

The blade’s small size limits its usefulness for heavy-duty tasks like batoning wood. The handle, while offering a secure grip when dry, can become slippery when wet, and the paracord texture can cause discomfort during prolonged use. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly knife, but it falls short compared to higher-quality alternatives.

Design & Ergonomics

The knife’s design is simple and functional. The paracord handle provides a decent grip, but it lacks the ergonomic comfort of more contoured handles. The overall weight is light, making it easy to carry, but it can also feel less substantial and durable.

There is a minimal learning curve, making it accessible for beginners. However, the handle’s discomfort might deter some users.

Durability & Maintenance

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320‘s long-term durability is questionable. The blade steel is not specified, raising concerns about its resistance to corrosion and wear. The nylon sheath is adequate for basic protection, but it’s unlikely to withstand heavy use.

Maintaining the knife is relatively easy; the blade can be sharpened with basic tools, and the handle can be cleaned with soap and water. However, the unknown steel type may require more frequent sharpening and care to prevent rust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 comes with a basic nylon sheath and a small fire starter. There are limited customization options available due to the knife’s simple design and construction. While the paracord handle could be replaced with a different wrap, the blade and handle are not designed to be easily modified.

It is unlikely to be compatible with many aftermarket accessories, as it’s primarily intended for basic use rather than extensive customization.

Pros and Cons of Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320

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Who Should Buy Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320?

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 is perfect for casual campers, beginner hikers, and anyone looking for an inexpensive backup knife for their bug-out bag. It’s also suitable for those who prioritize lightweight and compact design over premium materials and durability.

Those who require a reliable knife for heavy-duty tasks, such as bushcraft or survival situations, should skip this product. People who value ergonomic comfort and high-quality materials may also be disappointed. A must-have modification would be replacing the fire starter with a higher quality one for increased reliability.

Conclusion on Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-106320 is a budget-friendly knife that offers basic functionality and a few added features like a fire starter and paracord handle. While its low price point makes it an attractive option for casual users, its unspecified blade steel and limited durability are significant drawbacks.

The value proposition is reasonable, given the price. However, those seeking a reliable and durable knife for demanding outdoor activities should invest in a higher-quality alternative. I would cautiously recommend it as a backup knife or for light-duty tasks, but with the caveat that it has limitations. For $8.99 it’s hard to expect a lifetime of service. If you need something cheap and cheerful, this is it. Just don’t expect it to tackle any hardcore survival tasks.