Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 Review

Let’s Dive into Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 is a budget-friendly, fixed blade knife from Survivor, designed for basic utility tasks. With its 6.75-inch overall length and a 3-inch stainless steel tanto blade, it aims to be a practical tool for everyday carry or light outdoor use. It even includes a nylon fiber sheath with an integrated whistle, attempting to add value beyond just the blade itself.

I needed a super-cheap, readily-replaceable knife for throwing practice and occasional messy tasks like opening bags of fertilizer in the garden. I didn’t want to risk damaging my higher-end blades. The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 seemed like a perfect, low-stakes option.

Upon unboxing (or rather, removing it from its plastic clamshell packaging), my initial thought was, “Well, you get what you pay for.” The stainless steel handle felt surprisingly lightweight, and the blade, while sharp enough out of the box, had a rough, unfinished appearance. The nylon sheath, while functional, felt equally inexpensive, and the whistle… let’s just say it works, but it’s not going to win any sound quality awards.

I considered a few other cheap knives. A similarly priced folding knife from a gas station came to mind, but those tend to feel even flimsier. A small Mora knife would have been a better quality choice, but they are significantly more expensive.

I was neither excited nor disappointed, but rather realistic, knowing the price point. I wasn’t expecting a masterpiece. I was hoping for a functional tool that could handle basic tasks without breaking the bank.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved using the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 for some basic yard work. I used it to cut twine, open fertilizer bags, and even attempted some light chopping on small branches. The knife performed adequately for these tasks, though the lightweight handle made prolonged use uncomfortable.

It was a dry, sunny day, so the blade wasn’t exposed to moisture during this first test. However, I did notice the stainless steel handle became slippery with even a slight bit of sweat. I didn’t need significant time to get used to the knife, as its simplicity made it easy to handle.

The integrated whistle on the sheath was a fun gimmick, but its shrill sound was more annoying than useful. The nylon sheath, while functional, showed some signs of fraying around the edges after just a few uses.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a couple of months of intermittent use, the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 has held up surprisingly well, considering its price. The blade has retained its sharpness reasonably well, though I did need to touch it up with a sharpening stone after the first month. There are no signs of rusting, but the finish on the blade has scratched easily.

The nylon sheath is starting to show more wear, with some of the stitching coming loose. The stainless steel handle has held up without any issues, but I’m still not a fan of the slippery texture. Compared to my higher-quality knives, the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 is clearly inferior in terms of durability and overall performance. I would only use this for the most basic tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656

Specifications

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 boasts the following specifications:

• Overall Length: 6.75 inches. This compact size makes it easy to carry and handle.
• Blade Length: 3 inches. A short blade suitable for basic cutting tasks.
• Blade Material: Stainless Steel. Offers decent corrosion resistance and ease of sharpening, but may not hold an edge as well as higher-end steels.
• Blade Type: Fixed Blade. Provides more strength and stability compared to folding knives.
• Handle Material: Stainless Steel. Durable and weather-resistant, but can be slippery when wet.
• Blade Finish: Stainless Steel. A basic finish that’s prone to scratching.
• Handle Color: Stainless. A simple, unadorned look.
• Knife Application: Fixed Blade. Designed for general utility and outdoor tasks.
• Included Accessories: Nylon Fiber Sheath. Provides a means to carry the knife safely.

These specifications indicate that the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 is designed as an entry-level, budget-friendly option. The stainless steel blade and handle prioritize durability and ease of maintenance over high-end performance. The short blade length and simple design make it suitable for basic tasks but not ideal for heavy-duty use.

Performance & Functionality

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 performs adequately for light tasks such as cutting rope, opening packages, and basic food preparation. The tanto blade shape provides some piercing ability, but it’s not particularly well-suited for slicing. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle, but the slippery handle can be a drawback, especially in wet conditions.

Its strengths lie in its affordability and simplicity. The weaknesses are the blade steel quality and the grip. It meets the low expectations given the price.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 is basic, with noticeable gaps and imperfections in the fit and finish. The stainless steel handle, while durable, lacks texture and can be uncomfortable to grip for extended periods. There is essentially zero ergonomics to speak of.

The knife is relatively easy to use, requiring no special skills or knowledge. The sheath provides a secure way to carry the knife, but the retention is not adjustable.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its budget construction, the Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 is not expected to last a lifetime. However, the stainless steel blade and handle should resist corrosion with proper care. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening will help to maintain its performance.

The knife is simple to disassemble and clean. A little oil on the blade will help prevent rust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656 comes with only one accessory: a nylon fiber sheath with an integrated whistle. There are no official customization options available from the manufacturer. Given its low price point, aftermarket customization is unlikely to be a worthwhile investment.

It is possible that the handle could be wrapped with paracord to improve grip, but this would be a purely cosmetic modification. Any attempt at serious customization would likely cost more than the knife itself.

Pros and Cons of Survivor Fixed Blade HK-656