Let’s Dive into Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife promises to be a reliable cutting tool for various outdoor scenarios. Marketed as a solution for those needing a dependable blade, it boasts a durable edge and a full-tang construction. I was intrigued to see if this knife could live up to the demands of real-world survival situations, especially given its budget-friendly price point.
My interest in the Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife stemmed from a need for a backup blade for my hiking trips. I often find myself in situations where a sturdy knife is essential, from cutting rope to preparing kindling. I was looking for something affordable and reliable to keep in my pack, without worrying too much about damaging an expensive blade.
Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly solid. The weight was balanced, and the full-tang construction gave me confidence in its strength, however the molded plastic handle seemed a bit cheap. My initial impression was that it looked like a decent, basic knife but the steel quality was immediately suspect.
Compared to my trusted Benchmade Bushcrafter, which has a significantly thicker, higher-quality blade and far superior handle ergonomics, the Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife felt like a budget alternative, as expected. Against my Mora Companion, a similarly priced but smaller knife known for its exceptional sharpness, the Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife immediately seemed inferior. My expectations were tempered, but I remained optimistic that it could still perform adequately in less demanding tasks.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. It looked the part of a survival knife. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if its performance matched its appearance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife was during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I primarily used it for basic tasks like cutting small branches for kindling, preparing food, and creating feather sticks for fire starting. The knife performed adequately in dry conditions, but the edge quickly dulled after minimal use on hard wood.
The wet and cold conditions of the higher elevations exposed some of the knife’s shortcomings. The handle became slippery when wet, and the blade lost its already mediocre edge even faster. The lack of a textured grip made it difficult to maintain a secure hold, especially when wearing gloves.
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife required some getting used to, particularly in maintaining a consistent cutting angle due to the blade’s relatively thin profile. The serrations on the spine also proved less useful than I anticipated, failing to easily strike a ferro rod to initiate a fire. First-time use revealed that the blade’s edge retention was poor and the handle ergonomics needed improvement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use on various camping and hiking trips, the Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife showed noticeable wear and tear. The blade’s coating began to chip, and the edge required frequent sharpening to maintain even basic functionality. Rust spots started to appear, despite my efforts to clean and oil the blade after each use.
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife demonstrated mediocre durability over time. The handle remained intact, but the blade’s steel quality was clearly lacking. Regular maintenance was essential, but even with proper care, the knife failed to live up to the demands of more rigorous tasks.
Compared to my experience with other survival knives, the Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife was undeniably disappointing. My Ka-Bar USMC fighting knife, though heavier, retained its edge far longer and felt significantly more robust. This knife fails to outperform even similarly priced knives.
Breaking Down the Features of Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife
Specifications
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife has a 12-inch overall length, including the blade and handle. The blade material is stainless steel, though the specific type of stainless steel is not specified. It features a full-tang construction, which theoretically should enhance its strength and durability. The handle is made of molded plastic and the knife includes a reverse double serration along the blade’s spine.
These specifications, while seemingly adequate on paper, translate to a mediocre user experience. The unspecified stainless steel is likely of lower quality, resulting in poor edge retention and susceptibility to rust. The full-tang construction is a positive, but the quality of the steel limits its effectiveness.
Performance & Functionality
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife performs adequately for light tasks, such as cutting rope or preparing food. However, it struggles with more demanding tasks like batoning wood or heavy-duty cutting due to its thin blade and poor edge retention. The serrations are functional but not particularly effective for starting fires or sawing through tough materials.
The knife’s primary weakness is its blade material and the cheap plastic handle. It meets basic expectations for a low-cost knife but falls short in situations requiring a reliable and durable tool. The molded plastic handle is a major source of discomfort and fatigue during extended use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife has a basic design with a focus on affordability rather than ergonomics. The handle is functional but lacks any significant contouring or texturing, making it uncomfortable to hold for extended periods. The blade’s profile is suitable for general-purpose cutting, but its thinness compromises its strength.
The build quality is adequate for its price point, but the materials used feel cheap and unrefined. The light weight of the knife is a positive for carrying, but it also contributes to a less substantial and less confidence-inspiring feel in hand.
Durability & Maintenance
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife is not built to last under heavy use. The blade’s coating wears off quickly, and the edge requires frequent sharpening. The stainless steel is prone to rust, necessitating regular cleaning and oiling.
Maintenance is relatively easy, requiring only basic sharpening tools and cleaning supplies. However, the frequency of maintenance needed is a significant drawback. The blade’s tendency to dull and rust quickly suggests a limited lifespan, especially with regular, demanding use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife does not come with any notable accessories. The molded plastic handle limits customization options. There is no included sheath, which is a significant oversight for a survival knife.
Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited due to the knife’s specific dimensions and non-standard design. Modifying the handle or blade would likely require specialized tools and expertise, making customization impractical for most users.
Pros and Cons of Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Full-tang construction theoretically adds to its strength.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons
- Poor edge retention due to low-quality steel.
- Uncomfortable and slippery plastic handle.
- No sheath included.
Who Should Buy Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife?
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife is perfect for casual campers or hikers who need a basic cutting tool for light tasks and are on a very tight budget. It might also be suitable as a backup knife in a survival kit, provided it’s understood that it’s not a primary, heavy-duty tool.
This knife is definitely not for serious survivalists, bushcrafters, or anyone who relies on their knife for demanding tasks. Anyone needing a durable, reliable tool for challenging conditions should skip this product and invest in a higher-quality blade.
A must-have modification would be to wrap the handle with paracord to improve grip and add a secondary survival resource. Regularly sharpening the blade is also essential to maintain its minimal cutting ability.
Conclusion on Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife
The Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife is a budget-friendly option that offers basic functionality. Its low price point makes it accessible, but its poor edge retention and uncomfortable handle limit its usefulness in demanding situations. The full-tang construction provides some reassurance, but the overall quality leaves much to be desired.
The value proposition is questionable. While the price is low, the knife’s limited performance and durability mean it might not be a worthwhile investment for those who need a reliable tool. I would personally not recommend the Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife as a primary survival knife.
Ultimately, the Survivor Overall 12in Survival Knife serves as a reminder that in the world of survival gear, you often get what you pay for. If you’re looking for a dependable blade, it’s worth investing in a higher-quality option. Instead, consider investing in something a little more robust.