Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife

The Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife is a purpose-built tool designed for anglers who demand precision and reliability. This knife, manufactured by Uncle Henry, boasts a slim profile, a long, narrow blade, and a classic aesthetic, making it a compelling option for filleting walleye and other fish. I first encountered the need for a dedicated fillet knife after years of clumsily using my general-purpose hunting knife to prepare my catch, resulting in wasted meat and frustratingly uneven cuts.

Tired of butchering my hard-earned fish with inadequate tools, I sought out a specialized fillet knife that would offer superior control and precision. Upon unboxing the Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife, I was immediately struck by its lightweight feel and the elegant simplicity of its design. The Staglon handle, while synthetic, provides a comfortable and secure grip, and the blade’s thin profile inspired confidence in its ability to deliver clean, efficient cuts.

While I considered options from brands like Gerber and Buck, known for their fillet knives, the Uncle Henry stood out due to its combination of traditional styling, proven Uncle Henry quality, and attractive price point. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the knife felt good in hand, but the real test would be its performance on the cleaning table. I was eager to see if it would live up to its “Next Gen” moniker and finally allow me to fillet fish like a seasoned pro.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife came during a weekend fishing trip to a local lake known for its walleye population. I put the knife to work cleaning a stringer full of freshly caught walleye right on the shore. The knife’s slim blade allowed for easy maneuvering around bones and skin, and the clip point design facilitated precise cuts.

Despite a light drizzle, the Staglon handle maintained a secure grip, and the blade’s stainless steel construction showed no signs of corrosion after exposure to water and fish slime. While the blade felt initially sharp, it did require a touch-up with my portable sharpener after processing about half a dozen fish. Even with a touch-up, the knife made quick work of what I had caught.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife has proven to be a reliable and capable tool, with expected levels of maintenance. The blade has retained its edge reasonably well, requiring occasional honing to maintain optimal sharpness. I noticed that while the blade is stain resistant, it is not entirely rust proof and can develop minor surface rust spots if not properly cleaned and dried after each use.

The Staglon handle has held up well to repeated use and cleaning, showing no signs of cracking or discoloration. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper fillet knives, the Uncle Henry offers a superior combination of comfort, control, and durability. I am especially pleased with how the leather sheath has conformed to the knife.

Breaking Down the Features of Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 5.3 inches. This length provides ample reach for filleting medium-sized fish like walleye, yet remains maneuverable enough for delicate work.
• Overall Length: 10.1 inches. The overall length provides a good balance between blade reach and handle control, contributing to comfortable use.
• Blade Shape: Fillet. The long, narrow clip point blade design is optimized for precise cuts and efficient meat separation.
• Blade Material: 7CR17MOV Stainless Steel. This steel offers a good balance of corrosion resistance, edge retention, and ease of sharpening.
• Serrated: Plain. The plain edge allows for smooth, clean cuts, essential for producing appealing fillets.
• Knife Application: Fixed Blade. The fixed blade design ensures maximum strength and stability, eliminating the risk of blade wobble or failure.
• Handle Material: Staglon. Staglon provides a durable and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions, while mimicking the look of traditional stag handles.
• Handle Color: Stag. The stag color gives the knife a classic, outdoorsy aesthetic.
• Handle Length: 4.8 inches. This length provides sufficient grip area for comfortable and controlled use.
• Sheath Material: Leather. The leather sheath provides safe storage and convenient carry, while also protecting the blade from damage.
• Weight: 4.1 oz. This knife’s light weight reduces hand fatigue during extended filleting sessions.
• Hand: Ambidextrous. The ergonomic design accommodates both right- and left-handed users comfortably.
• Color: Stag. The stag color further enhances the knife’s classic appearance.
• Full Tang Design: The full tang design extends the blade through the entire handle, providing superior strength and balance.
• Lanyard Hole: The lanyard hole allows for secure attachment to a wrist strap or other gear, preventing loss.
• Brass Pins: The brass pins securely fasten the handle scales to the tang, adding to the knife’s overall durability and aesthetic appeal.
• Slim Handle: The slim handle design promotes comfortable and precise grip.
• Nickel Silver Bolster: The nickel silver bolster adds to the knife’s aesthetic appeal and provides a secure transition between the blade and handle.

Performance & Functionality

The Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife performs admirably as a dedicated fillet knife, excelling in its primary task of processing fish. Its thin, flexible blade allows for effortless gliding along bones and skin, minimizing meat loss and producing clean, even fillets. The knife’s balance is excellent, contributing to precise control and reduced hand fatigue during extended use.

While the blade’s edge retention is adequate for most anglers, those who process large quantities of fish may find themselves needing to touch it up more frequently. The handle’s ergonomic design provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when wet, enhancing control and safety. Overall, the Uncle Henry meets expectations as a functional and reliable fillet knife, though professional users might seek higher end models.

Design & Ergonomics

The Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife features a classic design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The Staglon handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the nickel silver bolster and brass pins add a touch of elegance. The knife’s lightweight construction and slim profile further enhance its ergonomics, making it a joy to use for extended periods.

While the Staglon handle is not as luxurious as genuine stag, it offers excellent durability and weather resistance, making it a practical choice for outdoor use. The sheath is well-made and fits well, but could be improved with a more robust belt loop for easier carry. The learning curve is minimal, even for novice anglers, as the knife’s design is intuitive and easy to control.

Durability & Maintenance

The Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife is built to last, thanks to its durable materials and solid construction. The 7CR17MOV stainless steel blade offers excellent corrosion resistance, while the Staglon handle is virtually impervious to moisture and wear. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the Uncle Henry is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with soap and water, followed by thorough drying, will prevent rust and corrosion. Periodic honing will keep the blade sharp, and occasional oiling of the handle will help preserve its appearance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife comes standard with a leather sheath for safe storage and carry. While there are no readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this knife, anglers can customize it to their liking with various sharpening stones, honing steels, and handle wraps. The lanyard hole allows for the attachment of a wrist strap or other gear, adding a further layer of customization and security.

Pros and Cons of Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife

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Who Should Buy Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife?

The Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife is perfect for recreational anglers who are looking for a reliable and affordable fillet knife. It is also well-suited for campers and backpackers who need a lightweight and versatile knife for food preparation. This knife would be a great addition to any tackle box.

However, professional anglers or those who process large quantities of fish may want to consider a higher-end fillet knife with superior edge retention. A must-have accessory for the Uncle Henry is a quality sharpening stone or honing steel, as regular sharpening is essential for maintaining optimal performance. Some users may also benefit from adding a lanyard for added security.

Conclusion on Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife

The Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife is a well-designed and reasonably priced tool that delivers excellent performance for recreational anglers. Its slim, flexible blade, comfortable handle, and durable construction make it a joy to use, while its classic design adds a touch of elegance. At $34.89, the price is certainly justified.

While it may not be the ultimate fillet knife for professional use, the Uncle Henry offers exceptional value for the money and is a great choice for anyone looking to improve their fish-cleaning skills. I wholeheartedly recommend the Uncle Henry 168UH Walleye Next Gen Fixed Blade Fillet Knife to any angler seeking a reliable, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing fillet knife. Add this knife to your tackle box today!