IT’S HARD TO BEAT A SMALL FIXED-BLADE KNIFE FOR TOUGHNESS, EASY OF USE AND CARRY CONVENIENCE

STORY BY STEVEN PAUL BARLOW

The CRKT Minimalist is an example of a small fixed-blade that’s strong, useful and very affordable. It’s available in several blade configurations.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MANUFACTURERS

They’re simple, foolproof, and up to most any task. Small fixed-blade knives take away many of the concerns you might have with an EDC blade. They’re strong; you don’t worry about it developing blade wobble after hard use. There is no wondering if a blade lock will hold during extreme duty.

They’re quick to deploy; there’s no nail nick, thumb stud or flipper to fumble when your fine motor skills go south under stress. They’re easy to maintain; you can clean and lubricate them without a having to reach into the small hiding places for dirt, lint, moisture and corrosion that you have with a folding knife. For that reason, especially, I prefer fixed blades for messy chores. They’re easy to carry too and not just on a belt, around your neck or attached to a pack. If the sheath is good, I’ve often carried them discreetly in a pocket the same way I’d carry a folder.

Here then are a selection of fixed blade knives at a wide range of price points to consider for everyday carry. Some are more recently available. Others are long-proven favorite designs that must be included.

REVIEW 1

VICTORINOX OUTDOOR MASTER MIC S

A HANDY, SMALL KNIFE WITH COMFORTABLE GRIP

The Victorinox Outdoor Master Mic S is an attractive and sturdy fixed blade for everyday carry.

The Victorinox Outdoor Master Mic S is the smaller of the two fixed blade knives Victorinox introduced a couple of years ago, which were a departure from the company’s famous Swiss Army Knife folders. This knife is actually made by Muela in Spain. The small model features an overall length just a bit more than 6 inches with a full tang. The 1.4116 stainless steel drop-point blade is about 2.8 inches long with a Scandi grind. The knife has very attractive, smooth blue and black Micarta handle scales held by two rivets. A lanyard hole is provided. Red liners add a bit of contrasting color.

The Kydex sheath holds the knife securely but still allows quick access. The sheath’s hollow rivets are compatible with Blade-Tech Tek-Lok belt mounts should you decide you want to carry the knife on your belt. The included red paracord with cord lock can be configured to run a belt through as well as using it for other attachment options. The cord isn’t long enough for neck carry; you’d have to add a length of chain or cord to it.