Civivi Baklash vs Gerber StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife

Perhaps I just received a bad example of what is seemingly a great knife otherwise, but sadly I think it'll see less time in my pocket from here on out.

For splitting wood that is a big deal and represents a significant portion of the limited straight surface of the blade. Secondly, in doing some 'simulated' feathering I felt that the cutout in the middle of the grip made it a bit too skinny for my hand. Overall though it's such a nice piece that I probably would have kept it in spite of these limitations, if it wasn't for the finish on the blade, which was just not satisfactory. The grind was rough, unequal on the two sides, uneven (wandering) along the length of the blade and on one side, the bevel stopped short of the tip

only I would recommend the G-10 handles for better grip than this particular Baklash model.

I found the handle does get slippery when wet, especially the top and bottom part of the handle that is in line with the spine and edge of the blade as that portion is smooth and without the diamond pattern. Also, the thumb/finger guards near the spine and blade respectively were very slippery even when dry. I used grip tape for the handle which seems to hold for now, however grip tape for the thumb guards always slid off after a few days. I decided to stipple the thumb guards with a soldering iron (most people use a wood burner tool instead for stippling

But I have butter knives that are sharper than this blade!! I bought two, and both are equally dull and difficult to sharpen. That's a deal killer for me. I'm disappointed.

Value: 3/5 Aesthetics:4/5 Handle: 4/5 Sheath: 3/5 Factory grind: 0/5 Grind and factory edge was hilariously bad. I mean, I really can't believe it. Chineese products have never looked better after I got my hands on this thing! True jokes aside.

I would return it but I'm past my 30 day window. It seems to be a good knife but if it doesn't hold an edge it's useless

Now it seems the knives don't even survive a day out of the package. Gerber gets a lot of hate for using "cheap" 420 HC stainless steel. I'm no steel expert so I can't speak to that, though I do know treatment and tempering play a big part, and that may be where they are lacking. I would give 1 or 2 stars, but Gerber supposedly has lifetime guarantees on their knives and will replace them, and I don't think it's fair for me to down rate that much without first giving the company a chance to make it right (I don't have the knife in my possession anymore or I would)

Only materials could improve, but you would have to pay way more if it was made from a higher grade steel. Can't really beat it for the cost. Great balance, opens with ease, precision manufacturing. Looks and functions like a $100+ knife

The knife looks and feels strong and well made. It and cuts very well and came sharp. The edge grinds are even. The main body of the sheath is sturdy and well put together