Fixed blade knives are a must-have for any self-respecting outdoorsman, prepper, or tactical loadout. If you’re looking at budget knives you’ve likely come across your fair share of utter crap, right? It’s to be expected. But, you’ve come to the right place because I have the perfect budget fixed blade knife for you. It’s called the Gerber StrongArm and it’s easily one of the best options you can get for around $70.
The Edge of a Budget Fixed Blade
The Gerber StrongArm might be a budget fixed blade, but it’s far and away the best option you’ll find. It’s a brutally durable and strong fixed blade design that offers a 4.875-inch full tang blade made from 420HC. 420HC is one of the better budget steels and is extremely strong and durable. It’s not a surprise the StrongArm uses 430HC as a budget fixed blade. It’s also easy to sharpen, and the biggest downside is that it doesn’t hold an edge as long as better steels.
The straight edge and simple clip-point tip make it as versatile as it can be. The tip of the blade has a swedge to it to prevent it from getting stuck when slicing through thick materials. A rare feature on a budget fixed blade.
I’ve been using a StrongArm for years now and it’s a durable knife. I’ve worn the finish from the blade from so much use and even purchased a second just because I like the design so much. They just keep on keeping on with a crazy level of durability for the price. I’ve used my StrongArm to dig, to break ice, to baton wood, cut rope, and even as a throwing knife when I get bored.
It’s yet to tap out. Quite impressive for a low priced budget fixed blade knife.
Comfort in the Handle
For hard work, the handle is perfectly designed. It’s rubber coated with a diamond texture. The texture provides a superior grip when working with gloves, wet hands, or even cold hands. The soft rubber texture is also comfortable and resists creating hot spots throughout your hand.
A small handguard on the top and bottom of the handle keeps your hand positioned in the center of the handle. You’ll be protected during hard work and keep a sure grip. At the bottom of the handle is a metal glass breaker that doubles as a lanyard loop.
The StrongArm comes with a multi-mount sheath that gives users a ton of options for carrying the knife. This multi-mount sheath is a surprising addition to this budget fixed blade. It allows for plain old tip-down vertical carry, as well as horizontal carry along the belt for a more concealed option. You can even mount it on MOLLE platforms. The options cover every modern knife carry method and does so with a simple modular sheath.
The Gerber StrongArm packs a ton of features for a budget blade. It’s well designed, versatile, and made from reliable steel. The StrongArm is hands down the best budget fixed blade on the market. Oh, and it’s a budget fixed blade built and produced in the United States. In fact, it’s built-in Portland, Oregon the home of Gerber. Check out and complete your kit without breaking the bank.
