- Joined
- Mar 26, 2011
- Messages
- 647
I am normally a folder kinda guy, but for the love of steel and playing with new steel, I started looking at fixed blades. I wanted to get something in CPM 3V and looked at Strider (too expensive for its size), Bark River (almost pulled the trigger but too "skinny" IMO), Fehrman (too expensive...probably too heavy too) and others...but I went for the J. King Practical Field Knife. In my mini-review below, you'll see why.
Initial impressions:
Fit and Finish: This is usually the first thing I notice that gives me an overall impression of the quality of the blade. You only get to make a first impression once. I must say that I am very impressed with the FNF. Grinds are even and metal finish is flawless and in an attractive matte satin. The handles are perfectly matched to blade and are in an attractive G10 pattern. The top spine of the blade is partially rounded...nice touch.
Ergonomics: Fits my hands well, although the handle may be just a hair too small. I have Med-Large hands. Forward and reverse grip are comfortable with no hot spots (so far..I haven't used the blade in the field yet). Other than the size, I love the: rounded handles, large finger choil, jimping, handle shape and balance. Size is just about perfect...but I prefer larger blades I think ... my preference (and it is just that) is probably around 6 inches or so.
Design: Simple, elegant, attractive design. Nice belly, (nearly) FFG, good working tip. Handle shape also is attractive (and functional). Personal preference for me would be to leave some extra metal behind the handle for a hard hitting surface. I've used my old KaBar as a hammer and/or tent stake driver more often than I can remember.
Value: Awesome. Custom blade for a little over $200 is fantastic! CPM 3V with a HT from Peters...Not sure what else I'm missing.
If you are looking for a nice fixed blade in a practical size, in an excellent steel that is both attractive and functional...You should consider the J. King PFK.
Sorry...no pics yet. Haven't figured out how to post them! But here is the thread for the blade I purchased:
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/865646-Tasker-and-PFK-cpm3v-and-black-grey-G10-%28PFK-is-SOLD%29?highlight=cpm3v
Initial impressions:
Fit and Finish: This is usually the first thing I notice that gives me an overall impression of the quality of the blade. You only get to make a first impression once. I must say that I am very impressed with the FNF. Grinds are even and metal finish is flawless and in an attractive matte satin. The handles are perfectly matched to blade and are in an attractive G10 pattern. The top spine of the blade is partially rounded...nice touch.
Ergonomics: Fits my hands well, although the handle may be just a hair too small. I have Med-Large hands. Forward and reverse grip are comfortable with no hot spots (so far..I haven't used the blade in the field yet). Other than the size, I love the: rounded handles, large finger choil, jimping, handle shape and balance. Size is just about perfect...but I prefer larger blades I think ... my preference (and it is just that) is probably around 6 inches or so.
Design: Simple, elegant, attractive design. Nice belly, (nearly) FFG, good working tip. Handle shape also is attractive (and functional). Personal preference for me would be to leave some extra metal behind the handle for a hard hitting surface. I've used my old KaBar as a hammer and/or tent stake driver more often than I can remember.
Value: Awesome. Custom blade for a little over $200 is fantastic! CPM 3V with a HT from Peters...Not sure what else I'm missing.
If you are looking for a nice fixed blade in a practical size, in an excellent steel that is both attractive and functional...You should consider the J. King PFK.
Sorry...no pics yet. Haven't figured out how to post them! But here is the thread for the blade I purchased:
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/865646-Tasker-and-PFK-cpm3v-and-black-grey-G10-%28PFK-is-SOLD%29?highlight=cpm3v
