What is the best fixed blade under $30?

[Mickwill]

I want to buy a cheap fixed blade (under $30), and I need some help. I am looking for one that has a blade no shorter than 3.5 inches, and I want a knife that will take quite a bit of abuse. Any suggestions or recommendations? What is your favorite, or in your opinion best, fixed blade under $30?

 

[Bo T]

I like the Mora Triflex because of its light weight but a number of Condors will fit the bill as far as taking abuse.

 

[harkamus]

Under 30 bucks? Tramontina machete.

 

[Bill1170]

Mora knife.

 

[Tyronethepro]

IMO my favorite under $30 is my CRKT Stiff KISS. I picked it up for $14 from Big 5 and haven't looked back.

 

[jbob24]

Gerber big rock

 

[eccvets]

if its gotta be sharp, get a mora

 

[7rip13a]

Mora, but the recommendation for a Tramontina is great too if you're after a machete.

 

[Foilist]

Moras are great but I'll second Condor. They have a huge variety of good, inexpensive knives.

 

[Slider817]

Cold Steel Bushman is a bit big, the handle isn't that great, but you get a nice size chunk of decent steel.

 

[philwar]

Cold Steel Bushman, Cold Steel Bowie Bushman and Cold Steel GI Tanto. The GI Tanto even comes with a great sheath.
The OP asked for a knife that will take 'quite a bit of abuse.' A Mora does not qualify.

 

[hughewil]

mora or condor rodan

 

[jackknife]

Mora number 1 with the laminated blade.

 

[Joben]

The OP asked for a knife that will take 'quite a bit of abuse.' A Mora does not qualify.

Agreed. I love moras, and they can take more than you would expect, but they are built light and thin.

If taking abuse is an important feature than I'm thinking full tang and at least 1/8" thick.

 

[Battle Creek Knives]

Mora, but the recommendation for a Tramontina is great too if you're after a machete.

plus one.....

 

[Blackbilly]

delete*

 

[foxx]

Ontario machete's are also a great value. Even their Old Hickory knives will take abuse, softer steel is tough, won't hold an edge for too long under hard use, but that's the trade off.
Condor knives and machetes are of good quality for the price. Look at their bushcraft knives, their Nessmuk, and rodan.

 

[Cobra281]

Good suggestions here so far: Mora, Condor, Coldsteel.

Check the for sale exchange here at Blade forums too.

You might want to check out an Eskabar (Becker BK 14) but might be a shade small for what you're describing.

If you could find a used BK 2 - grab it !

Don't forget Buck. Check the exchange. Do a search. Check the auction sites. Prob. get a decent 119 for your price range.

Also, consider making a knife yourself. Again, do a search, you can get a decent 440C blade for $15 - $25 bucks (depends on size)
A simple paracord wrap handle is easy enough. Or some wood scales. Wood blanks can be got for $6 - $10. Just an idea.

Good luck and stay safe out there.

 

[zignal_zero]

Gerber Big Rock Camp Knife
Cold Steel G.I. Tanto

The 2nd one will handle more abuse, but is made of a softer steel (1055) because it was originally pitched as a throwing knife. This means it will require sharpening more often. It is a pretty handy knife, though, my buddy carries one and it has served him well. It was a replacement for the Big Rock.

 

[whetrock]

A Mora #1 paired up with a decent sharp machete such as a Tramontina or a more expensive condor should serve you just fine for 90% of the task you will face in the woods.