ZT 0100 thoughts/experience/reviews please?

[XtianAus]

Hey guys, I came across the ZT0100 recently and thought it looked like a nice quality fixed blade. I like the style, 3V steel and have read about the great handle design. I have 3 main concerns:

1.) I understand the the toughness of 3V steel but how does ZT 3v steel and heat treatment weigh up to others? Is it worth the high (ish) cost of the 0100?
2.) I also understand that the 0100 is moreso a tactical blade but how would it weigh up in or as a survival blade?
3.) Where can I purchase it? I haven't found any anywhere, is 2nd hand my only option?

Also other notes/advice would be great

 

[jday2727]

It's a ZT, just get it.[emoji41]

 

[TBL]

Welcome to the forum!

I've handled the 0100 but do not own one. A friend of mine lent one to me to play with for a while. The reason you can't really find one is because they are discontinued. They pop up every now and again for a good price. 3V is an awesome steel! The value of any modern steel is subject to your personal budget. I personally think it is worth the $ (my opinion).

As far as how it weighs up as a survival blade, I guess it depends on how you would use it as your 'survival' blade. Could you use it to make a shelter? sure, but the recurved blade design makes it difficult for some cuts. Will it chop? yes, but not very well due to its size (the blade is only 5 3/4 inches). Will it skin game? yes, the large belly of the recurve will make it work and the edge retention of 3V means you won't require a second knife, but the recurve blade and geometry makes it more challenging then other 'survival' knives.

In my own personal experience I found that it was a great knife. I still want one if I find one for a price that matches my budget. I found it was suited for utility tasks but it didn't really excel at them. One place it does excel at is for a combat style knife. I found it comfortable in most fencing grips. It is promoted as a 'military' style knife. Think jack of all trades, but master of none.

While I currently have not used one, you may want to look at a ZT 0180. It is in current production, uses a modern steel, and the blade shape and geometry may be more useful as a survival knife.