Fallkniven F1 Elmax Zytel Sheath Fixed Blade 18

This is my first fallkniven but it it won’t be the last im overjoyed with this little knife it’s beautifully crafted not a line out of place the protruding tang really sets it off it’s super sharp straight out of the box well executed convex grind the handle is really nice even for my XL hands feels very comfortable elmax steel is wonderfully created I love it the sheath is great in my eyes the lock on the side is such a nice touch HH always a pleasure to buy from delivery was instant really looking forward to my next purchase

The F1 is now available in so many options - choosing the right one is important. The F1 in standard handle configuration with Elmax is IMO the best. Elmax is the best steel. 3G can chip, VG10 doesn’t hold an edge as long as Elmax and this is also the case with Cos although Cos is closer. Elmax and Cos are different in that Cos is used in kitchen knives and needs to be laminated for strength. Elmax is a PM steel and has greater strength. Of all the options this is the one to choose. Then we come to handle comfort. The one piece old school handle is the best. The full tang version is not as comfortable. The slab sided grips are just that. Slab sided. The pro model is sabre ground and not flat ground. The flat grind version cuts deeper and with less resistance. It still batons well but the sabre grind wins here. Overall as a camp survival knife the flat grind scores better on butchering game and food preparation. It has a thick enough spine to be indestructible but manages to feel very “nimble “. The convex edge is a faff to sharpen properly. Best results for me are using a Tormek with a fine diamond wheel using the technique shown on YouTube. You need the latest knife clamp for this. This is better than the use of belts on a grinder. Quicker and creates less heat. Field sharpening is a skilled ball ache to learn. Stropping on a leather paddle is easier and the Elmax edge retention helps here. The knife needs thought on the convex edge before buying but if you learn how this is a great knife. Definitely recommend.

Absolute convex knife perfection in a very good steel, fantastic and comfortable handle, great price and perfect size for bushcraft. As always, 5 star service from Heinnie!