Pros: Blade Material, Blade Sharpness, Finish, Handle Material, Materials, Overall Quality, Weight
Cons: Sheath/Scabbard
Mantis MF-4HC Chaos 1 long term report
I first bought this all the way back in 2008. So, I have had it for a long time now. First, I need to address the sheath. Its, well, crap. Sort of a tactical design, mine at least was not made well and had mis-aligned stitching that made it start to come apart almost right away. It's the best of cheap Chinese work... if you know what I mean. But the knife itself has been really good. I have used it many times in the past, although I don't carry it as often as I used to. The blade is about indestructible, since it has very wide blade thickness. It's not a slicer, but it holds an edge well and unless you are cutting thin meat, is very good at cutting. I liked it because its handle was so different. I still like it because of that, and no other knife has come close to the design of this handle type outside of Mantis. If that is one of the reasons to look at it for you. Ok, at this point it seems a little gimmicky in 2023, but no other handle style will stay tight in your hand like this if it's muddy, slippery or in other material that may cause you to lose grip. Seriously, it just sticks to your hand whatever the environment.. But that same grip can cause hot spots in your hand if you are working the knife hard for extended periods. Gloves? No problem. Mantis was one of the new kids on the block back then, and since then hasn't really got beyond the original "bling" or appeal they had way back the. They have some interesting stuff, but blade material and style seem to be locked into the early to mid 2000's. Which is kinda sad. But maybe in 20 years this will be collectable? lol. Anyway, if the price is good, and the style is ok in your eyes, it's a very good knife and built to hold up over time. Would I recommend it after all these years? Ya, I would. Just plan on getting a better sheath for long term use. 420HC is still used by Buck, so there is something to that, eh?
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