Big Silver Carbinox

I spent half a year pining away for this knife because I loved the concept of a semi-stainless blade. I thought the handle design was especially beautiful. The appearance of the pommel buttplate was appealing, and looked functional. On occasion, I have found a sturdy pommel is useful for when you hammer the knife like it's a chisel, or when the pommel itself is used as a hammer.When I got it, I was a little disappointed. The pommel buttplate looked far too cheap and too flimsy to stand up to pounding. The blade was about a half-inch shorter than I expected and about 1 inch less than ideal.Its handle was about a pretty as I'd imagined, but felt a little small. I though about holding on to it to give away at Christmas, but its potential as a gift was detracted by the finish of the blade, which had a grainy/frosty finish.If Marttiini made this with a sturdy buttplate pommel, and extended the blade an inch or so, it would be ideal for me in the outdoorsy market. And, if they polished the blade up, it would find a home in the gift market. Alas, I vastly prefer my Marttiini carbon ranger/forester knife to this one. I regrettably sent this semi-stainless "Carbonex" knife back.I had no qualms with the vendor, and am glad they proudly bring this line of Finnish knives to the USA.

This is an extremely comfortable, well made little knife. I have collected knives for many years. About four or five years ago, I noticed a great deal of interest on the Internet regarding the art of Bushcraft. As one might expect, when there is an interest in a particular field, a number of new products emerge to capitalize on this interest. I found that knives - which had been around for years - were suddenly thrust into the forefront..... at least according to Internet posts, videos, etc.... These knives were described as "bushcraft knives." During this time, I noted an increased popularity with those small, red handled Mora Knives. Eventually, I came across a small, red handled carbon steel knife that was sold under at least two different names (Kellam and Marttiini). It was also advertised as a "forged Finnish work knife." These little knives and the red handled Mora knives were discussed at length on Bushcraft survival boards and on videos. They were touted as excellent, entry level bushcraft knives.... and they are. I own several of each model. This Marttiini Carbinox is an updated version of that little "Finnish work knife." The grip is a bit larger and more comfortable. The blade dimensions and geometry are the same. It is, however, supposed to be made from a proprietary alloy that is high in carbon, but it also rust resistent. I have purchased two to three of these knives, and I am very pleased. My only critisim is about the sheath. I'm not expert, but the sheath does not seem to be actual leather. It looks and feels like a man made material. I may be wrong about this..... As far as the knife, however, I wouldn't hesitate to purchase another. I give it four stars because of the sheath and the fact that I don't feel I've "put it through the paces" out in the field. It cuts very well, and is very handy. I just haven't abused it yet the way I have some of my other knives. It does, however, look and feel like a very well constructed knife that would be useful in a variety of situations.

The blade is a little shorter than I expected. It came super sharp, and from what I've read online the Carbinox steel is pretty good stuff. The sheath seems pretty well made. The whole thing makes for an attractive package. The handle is VERY comfortable and the knife is very easy to work with. In short, I love this knife. I just wish it had about 1/2" more blade.