This review was OUTSTANDING, Aaron! I watched your other "after the gauntlet" video and I am so impressed with the knife and haven't received mine as yet. Just as you closed out your video you placed the Strongarm in the sheath and that incredible "click" sound was like music to my ears. Wow! That sound deserves a Grammy!
@@ladysman2175 I just picked mine up, I’d say it was 7out of 10. I tested it on a fairly flimsy piece of paper (gas receipt) and was able to cut it easily if I didn’t go too fast and if I pulled the blade smoothly along the length of the edge as I applied pressure on the paper
Your knife reviews are so great! I can't wait to order and receive this knife. I've been hearing do many great things about it. Hearing your thoughts have finally solidified my purchase decision. Thanks for producing such high quality videos.
Aaron, you hit the nail on the head with this one. Best review so far, very informative and concise. I don't need another survival knife but I find myself wanting a knife that finally comes with a decent sheath! 420hc is better then most realize. Its the heat treat not the steel that make a huge difference sometimes. Thanks man, now make more knife vids! :)
Nobody needs another knife. LOL I have like 7 or 8 of various types, mostly survival oriented, but I know that's going to be very small compared to many. I want at least 2 really good ones if I ever really need them, I'll have 'em. And I want something to compare my Steel River to. (Another beauty) So I'm getting mine very soon.
Yeah I’ve bought many knives that are fantastic, but they don’t have a good sheath. This is an awesome blade - although it is a little difficult to sharpen for a noob like me - AND it has a great sheath.
My buck knife in 420hc has skinned and quartered 7 deer before needing a touch up on the stone, after I hacked through several sapplings to clear a path. It's definitely in the heat treat.
Just got this knife today. I've avoided Gerber and all the Grylls crap for a long time, but this blade seems really solid. So far seems like it could compete with similarly priced Becker blades. Hopefully this is a turning point in Gerber. I'd like to see them reclaim their old glory.
Sand Wich I own a bunch of Gerbers. My EDC is an EZ-out, I have a LMF, A LHR, an older Hunting blade, love my Gator, My MK II millitary, find the sheaths to be top notch, love the steel as it keeps an edge and is easy to sharpen. Also Fairburn-Applegate folder and fixed blade. both of which I carry on occasion Gerbers are not safe queens, always meant to work & TOTALLY reliable. Cheers
You’re missing out. The BG ultimate pro will hang with knives 3 and 4 times it’s price. You might not like the BG branding, but the knife is actually outstanding.
Thank's for this man! I've been searching for a good knife for me. After watching many of you Strongarm videos, I finally got mine. This knife peformes great!
I have one getting reviewed in the next couple if days. My most recent vid is an intro to Gerber fixed blade survival/general duty knives. This was instantly my favorite of the three I got. It feels so nimble in hand. That grip is definitely best held in gloves though - its rough! Really looking forward to testing this against my standard bearer, the Fallkniven F1. Great that theres finally a fine edge in the Gerber survival line for those that don't like Black/Orange color schemes!
Great, informative review. I have been looking into several ss knives for my primary canoe tripping knife. This is one that covers all of my criteria. Thanks for taking the time to put this out.
i went out and bought the Strong Arm after my wife pointed it out to me, and i'm SO GLAD i did. your video just absolutely sold the rest of it to me, and i'm putting a better edge on it tonight. thanks for posting these kinds of videos, it's nice to have someone who isn't just pushing his personal views on people. thanks again!
What is the best knife for 2017? Cause I recently started to military love role play and surviving by myself on my 30 acres. But I want a good bang for your buck knife.
Dang Aaron I've been waiting for this for weeks haha! Thanks for putting this out quickly but with a proper review. I'll be getting one of these but I won't get rid of my Prodigy; it is what gave birth to the Strongarm.
I just ordered a StrongArm in Coyote, fine edge. I wanted a good tactical/survival knife that's going to last and could be used for many different applications. Can't wait for it to come in the mail in a couple of days to give it a good look over and test.
I can't tell you the last time I was so excited about a gear review...lol. You have confirmed everything I thought about this blade and I am SO getting one!
Just bought mine last night! I was already interested in buying but your previous review sold me on it lol. Now seeing this new follow up review, I'm glad I made the purchase. Thank you!
This is why I believe GT is the best channel for blade and gear reviews. Your enthusiasm for what you are doing is very noticeable. I keep coming back to this review to look at it. Haven't pulled the trigger on this blade yet, but i think it's coming home with me soon given the cost vs. reward. Thank you for your passion and sharing it with us.
First time ever watching one of your videos and I'm already subscribed half way through, great review! Super knowledgeable about the product, not too short but not too long amd mulled down w/ useless filler, nice and to the point, very well done! 👍
Very professional review, great info. I've been waiting for your thoughts on this knife. I'm digging this blade a lot. Makes it me feel better about giving Gerber money for anything other then a multitool. Thank you
This was a pasionate and fair review! Just subscribed :-) you have the right mentality, not a close minded hillibilly. Have to get some of these StronArms (plain edge or even serrated maybe could be another surprise). Keep up the great work ! Greets from Switzerland :-)
Great review as always Aaron! I have one of these and LOVE it. Finally Gerber offered a knife without the annoying serrations. I hope this is the beginning of a lot of plain edges from Gerber. Thanks for all your hard work.
I had a cold steel sk5 and the tip broke off.at first I thought it was a factory defect but I have seen and heard of others having the same problem with this knife. I was stabbing wood when about a inch of the tip broke off.I wasn't a Gerber knife fan or a fan of the 420 Hc .but I am really impressed with the Gerber strongarm. I used it to dig a Dakota fire pit after digging through rocks and roots it performed fine I did have to sharpen it a little to bring back my razor edge but that was very easy. We stabbed a bullet proof vest with it and it went through easier than I thought it would. So the Gerber strongarm is one of my knives I take to the woods. My kabar and Gerber strongarm and mora bushcraft black.
I love that you are so excited about this knife. I knew it would be a hit when I looked at it at Shot Show. It's great that they have the option of a plain edge. I like gerbers serrations but there are a whole lot who don't. I think I'll need to get one of each. Great review.
Still using my Strongarm regularly and I've had it since it was released. Gerber nailed it with this knife, I thought it was so good I got two. And now I have one again because my son nabbed my old one!!!
Have an LMF II I really like, also 420HC and holds up very well. This is the same steel as buck uses and theirs do very well. The Gerber Bear Grylls knife, also have one of those, is kind of a cheap version of the LMF, Its my car trunk knife, and I believe they used Chines 7cr17mov in it. I will be buying a Strongarm, so glad Gerber is no longer holding people hostage to serrations. Not only did they want serrations on everything, it seemed they would serrate almost 3/4 of the blade. Gerber can be great again just listen to the customers.
Just got mine in coyote plain edge, figured I'd change it up a lil since I have a black lmf2 and prodigy. Love love love that Gerber finally listened and provided us with the choice of what we want serrated or fine edge rather than serrated edges on all there quality U.S.A. knives.
gideonstactical they're on the right track. I'd like to see em do a couple add-ons to the lmf l series, keeping with the infamous design with a few tweaks. For one full tang with an exposed tang with slab handles like on that bg pro knife. A fine edge 1095 blade with a finger choil, and make the hilt out of a stronger material like either the prodigy or strongarm. Then a sheath designed like the strongarm with a few minor tweaks. Then make one with a 5"blade and do another with 7-8"blade. And the of course it must be USA made. I think an improved lmf design with a larger blade size and upgraded steel would be a killer chopper and batoning knife.
Your review as well as the reviews from everyone in the gauntlet is exactly why I ordered one of these knives. I just got it today in mailbox! One question, what angle did you have to hit the blade to reprofile the blade to get rid of the secondary bevel? Or were you free handing it
i, too, prefer plain edge over serrated/combo knives. thanks for making that point in your review. seems i've seen a lot of reviews lately that go ga-ga over serrated and i was beginning to think i was missing something. i've got 2 questions on this knife that you caused me to think about: 1. you mentioned that the BK-16 needs to have the coating stripped as part of the process to get it to throw sparks, yet you didn't mention that the gerber (also a coated blade) needed to be stripped. did you forget to mention that or can the gerber throw sparks without having to strip the coating on the blade? 2. the gerber's handle is molded on (instead of bolted/pinned on like the BK-16). since you mentioned in the review that you are planning to get another one and now that this video is approx 4.5 years old, how is the handle holding up? do you think it will come loose over time? thanks for a great review!
I have a small hatchet so I will use that for chopping wood, this knife is mainly for feathering, small bushcraft activities, survival, etc. Getting mine in a few days!!!!!
As an everyday carry woods knife (very light bushcraft, just a utility knife for a hiker), how does this compare to the Ontario Blackbird? Have the Blackbird, thinking of adding the Gerber, unless it's really a step down. Love the Blackbird, except the handle is a bit blocky. Thanks.
Excellent knife all around. I have no complaints about this knife. On the Mora Black high carbon steel knife, I dropped it flat out on the cement on the veranda,and the blade shattered a bit..oh well.
I'm really enjoying all of your reviews, Aaron (spelling?). It seems like every knife I am interested in you have a review on and you give great, honest and optimistic reviews. Thanks and I look forward to more.
Good to see Gerber pulling their thumb out and doing things right for once. First in too many years. But even well tempered 440c would be a step up from the 420hc.
Good to see Gerber really thinking about their knives, especially the new range. I have the LMF II but like you I prefer a full plain edge knife, this looks perfect for me.
+luis gustavo zeas zeledon I'll answer that. Its close. Due to the heat treat on this knife its gonna give the Ka-bar a run for its money and be very close far as edge retention goes. This blade is a steal for 45 bucks.
I agree. Great knife. I've been a sailor for 40 years and a serrated knife is not what I want for rope/line work. If it's under tension a smooth edge cuts it. If it's not under tension - I have time and I want to whip both ends before cutting it and sharp is mire imp[ortant than the saw edge. Give me a smooth edge. Only complaint I had was the choil was different side to side . 5 minutes with a - gasp - Dremel (the "quicker screwer upper") conical stone bit corrected that. Ideal camp/kayak/hiking knife for me.
Hey Aaron I'm back 7 months later and I just ordered one from Amazon yesterday, takes me a while to figure out which knife I want at the time. Tim over at "Every Day Tactical Vids" put out a video on this knife and I told him it would probably never see a piece of wood because this was going in the scout position for self defense. Well after I saw you using it I may have a change of heart, it looks like a really fun knife to use. I would avoid batoning because of that Gerber handle, we know what can happen. I saw the knife for $45 but when I chose Coyote tan it jumped up to $53, ughh. Well thanks again for the same video. Mike
Hi I just pick up the 2021_22 Gerber ultimate surviver Knife with the Hammer Pomel an cv 70 or 7 I believe it says on the blister pack it feels excellent in hand so I'm definitely going to purchase the strong arm this wkend thanks for your expertise evaluation Mr Giddeon.
OH also it doesn't say Made in Portland Oregon on mines the blister pk says Designed in P.Oregan but constructed in China ?hmm ok now I see what's all the huplahh about well it seems to be the same is cv 7 steel good mrdioca I'm Shure it's medicore at least or they Gerber would not have green lighted it's usage
What a great review! For a long time I wanted a blade like this that would not break the bank. A blade that could be used in any of tactical/survival/bush craft situations with a good steel, plus all these mounting options are definitely a big plus. $57 is not bad at all for all you are getting with this knife. I'm definitely getting this knife!
I bought one of these a few weeks ago, in coyote. I bought it for the sheath and the straight edge and thought for the $50 I paid I would maybe get a good value. I am shocked how great the knife is for the money but seeing your review made me think I should go buy a few more for some kits. Great review as usual!
Great review!! That is a better looking tactical knife than that Australian knife you showed the other day. I agree that if done properly there is nothing wrong with 420hc steel. If I see a need for another tactical knife I will have to check this one out.
Thank you for doing this. Please do a review of the buck csar-t fixed 154cm steel and I batoned and chopped in half a 6 inch log in less then 20 minutes ( including searching for new baton stick) Remained hair whittling sharp. Im impressed, I know you wont appreciate a modified tanto but anyway THE CSAR-T DESERVES more ATTENTION. Please, PLEASE. I would appreciate it. Others need to own this awesome blade. Im pumped and impressed. Thank you anyway!
Got o e for $20 today at a pawn shop in mint condition. Unfortunately it has the serrations, serrations suck, but that is just my preference. Very impressed, want to get a plain edged one now!
Sadly I have a tanto styled folder knife plus it has serration. However that's just my small edc but I'm getting the strongarm soon so I'm pretty keen.
Another great review. I agree with you on Gerber sheaths, say what you will about them but they give you tons of carry options and can get pretty innovative (like with the LHR). Between this and the Schrade SCHF42 there are some really nice budget blades this year that are extremely appealing. Now to decide between the two as a good beater knife and a backup...looking forward to your review on that one too. Keep up the good work Aaron.
Very interesting video. You have made me begin to like this knife. While I like straight edge blades for the easier sharpening, but I also own a few curved blades, particularly the SCHF10 and SCHF9 and the Kershaw Camp 10. But, I carry a Gerber Scout in my pocket day and night and I use the serrated portion of the blade 50% of the time. Same for any of my partially serrated fixed blades or folders. And I have to say, Gerber does a good job with their serrations. I do think that on some knives they should limit those serrations to less than half of the total edge. I'd like to see a few knives from time to time with both straight and combo edges to increase our choices.
Im keeping my eye on this knife. Two things Im interested in is how the blade will hold up in the long term and how that rubbery coating on the handle holds up. I have a cordless drill with a rubbery overmold that looked to be similar to this knife and over time it started to wear significantly where the grip was. That might be the weak point here too.
I wonder if Gerber is going to discontinue production of the Prodigy, since this knife fills the same role, plus gives you the option of plain, or serrated blades?
I bought this knife and I put it on my pack, I really have been that impressed with it and trust it that much. I have seen this knife take more abuse and smile then some 320 dollar blades made of S35VN steel, and thats freaking crazy! Gerber is working some serious magic with their heat treat on this steel.
i have the prodigy fine edge. it seem like the same blade as the strongarm just different handle. funny to see you put it side by side with the mora bushcraft blade because thats what i use as my back up knife for my prodigy
I have an Esee 3 (1095) and a Leatherman Wave (420 HC) and honestly, the 420 seems to have better edge retention and sharpens up sharper/faster. It doesn’t make sense, but that is my experience.
Just saw this knife today on Amazon..$50.00 bucks!! Looks really nice and all around utilitarian knife for those activities you described. I'll be buying one very soon.
Aaron you really have me excited about this knife. Gerber usually ends up disappointing me in one way or another but this looks like a home run. I would also like to see a better metal AND have it a little heavier and longer, like at least 6". The thickness is fine, weight would come with the length. Thanks for a great vid and see you soon. Mike
I've got an other strong arm and my sheath is still shit for me this is also happening with the bear Grylls pro what does anyone have this problem if so what should I do the knives are excellent the sheath not so much
I am subbed to most of the knife guys like Pm101, Gideon's(obviously), survival on purpose, etc. Rarely do I see a Gerber product reviewed with enthusiasm. Rarely do I see anyone excited to review a Gerber knife. But to see this video and see how much excitement was on this channel over a Gerber blade, unlike the others, thats saying something. I really like this knife and the sheath. I own a Bear Grylls knife and its ok, I can see myself having this knife and feel better than the BG knife.
Todd Klekotka gerber used to be a really respectable company but a lot of people including me feel like they sold out they teamed up with bear grylls and made absolute bank on that knife series but to people in the real knife community they look at that knife and laugh hopefully they drop bear and continue making stuff like this
I can understand why, which Im sure Gerber will gain more loyalty making these type of knives, and being made here in the U.S. of A! I now only carry my TOPS knife, I like to keep the BG knife for a back up or a loaner. Especially if the user is less experienced, no harm no foul. Since I'm teaching my boys how to use knives, I figure that BG knife will come handy, until they are more experienced, then I will get them a better knife.
Gideons, would you rely your life with the StrongArm? Another word is it a soldier knife? Or it's more of an urban survival/car knife like you said about the Gerber Prodigy? Note: it's sheath seems a bit filmsy in my opionion, though it's a well thoughtout design.
This review was OUTSTANDING, Aaron! I watched your other "after the gauntlet" video and I am so impressed with the knife and haven't received mine as yet. Just as you closed out your video you placed the Strongarm in the sheath and that incredible "click" sound was like music to my ears. Wow! That sound deserves a Grammy!
I've got one in coyote brown and I love it. It's a fantastic blade and Gerber really came back with this knife and sheath options.
how sharp is it right out of the box, out of 10
@@ladysman2175 I just picked mine up, I’d say it was 7out of 10. I tested it on a fairly flimsy piece of paper (gas receipt) and was able to cut it easily if I didn’t go too fast and if I pulled the blade smoothly along the length of the edge as I applied pressure on the paper
@@StoonRay1 nice! I got mine like maybe 6 month ago. Looks and feels sick
@@ladysman2175 👍👍
@@ladysman2175 I’d say it wasn’t super sharp, but I managed to give myself a really gnarly cut along my knuckle lol
OK, I guess I'll have to get one now. Gee thanks ;-)
Survival On Purpose Right!
Your knife reviews are so great! I can't wait to order and receive this knife. I've been hearing do many great things about it. Hearing your thoughts have finally solidified my purchase decision. Thanks for producing such high quality videos.
Really glad to help!
Five years later I finally found one and ordered it. Thank you Aaron.
Aaron, you hit the nail on the head with this one.
Best review so far, very informative and concise.
I don't need another survival knife but I find myself wanting a knife that finally comes with a decent sheath!
420hc is better then most realize. Its the heat treat not the steel that make a huge difference sometimes.
Thanks man, now make more knife vids! :)
Big Brown I will get back to it right away.
I actually didn’t need another knife either but the price the sheath and construction sold me. Especially the sheath. Needed a horizontal carry.
Nobody needs another knife. LOL I have like 7 or 8 of various types, mostly survival oriented, but I know that's going to be very small compared to many. I want at least 2 really good ones if I ever really need them, I'll have 'em. And I want something to compare my Steel River to. (Another beauty) So I'm getting mine very soon.
Yeah I’ve bought many knives that are fantastic, but they don’t have a good sheath. This is an awesome blade - although it is a little difficult to sharpen for a noob like me - AND it has a great sheath.
My buck knife in 420hc has skinned and quartered 7 deer before needing a touch up on the stone, after I hacked through several sapplings to clear a path. It's definitely in the heat treat.
Just got this knife today. I've avoided Gerber and all the Grylls crap for a long time, but this blade seems really solid. So far seems like it could compete with similarly priced Becker blades. Hopefully this is a turning point in Gerber. I'd like to see them reclaim their old glory.
Sand Wich I own a bunch of Gerbers. My EDC is an EZ-out, I have a LMF, A LHR, an older Hunting blade, love my Gator, My MK II millitary, find the sheaths to be top notch, love the steel as it keeps an edge and is easy to sharpen. Also Fairburn-Applegate folder and fixed blade. both of which I carry on occasion Gerbers are not safe queens, always meant to work & TOTALLY reliable. Cheers
You’re missing out. The BG ultimate pro will hang with knives 3 and 4 times it’s price. You might not like the BG branding, but the knife is actually outstanding.
Thank's for this man! I've been searching for a good knife for me. After watching many of you Strongarm videos, I finally got mine. This knife peformes great!
I have one getting reviewed in the next couple if days. My most recent vid is an intro to Gerber fixed blade survival/general duty knives. This was instantly my favorite of the three I got. It feels so nimble in hand. That grip is definitely best held in gloves though - its rough! Really looking forward to testing this against my standard bearer, the Fallkniven F1.
Great that theres finally a fine edge in the Gerber survival line for those that don't like Black/Orange color schemes!
It's 2021, and I am still watching your reviews. They hold the test of time.
Great, informative review. I have been looking into several ss knives for my primary canoe tripping knife. This is one that covers all of my criteria. Thanks for taking the time to put this out.
i went out and bought the Strong Arm after my wife pointed it out to me, and i'm SO GLAD i did. your video just absolutely sold the rest of it to me, and i'm putting a better edge on it tonight. thanks for posting these kinds of videos, it's nice to have someone who isn't just pushing his personal views on people. thanks again!
Great job buddy. I like it. Gerber needed a slam dunk for 2015
Really appreciate it. I know it was about time.
What is the best knife for 2017? Cause I recently started to military love role play and surviving by myself on my 30 acres. But I want a good bang for your buck knife.
My review of your review, Awesome !!!! 5/5 thank you!
john dunn Thanks!
Dang Aaron I've been waiting for this for weeks haha! Thanks for putting this out quickly but with a proper review. I'll be getting one of these but I won't get rid of my Prodigy; it is what gave birth to the Strongarm.
Aneesh Sompalli Right on! Thank you so much!
I just ordered a StrongArm in Coyote, fine edge. I wanted a good tactical/survival knife that's going to last and could be used for many different applications. Can't wait for it to come in the mail in a couple of days to give it a good look over and test.
I can't tell you the last time I was so excited about a gear review...lol.
You have confirmed everything I thought about this blade and I am SO getting one!
Charles Collier Awesome, glad I could help.
Just bought mine last night! I was already interested in buying but your previous review sold me on it lol. Now seeing this new follow up review, I'm glad I made the purchase. Thank you!
A_to_Z Glad to put your mind at ease
This is why I believe GT is the best channel for blade and gear reviews. Your enthusiasm for what you are doing is very noticeable. I keep coming back to this review to look at it. Haven't pulled the trigger on this blade yet, but i think it's coming home with me soon given the cost vs. reward. Thank you for your passion and sharing it with us.
Thanks so much for the kind words and support of the channel. The Strongarm is awesome have bought 2 more since the review
Great review. Looks like they got it right on that one.
Living Survival Thanks, ya finally. I look forward to your review on it too, once it gets to you. I think you are going to like it!
+gideonstactical hows the rubber overlay holding up..?
I must say you have the best knife reviews out there. Very knowledgeable and non biased! Keep up the great work 💪
Just ordered mine recently and from these example's I'm very happy on what I ordered, cant wait to go camping now once it comes in to test it out!!!
First time ever watching one of your videos and I'm already subscribed half way through, great review! Super knowledgeable about the product, not too short but not too long amd mulled down w/ useless filler, nice and to the point, very well done! 👍
Thank you so much, welcome to the GT family!
Very professional review, great info. I've been waiting for your thoughts on this knife. I'm digging this blade a lot. Makes it me feel better about giving Gerber money for anything other then a multitool. Thank you
0WickedSensation0 Sweet!
So glad I found your channel! Thanks for doing this stuff. And I love the look of sheer joy on your face at 5:21 ....haha
Thank you so much!
This was a pasionate and fair review! Just subscribed :-) you have the right mentality, not a close minded hillibilly. Have to get some of these StronArms (plain edge or even serrated maybe could be another surprise). Keep up the great work ! Greets from Switzerland :-)
Great review as always Aaron! I have one of these and LOVE it. Finally Gerber offered a knife without the annoying serrations. I hope this is the beginning of a lot of plain edges from Gerber. Thanks for all your hard work.
Thank you for that. It is hard work, but a lot of fun.
Totally rocked the review. Can't wait to see how the blade holds up as it runs the gauntlet.
Awesome. Can't wait to see the long abuse of that knife and see how it holds up. Great idea and Great Review!
WallyMerc06 Thanks so much for the support.
I had a cold steel sk5 and the tip broke off.at first I thought it was a factory defect but I have seen and heard of others having the same problem with this knife. I was stabbing wood when about a inch of the tip broke off.I wasn't a Gerber knife fan or a fan of the 420 Hc .but I am really impressed with the Gerber strongarm. I used it to dig a Dakota fire pit after digging through rocks and roots it performed fine I did have to sharpen it a little to bring back my razor edge but that was very easy. We stabbed a bullet proof vest with it and it went through easier than I thought it would. So the Gerber strongarm is one of my knives I take to the woods. My kabar and Gerber strongarm and mora bushcraft black.
I love that you are so excited about this knife. I knew it would be a hit when I looked at it at Shot Show.
It's great that they have the option of a plain edge. I like gerbers serrations but there are a whole lot who don't.
I think I'll need to get one of each.
Great review.
Thx!!
Still using my Strongarm regularly and I've had it since it was released. Gerber nailed it with this knife, I thought it was so good I got two. And now I have one again because my son nabbed my old one!!!
Great review, Aaron. I bought the black fine edge model also. It's one of my favorite knives.
Great video with good details and close-ups. Thanks for taking the time.
Strider Thanks so much.
+gideonstactical yeah thanks for producing the great videos keep it up man
Have an LMF II I really like, also 420HC and holds up very well. This is the same steel as buck uses and theirs do very well. The Gerber Bear Grylls knife, also have one of those, is kind of a cheap version of the LMF, Its my car trunk knife, and I believe they used Chines 7cr17mov in it. I will be buying a Strongarm, so glad Gerber is no longer holding people hostage to serrations. Not only did they want serrations on everything, it seemed they would serrate almost 3/4 of the blade. Gerber can be great again just listen to the customers.
falcon1487 I totally agree my friend!
Quick question, how would you go about sharpening this knife? Open to any suggestions. Cheers.
I ordered it after seeing the teaser video, looking forward to using it soon.
How's it holding up?
Just got mine in coyote plain edge, figured I'd change it up a lil since I have a black lmf2 and prodigy. Love love love that Gerber finally listened and provided us with the choice of what we want serrated or fine edge rather than serrated edges on all there quality U.S.A. knives.
bob3326 Ya buddy, I hope to see more good things coming soon.
gideonstactical they're on the right track. I'd like to see em do a couple add-ons to the lmf l series, keeping with the infamous design with a few tweaks. For one full tang with an exposed tang with slab handles like on that bg pro knife. A fine edge 1095 blade with a finger choil, and make the hilt out of a stronger material like either the prodigy or strongarm. Then a sheath designed like the strongarm with a few minor tweaks. Then make one with a 5"blade and do another with 7-8"blade. And the of course it must be USA made. I think an improved lmf design with a larger blade size and upgraded steel would be a killer chopper and batoning knife.
Great review, thanks! Brother, I like the enthusiasm with which you review stuff. Very positive channel! Thanks so much for doing it.
kanukkarhu No problem, thank you for your complement, and support!
Your review as well as the reviews from everyone in the gauntlet is exactly why I ordered one of these knives. I just got it today in mailbox! One question, what angle did you have to hit the blade to reprofile the blade to get rid of the secondary bevel? Or were you free handing it
Josh N About 20° glad you enjoy it and you like the video
gideonstactical I enjoy all of your videos. Glad I found this review and subsequently subscribed! Keep up the good work man!
i, too, prefer plain edge over serrated/combo knives. thanks for making that point in your review. seems i've seen a lot of reviews lately that go ga-ga over serrated and i was beginning to think i was missing something.
i've got 2 questions on this knife that you caused me to think about:
1. you mentioned that the BK-16 needs to have the coating stripped as part of the process to get it to throw sparks, yet you didn't mention that the gerber (also a coated blade) needed to be stripped. did you forget to mention that or can the gerber throw sparks without having to strip the coating on the blade?
2. the gerber's handle is molded on (instead of bolted/pinned on like the BK-16). since you mentioned in the review that you are planning to get another one and now that this video is approx 4.5 years old, how is the handle holding up? do you think it will come loose over time?
thanks for a great review!
Great video! Makes me like my new Strongarm even more!!!
I have a small hatchet so I will use that for chopping wood, this knife is mainly for feathering, small bushcraft activities, survival, etc. Getting mine in a few days!!!!!
As an everyday carry woods knife (very light bushcraft, just a utility knife for a hiker), how does this compare to the Ontario Blackbird? Have the Blackbird, thinking of adding the Gerber, unless it's really a step down.
Love the Blackbird, except the handle is a bit blocky.
Thanks.
Excellent knife all around. I have no complaints about this knife. On the Mora Black high carbon steel knife, I dropped it flat out on the cement on the veranda,and the blade shattered a bit..oh well.
I've been looking for a good qualify knife for a while; THANK YOU for this review! You sold me! Going to go order one now!
I'm really enjoying all of your reviews, Aaron (spelling?). It seems like every knife I am interested in you have a review on and you give great, honest and optimistic reviews. Thanks and I look forward to more.
Good to see Gerber pulling their thumb out and doing things right for once. First in too many years. But even well tempered 440c would be a step up from the 420hc.
Ya, I have use Benchmade and TOPS knives 440C and it is awesome. Just as good as 154cm or s30v from my use.
Good to see Gerber really thinking about their knives, especially the new range.
I have the LMF II but like you I prefer a full plain edge knife, this looks perfect for me.
+Harry Akira Eaton You will love the strongarm.
+luis gustavo zeas zeledon I'll answer that. Its close. Due to the heat treat on this knife its gonna give the Ka-bar a run for its money and be very close far as edge retention goes. This blade is a steal for 45 bucks.
***** Anytime!
Very good review! Just pulled the trigger on this purchase. Thanks for you time! 😎
I agree. Great knife. I've been a sailor for 40 years and a serrated knife is not what I want for rope/line work. If it's under tension a smooth edge cuts it. If it's not under tension - I have time and I want to whip both ends before cutting it and sharp is mire imp[ortant than the saw edge. Give me a smooth edge. Only complaint I had was the choil was different side to side . 5 minutes with a - gasp - Dremel (the "quicker screwer upper") conical stone bit corrected that. Ideal camp/kayak/hiking knife for me.
Hey Aaron I'm back 7 months later and I just ordered one from Amazon yesterday, takes me a while to figure out which knife I want at the time. Tim over at "Every Day Tactical Vids" put out a video on this knife and I told him it would probably never see a piece of wood because this was going in the scout position for self defense. Well after I saw you using it I may have a change of heart, it looks like a really fun knife to use. I would avoid batoning because of that Gerber handle, we know what can happen. I saw the knife for $45 but when I chose Coyote tan it jumped up to $53, ughh. Well thanks again for the same video. Mike
If comparing the Gerber strong arm to the mora garberg stainless, for bushcraft / survival which would be a better choice?
I just got mine today at Cabelas, this knife is perfect for hiking and camping,
hey can you do a video on how to sharpen this strongarm.. i have one but its kind of in bad shape after a long bush trip
just like any other knife with a stone, rod, or electric sharpener
Hey Aaron how would you compare the notching, featherstick and similar tasks of this blade compared to an Esee?
I have my own ideas, but what don't you like about partially serrated blades?
That's my question. So many people hate on serrated blades but none ever actually say why...
Great review have you ever tried the glock fieldknife? Roughly the same price and i love mine
It is very tough
Greetings from austria
ArDronee Not yet, I will check it out.
just to warn you you will have to sharpen it when you get it, i could send you mine but i live in austria so it probably wont work will it?
Hi I just pick up the 2021_22 Gerber ultimate surviver Knife with the Hammer Pomel an cv 70 or 7 I believe it says on the blister pack it feels excellent in hand so I'm definitely going to purchase the strong arm this wkend thanks for your expertise evaluation Mr Giddeon.
OH also it doesn't say Made in Portland Oregon on mines the blister pk says Designed in P.Oregan but constructed in China ?hmm ok now I see what's all the huplahh about well it seems to be the same is cv 7 steel good mrdioca I'm Shure it's medicore at least or they Gerber would not have green lighted it's usage
What a great review! For a long time I wanted a blade like this that would not break the bank. A blade that could be used in any of tactical/survival/bush craft situations with a good steel, plus all these mounting options are definitely a big plus. $57 is not bad at all for all you are getting with this knife. I'm definitely getting this knife!
gowdaflow Thanks so much!
How would you compare this to the BK2 and which would you rather use
I bought one of these a few weeks ago, in coyote. I bought it for the sheath and the straight edge and thought for the $50 I paid I would maybe get a good value. I am shocked how great the knife is for the money but seeing your review made me think I should go buy a few more for some kits. Great review as usual!
It is going to be paired with my TOPS Wolf Pax2 for my bug out bag.
I'm convinced! Just bought it. Can't wait to try it out.
Great review!! That is a better looking tactical knife than that Australian knife you showed the other day. I agree that if done properly there is nothing wrong with 420hc steel. If I see a need for another tactical knife I will have to check this one out.
Jerry Morris Sweet. It is a good blade for sure.
I like others have been anxiously waiting for your review and you did not disappoint. Thank you Aaron!
Lyle Caudill She is one fine blade!
Thank you for doing this.
Please do a review of the buck csar-t fixed 154cm steel and I batoned and chopped in half a 6 inch log in less then 20 minutes ( including searching for new baton stick)
Remained hair whittling sharp.
Im impressed, I know you wont appreciate a modified tanto but anyway THE CSAR-T DESERVES more ATTENTION.
Please, PLEASE. I would appreciate it.
Others need to own this awesome blade.
Im pumped and impressed.
Thank you anyway!
xXsch3ricXx Thanks for the comment, and I will see what I can do about reviewing the buck.
A good comprehensive "fair" review. Thank you Sir
Got o e for $20 today at a pawn shop in mint condition. Unfortunately it has the serrations, serrations suck, but that is just my preference. Very impressed, want to get a plain edged one now!
What is the blade length
How does it compare to the Buck/Tops Short Nighthawk or the Mora Bushcraft Black, or even the Gerber BG Ultimate Pro?🙋
Sadly I have a tanto styled folder knife plus it has serration. However that's just my small edc but I'm getting the strongarm soon so I'm pretty keen.
Another great review. I agree with you on Gerber sheaths, say what you will about them but they give you tons of carry options and can get pretty innovative (like with the LHR). Between this and the Schrade SCHF42 there are some really nice budget blades this year that are extremely appealing. Now to decide between the two as a good beater knife and a backup...looking forward to your review on that one too. Keep up the good work Aaron.
Thank you my friend. It would be really are for me between the schf42 & strongarm.
Very interesting video. You have made me begin to like this knife. While I like straight edge blades for the easier sharpening, but I also own a few curved blades, particularly the SCHF10 and SCHF9 and the Kershaw Camp 10. But, I carry a Gerber Scout in my pocket day and night and I use the serrated portion of the blade 50% of the time. Same for any of my partially serrated fixed blades or folders.
And I have to say, Gerber does a good job with their serrations. I do think that on some knives they should limit those serrations to less than half of the total edge. I'd like to see a few knives from time to time with both straight and combo edges to increase our choices.
Anyone have pics of what this looks like under the grips?
Im keeping my eye on this knife. Two things Im interested in is how the blade will hold up in the long term and how that rubbery coating on the handle holds up. I have a cordless drill with a rubbery overmold that looked to be similar to this knife and over time it started to wear significantly where the grip was. That might be the weak point here too.
8yrs later lots of abuse and the handle still great this knife is bombproof
Your video made me buy one ;) bought coyote without serrations :D im so excited to get it soon
Great review as always. Probably going to get this knife now
Ben Krause glad to hear it!
I wonder if Gerber is going to discontinue production of the Prodigy, since this knife fills the same role, plus gives you the option of plain, or serrated blades?
LOCOJMC No idea what Gerber's plans are for this.
I bought this knife and I put it on my pack, I really have been that impressed with it and trust it that much. I have seen this knife take more abuse and smile then some 320 dollar blades made of S35VN steel, and thats freaking crazy! Gerber is working some serious magic with their heat treat on this steel.
I still love my LMF 2!
Good stuff brother thanks for sharing.
***** Glad you enjoyed it.
i have the prodigy fine edge. it seem like the same blade as the strongarm just different handle. funny to see you put it side by side with the mora bushcraft blade because thats what i use as my back up knife for my prodigy
I have an Esee 3 (1095) and a Leatherman Wave (420 HC) and honestly, the 420 seems to have better edge retention and sharpens up sharper/faster. It doesn’t make sense, but that is my experience.
I recently got the black plain edge strongarm I'm wondering how does the rubber grip hold up overtime? '
What about the Gerber Ultimate PRO? That should be right up your alley in the Plain edge dept.
Love your videos man, keep it up! Quick question: What's the best large knife chopper in your opinion?
WeepingAngel04 SP53. I have a review on it. Its a monster and chopping and batoning, and nothing else.
Is the handle the same as the LMF ? I loved the lmf but sold it because of the serrations.
Do I want my next purchase to be this or the schrade 42? What's your opinion?
What other models have been reviewed by the Gauntlet Team?
Just saw this knife today on Amazon..$50.00 bucks!! Looks really nice and all around utilitarian knife for those activities you described. I'll be buying one very soon.
What's the length between strongarm vs prodigy....they both same length
any chance we could get a full review on how to attack a tree stump? full tactical
Hey Aaron, where did you get those micarta scales on your BK16? They look great, and I was just curious.
Amazon or eBay. They work great.
Dumb question but will this knife rust overtime? I just got the knife and I fish a lot and frequently camp, so is the steel "water durable"?
What do you suggest to sharpen this knife?
worksharp field sharpner
I'm probably gonna pick one of these up soon-ish. I'm going for the FDE/black 2 tone one though.
Sweet. That one look great too.
Aaron you really have me excited about this knife. Gerber usually ends up disappointing me in one way or another but this looks like a home run. I would also like to see a better metal AND have it a little heavier and longer, like at least 6". The thickness is fine, weight would come with the length. Thanks for a great vid and see you soon. Mike
Michael Quigley No problem Mike!
I've got an other strong arm and my sheath is still shit for me this is also happening with the bear Grylls pro what does anyone have this problem if so what should I do the knives are excellent the sheath not so much
I am subbed to most of the knife guys like Pm101, Gideon's(obviously), survival on purpose, etc. Rarely do I see a Gerber product reviewed with enthusiasm. Rarely do I see anyone excited to review a Gerber knife. But to see this video and see how much excitement was on this channel over a Gerber blade, unlike the others, thats saying something. I really like this knife and the sheath. I own a Bear Grylls knife and its ok, I can see myself having this knife and feel better than the BG knife.
Todd Klekotka gerber used to be a really respectable company but a lot of people including me feel like they sold out they teamed up with bear grylls and made absolute bank on that knife series but to people in the real knife community they look at that knife and laugh hopefully they drop bear and continue making stuff like this
I can understand why, which Im sure Gerber will gain more loyalty making these type of knives, and being made here in the U.S. of A! I now only carry my TOPS knife, I like to keep the BG knife for a back up or a loaner. Especially if the user is less experienced, no harm no foul. Since I'm teaching my boys how to use knives, I figure that BG knife will come handy, until they are more experienced, then I will get them a better knife.
+trey olson Bear don't make the knives! If they are crap that's Gerbers responsibility! Try putting the blame where it should be bud!
Gideons, would you rely your life with the StrongArm? Another word is it a soldier knife?
Or it's more of an urban survival/car knife like you said about the Gerber Prodigy?
Note: it's sheath seems a bit filmsy in my opionion, though it's a well thoughtout design.
+Paul Sin If you watch all the abuse this received from me and all the other Gauntlet reviewers, this is one tough blade, that I would bet my life on.
Awesome, thx :)