Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife Review

My Journey with the Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife

The Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife is a compact, affordable knife from Elite Tactical designed for everyday carry and general utility. Its relatively short blade and lightweight construction make it an appealing option for those seeking a discreet and easily accessible tool. I was drawn to this knife by its budget-friendly price point and the promise of a reliable fixed blade for various outdoor tasks.

I’ve always been a proponent of carrying a quality fixed blade, whether I’m hiking, camping, or simply working around the yard. However, I also recognize that not everyone needs or wants a massive, intimidating knife. The Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife seemed to strike a good balance between practicality and portability, which initially piqued my interest.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was of a no-frills, functional tool. The black ABS handle felt sturdy enough, and the blade arrived reasonably sharp. Compared to a larger, more expensive knife like my Benchmade Bushcrafter, the Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife is significantly lighter and less imposing. I chose it over a folding knife option from a similar price range because I prefer the inherent strength and reliability of a fixed blade, even if it means sacrificing some convenience in terms of carrying options. My first thought was, “This could be a decent backup or a good starter knife for someone new to fixed blades.”

Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife was during a weekend camping trip. I used it primarily for tasks like preparing kindling, cutting rope, and food preparation. The 3.25-inch blade proved adequate for most of these tasks, although it did feel a little short when trying to baton larger pieces of wood.

The knife performed reasonably well in dry conditions, but when the handle got wet, the ABS plastic became somewhat slippery. I also noticed that the blade needed a touch-up after moderate use, suggesting that the edge retention wasn’t exceptional. No serious issues arose during the initial use, but I certainly gained a better appreciation of the limitations of a budget-friendly knife.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife has held up surprisingly well. The blade hasn’t chipped or broken, despite some fairly rough treatment. There are some minor scratches on the blade coating, and the handle shows some signs of wear, but overall, it’s still perfectly functional.

Maintaining the knife is simple; I just wipe it down after each use and occasionally apply a bit of oil to the blade to prevent rust. Compared to my higher-end knives, the Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife requires more frequent sharpening, but it’s still a manageable task. I can’t say that it outperforms any of my more expensive options, but it does hold its own as a reliable, inexpensive utility knife.

Breaking Down the Features of Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

• The Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife features a 3.25-inch blade made from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. This steel is known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• The knife has an overall length of 7.5 inches and a black ABS handle. The handle provides a decent grip, although it can become slippery when wet.
• The handle has a black matte finish and is made of polymer. It offers acceptable grip but lacks the ergonomic contouring of more expensive knives.
• It comes with a nylon sheath. The sheath is functional, but rather basic and lacks any advanced retention features.

These specifications translate to a compact and lightweight knife that’s easy to carry, but also one that may not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks. The choice of steel and handle material reflect the knife’s budget-conscious design, prioritizing affordability over premium performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. Its relatively short blade and lightweight construction make it easy to maneuver, but it lacks the leverage and cutting power of a larger knife. The 8Cr13MoV steel holds an edge reasonably well, but requires more frequent sharpening than higher-end steels.

The knife’s biggest strength is its simplicity and affordability. Its main weakness is that it lacks the refined ergonomics and premium materials found in more expensive knives. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly utility knife, but doesn’t exceed them in any particular area.

Design & Ergonomics

The Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife features a simple, utilitarian design. The black ABS handle is functional but lacks any advanced ergonomic features. The knife is lightweight and comfortable to carry, but the handle can become slippery when wet.

The sheath is basic but functional, allowing for easy carry on a belt or pack strap. There is a small learning curve to the sheath retention, but becomes intuitive after practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its low price point, the Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife is surprisingly durable. The 8Cr13MoV steel is resistant to corrosion, and the ABS handle is reasonably tough. With proper care, this knife should last for several years of moderate use.

Maintenance is simple; just wipe the blade clean after each use and occasionally apply a bit of oil to prevent rust. Regular sharpening will be necessary to maintain a keen edge.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife comes with a basic nylon sheath. There are no other included accessories. Due to its simple design, there are limited customization options available for this knife.

You could potentially replace the sheath with a higher-quality aftermarket option, but there are no readily available options to customize the handle or blade. Customizing the knife may cost more than it is worth, which needs to be considered.

Pros and Cons of Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife

Pros

• Affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
• Lightweight and compact design for easy carry and discreet use.
• Durable construction ensures years of reliable service with proper care.
• Easy to sharpen blade allows for quick and simple maintenance.
• Functional design for completing basic cutting tasks.

Cons

• Handle can be slippery when wet.
• Basic sheath lacks advanced retention features.
• Limited customization options restricts personalization.

Who Should Buy Elite Tactical Rout Fixed Blade Knife?