Benchmade Nimravus Tanto 141SBK

As a hunter I do prefer a fixed blade knife, even though I always carry a folder for more general use and back up. This month I have something, though not unusual is perhaps a little different from what many would see as a traditional hunting knife.

As can be seen the all-black Benchmade Nimravus is perhaps a tad military looking, but it is a tough and practical design for field use. This example shows a Tanto-style blade with its distinctive angular tip; however it is also available in the more normal drop point configuration.

154CM or D2

Blade length is 4.5” and width 0.115” and it’s made from 154CM or D2 tool steel in a flat black finish. This example shows a combination (straight/scalloped) edge, again something I prefer as it allows you to easily rip up the sternum on deer etc when gutting. Plain edge is also available.

This full tang design has jimping on top for extra thumb purchase and incorporates a finger choil rearwards of the guard. Handles are shaped aluminium scales with deep, vertical grooves for purchase and forward scallops for alternative finger positions. Reasonably slim but hand-filling this knife is not going to get away from you even when covered with blood… At the rear is a lanyard hole.

Measuring 9.45” tip to tail and weighing 6.20oz the Nimravus offers a medium build that will suit most British users in terms of general size and weight. In use the knife works equally well edge up or down as it’s easy to modify your hold in the former position to avoid having to place your thumb in the choil. Personally I feel the drop point version would be better suited to deer work, but I would still opt for the combi edge.

A look at Benchmade’s website shows a number of options for the Nimravus that includes different coloured alloy scales or replacements in G10, which is a synthetic material. Likewise you can get a hard, Kydex sheath.

Carriage

On that point the Nimravus came with the soft sheath. Made from black, ballistic nylon it’s a basic shape and offers a QD, Velcro belt loop and removable, drop-down hanger, along with a leg tie. Retention is by a strap and press stud and the rear of the sheath is MOLLE compatible so will attach to any webbing/pack system that uses this system. I tested it out on a Maxpedition Malaga Gear Slinger pack and it proved secure with the ability of being quick to remove.

Though the style of the Nimravus will not suit everyone, personally I like it’s no-nonsense and practical build. But there’s no denying this is a tough and effective field knife and well worth a look if you like your blades a bit utilitarian…

For: Simple and effective

Against: You might not like the look

Verdict: Good basic field blade