This is the second of the Steel Will Roamer series that I have purchased (I will be buying more) and I am very happy with these knives. The aim of this series seems to be for general outdoors tasks (camping tools etc), and for that they are very well suited... personally, I use them in my kitchen, for general utility, but the larger ones are certainly strong enough to also meet the needs for a budding survival enthusiast on a budget.
The handles are, for me, the best feature. I have large hands and these give ample space and grip. They are extremely comfortable and, although I haven't had to use them in a wet or oily (or bloody) situation yet, I am very confident that the deep finger groove and the slight flare at the front & back (respectively), along with the texture and grooving on the handles would be more than sufficient to enable a firm grip in any situation. The texture is like a hard plastic with a slightly rubbery feel. 10 out of 10 for the handles.
The blades tend to be fairly thick, and the steels used tend to inspire confidence that they could be used for heavier tasks, such as processing wood for a fire, and shelter building, baring in mind of course that they are budget knives and not designed to be survival knives per se. However, I wouldn't feel too worried if I were to find myself in a survival situation that these knives wouldn't be sufficient for the task, they just wouldn't be my first choice for this application. Also, the use of a flat grind, at least in the two I have, is a plus, when so many at the more budget end tend to use hollow grinds (E.G. Most of the Schrade "survival" knives), this gives the edge more strength, whilst still being fine enough for more detailed tasks around camp.
The ones with the the plastic (kydex?) sheaths are also a strong point, but those that come with leather are not quite so impressive, but will do the job.
So, all in all, for a general & heavier duty camp/outdoor knife these are exceptional quality and worth every penny. Highly recommended for their intended purpose.
Puccini (UK)
