#Civivi

In this video I celebrate and say goodbye to one of the best budget knife brands around.

[@royalhoward2882]

Excellent video review, I have all 3 of these CIVIVI knives that you show in this video and I love them. I however am going to continue purchasing CIVIVI knives because I really like them. I agree though, they are coming out with so many models and variations it's overwhelming. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@herosticks]

Brother thank you so much for your comment! Full disclosure, since this video I have found the Chevalier and the Elementum button lock, and they were both outstanding. I thought about checking out one of their new fix blades but haven’t pulled the trigger yet. What are your favorite Civivis so far? 👊 🔪

[@herosticks]

Quick update here, cleaned and tuned the odium and it is flipping and spider flicking like a boss. The scales are much smoother than the Ortis, by design, and I’m loving them both.

[@herosticks]

@Elisha - Glad it worked!

[@Errcyco]

If anyone lives in a salty or humid area (like this guy does) you’re going to want a blade with 14c28n, which Civivi makes many of. Their 9cr18MoV is almost as corrosion resistant but D2 near sat water is going to have a ton of stress. It’s perfectly fine but avoid if you can. If you cannot, cost the d2 blade in tuf-glide and let it dry overnight. Get the steel liners too. Important to let it dry for a day. Wipe of excess and you’ll never know it was there. It creates a seal and an invisible oxide layer that keeps the semi-stainless D2 nice and safe. On a boat it also works on any plastic or metal that needs a strong and not greasy lube. It’s a lifesaver on hinges and things of the sort. Sentry brand Tuf-Glide.. it’s what keeps knives and guns safe through all the elements.

[@herosticks]

Great comment. I’m going to get something from the Spyderco Salt series or a QuietCarry for my boating adventures.

[@nolobede]

I own 14 civivis. I only intended to buy 1.

[@herosticks]

@nolobede - 🤣🤣. Love it. What’s your favorite?

[@nolobede]

@@herosticks What day is it? I mean, which child is your favorite? All of the hype of the elementum I only heard about after I had bought one and loved it right away. Simplicity, engineering and design/execution. I get it. I have the brass and swapped the hardware from my s35vn elementum blade to the brass. Right now, that is my favorite. But the natural g10 scales in D2 I carry all the time and can hardly tell its in my pocket. I am the unintentional fanboy. But MOST often I return to the Statera as a fav. I have both the green carbon fiber and the black. The blade, the action, the solid opening and the detent on close is indistinguishable from a magnet pulling the blade closed. Just friggin SMOOTH and SOLID. The Statera has since been discontinued. Goooooooooddammit But if another run is made, Im grabbing 10 or so. I have so many pocket knives and so few pockets. I keep them in my vehicles, my go-bags, desk, workshop, backpack, with my camping gear... on and on. I just found civivi and decided to stick with them since I can rely on the quality and consistency. I have 3 benchmades, but to be honest, the axis lock springs have failed twice now on my North Fork. Just not acceptable not to be able to rely, and then the cost of a benchmade to a $50.00 elementum? Not a hard sell IMO. You "not made in USA" haters can just wank off. I'll buy USA whenever I can. but MUST be quality and value competitive. Haven't purchased a civivi that I didn't like. No buyers remorse.

[@herosticks]

Brother, you should be writing Knife blogs. I love everything about this LOL. Candidly, I haven’t heard of the Statera but I’m going to see if I can find it on eBay right now! I’ve never had a complaint about the two yet, but there’s something nice about having an S35VN option around as well :-). And yeah I’ve started dropping knives Into all sorts of places as well, and the more I have them around, the more I use them. The more I use them, the more evidence I have that additional purchases are prudent. The more exciting purchases, the more the collection grows. And off we go 😂👉🔪👌 You gonna try the civivi fixed blade?

[@herosticks]

Just found one on eBay, a few actually, looks like about 125 bucks. Worth it?

[@nolobede]

@@herosticks LOL, thanks for the mention... Sometimes I get passionate about things I can speak about with some semblance of experience rather than just say... 'Yeah, its cool man." My first unappreciated knife was put in my pocket at maybe 14 or 15 when I started earning money slopping horses and heaving hay. It was just an impulse buy at Kmart or something 'cause I saw it and the 10 bucks in my pocket was burning a hole. I only realized maybe 15 years ago that there were knives better than whatever generic thing I was carrying and called a "Jack knife." Dull as shit was its usual state. But once when I really needed one, it failed. Wouldn't cut through pudding. But... I Had always thought, what kind of idiot would spend 100.00 bucks on a jack knife? Long story short... realizing a knife... man's oldest tool... (other than a rock) a wedge may be responsible for the success of mankind right? I mean think about it... even making fire is supported by being able to gather wood, right? And adding the ability to cut up a rabbit... GOT ME SOME FRIGGIN DINNER! Anyway, I can tell I'm about to ramble... I'll save that for if I start Blogging, yeah. Thing is, yes I appreciate now having a knife. It is used every single day in some small or significant way, so I keep one handy and NOT having one is always a bitch and makes one appreciate this little common tool. So back to Civivi. I just happen to find a friction folder while surfing that was rated high and was cheap, like 40 bucks. And one night, admittedly a bong-induced state of focus prompted me to look at this knife and its simplicity of design ( I'm an engineer, so yeah I was interested in how non-complex this thing was). A week later I was a knife steel nerd of sorts, yet not a snob. No fancy steel $300.00 blades for me. So after all my looking around... there are so many companies making good quality now at reasoned prices. Its like engineering art. Simple, functional, and the D2 Steel so common on Civivi is not high-end, but has great edge retention so... yeah I got hooked. I DO have several M390, 20CV, M4 steel blades, etc. But for these Civivi's its perfect because I can afford investing in enough to cover the garage, pocket, truck, backpack etc. So I buy for 2 reasons (none being that I really need another pocket knife) 1. For reliable function (many) 2. Ooohhh that's pretty. (a few) So... many good companies, many good knives. I just happen to be sold on Civivi brand for one. I just happen to have more Civivi's than any other maker. Haven't been disappointed yet. As for the Statera at 125.00, well I am quite biased, but in my opinion yes since it has been discontinued, I personally would buy one at 125, and if not happy, someone will buy it afterward. But at 125... there are a TON of outstanding knives at that price too. But that Statera is very much like some of the higher-end WE knives and I am a fan of those too. So best of both worlds. A WE-made knife at Civivi pricing. I have not purchased my last Civivi. BTW, I have the Civivi Backup M2 fixed blade too. Its my garage and camp knife and used a ton. But the moment I see the Elementum fixed blade comes out, its coming my way. Too "wordy," my wife tells me this all the time.

[@Errcyco]

Before I learned about knives, I always got Spydercos. Got a Civivi on recommendation.. well I have sold or given away everything and basically live for Civivi Knives. For big knives I do carry some CRKT’s cause they make a very durable one. Everything else though.. Civivi. Elementum Button Lock is my favorite but due to the gray area on it’s action I tend to carry the regular Elementum (tanto) and I adore it. I coat them all in Sentry Tuf-Glide to seal the D2 especially and all the pivots and liners. People don’t realize with a dry live/sealant, you can coat the blade and liners and give a 14c28n level corrosion resistance. If you have lax knofe laws in your state.. the Elementum Button Lock is probably the coolest knife I have ever owned. In micarta it’s absolutely gorgeous. This guy is spot on, Civivi will turn you into a knife-guy if you wernt already.

[@herosticks]

Civivi is like the gateway drug to knife collection 😅

[@sknight0391]

I had the exact same problem with my all black Odium. It just didn't want to fire out. I was so disappointed in the beginning I almost sent it back. But then I started playing with it and lubricating it and now it's one of my favorite knives. It has a great little action once you get it to unleash it's wonderfulness. 😎👍

[@herosticks]

Ah yes brother so glad you stuck with it! Great little knife and still finds it’s way in my pocket often! Thanks so much for commenting!

[@richardvirchow3390]

I just recently bought the Civivi Praxis, then mini-Praxis and then just days ago the Civivi Odium. They’re great, great knives..!!

[@herosticks]

Excellent choices! How do you like the Praxis? Haven’t handled one of those yet. I recently bought the Quibit and love it. Review coming soon!

[@johnrollins4879]

Love my Ortis! Unfortunately now I have to buy more Civivi knives. Knife addiction is REAL my friend!

[@herosticks]

SO. Real :)

[@shawnlavigne9069]

Mainly been a production folder guy, think Benchmade, Spyderco. Recently picked up a couple of different elementums, and am pretty pleased with the quality.

[@herosticks]

Nice! They are a great bargain at their price point. I’m looking to get the Civivi Vision FG next!

[@justinrowan4069]

Civivi defines the quality budget knife category. With so many good Civivi knives coming out (like the Riffle), good luck trying to not buy any others. 🙂

[@herosticks]

@justin Rowan - You’re spot on, I’ve already got two or three more on my wish list at BladeHQ already 😂

[@brokeboytactical]

8cr13mov is on par with ASU 8, 9cr18mov is on par with 440c and 10cr15comov is on par with VG-10

[@Hungrybird474]

I think folks who don’t have much cash should check out the eafengrow and ganzo lines , especially the ef335 is aha da down winner for $30 . Absolute awesome grind in the blade . You’d expect to pay much much more for a the ef335 . Ortis or praxis is around $42 decent knives but a hard blade for the woods like the ganzo720 or ef 335 is for the woods , not these civivis are for cutting paper and boxes but I d bet people would like the knives mentioned better . I have all of these and don’t mind abusing the cheaper priced ganzo s and eafengrows 👍👍.

[@herosticks]

Hey thanks so much for these recommendations, outstanding! I haven’t checked out any eadengrows or ganzos yet, but I’m gonna do so! Amazon best place to find them?

[@jamesrodgers3132]

Eafengrow lie about their steel. LuvThemKnives has an ongoing project testing the steel on lots of knives, and their "D2" is never what they claim it to be.

[@NJames-dh6kz]

I have the ortis and I really like it. And getting the pouch and cleaning cloth with it, for $40 is a great deal.

[@herosticks]

@Nicholas - thank you so much for commenting! The Ortis really did exceed my expectations, it’s awesome. And with the extras (I’m a huge fan of a good pouch), I’m not sure the value can be beat!

[@SHENDOH]

I've had knives all my life (54 now)but I never spent over 40.00. I finally spent 50 and it was an elementum. I'm hooked on CIVIVI.

[@herosticks]

Thank you so much for commenting! The Elementum is the new standard of sub $50 knives in my opinion, Civivi definitely leading the charge! Have you checked out the QSP Penguin or the CRJB Feldspar? Also great options.

[@SHENDOH]

@@herosticks I'm really liking the small Felspar. Through this whole pandemic I've been educating myself on knives. It's been a while. My old Buck, Case and Shrade fixed blade are seeing less carry time.

[@herosticks]

@carl - YES! Just got a large Feldspar and I’m REALLY digging it.

[@Deadtileyedie]

The feldspar is great. I have the natural g10 small and black large and even after cleaning and everything my larges action is 10x better for some reason. Also check out some of the ruikes and budget kisers. Also the honey badger is a amazing budget knive with a better action than most of my civivis, they also have this awesome "wharnclever" blade style I love!

[@ryejack]

I have yet to be disappointed with any Civivi or WE knives I've purchased. They've all been of great quality.

[@herosticks]

Hey thanks so much for the comment, and I am right there with you! I’ve haven’t picked up any of the new Civivis yet, but I’m likely to. I’m hearing really good things about the button lock and the fixed blade. 🤜🤛🔪

[@werepanda18]

Just bought the Ortis and i couldn’t agree more. It’s perfection.

[@herosticks]

Totally agree, brother, it’s a great great knife.

[@Hungrybird474]

I’m done buying too . Will get the ganzo adimante and another ef335 in black cuz I like it so much 👍👍.

[@herosticks]

Thanks for commenting! I haven’t handled any Ganzos yet. Sounds like I should give them a shot!

[@Hungrybird474]

Absolutely. If you like beefy knives the 720 has been in the woods many many times and the adimante is a nice home slicer and flipper . Can’t put it down

[@Hungrybird474]

Hi hero . I ended up buying more knives and lots of titaniums from two sun and Kubey and a couple from WE 600 series . Probably the ruike p128 for $40 is the best deal for budget or the odium with the extra ti milled clip for $12.99 on Amazon . Yeah two months ago I was done then received a titanium Kubey and loved how they felt , same with a two sun ts21 and found a few WE 600 series 603h and 611 for $150 a pice was too good a deal to pass up in for brand new knives sitting for 5 years . They are truly incredupibky well made and light 👍

[@brokeboytactical]

l I have 4 Civivi knives the Baby Banter, Minimis, Lumi and the Odium. I found out I don't like large folders and the odium and the Brazen are made out of the same materials so I figured it made most sense for it to go

[@herosticks]

Makes sense! How do you like the Baby Banter?

[@brokeboytactical]

@@herosticks I LOVE IT!!! it's my always carry knife. Best $60 I've ever spent on myself. I'm really excited for the odeum because it looks like it has the same ergonomic style as the baby banter with the finger chill and they're roughly the same size. If you like the way the odium feels I promise you will like the baby banter

[@ashvanes484]

I had a Benchmade mini Griptillian and a Kershaw Clash, bought an Elementum and now I am fully lost to collecting small flipper/EDC knives. I know I will be getting a *lot* more Civivis. just so well done, wow.

[@herosticks]

Thanks for posting - love Civivi!

[@damianmoskos2299]

Im drawing the line with Civivi as well for the exact same reasons u r, i really want to explore other makes of knives., i have 18 civivis 2 of each model the standard versions and then the damascus version of each so have 9 different civivi models 2 of each. ortis is great nice in damascus aswell. The last civvi i will get is the new button lock elementum in jade scales. Cheers and regards

[@herosticks]

I’m right there with you brother! I’m curious, what’s your favorite of the bunch?

[@Al-Gore-ithm]

I've had my eye on that Odium for a while, you've now convinced me to buy!

[@herosticks]

Hey thank you so much for commenting! You won’t be disappointed, it’s become one of my favorite little knives. Flipping action is great! Let me know what you think when you get it!

[@Al-Gore-ithm]

@@herosticks will do man thanks for the feedback!

[@herosticks]

For sure!!

[@user-ms5gt1kd6p]

I don't know if everyone includes the ferrum forge branded knives made by civivi as part of their civivi collection but I own the stinger (which is my favorite), the prolix, the odium, the mandate, the button lock elementum, two fractures, and I recently picked up the Bo. The Bo, if you prefer a smaller edc, is an absolutely amazing slicer with the nitro-v steel and the thin stock. Additionally this knife is absolutely beautiful with the carbon fiber scales and grey stonewash. If I could convince you to try one more civivi I think you would like this one. I wear a large glove and it's just on the border of being too small for my personal taste but I think civivi is stepping up their game with these latest releases. I think in another year or so we will see some truly spectacular knives coming from their factory.

[@herosticks]

Hey thank you so much for weighing in, this is a great comment. The Bo has been on my radar for a little bit, and with your recommendation I think I might give it a shot! Funny you mention the FF stinger, it is on one of my wish lists right now! I’ve heard great things, I want to give it a try.

[@RawFeeding101]

Thanks for the video!

[@herosticks]

Thanks for commenting!

[@grandwest11]

I'm about your age and new to the knife world also.I'm surprised at how quickly I jumped in and how big the knife world is. I've purchased 5 Civivis up to now. The Odium, Baklash, Little Fiend, Ortis and Pintail and like you, feel it's time to explore other brands. So many great knives to choose from. So much fun! I really enjoy the fidget factor of a knife and at this point look for a knife with two methods of operation. Twice the fun. Best of luck with the channel. Liked - Subscribed

[@herosticks]

@grandwest - Thank you so much for posting, and welcome to the community :-) the multiple deployment options on knives is definitely becoming a thing, it is really fun. Do you have a favorite among your Civivis? I’m also really loving Kizer at the moment, their Vanguard budget line has some great options. CRJB and QSP Also definitely work a look in my opinion. 🤜🤛 🔪

[@grandwest11]

@@herosticks My fidgety fingers like carrying the Little Fiend along with the CJRB Maileah in the 5th pocket. Both have dual deployment and keep me entertained all day.

[@herosticks]

@grandwest - can’t wait to try the Maileah, who makes the Little Fiend?

[@grandwest11]

@@herosticks Civivi

[@timsoete9304]

Best way to open the Odium is the underhand middle finger flick. I love mine because I like knives that open that way.

[@herosticks]

Thanks so much for posting! And, totally agree. Love that flick 🤜🤛

[@jasonphillips5475]

New collector. The only knife I have is the Civivi Elementum. Praxis s next.

[@herosticks]

Great to have you here - thanks for commenting! Can’t go wrong with the Elementum, and I’ve heard the Praxis is really solid. Let me know what you think about it when you get it in hand! 🤜🤛⚔️

[@CoenBijpost]

“The last civivis I’ll buy… I think” 😂

[@herosticks]

You nailed it 😂😂😂

[@greghill5183]

Great review! I just bought that same Ortis!

[@herosticks]

Yes! Have you received it - what are your thoughts on it?

[@jamesrodgers3132]

Here one year on. I wonder how many you have now ;-)

[@herosticks]

YES! 😂😂 full disclosure - I DID buy the Elementum button lock, and just received the Chevalier. Haven’t opened it yet but it’s probably gonna be good.

[@zapatastyle]

Nice vid. The Ortis is peaking my interest. I just received the odium in the mail today. It's a gorgeous little knife. Yes, the action is a bit stiff, but I don't mind for now. I got into knives about two months ago when I browsed some civivis online. I bought The Tamashii (fixed blade). And now the Odium.

[@herosticks]

Thanks man! So glad you commented! Highly recommend the Ortis as well, you should definitely check that one out. How do you like the Tamashi? Carry strong!

[@jeremyspaulding7735]

Two great looking knives! I've yet to experience either one but I do enjoy civivi. They make such great knives at amazing prices. Great video 👍

[@herosticks]

Thanks Jeremy! Yeah loving this pair, the odium has broken in really nicely. Gonna be hard to lay off some of their new models 😂

[@beardedgear]

Glad to see you uploading another video dude!

[@herosticks]

Jake! Your comment and encouragement means a ton. I’m gonna try to keep it rolling. 🤜🤛

[@jagpilotohio]

I Just caved in and bought my one and only Chinese made knife. Odium in Teakwood and Damascus blade. Very cool piece.

[@herosticks]

Oh wow I haven’t seen that variant, blade HQ? Sounds awesome. Thanks for commenting!!

[@jagpilotohio]

@@herosticks yes. I grabbed it from HQ. Civivi calls the wood a different name, but it’s actually teak. I have a soft spot for real wood scales and Damascus. I have a ladybug in pakkawood and Hap40 steel from knifecenter on My keychain. Probably my most useful knife since I always have it.

[@herosticks]

Now that sounds like a great set up!

[@factorsofjack]

Great video!! I have and love both the Ortis and the Odium.

[@herosticks]

@factors of jack - yes! I am loving the Odium more and more - I gave the Ortis to my brother - might need another one 😂🔪🙏

[@jeremywang9148]

Odium would be my next purchase but I’m still waiting for a better steel for its blade

[@factorsofjack]

@@jeremywang9148 Agree, I'd actually prefer 9cr over D2. Maybe they'll come out with a premium version with s35vn. Thanks for checking the video out!!!

[@j.m.5917]

Great review. Very helpful.

[@herosticks]

I’m so glad! Did you pick one up? Would love to know what cha think when you get one in hand!

[@dtomknivesandgear6635]

That Ortis looks badass.

[@herosticks]

Oh man I’m loving it! Have you handled one yet?

[@77doppelkorn77]

Got the Civivi Badlands Vagabond damascus carbon fiber since wednesday. It has the same handle like the Ortis and the same length. Love these Civivi knives. Greetings from Germany

[@herosticks]

@Graf Zahl - Greetings!!! How are you liking the Vagabond?

[@brandong2142]

Now that you’ve had the Ortis for a bit, if you could only have one, would you get the Ortis or Elementum? Thanks.

[@herosticks]

@brandon g - brother thanks for commenting! Tough call, in my mind, the Elementum by a hair. For edc the blade shape is just a bit more mellow than the Ortis, and that wins it for my by a hair! You’d be in good shape with either. Let me know what you choose I’d love to hear what you think!

[@gabebrown948]

I’m actually getting ready to purchase the Ortiz today. Can’t wait to get it. Great Video!

[@herosticks]

Thanks @gabe - would love to hear what you think of it!!

[@herosticks]

Merry Christmas!

[@deanproctor2690]

Hello again, Hero Sticks! Dean from Maine giving you a review of the Civivi Plethiros with copper scales. Spent a week or so as having this as my EDC. First observation, heavy handle. I knew that going in. Copper is not any form of G-10 or Carbon. It’s a metal and adds weight. Straight out of the box, flipper action was spot on. Blade sharpness was pretty good. Had a couple of deeper grinds that stood out. Ran it over my strop with three steps. Now you can shave with this one. Big fan of Civivi knives. Your best bang for you buck. Hope all is well with you and look forward to more knife reviews.

[@herosticks]

@dean - That is a civivi blade that is new to me! Sounds like a winner, I’m gonna go check it out right now :-) Sounds like you definitely recommend it? Got another video coming up in the next couple of days :-)

[@deanproctor2690]

@@herosticks I definitely do recommend it, but as long as you’re okay with some weight. You know it’s in your pocket! 👍🏻

[@herosticks]

Copy that!

[@Dynamic6000]

I am not a fan of the clip point so I went with the ortis’s brother the Badlands Vagabond. I actually bought a black out ortis and did a scale switch to make it a black out badlands. Anyway I also carry the odium. Really great knives!

[@herosticks]

Nick! Thanks so much for commenting. That sounds like a great setup! I’m curious if civivi will start coming out scales to buy separately so folks can dress them up more easily. I’d like to try orange scales on my black odium.

[@badmunkyedc1]

Really digging the Ortis!

[@herosticks]

It’s a budget champion! Thanks so much for the comment, love your logo!

[@badmunkyedc1]

@@herosticks thanks man!

[@ditchdairy6888]

Thumbs up!

[@herosticks]

Thanks!!! So appreciate you commenting 🤜🤛⚔️

[@jeremywang9148]

i have one elementum G-10 D2 blade, in love with it, worth all the hype imho, but I’m not going to pull another trigger until I find a S35VN or better steel version.

[@herosticks]

Yes! Thanks for posting! They have a handful of S35VN models available for the Elementum on Blade HQ for about $80 - great value!

[@sirsir9665]

For me getting my Civi to flip opened right and fast was my finger placement. It was more so pushing in the back nub. You have slip over the back nub to flip it over smoothy in my case.

[@herosticks]

Yes! That made a big difference for me too. Thanks for posting!

[@efcruzado]

Civivi has released so my quality knives in 2021. Not the right time to stop looking at Civivi. Their Blade Show releases look awesome, too! Try the Brazen. One of their best of the year.

[@herosticks]

Brother thank you so much for the comment, and, since posting this video, I have accepted the inevitable, And exactly that which you mention. I’m gonna buy a brazen :-) Is it your favorite Civivi?

[@efcruzado]

@@herosticks The Brazen is my current favorite to carry but my favorite Civivi is the Elementum.

[@herosticks]

I’ve been looking up that brazen, and it looks good :-)

[@airadaimagery692]

Luv my Ortis. Its really unbelievable at the price. I mean they even took the time to mill out the liners for weight relief. That takes extra time and money! Been wanting the Odium since it was released. You got the best looking one, imo. Luv my elementum with wood scales. Put my first mirror polish on the edge of that knife and it’s the first ever that I’ve been able to make a push cut through paper. Just incredible. Luv my backlash, it was my first Civivi. I really want a McKenna... You look like you would be a McKenna guy as well, just sayin... I’m saving up for that one though, I think I might get it in brass, possibly copper. Same as you, I’ve only been hooked for about 1.5-2 years.

[@herosticks]

@1k - thanks for posting, the comment, and for your encouragement. Yeah the milling effort is impressive, and I’ve got the Elementum in black g10. Been wondering about trying to grab the s35vn version in green micarta. And yeah that McKenna looks good, wonder how weighty those brass or copper scales are. Let me know when you pick one up!

[@airadaimagery692]

@@herosticks When i bout the elementum in wood I had initially intended on getting it in brass until I read the specs on it and learned that it was entire gram+ in weight. But the McKenna is so lightweight, and has such a small footprint that I believe that the extra weight will be a plus for that one. That’s just my opinion. s35vn is definitely not a “budget steel”. Before ever owning a knife with s35vn I was never able to skin out an entire deer without having to sharpen the blade. It does take a little bit longer to sharpen than most of all my other knives, but it definitely has great blade retention. I just bought my first knife with s90v about 2 weeks ago so I haven’t had a chance to put that one to the test nor have I tried to sharpen it. that’s going to be a whole new experience for me...

[@herosticks]

Let me know what s90v blade you pick up. I’d love to know what fixed blades you’d recommend for heavy use outdoors? Best skinning knife you’ve used?

[@mikesims6638]

I got into the hobby about the same time you did and I fell into Civivi hard and fast. I picked up mini bull mastiff and since then I've grabbed 3 more 😅 they really are great knives for the price! Will be looking forward to more vids

[@herosticks]

Nice work my friend, nice work! More videos to come this week, haven’t done one in ages and have lots of cool stuff to share.

[@fsdfmsbcxx]

You know as good as we do that the only way to stop buying knives is to stop watching at their new Releases :D "Check out our new Catalog for 2022..." "No, I won't. I will resist. Will not watch at...woah, look at this Knife!!! Page Nummmmberrr... " *hooked again* xD

[@herosticks]

You are so, so right 🤣🤣🤜🤛🔪

[@travisbrueckner4457]

I just purchased the odium in Damascus and wood off blade HQ. I've been looking for a smaller knife for work as I mostly use it for office tasks.I bought the elementum with a black and wood a few months ago as my first pocket knife. Its just a bit big for opening mail.

[@herosticks]

Excellent! How is the Odium working out for you? Thanks so much for commenting!

[@travisbrueckner4457]

@@herosticks it hasn't arrived i pulled the trigger yesterday

[@herosticks]

You’re going to be stoked :-)

[@infidel24]

I started with some cheap knives in D2, then bought a civivi pintail. Just bought a spyderco pm3 in maxamet. Now I'm moving on to WE as soon as their new knives start arriving. I hate buying Chinese junk, but this is a knife brand that is far from junk in my opinion.

[@herosticks]

Totally agree! Thanks for commenting - which of the new WE models are you interested in?

[@infidel24]

@@herosticks I'm waiting for one of the button lock version's. I'm not certain which model it will be, I've only seen what's been put out by other KZbin member's. I bought the pintail and didn't really think it would add up to much. But I'm glad I did. Best wishes.

[@herosticks]

@@infidel24 did you pick up a button lock?

[@infidel24]

@@herosticks I just got the wood scale civivi altus a few days ago. The button is a little sticky, hopefully it loosens up with some time. I also bought a WE Banter and a WE Saakshi. The Saakshi for the price is a awesome knife. The banter I like a lot, but I wish they had smoothed out the lock bar on it. It's a little sharp in my opinion.

[@whereverthetrailtakesyou6283]

Great video, man I miss the PNW! Just purchased the Odium in damascus and really looking forward to it. I also have the Penguin and really enjoy that knife, it is my first micarta. I am thinking about starting a channel about watches so I like to support peoples efforts. Cheers

[@herosticks]

Brother! Start your channel today, you have your 1st subscriber right here 🙌. Your gonna love the Odium, let me know what you think when you get blade in hand. Penguin is a gem, I may get a second. What are your favorite watch makers?

[@darrinjackman804]

I like it

[@hostiosgamestv5023]

Just got my Badlands Vagabond today. Same handle shape as the Ortis but in a drop point and no hole in the blade. A bit small on my xl hands, but still comfortable and nice to hold. It's my first Civivi but not my last for sure. Waiting for that fixed blade elementum to drop!

[@herosticks]

@Alberto - Nice pickup! I think the thumb studs are a great option on the Badlands. And whoa, I didn’t know there was an Elementum fixed blade coming. GAH! 🤜🤛

[@hostiosgamestv5023]

@@herosticks Yeah! It opens really well with the flipper or studs. And yes, a fixed blade and a button lock version.

[@vindice5849]

I spent my whole upbringing in the pnw and it is the absolute best place to live!

[@herosticks]

@matthew friend - Oh man I love it up here! Thanks so much for commenting. Where are you now?

[@vindice5849]

@@herosticks I'm in Lebanon oregon but spent my whole life in Long Beach Washington. I love the coast, and am glad I found your channel as I am also a new collector! I started last November and went nuts on the spyderco manix 2 and now have 7 variants! Slowly branching out and just received a micarta elementum and ordered the blade hq exclusive kizer feist yesterday in m390 (one of my favorite steels). If you get the chance you should check out the spyderco native 5 I have it in Maxamet and wow it is such an amazing edc knife! Sorry for the long comment lol, do you do your own sharpening? I'm learning with the KME diamond guided system and it is nearly fools proof

[@herosticks]

Oh man no need to apologize, this is why I started the channel! The Feist is awesome, And I have been meaning to check out a Native 5 or Lil Native in Maxamet As I’ve heard amazing things. Is that your favorite Spyderco? I haven’t started sharpening myself yet, with the exception of a wet stone on a couple of fix blades :-) I definitely want to explore it further, Would you recommend the KME?

[@vindice5849]

@@herosticks absolutely the KME is a game changer, I get insanely sharp edges now! Also my favorite is probably the manix 2 because I do prefer a bigger knife but the native is a close 2nd. I have another native 5 coming this week in rex 45 and a paramilitary 2 tanto in m4. I started with the basic kme kit and slowly purchased the extras like the 100 grit diamond stone and the lapping films. It makes sharpening fun for me clamp it up and set the angle and go!

[@herosticks]

Awesome brother, I’m gonna check out that KME system for sure, it sounds like it’s working great for you! And, sometimes these new skills are hard for me to get the first time so if it’s fool proof, that’s helpful for me LOL. I’ve got the Native 5 on my radar!

[@rustyknifelover4463]

Gotta agree the Elementum is a great knife especially in CPM S35VN.

[@herosticks]

@rusty knife lover - Hey thanks so much for commenting! Yeah I haven’t gotten to handle an S35VN model, but I love that steel and it makes a great knife even better right?

[@rustyknifelover4463]

@@herosticks They are extremely thin behind the edge. Extremely pleased.

[@jukey427]

If you decide on one more, take a look at the Pintail. Great size and great steel.

[@herosticks]

Thanks @mark! I’ve heard really good things about the Pintail!

[@SHENDOH]

Have you seen the new stuff? Nox, Altus, Cogent? Even the button lock elementum. CIVIVI is killing it.

[@herosticks]

Yeah I just saw the Blade HQ coming soon video for Civivi, and they seem to be making all the right decisions! I’m definitely gonna have to try a couple more LOL. Which of the new ones do you like the most?

[@SHENDOH]

@@herosticks I just ordered the Box since it was in stock. It's right about the size I like and I believe it's their first frame lock. I like the stainless steel scales too. I'm really looking forward to the Altus and Cogent button locks. The key chain tool is a must as well. Luckily those won't be out for a while, I'll be able to afford them by then. 😄

[@herosticks]

Right?! I’m hearing Good things about the button locks.

[@thisgustin]

4:27 and 6:42 for the Ortis and Odium.

[@herosticks]

Thank you, super helpful!

[@narwhal7642]

I ordered an Elementum in green micarta two days ago. Love that you're on boat and a Wooden one! Great setting maybe use more boat shots. Loved your enthusiasm. I'm looking at buying the Spyderco Shaman next or a good small fixed blade for scout carry (on horseback it's key).

[@herosticks]

@Narwhal - Yeah brother I should be back on the boat this weekend love doing videos out there. Where are you riding horseback? I’ve been looking at the Bradford 3.5 guardian, looks like a great fixed option and they do have a lot of scout carry sheaths available. Can’t say enough about the shaman tho, it’s absolutely outstanding.

[@herosticks]

Let me know what you decide to pick up, I’d love to know what you think when you get it in hand!

[@narwhal7642]

Well, the Elementum arrived and my thoughts; The action is very good, like the micarta handle, great in hand, I'm not a huge fan of liner locks but getting used to it , The blade came extremely sharp and metal work is clean and finished well. The one thing I realized is that I like a bigger, more grippy handle (blame spyderco) but this is a classic lines, nice knife. I live in the SF Bay Area.

[@herosticks]

Awesome. Yeah I’m eager to try something a little larger from Civivi as well, the Elementum does feel a little bit teeny after handling larger knives for sure. Thanks so much for sharing!

[@willh7690]

Kershaw and steel will were my introduction to edc knives, I'm eyeballing the Damascus odium.

[@herosticks]

I’m liking that Damascus too my friend! Did you pick one up?

[@willh7690]

@@herosticks I did. Gave it to my wife because she loved it more than me. The steal is awesome but the size was too small for my hands. I'll be getting either the elimintum or the Ortis for myself.

[@herosticks]

@@willh7690 let me know which one you pick up!

[@Deadtileyedie]

Kind of dumb to say I'm not going to buy this brand anymore because there's to much else... Especially when they are one of the best in the industry at what they do. I started out collecting high end knives and gradually made my way into quality budget knives. I own a bunch of civivis/WE knives and don't really have a need for anymore but will definitely buy one if something comes out I like. So no I don't feel like you have to draw the line somewhere and if you seen my microtech and spyderco collection you would see clearly I don't know when to "draw a line". BTW I do absolutely love the odium, one of my favorite small knives ever. Its like a smaller liner lock version of the spyderco shaman which is one of my favorite knives ever. Mine was sluggish at first to. I cleaned it with alcohol then used nano oil and its great. My first civivi is still my favorite and has the best action and materials for the price. The brass scale version of the baklash with 154cm steel. 154cm is one of my all time favorite steels and the brass scales are machined perfectly and it makes a solid click locking up almost like a frame lock. For 70$ I'll take 154cm beautiful harpoon style blade , finely machined brass scales and dropshut action all day.

[@herosticks]

@space ghost - you are so right! Love this post. I will very likely be buying more :) sounds like you would recommend the backlash? My odium is still running great - I did the same thing to loosen it up and it’s good to go.

[@herosticks]

Is the brass setup on the backlash heavy?

[@Deadtileyedie]

@@herosticks yeah it Is hefty. I think I weighed it around 6 Oz so definitely has some weight. I personally don't mind it and expected it. It really gives it a very solid feel and just looks amazing especially after it starts to petina. I think these are some of the best brass scales I've had and I have quite a few including a brass LUDT, elementum, pm2 flytainium brass and manix 2 m390 with flytainium brass and other quality scales and the baklash scales are the most well done. There 154cm has been great to. It has held a edge extremely well and takes one very well. I put it on par or maybe even above the Benchmades in 154cm I have. I also have the base black model in 9cr18mov that I'm equally impressed with. I currently have a the course, brass dogma, odium, McKenna and 2 baklashes.. WE knives I have the 20cv natural g10 banter, black viod opus, gava, Gentry, mote and brass practic. My wife has the helix and the purple damasteel 605ds. My favorites are my banter, brass practic and brass baklash. They also have the best actions. The practic is probably my favorite followed close by the baklash. Just wish the baklash had a thumb stud, been thinking about putting one of the after market studs on it. You can pinch it and 2 hand open the baklash or slow roll it after pinching it. Keep it up man I subbed! Didn't mean to come off as rude or anything either. You definitely got a good start in collecting and seem pretty knowledgeable for someone that hasn't been collecting for years. The budget knives were nothing like they are now when I started collecting. Be safe thanks for the awesome video!

[@herosticks]

Thank you so much for all of the details, love it. I’m dying for an LUDT, but autos are not legal up here in the Pacific Northwest. Which is a bummer. I have a Clyde by giant mouse with brass scales but the action is jacked and I’m trying to fix it LOL. Thank you so much for the sub, that means everything to me, I love the dialogue, didn’t come across as rude at all brother!

[@mrcrisvv4989]

Can you show how to improve the action on the odium and the elementum? Thanks great video !

[@herosticks]

Hey thanks so much for posting! I Will try to post a disassembly and tuning video soon!

[@ashvanes484]

FWIW on my elementum all I did was carefully add a tiny bit of oil and that was perfect. just be careful to remove any excess!

[@herosticks]

Absolutely!

[@Machster10]

So serious

[@Paultricounty]

Gotta love those Chinese , they really know how to manufacture quality good cheap goods.. Just have to up with a little pandemic every so often.

[@herosticks]

Thanks for posting! My family and I just recovered from Covid, glad it’s over!

[@Paultricounty]

@@herosticks my son and wife are upstairs right now battling the chyna virus while my daughter , 2 90 year old In-laws & myself are in quarantine on the 1st floor trying our best to stay safe. And the Home Depot’s, Costco’s, and BJ,s and Walmart & Amazon are having a blast. I’m sure the bottom line for some will look good tax time. But nice budget knives. I’ve been trying to buy all american or Japanes.

[@herosticks]

@@Paultricounty Hope you guys are all better!

[@j1mple370]

Love the vid my man! Your voice is just so calming. Btw what do you think about dogma vs ortis? Love the vid! Keep up the good work!

[@herosticks]

@jim Laurente - thank you so much for the feedback and encouragement - means a ton! So, surprisingly, the Odium wins out for me. The action turned out great and the super compact size fills a niche in my collection and my hand. The ortis is outstanding as well, but I’ve been carrying the odium as a secondary since I got it 😊

[@herosticks]

Also - I haven’t handled the dogma yet - is it a winner?

[@j1mple370]

@@herosticks I went with the ortis and it's been on transit for almost a month now 😂 and I'm still waiting hahahaha.

[@herosticks]

No way! You still waiting?!

[@j1mple370]

@@herosticks I still am....

[@randyandmichelle07]

Great knives and thanks for the nice video! I subbed as well.

[@herosticks]

Thank you so much for the feedback, comment, and sub! Love these 2.

[@deanproctor2690]

Enjoyed the vid and appreciate the update on the Odium. As you venture beyond Civivi, I now venture into Civivi. Ordered my first ever last night. Elijah Isham Plethiros Flipper with the rubbed copper scales. Since being a plumber for 27 years I figured hey, why not copper on my knife?

[@herosticks]

@Dean Proctor - I am excited for you! Thanks for much for the encouraging feedback. I think you made the perfect choice, when will it arrive? I think copper is an important and compelling material and color for knives, I’m actually looking for one.

[@deanproctor2690]

@@herosticks thank you for the reply. The US postal service has been dealing with a tough situation since the COVID issue so I’m hoping to see the knife by Wednesday next week. 🤞🏻

[@herosticks]

Would love to hear what you think about it!

[@deanproctor2690]

@@herosticks got yourself a deal. Once it’s in hand and I can spend some time with it, I’ll send you an update of my personal experience. I’m really thinking it’s going to be a great knife, but hands on will decide. Understanding cost vs quality, my first Civivi is entering a group of Benchmade, Spyderco and Boker knives that I currently own. Civivi has my attention so I want to experience one. 👍🏻

[@herosticks]

Can’t wait to hear!

[@cloudnine8842]

Nice looking knives. I stopped buying anything with a liner lock after having 2 ZT knives close on me. With light to med use. I am not hard on my knives of anything I am a lil OCD with being easy on them.

[@herosticks]

@CLOUD NINE - thanks man! I’ve been pleased. You prefer a frame lock now? I’m OCD too, been thinking a lot lately about which knives I’m gonna give myself permission to use hard LOL

[@cloudnine8842]

@@herosticks if u want to try hard use I should look at the tri-ad locks from cold steel. I currently am carrying a black talon 2 for my EDC. Its a lil big but I can trust it. 😆 And trust I will still have all my fingers if I ever half to use it . 😂

[@herosticks]

Awesome! I just got a cold steel AD10!!! Gonna unbox it soon - excited about this one. It’s a beast!

[@cloudnine8842]

@@herosticks Nice.. those are cool knives. Most of cold steel are kinda big but the solidness and price u can't beat. U should make your unboxing into a video. Lol bet it would get good views. 👍

[@herosticks]

I’m gonna do it!

[@michaelroberts5801]

The civivi brazen tanto is nice

[@herosticks]

@Michael - thanks for posting! I have heard good things bout the Brazen, you recommend?

[@michaelroberts5801]

@@herosticks yea. def a keeper for your collection. Solid stealthy sharp of course great feel in your hand. You'll like it! Civivi can be an addiction i also have an elementum small with wooden handle black blade love it.... I have my eye on a couple more as well but are sold out oh well... And some new models on the way are too.

[@herosticks]

awesome. I have my eye on their new fixed blade too 😃

[@michaelroberts5801]

@@herosticks yea its like a bigger elementum all black plus they have it in a push button lock that one ia cool too! A couple more from them and that's it!! Have my eye on a fix blade as well ever hear of ESEE BLADES NUMBER 5 I LIKE CHECK EM OUT

[@herosticks]

Oh yeah! The Esees look amazing, Bradfords and Winklers too 🔪

[@knifenoob5411]

So many boring plain Jane knives. Effective but generic..

[@herosticks]

There definitely are much more interesting options out there! Thanks for commenting!

[@pornchaidamrongthaveesak2581]

No Dogma ?

[@herosticks]

Not yet! I might have to pick one up though I’ve heard good things!!!

[@jotterson1156]

Why not show your making the knife work better

[@herosticks]

@j - Hey thanks so much for posting, I can definitely do that the next time I disassemble and clean it. Great idea! Do you have an odium?

[@jotterson1156]

@@herosticks no I'm looking to buy an EDC but doing alot of reaserch

[@herosticks]

Awesome. Let me know if I can help!!

[@jotterson1156]

@@herosticks I like the sebenza because it has the best blade geometry I've seen...but also looking at the elemental who def copied it but I'm concerned that the civil knives would feel like mini mart knives

[@herosticks]

I haven’t handled a sebenza yet, but I imagine it cast quite a shadow on the Civivis as CR knives are def the standard in the high end production world, I’m on a waitlist for a 31!

[@HWGAFoundation]

Why do north americans like chinese knives so much?

[@justinrowan4069]

In the case of Civivi, because they are excellent quality at a very good price. That would explain their strong sales and universal praise from the knife community.

[@herosticks]

@F. De. Vos - Thanks so much for commenting, where are you from? I’m actually English, and I wouldn’t say I like all Chinese knives, but I do very much endorse and approve of several fantastic Chinese Knife manufacturers. Civivi is top of the budget brand heap in my book.

[@Ringman68]

Does it bother anyone that these are made in China?

[@herosticks]

@ringman68 - Hey thanks for posting, and for the great question! My understanding is that some people have taken issue with the Chinese manufacturing for two reasons. The first is because the quality can be compromised which in the case of Civivi, just isn’t applicable. The second, is that it effects the US negatively from an economic and workforce standpoint. This may or may not be true, I really can’t say, but I do know it’s at the discretion of the knife designers to choose their manufacturing source, so really, the responsibility is on them to make the adjustment, not necessarily the consumer. Would love to hear your thoughts?

[@Ringman68]

@@herosticks I have to disagree with you when you say "you can't really say" whether it effects the US negatively. It ABSOLUTELY effects the US negatively. I'm not sure how old you are, but there were tens of thousands more products Made in the USA when I was a kid. The Chinese make that Civivi knife with slave labor and it is probably worth $15 in China and then they sell it here for $100 and that $100 supports a communist regime that locked people in their homes during the pandemic. They persecute Christians and are pretty much against every thing the US stands for. It is the consumers responsibility to decided if he wants to keep sending his hard earned money to the chinese communist party and supporting their treatment of people or spend his money on products where it will stay in the local economy and support American workers.

[@herosticks]

Hey thanks so much for posting again, really appreciate your insights. Thank you for that, definitely looks like more research is needed on my end! I’m definitely focusing I’m making wise consumer choices, and your guidance is helpful. Will definitely be looking at manufacturers located elsewhere! My next review is going to be an American made blade, excited about that :-)