Ganzo Firebird FH13 Review - Best Budget Knife Just Got Better

Ganzo Firebird FH13 Review - Best Budget Knife Just Got Better
The Ganzo Firebird FH13 is a frame lock version of the Ganzo Firebird FH11. With it's stainless steel scales, the Ganzo Firebird FB13-SS has a blade length of about 3.5 inches or 8.8 cm. Although the Ganzo FH13 SS features stainless steel scales it actually only weighs 3.9 ounces or 111.4 grams. The Ganzo Firebird FH13 blackwash blade deploys fairly quick thanks to the ball-bearing pivot. The strong detent also aids with deployment of the Firebird Ganzo FH13SS blade which utilizes D2 steel.
Thank you for watching my Ganzo Firebird FH13-SS review.
Link to buy the Ganzo Firebird FH13-SS from Amazon:
amzn.to/2LbIgPl
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[@michaelhazinski4144]

Just got mine yesterday,awesome. I have certainly paid more and gotten less. This is such a great value. Thanks Jay for the review!

[@Lemonhoko]

D2 all steel construction., ball bearing pivot...for 30 bucks...yep count me in,..just ordered one after your review....thanks!

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Very nice, I hope you like it. Thanks for watching Lemon.

[@thepracticalblade9013]

This knife has absolutely ruined me. With Amazon selling it for $27.50, this knife makes it SO HARD to justify even spending more than $50 on a knife. I have a ZT0452CF that was my first baby, and honestly... dollar for dollar... this Ganzo comes WAY too close to the ZT for me to feel comfortable paying 9-10x as much. I'm DYING for Ganzo to release something in the $100 range. I cannot even imagine what they could do with that money. Edit: Holy crap. It's amazing how much you say that is similar to what I say. The smoothness and lack of overtravel stop were the two things I mentioned as well. Glad to know I'm not the only one feeling these things!

[@TheKnifeBeater]

I agree, knives like this make it tough to spend a bunch of money on one knife. Then again, it's good for us consumers because now we have options. I'm not saying this is gonna put Benchmade, Spyderco, or even ZT out of business, but it does make me stop and think before clicking "add to cart" on my next $200 knife purchase. Thanks for watching Cory.

[@WRITEPOWER]

this is what i tell everybody 100 dollar knife from ganzo and 100 dolla knife from ZT Benchmade are not even comparable Ganzo is giving knife user so much music for the buck ... Kubey is another great example have a 50dolla kubey that thing has absolutely insane blade action for the price.

[@MrPierc]

I like your reviews. So many details and information. Thank you.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

*Yeah, I realize this isn't cpm-d2 steel. I was looking at the other knives on my table with cpm-s30v which is why I misspoke. Sorry for the confusion.*

[@ShortcutReviews]

The Knife Beater got it today 👍

[@chesterfumblenutts6935]

I just bought 6 of them. I am in love with them.

[@peterwong7979]

Hello Jay. Great channel. Thanks for the recommendation. I just received the FH13’and it is awesome, especially for the price. Keep up the good work!

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Hi Peter, you're very welcome. Glad you like it.

[@southernshop8424]

I have them all, 20+ ganzo knives, all great knives for the $$$

[@carknelson5895]

Crazy good! These make great Christmas presents 🎁

[@TheKnifeBeater]

So true. I would love to unwrap one of these. Thanks for watching Cark.

[@mistersmith3986]

Thank you so much for reviewing this knife my Bladed Brother ⚔️

[@TheKnifeBeater]

You bet mister smith. Thanks for watching.

[@castledomeknives9395]

Got the FH13 coming... can't wait... I'll be putting a hair whittling edge on it! Great video

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Nice Patch Ster, hope you like it. Thanks for watching.

[@edgblades]

I like the G10 FH11 version best. Love the concave indentation of the handle's woodgrain like surface. Really gives the fingers a comfortable grip. Also love the FH the shiny satin finish on the blade.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Hey you changed your pic, very nice. I agree 100%, the g10 feels and looks way better. Yeah, the satin finish does make the FH11 look very classy. Thanks for watching NCN.

[@edgblades]

@@TheKnifeBeater Thanks, Jay

[@mt_baldwin]

Ack, I hope you don't get picked on for saying cpm-D2 (it's not made anymore). I just got a second fh11, picked up a carbon fiber version, it's the only knife I've ever bought a second time, I've never even replaced a lost or broken knife before. The second one had just as unbelievably good an action as the first.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Thanks for the heads up mt. baldwin. I'm the same way, if I buy 2 of same model, that means I love it. Thanks for watching.

[@BigRedEDC]

I really like what they did! Full stainless does have its draw backs but still like that the gave it a shot!

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Yeah, the handle traction is definitely a compromise. BTW, I dropped the sticker in the mail today.

[@BigRedEDC]

Right on...thanks!

[@Zaque-TV]

Just got mine and I looove it

[@TheKnifeBeater]

I hear ya Zachary, there is a lot to love about it. Thanks for watching.

[@bladecentered2264]

I like the coating on the D2 blade that this version has. A cool thing would be to swap the black blade with the green G10 handles, I think that would look good!

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Yes! I really like that idea Tom.

[@Spiral_Out_68.]

I already have the green g10 FH11 and I just ordered the FH13. I'll have to see which I like best and get back to you. I appreciate the video!

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Yes, please do Prophet. Thanks for watching.

[@Spiral_Out_68.]

@@TheKnifeBeater: I got the FH13 yesterday and have been carrying/ using it all day today. I believe I like the FH13 better than the FH11. It's just my personal preference, but the action has a more mechanical or hydrolic feel to the action. Not that the action of the FH11 isn't good. It just feels different.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

I know exactly what you mean Prophet, I feel the same way. The FH11 has incredible action, but the FH13 is a hair better. Thanks for sharing your opinion.

[@mrblauer1]

Good review Jay. If I get one it will probably be the G10 version. Better traction and less cold in the hand.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

I hear ya mrblauer, you're right. I like how the fh11 handle fills the hand too. Thanks for watching.

[@NastyRenegade]

I like that they kept the weight down. The FH11 CF version is kinda slippery too, so if you can live with that... The lockbar concerns me a little, I guess the handles are weaker steel, so won't the lockbar wear out in time? Anywho, if I have $25 burning in pocket I'll definitely get one. Thanks for showing.

[@stevebowman90]

That blackwash blade looks good. I have the green FH11. Great knife, though I had to sand a few spots on the butt of the handle. I may break down and get this too. I’ll probably wait until it goes on sale. Nice review.

[@stevebowman90]

Check out these... ganzoknife.com/knife-firebird-by-ganzo-fh21-black-green-blue/ ganzoknife.com/knife-firebird-by-ganzo-fh31-black-green/

[@TheKnifeBeater]

You're right Steve, the blackwash blade does look good here and I don't normally seek out knives with that finish. I've talked to a few people with the same issue regarding the FH11, the pummel in the palm was not the most comfortable. Thanks for watching Steve.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Wow Steve, thank you for showing me these! That FH31 has my name written all over it.

[@ShortcutReviews]

All thing being equal I like liner locks better than frame locks. It's a great value knife, but I think the FB11 has an edge on this, but I'm a righty and like that it's not drilled for those other people 😀

[@TheKnifeBeater]

I'm a huge fan of nested liners myself because as a lefty I don't have to worry about finger placement. BTW, did that package get to you ok?

[@peterbalames9815]

Hi Jay, Hope you are doing well. This one is on the way (FH13). Now I will have all of them. Great Video:-) MERRY CHRISTMAS HO HO HO :-)

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Very nice Peter, I hope you like it. Thanks for the kind words and a Merry Christmas to you too my friend.

[@gonerydin4225]

I don't care for carbon fiber overlay. But I bought the black, green FH11 and the FH13. Nice. I haven't been moved to buy a Ganzo for a year or so until now.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

I hear ya rydin, it's arguably the best model they offer now. I'm sure Ganzo will release another knife to take it's place eventually because that has happened a few times this past year. Thanks for watching.

[@RJ-vb7gh]

Honestly, the last thing you would want to reach for when it's freezing outside and your hands are wet is a stainless steel anything. On the up side under those conditions at least you won't have to worry about the knife slipping out of your hand.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Sure, good point RJ. Thanks for watching.

[@eddietagle1136]

Great review. I just subscribed! I do prefer the all steel version. I also like your idea on the battery weight conversion. I actually had the same idea. But, using change! ( nickels )

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Pocket change is a good idea Eddie, I like it. Welcome to the channel, nice to meet you. Thanks for the sub and for watching.

[@rickkerans8485]

Great review. Thanks am going to have to get one.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Thanks for watching Rick.

[@sunshyn21]

I would prefer the original FH11 in green G10. I really like the contour and even the badging before they made it left handed.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

I hear ya sunshyn, that logo on the scale did look sharp. Thanks for watching.

[@Aniki91PL]

I bought it : very cool! Thanks Jay

[@TheKnifeBeater]

You bet Philippe, I hope you like it. Thanks for watching.

[@Foxrock321]

If you’re lookin at the Sanrenmu 7010 or 910, this one is waaaaay better..and the pocket clip is tip up deep carry.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Thank you for the info Foxrock.

[@Fischscale77]

Everyone is talking about Civivi but I like Ganzos new stuff better.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Can't argue with that Aaron. Ganzo is really putting some pressure on the competition. Thanks for watching.

[@mistersmith3986]

Same here⚔️

[@timpande6900]

I also like ganzo over civivi.... Ganzo also had a great heat treat on their D2 and 440C

[@haunstia1629]

Hello Knife Beater. I like this Ganzo FH13 but there is also the Ruike p801-sb blackwash that I'm interested too. What is your advice. Thanks again for another GREAT VID!!

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Both are great knives and very similar to each other. The P801 has a feature that I look for in most knives - multiple methods of deployment. You can deploy the blade with either the flipper or thumb studs. The D2 blade on the FH13 will have better edge retention. As far as price goes, the FH13 provides the best value for a little bit less money than the P801. So, if you don't care about the price or the blade steel then the Ruike is a good choice, otherwise go with the Ganzo. Hope this helps Swatter. Thanks for watching.

[@benny9067]

Hy mate... just edc it few weeks, great folder for me, but mine comes with only 1 side pocket clip hole.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Mine has holes on both sides, weird.

[@mamoulian621]

been trying to find out for ages if it had overtravel protection on the bar :) i'm a lefty too, seems more of an issue for us, even though i realise the clip doesn't really offer any real overtravel protection, that bar just seems so much more exposed when we change the clip side. great review thanks!

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Yeah unfortunately, the clip is the only over travel stop on this one. Thanks for watching Trev. Always glad to meet a fellow lefty.

[@bmoviebmovie]

I have the FH11 in black G10 and think taking a Kwaiken style knife to metal is kind of weird. The smooth, steel scales would make it look and feel like my Ruike 801 -although not as thin. I do like that center "valley" on the FH11/G10 handle and have never liked the smooth CF scales on any knife. Really love the "kerchunk' sounds of that the new Firebird D10 blade as it opens and closes. Sort of like the "body by Fisher" you get from a solid, well-built car. With D2 blades, expect Ganzo Firebird knives to be more expensive than usual.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

You're absolutely right, very similar to the P801, with the same lack of traction problem. Yeah, the CF on budget knives is usually pretty shiny and slick. Even if Ganzo raises the price, I think it's still a pretty good deal. I don't know how they can sell these for so cheap. Thanks for watching ths tai.

[@jakubv.5017]

Does coating on this knife help in preventing rust and corrosion?

[@Errcyco]

Yeah it does.

[@JTsKnifeLife]

Good video, looks like a nice knife. My G10 version has some play, so maybe I'll try this one out. Seems more solid.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

That kinda stinks about the blade play JT. I'm the same way, the slightest tic makes me nuts. Thank you for watching.

[@Zaque-TV]

Have you tried tightening the pivot a touch? With the bearings there shouldn't be play

[@tonycanniffe2360]

Looks like a good one. Probs not ‘CPM’ D2’ though. Amazing how good the action is.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

I know Tony, the action is very good and it's getting better. Thanks for watching.

[@DOGGYSTYL32012]

What do you mean "it's unable to tolerate lock bar pressure of any kind?" (Downside #3) I understand no ZTish over-travel stop, for pushing outward...Doesn't the frame lock hold up though? Can you clarify this comment?? I just bought one :|

[@Mark-jq6en]

Coming out with a best budget of 2018? Favorite out of Ganzo fh, ruike p801, tangram santa Fe?

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Yeah, maybe Mark. That's a good idea. Thanks for watching.

[@c.a.6636]

Is it difficult to flip open? I have tendon issues in my dominant hand

[@anaxa4883]

Now they just need to make a smaller one.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

That would actually be kinda cool if they made one. Maybe between 3 - 3.25 inch. Thanks for watching nick name.

[@maddogtroy28]

Have you seen the new Fh31 it a wharney Ganzo! With D2

[@TheKnifeBeater]

I have just recently seen it thanks to fellow subscriber Steve Bowman. Troy, I need that FH31! Ganzo is transitioning to D2 while Kershaw sticks with 8CR?!?! CRKT even has some D2 models coming out. I love Kershaw, it's the brand that got me into this hobby.

[@richklangen1833]

G10 is my favorit ✌🤙👌👍

[@alexprendido2023]

Nice review, subscribe acquired bro.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Thanks for the sub!

[@timbo4374]

I have the FH-11 in the CF, and over all like the knife, but the smooth CF is pretty slippery, and I imagine this version would be as well. I have the RUIKE P801 which is another excellent budget knife, but also has the SS scales, and gets pretty slippery when you get skin oils or sweat on it. For that reason, plus the fact I have the FH-11, I will probably pass, but thank you for another great review. I enjoy your review stye. Great job, as always!

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Thank you Tim. I'm thinking about doing a comparison video between this and the P801. I agree with you, a little traction on the scales would really help. The g10 version is way more comfortable than the SS, which is part of the reason I was bummed when this didn't go as planned.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Sorry, I was referring to my Blade Trade video when I said "this didn't go as planned".

[@TadDactical]

Have you taken a look at the other new ones? FH31 or FH21? Also i heard that there is another version of this model with a stainless blade. I can't seem to find any of them for sale so somebody might be BS'n.

[@attic42]

Wow. Thanks for mentioning those new knives. Those both look really good. Hope somebody in the States carries them soon, because I can't wait to get my hands on them. Thanks again!

[@maddogtroy28]

The Fh31 is kinda on Amazon and is on Ebay it's a wharney blade in D2

[@TheKnifeBeater]

You're sources are correct Bobby, it's the FH12-SS. Here is the link: ganzoknife.com/knife-firebird-by-ganzo-fh12-ss/ The FH21 and 31 are on Ganzo's website too. As soon as I get my grubby little mitts on them I'll review both. Thanks for watching Bobby.

[@TadDactical]

I saw that the 3 new models were being sold on Amazon by some sketchy Chinese vendor. I messaged Power Cutlery to see when they are going to get them and am waiting on a reply. If I hear anything in the next couple days I'll let ya know. Great reviews man. Thank you for all the great information.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Thanks for the heads up Bobby and for watching.

[@Eldofarmboy]

Good video. I tend to stay away from Ganzo, Eafengrow, and Sanrenmu because they rip off designs from other companies but this seems like it would be an ok blade for someone on an extreme budget

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Yeah, unfortunately Ganzo has a past history with some clones. That's why I grabbed this one, since it's an original design. Thanks for watching.

[@Eldofarmboy]

Has Ganzo actually cleaned up their act and quit cloning?

[@dieketarre]

@@Eldofarmboy I don't think so. This looks like the FH11 crossed with Sanrenmu's LAND 9103/9104 knives. This looks like they're still cloning/copying concepts, although with Sanrenmu's I'm assuming it might actually be a collaboration. That said, I own both the sanrenmus and the FH11, so this is a no brainer for me. Huge improvement on the FH11, and the similarity to the Sanrenmus is a plus in my eyes.

[@tonycanniffe2360]

And I’d go for G10 for the texture.

[@TheKnifeBeater]

Yeah, the grip is a little better on the g10 version.

[@dominionn09]

All this hype about the firebird. I recieved one and the blade wiggles. I see when it costs what it does

[@TheKnifeBeater]

You might be able to fix that with a torx #8. It stinks that you have to do that right out of the box. Thanks for watching dominionn.