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The Schrade SCHF1SM is the SCHF1’s little brother. If you are unfamiliar with the SCHF1 I would consider reading my Schrade SCHF1 review to get some background information to put this smaller version of the knife in context.
Buy the Schrade SCHF1 at BladeHQ
Background and Dimensions
So basically, the SCF1SM was made to counter one of the SCHF1’s biggest criticisms, it’s weight. The SCHF1 is a 12.7″ knife made of solid 1070 steel and while it’s a very durable knife, it weighs almost 18 ounces. The SCHF1SM took a bit of a diet and has been paired down to 10.3″ and 12.5 ounces. That said, Schrade managed to keep what made the SCHF1 so popular, the 1 piece all steel construction and very functional edge drop point edge.
Steel and Construction
The SCHF1SM is milled from one solid piece of SAE 1070 High Carbon Steel. 1070 HC is a very popular knife and tool steel because it is very tough and holds an edge well. Schrade doesn’t use a lot of 1070, but I think it was an excellent choice for this survival knife. It’s a steel that I would like to see Schrade use more of, and I get the feeling due the popularity of these knives that we might get to see more Schrade knives in 1070 in the future.
The workmanship is very nice. It feels solid, all of the edges are clean, and it has a light gray matte finish that has held up well. The milling on the screw cap is nice and it threads tightly.
Handle
The SCHF1SM is a hollow handled knife. Historically, hollow handled survival knives have earned a bad reputation. Traditional hollow handled (“Rambo”) survival knives are 2 pieces bolted together can break easily under any kind of heavy use. The SCHF1SM is different from these conventional hollow handled knives because of its one piece construction. I beat the hell out of this knife’s big brother and it showed no signs of failure – I think the smaller version will hold up just as well.
There is a steel cap threaded to the end of the hollow handle. Inside the handle is a screwdriver set. Whats nice about this screwdriver set is that you can easily remove it. Don’t get me wrong, screwdrivers are great, but for a survival knife I think the space is better used for a fire starter, matches or fishing kit. In fact, I would prefer to see Schrade leave the handle empty; it will cut down on cost and let the individual put exactly what they want in there. The cap has a rubber o-ring on it so if you decide to store matches in the handle, they won’t get wet.
One difference between the SCHF1 and the SCHF1SM is that the handle is smaller. It’s a 4.7″ handle vs. the 5.2″ handle of the SCHF1. This may be an issue if you have big hands.
Sheath
The sheath is a simple nylon sheath with a plastic insert and an external pocket. What’s nice is that there are a few different ways to attach the sheath to you or your gear. It has a belt loop, a couple tabs and some eyelets for various points of attachment. It does a good job with blade retention, and I like how the blade doesn’t get caught up on the retention strap.
Schrade SCHF1 Review – Final Thoughts
This knife can be had for right around $50. I think at that price this is an amazing knife for the money. The 1070 high carbon steel, nice plain edge, durable finish, good sheath and near indestructibility all weigh heavily in favor of this knife. For those concerned with weight, the SCHF1SM is a lighter (although smaller) alternative to the SCHF1 and SCHF2. I think it comes down to what you will use the knife for, and your particular survival strategy.
- Matte Finished SAE-1070 High Carbon Steel Drop Point
- Water Proof Hollow Handle End Cap with Removable Magnetic 6-pcs Bit Set and Lanyard
- Multiple Carry Position Ballistic Belt Sheath with Removable Storage Pouch
- Blade Length: 5.6 inch (14.2 cm) Handle Length: 4.7 inch (11.9 cm)
- Overall Length: 10.3 inch (26.1 cm) Weight: 0.81 pounds
If you would like to buy a Schrade SCHF1SM, I recommend purchasing it at Amazon.com or BladeHQ. Thanks for checking out the review.
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