I think it's still worth it even now at $90. It's probably not the best choice for most people... But as a one tool option/ soldiers tool it's really difficult to beat at any price point. If you're using it often for prying, scraping clay off your boots, digging/brutalizing your way through roots opening a can e.t.c... combined with rust resistance, ease of sharpening, and the sheath...it'd be my choice even with more expensive options. That said...it's a sharpened pry bar & cuts like it, also the 420 dulls quicker than almost anything.
I have this in the green version and so far, impressed, a scandi cut will be better for hard work but this has its use, and I find it well made. Time will really tell how well it holds up, but the bigger brother definitely has the more durable and longevity design in mind. From test videos, the new strongarm camp has been destroyed after heavy abuse so keep that in mind when using it.
Especially for the money. Back when it was between $50 - $65, sure they could get away with it. But at the $90+ price point, 420HC is unacceptable honestly.
Save yourself 20 bucks and buy the buck alpha guide select. They even have three sizes to choose from all the way up to a 4.38 inch blade. Just saying!!!
I love the alpha guide very light weight super comfortable blade geometry is amazing absolutely love it mine is in magnacut i know it’s not fair comparison in the steel aspect but bucks 420hc is far better than gerber 420hc
I bought a couple of Gerber Prodigy's. Basically the same knife as a Strongarm but has a better handle IMO. I ended up giving them to my oldest two sons. They seemed to hold up well to the thrashing my boys put on them.
$90 for 420 hc? The Terävä Jääkäripuukko 140 is 5.5 inches and $89.99 with 2 different sheath, (leather or polymer and L or R hand), options. $49.99 without sheath. The Wood Jewel Leuku Black Knife Is 13.25 inches long with a 8.25 inch blade of 80crv2 carbon steel. Is $77 The 5.5" blade version is $60. Both have a laminated birch handle. (Pakkawood or Dymondwood) and a leather sheath
Good review Aaron. I totally conquer with your thoughts. I recently bought an Off Grid Knives Ridgeback that totally blows this Gerber out of the water. 5" blade of CRYO D2 steel, full flat grind for 59 doll hairs. Not made in the USA, but I dont mind supporting Taiwan
Hi moc pekna video recenze souhlasím s tebou ve všem ...když přišel Gerber Camp na naše stranky myslim že v Gerberu šli cestou zpět ,napad na Gerber Strongarm 2.0 dobrej ale určitě s jinou oceli aspon 154CM kdyz ne S 30-35 VN. Jen tak dál chlape👍👍👍👍
I initially thought this was gonna be about the new plain edge, uncoated Strongarm they released. That knife, with maybe a third higher grind, is what I really want in a "camp" model.
Useful and ergonomics are a plus but at the same time, 420 HC? Morakniv garberg carbon steel fixed-blade Bushcraft with a sheaf and Fire Starter, Black, 4.3 Inch blade $70. or the Buck 853 Selkirk 4" blade 420 HC for $60 (on the cheap) or the Buck 104 cobalt grey cerokote coated 4.5" blade 5160 steel at $119.99 options? I believe in options $90 for this knife? Pass! But to each his own it is nice looking. Thx Aaron, we appreciate your vids and insight. 👍
Gerber used to produce a knife that I think was called the Elk Hunter. Or maybe there was a series of knives that were 'Hunter' with different animals in the title. Anyhow, I had one (was stolen with some of my other knives). It had a black, leather sheath, a sort of soft, rubber over molded handle and a full flat ground blade that looked almost identical to the Strongarm Camp except for a choil that was, honestly, stupidly big for such a smallish blade. In fact, except for a few design elements in the handle that come from the Strongarm the Camp could almost be an update of that knife.
@@dlrmon1 It does look a lot like the Myth but I think the Myth has a 'pointier' tip. The blade on the one I am talking about looked exactly the same except for the choil. Of course I guess all coming from the same company it isn't too surprising.
Spyderco Temperance Lightweight is coming out soon with a MAP of $142. 4.5" of .157" thick Cruwear for 50 bucks more. Thats my Huckleberry right there. I just picked up a Lil Temperance folder in K390 on the Father's Day sale, and its a little tank. Also .157" thick blade, but only about 3" in length and wide. Wish UA-cam would let me post a pic. K390 and Cruwear are pretty close to my 2 favorite steels. 3V's in the mix too.
I would use this knife for edc. I agree that I'd like to see a better steel, but truth be told, my edc was 420hc for 20 or so years, and i was fine with it until i started learning about other options.
1. I appreciate the comparison; 2. People mention the Buck 119 and Mora knives and I agree with their assessments. 3. I saw the rare criticism that the review said he had no use for either. I agree and here is why. a. I prefer a blade 5 inches or longer. There are plenty of offerings in the range of 5-6 inches. b. If one has the skills, the blade of the Ontario 499 or its successor can be modified in the grind and do as well and there are plenty of aftermarket options for sheaths. c. I don't know that the handle would work for me. d. I have the Esse 4s and Fallkniven Fs which short knives. e. If I had to choose between these blades or a Mora, I would chose the Mora. The kids in Scandanavia caught in a snow storm aren't chopping wood to survive a night or two. They aren't going to engage in knife throwing against a target. You can whittle or clean a deer with a Mora. I appreciate demos wherein a presenter chops wood. In my life, I don't plan to be chopping green wood, building a lean-to which requires chopping. If you have a piece of branch or wood that you feel is too big to put on a fire, save your strength and simply put one end of the log into the fire and keep pushing the remainder in when the first part is used up. For that matter, I love the larger Spartan Harsey that you reviewed and I would buy another rather than either of the Gerber blades.
Really wish it was the same length as the original Strongarm and for the price I also feel the steel should have been upgraded. I’m a huge fan of the original and because of that I will have to check out the camp! Great review as always!
Thanks Aaron for the video review. Over thirty years ago I had a Gerber in Alaska that I used to process bear, moose, and caribou. It was fairly thin stock and could get it real sharp, but when I got through processing a big game animal it was always pretty dull. At the time it was one of the best fixed blades I had ever owned; now, not so much. I agree, this Strongarm Camp is a bit light weight for processing wood, but might process a deer just fine.
This was their chance to ditch the 420 steel, especially when this is being marketed for "camp" and bushcraft type tasks. Why buy this when you can get a Garberg for a few bucks more? That rounded spine is a serious headscratcher too. Definitely not a buy for me at this price. Great video Gideon.
I would add a few changes to that blade to make it the perfect outdoors blade, jimping on the spine and little bit of the handle, a full sized rounded finger choil, a flat area just past the jimping for striking firesteel, make the blade length like you said, longer to have a 4.5 or maybe a little longer cutting edge, and make it in a different steel, such as S30V or S90V. it would be awesome with those additions.
It is Gerber version of Victorinox Venture)) I like design of the knife. Like ambidexterious sheets and it compability with molle interface. The blade enought, but want it bigger too)) The price is high, there are many other great options.
My guess would be that the name 'Strongarm' is more about the handle construction (combined with the sheath). Both the original and this are Camp knives but with a different intented use. The original military use where food prep means opening an MRE. The Camp food prep and some carving. That explains the 'choil' since they had to bring the cutting edge in line with the hand guard but still make a smooth transition to the (protruding) stick tang. Having the hand guard stick out compared to the edge limits the use of the full edge lenght on a cutting board. So I understand both knives but I fully agree on the price being way to high. I agree 60 usd max for each.
Great video. Strongman camping definitely not up to par for purchase for sure. I prefer 4.4-5.5 inches in a blade. Good for chopping and fine work without issue
I'm not seeing the value either, but I guess people who don't know about knives see this in a big box store and assume it's the best knife you can buy. That's probably who Gerber is going after. Anyway the Strongarm is a classic, so thanks for giving this a fair shake 👍
I would have liked to see a tougher steel with a thinner grind. I only grab my gerber when i need a prybar. Id never really try to cut something with it.
I like that blade , I'm a fan of Gerber & always have been but I think there asking too much for that model under the strongarm name. I agree much better options for a knife pushing 100. I do like the Gerber principle , great design. Thanks for another great review. I think Gerber needs to redesign the LMF Infantry knife in magna cut steel , black linen micarta scales & a spade tip . That would sell.
Hey man, I was using my Kershaw Blur knife for bushcraft and woodwork for while, but recently the edge snapped and so I need to get a new one! I’ve been looking at the Gerber Strongarm; and I’d mostly be using it for bushcraft and outdoor activities and wood working; but I’m wondering what you would recommend to me?
Gerber, (Fiskars), is selling Big Macs at T-bone steak prices. The entire production of this knife is automated. The only time human hands touch this knife is to load and unload it from a machine. The handle is injection molded plastic and overmolded with Kraton or some similar synthetic rubber. I have one of the last folding knives Gerber made before they were bought out by Fiskars. The Gerber specter. 154cm stainless, titanium liners, g-10 scales. I don't think I paid $90 for it and it's a he'll of a lot better quality and about 100x as complex as this.
@@andrewmcgibbon9785 Exactly. I have grown up on Gerber's through the late 80's and 90's. You could always count on them back then to be competitive and capable. Back then no one really had as good as steels as today but they did have great designs. The steels were at least middle of the pack. 440a, 440c, 440b (not so common) 425m AUS6 to AUS10 and others. Back then for stainless anyway it was good stuff.
1095 is not a good steel. It's less tough than 420hc and about the same ware resistance. Only benefit is it can get harder but a survival knife shouldn't be that hard anyway.
@@bigbl8717 AUS10A is a really good steel if you want a large stainless blade. Pretty tough to. AUS6 and AUS8 are just as tough to me but they do lose an edge quicker than AUS10A. The edge holding AUS10A is definitely better than AUS6 but I would say its just as tough.
G'day Aaron, well they've certainly gone for the more nimble carving, food prep and cordage cutting type camp chores. (probably why no sharp spine). And for that I appreciate the significant departure from the original. However, away from a car camping site, yes it is too small as a secondary for on the trail, (mind you, the original is barely adequate too IMO), and same price for much less knife, doesn't make any sense at all to the perspective buyer. So yep, with ya mate, either up the steel or lower the price .... and don't simply just increase the price of the original, ...... tough is good, though we are still talk'n 420 HC here. ; ) Cheers Duke.
Yeah I agree with most of your points. I'm really over companies that leave a gap between the edge of the blade and the handle; make choice, make it into a finger choil or make a proper ricasso. These half-arsed choil/ricasso makes me think the creator has no idea what they are doing. My biggest complaint about the original Strongarm was the crappy nylon straps and I'm hoping this isn't the same. I also don't understand why they scrapped the lashing points on the plastic sheath, I use them to attach a ferro rod. Not impressed and for the price I think I'll be giving it a miss.
I actually like that they shortened the blade a bit! This looks comparable to an ESEE3 or Cold Steel Master Hunter. I agree it's a shame they didn't just bump the steel up to S35VN and charge a few more bucks.
Yea I’ll keep my original tbh I like my fixed blades in carbon steel so it’s kinda disappointing they didn’t change from 420 to 3v or something better hell 5160 would be nice
In my opinion and I've said this many years ago. The Gerber Prodigy is the better option. Handle is better and the sheath is also better. Strongarm is overrated!
Yes absolutely , without those goofy serrations the prodigy was the best deal of the three . The plain edge was a Walmart exclusive and when Gerber discontinued them , Walmart put them on clearance for $ 35.00 and I bought four of them . I used three as gifts and kept the one I still have .
@@michaelboldyga6239 $35? Dang, I wish the Walmart locations here had gone that low! The ones around here did go on clearance but not quite that low. I still bought a couple of extra, though, because any time I find a knife I like and it is being discontinued, if the price is affordable, I like to pick up a couple extra in case anything happens to my main one I like carrying a fixed blade. I know nothing of knife fighting but like having a sturdy tool if I need it. Where I live there are no knife restrictions except location specific ones so the plain edge Prodigy is in my EDC rotation for days I am not at work. I never got a Strongarm because I have the Prodigy. I have held a Strongarm and agree that for regular tasks the Prodigy handle is better. I think the only thing the non-serrated Prodigy gives up to the Strongarm might be the super modular sheath system. Why they made the Prodigy sheath with different mounting options but made it so you have to cut a strap on the nylon backing and unbolt it from the main sheath to remove it I do not understand.
Hmmmm… interesting 🤔. I would have to echo your points, sure wish they had chosen a different steel. I’m a smaller edc fixed blade guy, so the blade length doesn’t bother me, but I definitely agree with the choil observation… either expand it for a full finger choil or don’t have one. Great video, keep up the good work, and thank you again!
Wife and I carry the principles camping in Adirondack mountains of upstate New York. She has the brown handle and I have the black perfect for everything we need we always have a ax with us
Hello G.T., what about using the ricasso area for striking the ferro rod? Some knives designed it for that use... Just say'n. Be safe and take care, "God Bless", sincerely, Randy. 😇🙏👊 P.S.: Min. of 4" cutting length for a camp knife (IMHO)!
I do really like the change in blade and handle shape. But 420HC seems ridiculous when there's so many other steels now. Blade steel has come a long way in 10 years. Especially at $90, it seems a bit crazy. Thanks for the great review though! I'll still have to think if I'd want to spend that much for this knife.
Thanks, Aaron another great video. I agree with everything you said on this I have been finding more value with the Ethan. Grow line of Knives. Haven’t seen much on them, but I think they’re worth checking out.
3v would be nice, but in keeping with the stainless choice, i'd prefer an option for 14C28N. It has the toughness that 420HC does, but improves on the edge retention while being at a slightly higher HRC. It's also going to be more budget friendly than 3v.
While I am definitely a MagnaCut fan, I don't feel it would suit the knife and Gerbers intent with it. Stupid prices all around atm not withstanding, when it released; it was super affordable, nigh unbreakable and easily maintained in the field. Even on the soft end, MagnaCut has less than half the ft-lbs of 420HC or 14C28N when treated to about 60HRC. (most consider that soft for MC) While I would still probably buy one in MC because I love the steel, I don't see Gerber indulging us.
I absolutely love the sheath system used by Gerber - have almost always wanted to puch whoever decides their steel choices. Whoever it was that used L series tool steel on the Guardians was an idiot. When I was attached to 7th group, I had a need for the MK1 and went through a dozen or so. Loved the shape and geometry (could’ve tried a Faibairn Sykes style) but the damn tips kept breaking off; and not because I was using it improperly, I DID NOT PRY with it. I understand the toughness vs use for the 420 choice but they go to Buck to figure out how to do it better. Oh, and I just ordered a couple of BK teens
I to have been bitten by the knife bug and have accumulated more knives than I need. To be honest the knife I used most, camping food prep mainly is old kitchen knife set the mother-in-law was chucking out.
First of all, love the channel been a long time subscriber. But in general, I’ve always found Gerber knives to be of subpar quality, and materials compared to other brands in the same price point.
Too bad, I like the handle and blade geometry, but agree with your criticisms. Mediocur steel, the blade is too short, and no 90º spine. I don't understand why anyone making a camp knife today would not have a 90º spine. I don't see any downside to being able to throw sparks.
@@LosDoyerss "Hahaha so because they added the word “camp” makes it different. Is your middle name oblivious? Is yours dense? Have you read the actual description? From the Gerber Strongarm Camp description: *"Take on a long list of camp tasks with the ready-to-roll StrongArm Camp. This lightweight, easy-to-grip, fixed-blade knife was made to comfortably take on tasks like making more kindling for the fire or bigger jobs like cutting paracord. Its versatility will prove itself at camp trip after trip."*
I’m prepping for my Trans America Trail adventure on my dual sport, and I need to purchase a decent size camping knife to pack on my bike. I would like something in the size range of the strong arm, but I would prefer a steel with better edge retention. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Hmm...For me, both Strongarm and Camp are a bit too short. I usually walk in the forest with the Sissipuukko M95 Peltonen, which has a 15 cm blade and this is optimal. In the case of Strongarm Camp, at least one inch more would be useful for more effective chopping of twigs. However, I like large knives, sometimes I run through the forest with Condor Hudson Bay, which has a 21-centimeter blade.
Většinou nové verze by mělo přijít zlepšení včetně materiálu ergonomie ceny....u Gerberu asi převládá delší dobu kvantita nad kvalitou viz .Gerber Convoy tam kdyby použili S30V tak je to super a to pár nožů od nich mám....poslední tach byl s Gerber Tereacraft a jinak konec s Gerber Camp se moc nepohnou.......😢
@@gideonstactical I love the idea of a Strongarm with a 1/8th thick blade & higher saber grind but they ruined it but shortening the blade length SMH. A knife doesn't have to be super thick in my book.
It's pretty cool, but not gonna replace my Moras. Internet has completely overhyped the Strongarm unfortunately, hence it's stupendous price of $199 in NZ, so just gimme that SRK instead!
If they did magnacut, cpm3v, s35vn, s30v pretty much any other steel for a little more money it would be a good deal. Or! Lowered the price. Just get a cold steel master hunter in 3v for same price honestly.
@@andrewmcgibbon9785 I have doubts on that. I bought a brand new ZT0350 that was made from it just yesterday and a Brand new Half Breed Blades MILF-01 in S30V at Blade Show. Even if it was, S35VN could be the new budget steel. My Cold Steel Code 4 in S35VN was $45 on Amazon a few years ago and my Kershaw Link in 20CV cost me $80 on SMKW last year. Either way, my point stands that it's time to kick pot metal like D2 along to the lesser makers like Smith and Wesson, Browning, Ozark Trail, etc
@dualsportedc both Admiral Steel and Jantz are saying it's discontinued. When their supply runs out' that's it. This is direct from Admiral Steel, "This grade has been discontinued and will not be re-stocked once sold. Limited quantities available. Everything is subject to prior sale. All sales are final. We will do our best to keep this page up to date."
I've been waiting for your review of the Gerber StrongArm Camp knife. All good points. I'm not put off by 420HC. However, the knife is priced too high for what it is. At $70 Gerber would sell a ton of them. $90 just seems too much. The choil definitely subtracts from the knife. And lastly, how out of touch is Gerber anyway to not have a sharp spine on this knife. It's like they look for ways to screw up.
Mora will have a scandi and not a flat grind like this is and gonna be made from 12c27 or a basic carbon steel (I'm speaking of the basic 15-20 dollar moras) with injection molded grip and not full tang. Mora basic is pretty much impossible to beat at its price range or something like the Garberg for around the same price will be bigger overall and have a scandi grind and be in 14c28n steel. Similar sized esse will be a flat grind like this and in 1095 carbon steel. Overall for around the same money ide take a Esse 4 over this 10 out of 10 times specifically because of the 420hc and just how terrible the edge retention is. 1095 from esse will have better edge life, not a lot better but still better and 1095 is so easy and fast to touch up(420hc will be to but it's a little gummy) that if you just have a ceramic rod you don't have to worry about edge retention becsuse you can be back hair popping in like 30 seconds with the ceramic rod.. not to mention that 1095 is gonna be far more edge stable so your less likely to roll or chip the edge than you would be with the 420. The 420 has thr benefit of being fair corrosion resistant and uncoated 1095 will corrod fairly easily however it's it's parkerized then it will handle corrosion pretty well. I don't own this knife so I can speak on it directly but it does look like it's got pretty good geometry for a camp knife and something like as esse 4 will likely be a little thicker stock and likely a little thicker behind the edge so it won't slice as well... I'm assuming this by what I see so I could be about the same also but it looks like this knife has taller flat grind and comes down a little thinner behind the edge. One thing about both esse and getber is their warranty is both top notch, if you break one or have a failure of any type they will both replace the knife without question. For a camp knife I'm personally gonna go Bradford first and esse second every time... for 90 dollars this knife won't ever be on my radar becsuse of the 420hc... I'll take N690 on a Bradford or 1095 on an esse 10 out of 10 times over 420hc... now if gerber decides to do another release of this knife and does it in 14c28n or nitroV (like they should have to start) and keeps the price close to what it is now I'll definitely buy one. im still scratching my head at why they didn't do this knife in 14c28n with as much as the community loves it and as good of a steel as it is for an application like this they seriously dropped the ball... their cost per knife wouldn't have changed much at all because of how easily 14c is to work with and the raw stock is not much more costly than the 420hc. The blank cost for 14c would likely be less than a dollar more per blade and the machining, grinding time would be about the same and 14c is quicker and easier to heat treat than 420hc sooo their end cost per knife would be about the same and they would be offering a far better product performance wise to the customer. Gerber really missed an opportunity to get the communities eyes back on them with this one. If it was in 14c it would be on every review channel on youtube with in a week or two.
They should have made it identical size so people used to the strongarm feel the camp is another extension of them all they needed to change is the grind, blade shape, guard in top, and worked to make the balance identical. That way any that grow up using the camp easy swap to the strongarm if they need a combat-oriented blade with no change. Readying the next generation for emergencies or service is good for a knife companies contracts. A sharpening choil on any knife is bad they interfere with rope/cord/line cutting in an emergency. On a short fixed blade it is a total waste to take away ANY cutting edge.
Not thrilled with the loss of real estate on the Camp knife, I don’t feel that Gerber cares too much about using appropriate steel quality for what their knives are suppose to handle. I just don’t buy any Gerber because of the lack of quality! I know it’s a budget, but messing around, in a life threatening environment, is not where one should be skimping! It’s worth saving a little longer to get an appropriate steel quality, before you head out, and possibly find yourself in deep trouble! MHO!😊
Strongarm was cool when it was $60
I bought one for $44.99 back in 2015 the brown one.
@PerceptionVsReality333 I paid about the same on sale 3 year ago. For that money, it's solid.
Totally
I think it's still worth it even now at $90.
It's probably not the best choice for most people...
But as a one tool option/ soldiers tool it's really difficult to beat at any price point.
If you're using it often for prying, scraping clay off your boots, digging/brutalizing your way through roots opening a can e.t.c... combined with rust resistance, ease of sharpening, and the sheath...it'd be my choice even with more expensive options.
That said...it's a sharpened pry bar & cuts like it, also the 420 dulls quicker than almost anything.
@@PerceptionVsReality333 Same here when they first came out
I have this in the green version and so far, impressed, a scandi cut will be better for hard work but this has its use, and I find it well made.
Time will really tell how well it holds up, but the bigger brother definitely has the more durable and longevity design in mind.
From test videos, the new strongarm camp has been destroyed after heavy abuse so keep that in mind when using it.
Hey man. I liked your video, but I'm checking out at 420 HC. I do appreciate that it's American made, but I have better steel to leave the house with.
Especially for the money. Back when it was between $50 - $65, sure they could get away with it. But at the $90+ price point, 420HC is unacceptable honestly.
I found a pristine strongarm in a pawnshop for $20 once! Sure was HAPPY!
Save yourself 20 bucks and buy the buck alpha guide select. They even have three sizes to choose from all the way up to a 4.38 inch blade. Just saying!!!
and the buck will have a 10x better heat treat. still shitty edge retention but better than the soft butter gerber makes
@@acid6urns I've had countless Buck knives chip out on me with moderate use. Buck is fine for folders, but from my experience their fixed blades suck.
I love the alpha guide very light weight super comfortable blade geometry is amazing absolutely love it mine is in magnacut i know it’s not fair comparison in the steel aspect but bucks 420hc is far better than gerber 420hc
I bought a couple of Gerber Prodigy's. Basically the same knife as a Strongarm but has a better handle IMO. I ended up giving them to my oldest two sons. They seemed to hold up well to the thrashing my boys put on them.
Now we need the 7” Strongarm fighter
I see this as a true outdoor version of the strongarm, which is a tactical knife turned bushcraft. Nice to have options!
$90 for 420 hc? The Terävä Jääkäripuukko 140 is 5.5 inches and $89.99 with 2 different sheath, (leather or polymer and L or R hand), options. $49.99 without sheath.
The Wood Jewel Leuku Black Knife
Is 13.25 inches long with a 8.25 inch blade of 80crv2 carbon steel. Is $77
The 5.5" blade version is $60. Both have a laminated birch handle. (Pakkawood or Dymondwood) and a leather sheath
Think if I had to choose, it would be the original Strongarm. Tried and true.
“Indestructible” until Joe X gets his hands on it
Good review Aaron. I totally conquer with your thoughts. I recently bought an Off Grid Knives Ridgeback that totally blows this Gerber out of the water. 5" blade of CRYO D2 steel, full flat grind for 59 doll hairs. Not made in the USA, but I dont mind supporting Taiwan
Hi moc pekna video recenze souhlasím s tebou ve všem ...když přišel Gerber Camp na naše stranky myslim že v Gerberu šli cestou zpět ,napad na Gerber Strongarm 2.0 dobrej ale určitě s jinou oceli aspon 154CM kdyz ne S 30-35 VN. Jen tak dál chlape👍👍👍👍
I initially thought this was gonna be about the new plain edge, uncoated Strongarm they released. That knife, with maybe a third higher grind, is what I really want in a "camp" model.
Useful and ergonomics are a plus but at the same time, 420 HC?
Morakniv garberg carbon steel fixed-blade Bushcraft with a sheaf and Fire Starter, Black, 4.3 Inch blade $70. or the Buck 853 Selkirk 4" blade 420 HC for $60 (on the cheap) or the Buck 104 cobalt grey cerokote coated 4.5" blade 5160 steel at $119.99 options? I believe in options $90 for this knife? Pass! But to each his own it is nice looking. Thx Aaron, we appreciate your vids and insight. 👍
I've used Gerber's 420HC...surprisingly resilient, fine grained, pack a sharpener.
Good review thanks. Always appreciate you giving competitive options at the end.
Excitement in the campsite among the outdoor chefs. Reckon The Naked Chef would approve it. Cheers GT from Australia.
Just get the Joker Nordico CN115 for 95 dollars, with amazing leather sheath and 14C28N Sadvik steel.
This is not the Camp , but the .....Chimp.....😂
All knifes are fun to own right now! Mora,saw and ax is truly all you need for bushcraft
Fixed blade you can not beat a Morah hd companion at $14
Gerber used to produce a knife that I think was called the Elk Hunter. Or maybe there was a series of knives that were 'Hunter' with different animals in the title. Anyhow, I had one (was stolen with some of my other knives). It had a black, leather sheath, a sort of soft, rubber over molded handle and a full flat ground blade that looked almost identical to the Strongarm Camp except for a choil that was, honestly, stupidly big for such a smallish blade. In fact, except for a few design elements in the handle that come from the Strongarm the Camp could almost be an update of that knife.
Gerber Myth Hunting knife reincarnated...
@@dlrmon1 It does look a lot like the Myth but I think the Myth has a 'pointier' tip. The blade on the one I am talking about looked exactly the same except for the choil. Of course I guess all coming from the same company it isn't too surprising.
For getting sparks, use it more toward the tip.
Spyderco Temperance Lightweight is coming out soon with a MAP of $142. 4.5" of .157" thick Cruwear for 50 bucks more. Thats my Huckleberry right there. I just picked up a Lil Temperance folder in K390 on the Father's Day sale, and its a little tank. Also .157" thick blade, but only about 3" in length and wide. Wish UA-cam would let me post a pic. K390 and Cruwear are pretty close to my 2 favorite steels. 3V's in the mix too.
I would use this knife for edc. I agree that I'd like to see a better steel, but truth be told, my edc was 420hc for 20 or so years, and i was fine with it until i started learning about other options.
1. I appreciate the comparison;
2. People mention the Buck 119 and Mora knives and I agree with their assessments.
3. I saw the rare criticism that the review said he had no use for either. I agree and here is why.
a. I prefer a blade 5 inches or longer. There are plenty of offerings in the range of 5-6 inches.
b. If one has the skills, the blade of the Ontario 499 or its successor can be modified in the grind and do as well and there are plenty of aftermarket options for sheaths.
c. I don't know that the handle would work for me.
d. I have the Esse 4s and Fallkniven Fs which short knives.
e. If I had to choose between these blades or a Mora, I would chose the Mora. The kids in Scandanavia caught in a snow storm aren't chopping wood to survive a night or two. They aren't going to engage in knife throwing against a target. You can whittle or clean a deer with a Mora.
I appreciate demos wherein a presenter chops wood. In my life, I don't plan to be chopping green wood, building a lean-to which requires chopping. If you have a piece of branch or wood that you feel is too big to put on a fire, save your strength and simply put one end of the log into the fire and keep pushing the remainder in when the first part is used up.
For that matter, I love the larger Spartan Harsey that you reviewed and I would buy another rather than either of the Gerber blades.
Had my strong arm 2 years now & performs like the day I got it.
Definitely a EDC knife
Glad to hear that!
Really wish it was the same length as the original Strongarm and for the price I also feel the steel should have been upgraded. I’m a huge fan of the original and because of that I will have to check out the camp! Great review as always!
Thanks Aaron for the video review. Over thirty years ago I had a Gerber in Alaska that I used to process bear, moose, and caribou. It was fairly thin stock and could get it real sharp, but when I got through processing a big game animal it was always pretty dull. At the time it was one of the best fixed blades I had ever owned; now, not so much. I agree, this Strongarm Camp is a bit light weight for processing wood, but might process a deer just fine.
This was their chance to ditch the 420 steel, especially when this is being marketed for "camp" and bushcraft type tasks. Why buy this when you can get a Garberg for a few bucks more? That rounded spine is a serious headscratcher too. Definitely not a buy for me at this price. Great video Gideon.
Congrats on the shiny dumpster find! Happy Father's Day!
Thanks! You too!
My knives have at least... 4 in. cutting edge. It´s a must!!!
I've always preferred small knives. The puukko/leuku combo is popular for a reason. I'd pair this with a Silky Big boy 2000.
I would add a few changes to that blade to make it the perfect outdoors blade, jimping on the spine and little bit of the handle, a full sized rounded finger choil, a flat area just past the jimping for striking firesteel, make the blade length like you said, longer to have a 4.5 or maybe a little longer cutting edge, and make it in a different steel, such as S30V or S90V. it would be awesome with those additions.
It is Gerber version of Victorinox Venture)) I like design of the knife. Like ambidexterious sheets and it compability with molle interface. The blade enought, but want it bigger too)) The price is high, there are many other great options.
I think I'll stick to my Strongarm for a survival knife and my Mora Garberg for camp knife. Great review as always! 👍
Maybe the faux ricasso is where you strike the ferro rod, like the Condor Rodan
My guess would be that the name 'Strongarm' is more about the handle construction (combined with the sheath). Both the original and this are Camp knives but with a different intented use. The original military use where food prep means opening an MRE. The Camp food prep and some carving. That explains the 'choil' since they had to bring the cutting edge in line with the hand guard but still make a smooth transition to the (protruding) stick tang. Having the hand guard stick out compared to the edge limits the use of the full edge lenght on a cutting board. So I understand both knives but I fully agree on the price being way to high. I agree 60 usd max for each.
Great video. Strongman camping definitely not up to par for purchase for sure. I prefer 4.4-5.5 inches in a blade. Good for chopping and fine work without issue
One can always tell when we are in a time of war or a time of peace based soley on the knife designs of the day.
They should call that one the Strongarm skinner, and make another version with a longer blade and a 90 degree spine for a camp knife.
I'm not seeing the value either, but I guess people who don't know about knives see this in a big box store and assume it's the best knife you can buy. That's probably who Gerber is going after.
Anyway the Strongarm is a classic, so thanks for giving this a fair shake 👍
I would have liked to see a tougher steel with a thinner grind. I only grab my gerber when i need a prybar. Id never really try to cut something with it.
4 - 4,1/2 inches around camp where food prep is its main task and making kindling its secondary is fine for me.
I like that blade , I'm a fan of Gerber & always have been but I think there asking too much for that model under the strongarm name. I agree much better options for a knife pushing 100. I do like the Gerber principle , great design. Thanks for another great review. I think Gerber needs to redesign the LMF Infantry knife in magna cut steel , black linen micarta scales & a spade tip . That would sell.
Hey man, I was using my Kershaw Blur knife for bushcraft and woodwork for while, but recently the edge snapped and so I need to get a new one!
I’ve been looking at the Gerber Strongarm; and I’d mostly be using it for bushcraft and outdoor activities and wood working; but I’m wondering what you would recommend to me?
Would like to see the Strongarm in a 1095 and Aus 10 version.
Gerber, (Fiskars), is selling Big Macs at T-bone steak prices.
The entire production of this knife is automated. The only time human hands touch this knife is to load and unload it from a machine. The handle is injection molded plastic and overmolded with Kraton or some similar synthetic rubber. I have one of the last folding knives Gerber made before they were bought out by Fiskars. The Gerber specter. 154cm stainless, titanium liners, g-10 scales. I don't think I paid $90 for it and it's a he'll of a lot better quality and about 100x as complex as this.
@@andrewmcgibbon9785 Exactly. I have grown up on Gerber's through the late 80's and 90's. You could always count on them back then to be competitive and capable. Back then no one really had as good as steels as today but they did have great designs. The steels were at least middle of the pack. 440a, 440c, 440b (not so common) 425m AUS6 to AUS10 and others. Back then for stainless anyway it was good stuff.
1095 is not a good steel. It's less tough than 420hc and about the same ware resistance. Only benefit is it can get harder but a survival knife shouldn't be that hard anyway.
I'll take 420HC over 1095 any day. AUS10A might be interesting, but I really do like the toughness and stainlessness of properly treated 420HC.
@@bigbl8717 AUS10A is a really good steel if you want a large stainless blade. Pretty tough to. AUS6 and AUS8 are just as tough to me but they do lose an edge quicker than AUS10A. The edge holding AUS10A is definitely better than AUS6 but I would say its just as tough.
G'day Aaron, well they've certainly gone for the more nimble carving, food prep and cordage cutting type camp chores. (probably why no sharp spine). And for that I appreciate the significant departure from the original.
However, away from a car camping site, yes it is too small as a secondary for on the trail, (mind you, the original is barely adequate too IMO), and same price for much less knife, doesn't make any sense at all to the perspective buyer. So yep, with ya mate, either up the steel or lower the price .... and don't simply just increase the price of the original, ...... tough is good, though we are still talk'n 420 HC here. ; ) Cheers Duke.
cold steel master hunter cpm 3v or 4 max scout aus 10a
Yeah, those are two other great examples
Yeah I agree with most of your points. I'm really over companies that leave a gap between the edge of the blade and the handle; make choice, make it into a finger choil or make a proper ricasso. These half-arsed choil/ricasso makes me think the creator has no idea what they are doing. My biggest complaint about the original Strongarm was the crappy nylon straps and I'm hoping this isn't the same. I also don't understand why they scrapped the lashing points on the plastic sheath, I use them to attach a ferro rod. Not impressed and for the price I think I'll be giving it a miss.
I think I'd stick with the original one cause I just want the bigger blade.
I actually like that they shortened the blade a bit! This looks comparable to an ESEE3 or Cold Steel Master Hunter. I agree it's a shame they didn't just bump the steel up to S35VN and charge a few more bucks.
Yea I’ll keep my original tbh I like my fixed blades in carbon steel so it’s kinda disappointing they didn’t change from 420 to 3v or something better hell 5160 would be nice
In my opinion and I've said this many years ago. The Gerber Prodigy is the better option. Handle is better and the sheath is also better. Strongarm is overrated!
Been saying this for years too! Prodigy with the plain edge was my favorite knife.
Yes absolutely , without those goofy serrations the prodigy was the best deal of the three . The plain edge was a Walmart exclusive and when Gerber discontinued them , Walmart put them on clearance for $ 35.00 and I bought four of them . I used three as gifts and kept the one I still have .
@@michaelboldyga6239 $35? Dang, I wish the Walmart locations here had gone that low! The ones around here did go on clearance but not quite that low. I still bought a couple of extra, though, because any time I find a knife I like and it is being discontinued, if the price is affordable, I like to pick up a couple extra in case anything happens to my main one
I like carrying a fixed blade. I know nothing of knife fighting but like having a sturdy tool if I need it. Where I live there are no knife restrictions except location specific ones so the plain edge Prodigy is in my EDC rotation for days I am not at work. I never got a Strongarm because I have the Prodigy. I have held a Strongarm and agree that for regular tasks the Prodigy handle is better. I think the only thing the non-serrated Prodigy gives up to the Strongarm might be the super modular sheath system. Why they made the Prodigy sheath with different mounting options but made it so you have to cut a strap on the nylon backing and unbolt it from the main sheath to remove it I do not understand.
Hmmmm… interesting 🤔. I would have to echo your points, sure wish they had chosen a different steel. I’m a smaller edc fixed blade guy, so the blade length doesn’t bother me, but I definitely agree with the choil observation… either expand it for a full finger choil or don’t have one. Great video, keep up the good work, and thank you again!
Wife and I carry the principles camping in Adirondack mountains of upstate New York. She has the brown handle and I have the black perfect for everything we need we always have a ax with us
Hello G.T., what about using the ricasso area for striking the ferro rod? Some knives designed it for that use... Just say'n. Be safe and take care, "God Bless", sincerely, Randy. 😇🙏👊
P.S.: Min. of 4" cutting length for a camp knife (IMHO)!
The choil is not any better
@@gideonstactical Thanks, I tried anyway... L8TR!!!😇🙏👊
I do really like the change in blade and handle shape. But 420HC seems ridiculous when there's so many other steels now. Blade steel has come a long way in 10 years. Especially at $90, it seems a bit crazy.
Thanks for the great review though! I'll still have to think if I'd want to spend that much for this knife.
Are the sheath attachments, the scout carry device,the lock, and the belt loop,interchangeable with the original strong arm?
I have switched to orela knives ,fantastic blades
Clearly your a knife guy but just curious what do you conceal carry while in the bush Hiking or camping? Great Vid
Thanks, Aaron another great video. I agree with everything you said on this I have been finding more value with the Ethan. Grow line of Knives. Haven’t seen much on them, but I think they’re worth checking out.
Boom!
We need a 3v strong arm NOW
That would be unstoppable
Gerber will probably want like $250 for it ..... 🙄🤨
3v would be nice, but in keeping with the stainless choice, i'd prefer an option for 14C28N. It has the toughness that 420HC does, but improves on the edge retention while being at a slightly higher HRC. It's also going to be more budget friendly than 3v.
Or magnacut
While I am definitely a MagnaCut fan, I don't feel it would suit the knife and Gerbers intent with it. Stupid prices all around atm not withstanding, when it released; it was super affordable, nigh unbreakable and easily maintained in the field. Even on the soft end, MagnaCut has less than half the ft-lbs of 420HC or 14C28N when treated to about 60HRC. (most consider that soft for MC)
While I would still probably buy one in MC because I love the steel, I don't see Gerber indulging us.
I absolutely love the sheath system used by Gerber - have almost always wanted to puch whoever decides their steel choices.
Whoever it was that used L series tool steel on the Guardians was an idiot. When I was attached to 7th group, I had a need for the MK1 and went through a dozen or so. Loved the shape and geometry (could’ve tried a Faibairn Sykes style) but the damn tips kept breaking off; and not because I was using it improperly, I DID NOT PRY with it.
I understand the toughness vs use for the 420 choice but they go to Buck to figure out how to do it better.
Oh, and I just ordered a couple of BK teens
I to have been bitten by the knife bug and have accumulated more knives than I need. To be honest the knife I used most, camping food prep mainly is old kitchen knife set the mother-in-law was chucking out.
It would have been a lot better without a choil. Blades that small don't need one.
First of all, love the channel been a long time subscriber. But in general, I’ve always found Gerber knives to be of subpar quality, and materials compared to other brands in the same price point.
Too bad, I like the handle and blade geometry, but agree with your criticisms. Mediocur steel, the blade is too short, and no 90º spine. I don't understand why anyone making a camp knife today would not have a 90º spine. I don't see any downside to being able to throw sparks.
Just found your channel brotha subscribing i just started trying to make videos myself lol
Thanks for the sub, that’s awesome. Keep up the hard work!
Just purchased one on eBay for $60. Given everything you pointed out, I’m glad I didn’t buy one full price
I got a Gerber double edged boot knife w 4" blade . my go to for the hunt .
Like the handle design compared to the Strong Arm. But man, that thing is smaller than my companion folder that accompanies my “Camp Knife”...
Yep dumb
The Cold Steel SRK is just as good for half the price. They sell different blade and finish types as well as colors.
Not the same category or use.
@@papimaximus95 It’s a full tang survival knife, same thing.
@@LosDoyerss "It’s a full tang survival knife, same thing."
Absolutely NOT! The knife is literally has "CAMP" in its name. It is a CAMP knife.
@@papimaximus95 Hahaha so because they added the word “camp” makes it different. Is your middle name oblivious?
@@LosDoyerss "Hahaha so because they added the word “camp” makes it different. Is your middle name oblivious?
Is yours dense? Have you read the actual description? From the Gerber Strongarm Camp description:
*"Take on a long list of camp tasks with the ready-to-roll StrongArm Camp. This lightweight, easy-to-grip, fixed-blade knife was made to comfortably take on tasks like making more kindling for the fire or bigger jobs like cutting paracord. Its versatility will prove itself at camp trip after trip."*
I don't $90 like this... For just a bit more, I can get an Esee.
Picked up my SOG tellus fx in cryo 440 c. Its made in china but at 40 dollars the value is definitely there.
Winner! Exactly...the SOG Tellus FX in blaze orange is a great "camp" knife.
I’m prepping for my Trans America Trail adventure on my dual sport, and I need to purchase a decent size camping knife to pack on my bike. I would like something in the size range of the strong arm, but I would prefer a steel with better edge retention. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Lionsteel T5, Cold steel SRK 3V, SOG Pillar.
@@gideonstactical 👍🤙
Hmm...For me, both Strongarm and Camp are a bit too short. I usually walk in the forest with the Sissipuukko M95 Peltonen, which has a 15 cm blade and this is optimal. In the case of Strongarm Camp, at least one inch more would be useful for more effective chopping of twigs.
However, I like large knives, sometimes I run through the forest with Condor Hudson Bay, which has a 21-centimeter blade.
I saw it last week in Academy Sports. I did not care for it. I will stick with my regular strongarm.
Totally!
I love 420. And 440c. Sharpens so sharp and easy. But camp knife, a harder steel may be better......
For $100 i can get a 3v master hunter. Gerber is beyond crazy.
The grind is what's up bout time
Většinou nové verze by mělo přijít zlepšení včetně materiálu ergonomie ceny....u Gerberu asi převládá delší dobu kvantita nad kvalitou viz .Gerber Convoy tam kdyby použili S30V tak je to super a to pár nožů od nich mám....poslední tach byl s Gerber Tereacraft a jinak konec s Gerber Camp se moc nepohnou.......😢
Great review of the ups and downs with this knife. I won't be picking one up.
Not impressed, my Cold Steel SRK for $50.00 with carbon steel or my Bushmaster $35.00 are both better.
Love my SRK C
I agree that everything is good but they should've left the blade at 4.75" like the original.
Totally
@@gideonstactical
I love the idea of a Strongarm with a 1/8th thick blade & higher saber grind but they ruined it but shortening the blade length SMH. A knife doesn't have to be super thick in my book.
It's pretty cool, but not gonna replace my Moras. Internet has completely overhyped the Strongarm unfortunately, hence it's stupendous price of $199 in NZ, so just gimme that SRK instead!
They should have kept the lower guard and use BDZ1 steel(=AEB-L)
That would have been awesome!
Great video, thank you. The blade shape screams ESEE 3 to me... FM
The Strongarm can’t be beat, I have to have a sharp spine on all my knifes
Any solar power portable chargers/ that are also Walky tally and navigation devices?
Not that I know of
I would like this blade in 14C28N, NitroV or Aebl at 62 HRC.
I don't see this as a win for Gerber , the shrunken blade , the choil , the steel and above all the price . This should be a $50 knife tops .
For sure!
If they did magnacut, cpm3v, s35vn, s30v pretty much any other steel for a little more money it would be a good deal. Or! Lowered the price.
Just get a cold steel master hunter in 3v for same price honestly.
8:00 strong arm dagger would be sick!!!
Yes it would!
Love my Strongarm but the 420HC needs to go at that price. It's time to go with S30V as the budget steel
S30V has been discontinued. Crucible isn't making it anymore.
@@andrewmcgibbon9785 I have doubts on that. I bought a brand new ZT0350 that was made from it just yesterday and a Brand new Half Breed Blades MILF-01 in S30V at Blade Show. Even if it was, S35VN could be the new budget steel. My Cold Steel Code 4 in S35VN was $45 on Amazon a few years ago and my Kershaw Link in 20CV cost me $80 on SMKW last year. Either way, my point stands that it's time to kick pot metal like D2 along to the lesser makers like Smith and Wesson, Browning, Ozark Trail, etc
@dualsportedc both Admiral Steel and Jantz are saying it's discontinued. When their supply runs out' that's it.
This is direct from Admiral Steel, "This grade has been discontinued and will not be re-stocked once sold.
Limited quantities available. Everything is subject to prior sale. All sales are final.
We will do our best to keep this page up to date."
I've been waiting for your review of the Gerber StrongArm Camp knife. All good points. I'm not put off by 420HC. However, the knife is priced too high for what it is. At $70 Gerber would sell a ton of them. $90 just seems too much. The choil definitely subtracts from the knife. And lastly, how out of touch is Gerber anyway to not have a sharp spine on this knife. It's like they look for ways to screw up.
Totally agree
Thanks for the review...
how does the strong arm compare to the esse and the moara?
Mora will have a scandi and not a flat grind like this is and gonna be made from 12c27 or a basic carbon steel (I'm speaking of the basic 15-20 dollar moras) with injection molded grip and not full tang. Mora basic is pretty much impossible to beat at its price range or something like the Garberg for around the same price will be bigger overall and have a scandi grind and be in 14c28n steel.
Similar sized esse will be a flat grind like this and in 1095 carbon steel. Overall for around the same money ide take a Esse 4 over this 10 out of 10 times specifically because of the 420hc and just how terrible the edge retention is. 1095 from esse will have better edge life, not a lot better but still better and 1095 is so easy and fast to touch up(420hc will be to but it's a little gummy) that if you just have a ceramic rod you don't have to worry about edge retention becsuse you can be back hair popping in like 30 seconds with the ceramic rod.. not to mention that 1095 is gonna be far more edge stable so your less likely to roll or chip the edge than you would be with the 420. The 420 has thr benefit of being fair corrosion resistant and uncoated 1095 will corrod fairly easily however it's it's parkerized then it will handle corrosion pretty well.
I don't own this knife so I can speak on it directly but it does look like it's got pretty good geometry for a camp knife and something like as esse 4 will likely be a little thicker stock and likely a little thicker behind the edge so it won't slice as well... I'm assuming this by what I see so I could be about the same also but it looks like this knife has taller flat grind and comes down a little thinner behind the edge. One thing about both esse and getber is their warranty is both top notch, if you break one or have a failure of any type they will both replace the knife without question.
For a camp knife I'm personally gonna go Bradford first and esse second every time... for 90 dollars this knife won't ever be on my radar becsuse of the 420hc... I'll take N690 on a Bradford or 1095 on an esse 10 out of 10 times over 420hc... now if gerber decides to do another release of this knife and does it in 14c28n or nitroV (like they should have to start) and keeps the price close to what it is now I'll definitely buy one. im still scratching my head at why they didn't do this knife in 14c28n with as much as the community loves it and as good of a steel as it is for an application like this they seriously dropped the ball... their cost per knife wouldn't have changed much at all because of how easily 14c is to work with and the raw stock is not much more costly than the 420hc. The blank cost for 14c would likely be less than a dollar more per blade and the machining, grinding time would be about the same and 14c is quicker and easier to heat treat than 420hc sooo their end cost per knife would be about the same and they would be offering a far better product performance wise to the customer. Gerber really missed an opportunity to get the communities eyes back on them with this one. If it was in 14c it would be on every review channel on youtube with in a week or two.
They should have made it identical size so people used to the strongarm feel the camp is another extension of them all they needed to change is the grind, blade shape, guard in top, and worked to make the balance identical.
That way any that grow up using the camp easy swap to the strongarm if they need a combat-oriented blade with no change.
Readying the next generation for emergencies or service is good for a knife companies contracts.
A sharpening choil on any knife is bad they interfere with rope/cord/line cutting in an emergency.
On a short fixed blade it is a total waste to take away ANY cutting edge.
They should have made the Strongarm with a full flat grind.
Not thrilled with the loss of real estate on the Camp knife, I don’t feel that Gerber cares too much about using appropriate steel quality for what their knives are suppose to handle. I just don’t buy any Gerber because of the lack of quality! I know it’s a budget, but messing around, in a life threatening environment, is not where one should be skimping! It’s worth saving a little longer to get an appropriate steel quality, before you head out, and possibly find yourself in deep trouble! MHO!😊