Designed with military, tactical, and survival applications in mind, the recently released Gerber StrongArm is a no-frills blade with a versatile sheath mounting system. 
I gave it a test on camping trips and in the woods over the past month and have found it to be (as the name says) strong, with a comfortable handle and a useful, all-around blade. It’s available in fine-edge and serrated (tested) models.
The Gear: Gerber StrongArm (MSRP $86; non-serrated available for $55 on Amazon )
Available: Now.
First impressions: Pick this knife up and you will feel it’s made for business. The diamond textured, rubberized handle is secure in the hand even when wet, and the blade is a simple and versatile drop-point with a bit of serration near the handle. Stick it in your sheath and head into the woods, nothing to worry about here.
Who’s It For: People looking for a lot of bang for their buck in a made-in-USA survival knife.
Important Specs: The 420HC, ceramic-coated steel blade is 4.8″ long for an overall length of 9.8″. The knife weighs 7.2 oz (or 10.9 oz with included sheath and MOLLE strap).
Carry Options: The StrongArm ships with a versatile sheath that allows standard drop-leg belt carry. It can also be mounted horizontally on a belt (it worked on my thick leather belt) or through MOLLE systems on tactical equipment such as body armor or backpacks.
Made In: Portland, Oregon.
Batoning: This full-tang knife is plenty strong to pound through logs and branches to make kindling or cut firewood. After a bunch of chopping, it barely shows wear on the ceramic coating and the edge is still sharp.
Steel: 420HC is a nice standard knife steel that resists corrosion, holds an edge OK, and is easy to sharpen. It’s inexpensive and does the job well.
Killer! For the price, this is a good versatile knife that should serve you for years of use and abuse. The ability to carry in several configurations is nice for those who regularly use MOLLE compatible systems or want a concealable, horizontal belt carry.
Flaw: While you can get the knife out of the sheath with one hand, it really requires both hands to replace it and get the snaps to shut. Not a major problem, and the knife is reasonably secure even unsnapped, but it’s something to consider if you are often caught with your hands full.
Who Should Buy It: People looking for a value in a fixed-blade survival knife and those who use MOLLE systems or would like a horizontal belt carry.
Contact Brand/More Beta: Gerber StrongArm .
—Sean McCoy is Managing Editor. Our “First Look” column highlights new gear arrivals at wordpress.com. Photos © Monopoint Media LLC
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