Xikar Explorer knife: Superb EDC

Published on July 8, 2008
Duration: 9:06

The Xikar Explorer (XI780) is presented as a superb value everyday carry knife, offering a lot of knife for its price point. The reviewer highlights its modified tanto blade shape, bead-blasted finish, and aluminum handle construction. While acknowledging the 440A steel's edge retention limitations, its ease of sharpening and the knife's overall fast deployment, tight lock-up, and attractive color options (blue and gunmetal gray) are praised. The reviewer advises potential buyers to act quickly due to concerns about the model being discontinued.

Quick Summary

The Xikar Explorer (XI780) is an everyday carry knife highly recommended for its exceptional value, offering substantial features for its price. It boasts a modified tanto blade shape, durable aluminum handle construction, fast deployment, and a tight liner lock. While its 440A steel has limitations in edge retention for heavy tasks, it's easily sharpened, making it a practical choice for daily utility.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Xikar Explorer Value
  2. 00:32About Xikar Brand
  3. 01:05Discontinuation Concerns & Availability
  4. 01:27Price and Color Options
  5. 01:45Blade Shape: Modified Tanto
  6. 01:54Blade Belly Comparison
  7. 02:19Sharpening and Geometry Changes
  8. 03:05Blade Finish and Markings
  9. 03:27Blade Steel: 440A Analysis
  10. 03:56Jimping Assessment
  11. 04:14Handle Color and Aesthetics
  12. 04:32Handle Construction: Aluminum Slabs
  13. 04:51Handle Edge Comfort
  14. 05:09Deployment Speed and Feel
  15. 05:27Lock-up Tightness and Stability
  16. 05:47Liner Lock Mechanism
  17. 06:12Pocket Clip Design and Preference
  18. 06:39Clip Strength and Durability
  19. 07:03Packaging Review
  20. 07:20Gunmetal Gray Variant
  21. 07:40Sharpening Notes on Gunmetal Gray
  22. 08:04Overall Impression: Gunmetal Gray
  23. 08:12Urgency to Buy Before Discontinuation
  24. 08:22Summary of Key Features
  25. 08:36Final Verdict: Excellent Value
  26. 08:53Concluding Remarks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Xikar Explorer knife and why is it recommended?

The Xikar Explorer (XI780) is an everyday carry knife praised for its exceptional value, offering a lot of knife for its price. It features a modified tanto blade, aluminum handle, and fast deployment, making it a great utility tool for daily tasks.

What type of steel is used in the Xikar Explorer knife?

The Xikar Explorer knife is made with 440A steel. While not the best for edge retention in heavy-duty use, it is noted for being very easy to sharpen, which is considered adequate given the knife's affordable price point.

What are the key features of the Xikar Explorer's handle and lock-up?

The handle is constructed from solid aluminum slabs with a pillar design for a flow-through build. It employs a liner lock mechanism that provides a tight and stable lock-up with no blade play, ensuring secure use during everyday tasks.

Is the Xikar Explorer knife still available for purchase?

There is concern that the Xikar Explorer may be discontinued, as it was not found on the manufacturer's website during the review. Interested buyers are advised to purchase quickly if they wish to acquire one.

More EDC & Lifestyle Videos You Might Like

More from nutnfancy

View all →