Review: Gerber Basic Knife

I know, the name could be better, but it at least Gerber’s Basic fixed-blade knife imparts a sense of its main virtue: simplicity. Nothing fancy, no extraneous features; just a solid knife that will field dress an elk as handily as it’ll clean a pile of game birds. The full tang construction makes it good for prying, and the soft grips keep your hand securely connected even when wet. I especially liked the extra deep belt clip and the secure feel of the snap-in sheath—no worries about losing this puppy to waist-high brush. Serrations at the base of the blade provide versatility for cutting rope and heavy cloth. This utilitarian blade may not win any beauty contests, but it’ll do its job in the field. $55; gerbergear.com.