EXTREMA RATIO FULCRUM BAYONET NFG

EXTREMA RATIO FULCRUM BAYONET NFG* DESERT SW 2019 NEW MODEL! Preview

An in depth preview by:
Hardcore Knives and Tools for Wilderness Camping

Extrema Ratio Fulcrum Bayonet (NFG model) Desert SW camouflage Forprene grip and Desert camouflage scabbard and attachments.  Blade steel: BÖHLER N690 Cobalt stainless tool steel.

Specification from the manufacturer can be seen here:

There are currently 3 Extrema Ratio Fulcrum Bayonet NFG models ( X2 Blackened mil spec blades and corresponding black Forprene and dark green Forprene and corresponding scabbards). These latter 2 models feature a different carry system and the SW version (the one featured here) has a "cut down scabbard" where instead of a formed "pocket" over the wire cutter plate, there is simply a thick elasticised band covering and holding the base of the scabbard. This makes the carry system "bare bones" but still there isn't any compromise of how one can carry this hefty knife.

"NFG" simply means this model can not readily be attached to a rifle. Not without changing several parts. This one as shown is the SW version , ie "Stone Washed" with desert coloured scabbard and grip and is a brand new model for 2019. Also these models (Fulcrum NFG) do not have the front end of the spine sharpened-this feature is only available in the Standard military models. So in actual fact, the name is somewhat misleading (as it isn't really a bayonet at all) unless we understand the above meaning of the letters NFG (No Fixing Gear and hence can not be fitted to the ARX16, M4/M16). 
I will be however, still referring to this knife as the "Fulcrum Bayonet NFG" throughout the rest of this blog, as this model is of course modelled around the Standard Fulcrum military bayonet.

If you are coming here for the first time, then some quick background about who is EXTREMA RATIO. Firstly the name is a Latin expression with a meaning such as:

"Last Solution" or "Extreme Remedy" -When there are no other ways out"

Extrema Ratio in Italy have been manufacturing fine cutlery for both civilian and military end use since 1992.

Made in Italy and it shows, (I mean despite being of military end usage with civilian applications- the style/finish  is Italian!)

like all of their other products I have reviewed over the years. For example, this knife, a true cross over from military knife to civilian survival style knife, nothing is out of place, as Extrema Ratio say: "Our products are professional technical tools, they are designed and manufactured to solve problems" (Reference: 2019 Company brochure Visione-ie their company Vision). Certainly, the Fulcrum Bayonet NFG falls under this company statement.

All Extrema Ratio knives including this one are individually serial numbered, 

Manufacturers, who go to the trouble of serial numbering their knives are serious about QC. This takes time and only increases the cost of production but adds extra confidence from both end user and the manufacturer.

a commitment from the manufacturer to be able to keep track of their work if need be. All knives also come with an inspection card, which states the manufacturing Lot number  and the year of manufacture along with the initials of the individual who inspected the knife before shipping in case of warranty issues.

   Maybe when we hear the word bayonet, we think of charging soldiers with big long spears mounted to their rifles in some old black and white movies, historical re enactments, history images or some such other.  If you have used them for active service duties, you're probably thinking of something totally different and their application being one of persuasion.

   Could the modern bayonet style knife be a favoured tool for the  outdoor enthusiast? Surely there are much better styled knives to be had?

What do I like about this knife? OR rather what attracted me to this knife design?
I'll be honest here, almost 8 years ago I purchased a similar type of knife and it has served me very well with some serious usage and sometimes abuse. It has been an EDC for some areas of the world of, let's just say, dubious human nature. Though that said knife is not the most comfortable to use for extended periods.
Enough said 

Along comes something else in the brand of EXTREMA RATIO of Italy. My past experience with cutlery from this company is one of only good and as many of you know I'm not into wasting time reviewing rubbish products as there are literally hundreds of people doing this for a living. 

The key features of the Extrema Ratio Fulcrum Bayonet NFG according to my experience, are the following:

The Extrema Ratio Fulcrum Bayonet NFG is a very easy knife to maintain in the field.

Only straight edges to sharpen (exception of the serrations). 

The Fulcrum Bayonet NFG also features: good weight distribution for chopping.

Serrations to help cutting difficult objects.

Sturdy very pointy tip.

Very comfortable and shock absorbing handle.

No exposed tang for use in extreme weather conditions.

A flattened spine section (towards the tip) where a baton can be struck.

A flat pommel which you can not injure yourself on.

Lanyard lashing holes.  

Not excessively handle heavy.

Safe rigid scabbard with a multitude of carry options.

Corrosion resistant Cobalt enhanced stainless steel tool steel (N690) for blade.

HRC 58 (not too hard not too soft!).
 On top of all of those features for a no nonsense knife, the Fulcrum Bayonet NFG is a real tool since it can be used to cut wire of various thicknesses, grab things and bend things.


    Well-designed modern bayonets (as apposed to the spear-like bayonets of the 1st world war and before) are tough (ie slightly flexible), they have to be, if effective for their intended military usage. Plus a modern bayonet looks like a knife (because they are a knife- just with special attachments, such as wire cutter plates seen below.

Extrema Ratio Fulcrum Bayonet (NFG) Wire cutter plate as viewed from the front side of the scabbard. The wire cutter plate has a Rockwell hardness of 58, and made from N690 stainless steel just like the blade.

Can live wires be cut??? NO!!! Whilst the Forprene grip insulates the tang, the steel butt cap is in direct contact with the tang. 
 Bayonets must have a good strong point which has been designed to pierce with minimal deflection on contact. 

Western style Tanto tip full spine thickness close to the tip makes the Fulcrum NFG Bayonet tip very robust. Note unlike the Standard military version Fulcrum bayonet, this model, the Fulcrum Bayonet NFG DOES NOT have a factory sharpened upper spine.

(Think about a drop point as a bayonet design- I don't think so!). A modern bayonet must do more than just pierce, as a modern soldier has so much gear to carry* these days, it must also function as a knife and a useful knife at that.

The multipurpose role

The Fulcrum bayonet NFG has a multi-purpose role, firstly, it can be used as a field and/or survival knife (see my definition of what a survival knife is here and here

A super strong glass reinforced scabbard with attached wire cutter plate, enabling a "multi-purpose role for this hefty knife. There is absolutely no flex in this scabbard.

A good strong (but very useable) point 

Super strong chisel point and pointy it is!

and a tough serviceable knife are two important things in a durable field knife. 

Alternating scalloped blade serrations (40mm length) allow quicker cutting of cords and fibrous materials. Many don't like serrations, however I would say this is either ill founded or people talking off the top of their heads! Serrations are the correct blade for cutting ropes and cords etc. No straight edge will cut them quicker, it's physics, and that is why all serious rescue blade feature them. I've spoken about this at length in previous blogs.  Extrema ratio chooses to use shallow serrations which do not need to thin the edge too much. The cutting stroke for cords will always start near the hilt and hence help to grab the cord or rope, the serrations will "bite and cut " at the same time.

 

40mm of blade serrations to either cut or help cut ropes and cords (shown here static climbing cord).

The capacity to "do something else" will always be of benefit, if the "something else" is practical. I would argue that the capacity for a knife to cut wire of varying thicknesses would be a positive asset.
In order to cut wire effectively, the spine must be hardened correctly and the tolerances must be tight between the knife and cutter plate on the knife's scabbard, otherwise the wire will simply become mangled instead of breaking.

Double stranded brand new barbed wire no problems

In this case the Fulcrum Bayonet NFG has the same characteristics of lateral blade strength as the regular Extrema Ratio  Fulcrum, Fulcrum Bayonet and the Fulcrum S. The Fulcrum bayonet NFG also features the wire cutter like the Standard military version Fulcrum Bayonet; and a flattened metal pommel without the "fixing gear" and a metal guard, which can not accept a rifle such as an AR15 etc. without these specialist parts.
So we see a flat ended pommel with a lanyard hole.

unlike the FULCRUM model which has a "persuader" type pommel (good for persuasion not so useful in the bush-but it was never intended to be used for "bushcraft" .

Butt end of the regular Fulcrum

While I'm quickly making a comparison, which BTW I never do, (this IS the first time if you are reading this), here is another difference between the Fulcrum Bayonet NFG and the Fulcrum, the grip.

The classic grip ridges on the Fulcrum Spine

Side view of ergonomic Forprene grip

Upper grip of the Fulcrum Bayonet NFG, no exposed tang, which in a way I like better as ungloved hands can not see any action from the regular FULCRUM's grip. Although for me this was never an issue using that knife.

The guard is now made from a separate part (unlike the Fulcrum  and Fulcrum S) using a 5mm thick piece of 316L stainless steel (like the pommel). 316L stainless steel alloy is not the same as 316. The "L" stands for lower carbon content making this part very resistant to corrosion.

The guard is removable, comfortable and unobtrusive in function. A single lashing hole is provided. This hole is also orientated toward the same side as the pommel hole.

The knife itself is held securely in place via a flexible indent built into the fibre reinforced scabbard, see below.

The Extrema Ratio Fulcrum NFG is held fast via an indent moulded into the glass fibre reinforced scabbard. This is not a quick drawing knife and requires some finger pressure to flex the upper part of the scabbard shown here (top of the image). 

The wire cutter hole can be used to also bend thick wire, (just insert thick wire and twist!) hang things from etc. Imagination and resourcefulness are the keys here!

The capacity to cut various objects has been tested extensivelyhttp://www.extremaratio.com/test-trinciatura.

There is absolutely zero play in the cutting stroke and this means accuracy and precision build tolerances as seen in the above video.

What about this knife design???


My extensive experience with the Extrema Ratio Fulcrum S tells me that the design is versatile and easy to maintain. The added advantage of the Fulcrum Bayonet NFG means having the wire cutter and a strong flat guard (better to wrap ones fingers around) 

Finger grip position is comfortable for a powerful sweeping stroke

Side view of thick 6.4mm spine (I measured this along several of the widest sections- stated thickness is 6.3mm), Forprene grip removed. The ribs make this a very rigid scabbard.

The   tang  width is of similar design to the Extrema Ratio AMF (see that blog for all technical details). so I can vouch to the strength of this knife. BTW the knife comes with a small Allen key driver to remove the end socket head stainless steel bolt for servicing. The Allen key is a 0.118 inch or 3mm. This is a ZERO RATTLE scabbard too!

The scabbard has a very secure hold on the Fulcrum Bayonet (NFG) with a reassuring "click" heard when inserting the knife.  The Forprene also feels heftier in Shore hardness and I will be checking with Extrema if this is the case.
The scabbard is just like all other Extrema Ratio scabbards. VERY WELL made and designed.
On the reverse side we see full Molle compatibility, anywhere from strapping to packs etc and standard outdoor carry on the waist. In fact the way to carry this knife is only limited by one's imagination.

Removal of the "hard inner" scabbard from the carry system allows one to access quickly the wire cutter function. Multiple Molle loops provided. The quality of stitching is great and to date i've never had a problem with any of their scabbard stitching coming undone.

   Knives are meant to be used, for example: prying open oysters when chanced upon; busting open a wild bee's hive for the treasure; opening shellfish whilst out fishing; etc.

What are you going to do with a knife? Often a simple folder is more than enough for extended camping trips (where one will meet other hikers along the way). Other times, a sturdier beast maybe what is required.

Fishing
Hunting**
Camping (off the beaten track!)

The first two may involve the last. The knife maybe required to do many things, for example: preparing smoking racks for fish and game, spears, digging sticks etc. Yes a small folder can do this and I have done it but at risk of damaging your folder, as it was never intended for such use.
A sturdy 7 inch (185mm) knife is a good bet for the serious outdoor's persons going off the beaten track. Out of all of my knives and tools, 7inches is really a very useful size (certainly no bigger unless special purposes- machete etc). Some military knives (like the featured knife here) are great for tough activities. They will not carry the handle weight of a large drop point but be just as sturdy and possibly cost less. The scabbards will be military tough and safe. Military tough spells long lasting value for money. On that note of safety. Often it's overlooked the safety aspect of a scabbard and people are all too concerned about a knife failing but what if your scabbard fails??? Try making a new one in the bush!

The blade design of the Extrema Ratio Fulcrum NFG, featuring only 2 straight edges, makes for an uncomplicated design, easy to maintain. 

Me trying to be overly "Funky" with Photoshop LOL

A self adhesive diamond sharpening strip comes with this multipurpose knife, although personally I would only resort to this if I had to in an emergency are there are far better methods and stones to keep the edge on this knife. This plate is only for a seriously damaged blade. Something which could happen in an unforeseen event.

The Forprene handle is easy to remove once the end screw has been removed. To do this safely, leave the knife in the scabbard when removing the grip for washing (eg after salt water immersion).

A solid stainless steel pommel (above image) is secured via a 3mm stainless steel Allen bolt. The anchor for the Allen bolt is the same internal nut as in the AMF design. Noting that during a field disassembly one must be careful not to loose or misplace this small black nut ( shown here but see the AMF strip down blog) as it will be very difficult to replace the handle if this nut is lost. So do not disassemble over a river, cliff or cave! 

Having a wire cutter negates the necessity of a bringing along a multi-tool (although to be honest they are very very useful for repairing things-more on this later).
** (cumbersome to use a straight edged 7" knife for hunting, where I mean skinning- gutting ok but skinning- it's a chore).


Being able to cut wire is a real bonus on the survival scene or simply a rugged camp site by the coast. We did exactly this type of camping where the walk in was a full day with full packs. The campsite was anywhere you could on the coast. We pitched the tent under some small trees for some added shelter from the brunt of the weather, walking distance to a freshwater lagoon. Flotsam and jetsam provided benches, and tables along with a largish plastic water container also a gift from the sea! At the time I had a 7 inch knife with me and a Swiss army knife.


It's just one more aspect which makes for a very versatile knife. How come everyone isn't using them in the bush then? They are big, and certainly not required on popular beaten tracks. Some people don't like anything military, big blades, ugly looking scabbards, basically a plain blade; (not very comfortable for hunting purposes-although possible but certainly I wouldn't take one over my selection of hunting knives for a dedicated hunting trip.)

I think the modern bayonet like the Extrema Ratio Fulcrum Bayonet NFG is closer to a "survival type knife" than a simple big knife.

 Is the knife heavy enough near the tip to be used as a chopper if need be? Certainly! If I can chop successfully with my Fulcrum S, the weight distribution of the Fulcrum Bayonet NFG is much better.

How fast can it cut rope and or cord? How thick is the cord or rope? Of course it can in part due to the hand ground convex edge and the serrations.


Can the butt end be lent into or is it some sharp end that will cause harm to the user ? Yes, unlike the Fulcrum series (non bayonet).


Now the Extrema Ratio Fulcrum has long since proven itself as a tough as hard as nails service knife: straight edges, easily maintained, resists strong lateral forces (they did some crazy bending tests with their Fulcrum models (see here) where in some cases the load was close to a QUARTER OF A TONNE! during flexing tests! That's crazy. 


The handle

Now it wouldn't be fair if one left out commenting about the Extrema Ratio Forprene handle: Very, very comfortable and helps to absorb shock when the knife is heavily used. I am a big big fan of synthetic "elastomeric" grips such as Kraton, and Forprene. Certainly for the past (greater than) 20 years, I know with absolute certainty that Kraton can weather the elements and the years and provide a long lasting durable service life. Now Forprene' use for knife handles hasn't to my knowledge been around that long but from what I've thrown at my Forprene handled knives over the last 8 years I can't see any problems occurring. For example but not limited to: greasy fat covered hands, kerosene (sometimes from fuel on the hands-not good), animal blood and guts, water, both salt and fresh and more importantly strong UV from that Aussie sunshine, UV, a real polymer killer! No effects!

The wire cutter (via the scabbard) of the Extrema Ratio Fulcrum Bayonet (NFG).

Backside view of the wire cutter plate attachment screws.

Frontside of wire cutter plate, top pin is the fixed stop pin and the lower piece is the removable pivot onto which the slot in the knife blade is inserted.

Wire in the bush? What? Yes, even in the most remote parts of the world you can find the previous presence of man and his left over junk, I hate to say (with exceptions of true wilderness). The thing which comes to mind are abandoned mining camps. Bits of wire would be great to utilize around a campsite if only one had the means to cut it or bend it without stabbing rusty wire into their fingers. 

By definition, tools made for the military have to be tough, as someone's life or lives may depend upon zero failure under serious conditions, so if you want some sort of assurances (there are none really), the Extrema Ratio Fulcrum bayonet NFG will make that grade. Maybe it could be right for you?? 

I'll see if it has a few up over my Fulcrum S in the on going field tests prior to video release on BushCampingTools, so stick around!

While waiting you can visit their facebook site here

https://www.facebook.com/Extrema-Ratio-knives-division-562736543936784/

Stay tuned for my field review!


regards


Hardcore Knives and Tools for Wilderness Camping



* NFG means basically the hardware on this knife (or rather lack of) renders it suitable for civilian usage and not military end use. Some places the possession of a rifle fixable bayonet is illegal.