Design characteristics of 2 similar but distinct Extrema Ratio Models: T4000S and Giant Mamba

Design characteristics of 2 similar but distinct Extrema Ratio Models: T4000S and Giant Mamba

Similar shaped profiles as seen viewed side on, the Extrema Ratio Giant Mamba and the T4000S make for an interesting comparison.

 At first glance these two knife models look similar, the similar handles of Forprene moulded around the Extrema Ratio signature ergonomic grip. Some slight modifications can be seen on the handle of the new (for 2020) Giant Mamba, mid way the angle of the moulding is a little more steeper than that of the original design as seen on the T4000S (right hand side image).

The blade width of the Extrema Ratio T4000S is slightly wider than that of the Giant Mamba and as shown below, slightly longer too. The main differences are the following:

1) Blade thickness is much greater in the Giant Mamba, a full 6mm to almost the tip, compared to a 6mm tang thickness, quickly narrowing to a 4mm spine thickness after the hilt region, tapering spine starting to thin to a point from approximately 40mm back from the tip on the T4000S.

2) Both blades feature a double sided fuller/blood groove.

3) The T4000S is a lighter and thinner blade capable of cutting more effortlessly through hard thick substances, simply due to less "forcing" due to it's thinner blade profile

4) The tip of the T4000S is more acute and "pointy" than that of the Giant Mamba but of course also thinner.

The difference in spine thickness is clearly evident between these 2 models. No gimping is present on the T4000S however, the spine is slightly raised above the Forprene material (this avoids unnecessary damage to the handle should the knife be struck here with a blunt object).

The method of securing the handles are very different. The Giant Mamba does not use a centre handle bolt but a non-captive nut placed within the tang which accepts a pommel bolt. This nut can be lost if the handle is carelessly removed for cleaning unless the user modifies the nut (loctite, or some other non-permanent adhesive to prevent accidental loss). If this nut is lost then it would be very difficult to attach the handle again, not impossible but very difficult. This is a custom made nut and can not be found in one's local hardware store, nor can it be easily field modified from other parts. Unlike losing the bolt from the standard handle assembly, one simply ties some cord through the pommel lanyard hole and the handle can be securely attached. So owners of  the Giant Mamba take note: Do not disassemble your handle in the field unless you take precautions not to lose this small nut (I  put adhesive tape on mine and it works just fine to retain the nut. One could use a semi-permanent Loctite as well).

The main edge of the Giant Mamba is almost straight whereas the main cutting edge of the T4000S has a slight curvature to it. Both have a hand ground convex edge and both are easily kept sharp.

The tips are very different with the Giant Mamba sporting a much steeper angle and slightly more pronounced curvature compared to the T4000S. I think in practical terms both sets of fullers do little to really lighten these blades.

The handle of the Giant Mamba covers more of the tang than that of the T4000S, this makes the handle less likely to suffer damage due to greater supporting material, although the rigidity of the particular Forprene formulation (shore hardness) is quite adequate.

Conclusions

The T4000S is better suited (if chosen) for "outdoors" work than the Giant Mamba due to its thinner blade construction and slightly deeper profile. There is no generalist task I can not do with this model in the outdoors.

The Giant Mamba is better suited to a more "abusive" environment such as a military/tactical arena as there is little chance of tip breakage on this model and the overall blade is clearly of a stouter construction. As I have shown one can certainly perform outdoor tasks with this knife, albeit it is not an outdoor knife by any means however due to it's relatively short length, it can be manipulated with some dexterity for camping/outdoor tasks (again as above, if chosen to do so).

BCT