SURVIVE! Knives GSO-3.5 Knife Review

This little knife is ready for action with its classic blade shape and ergonomic handle scales. Survive’s Great attention to detail and subtle refinement are what bring Survive Knives to the top of my “go-to” blade pile.

Initial Impressions

It’s small but mighty. The ergonomics are comfortable, but not perfect, in my large-sized hands. The classic design is perfect for a wide variety of camp chores and bush crafts. All the small details add up to a knife that looks and feels high quality. I would like to see a sharper spine edge for scraping tasks and some a little jimping where a thumb would rest too.

Specs

• Model No: GSO-3.5
• Grind: Saber
• Shape: Drop Point
• Steel: CPM-3V
• Hardness: Not specified
• Handle Material: Micarta
• Sheath Material: Kydex
• Cutting Edge: 3.4″
• Blade Thickness: 1/8″
• Overall Length: 7.8″
• Weight: 3.9oz (6.1oz w/sheath)

Scoring

• Functionality: This task knife is just that, an all-around chore blade. If the spine was a hard 90 degrees, it would be a 10. [9/10]
• Ergonomics: It’s hard to find flaws in the design of the Survive Knives handles and the GSO-3.5 is no exception. For me, the handle could be a touch larger but it feels great none the less. [9/10]
• Blade Shape: The drop point is a classic design that’s easy to maintain and great in the field. [8.5/10]
• Fit and Finish: It would be hard to find a better built “production quality” knife, but the scales don’t perfectly match the tang. [9/10]
• Sheath: It’s a nice kydex but not without a few minor flaws. The build quality is 9/10 but the lines are somewhat off and the clip will need modifications to the holes to move the belt clip to a different orientation. [8/10]
• Size and Weight: This is about the smallest blade that I would carry into the bush, but it’s everything you need and nothing you don’t. I’d like to see just a touch more length in the handle, and the balance favors the handle a little more then I’d like. [8/10]
• Durability: Its quality materials feel sturdy. I don’t think I’ll see any problems arise due to any quality issues. [9.5/10]
• Cool Factor: The 3D milled scales are the most defining feature. Nothing about this knife particularly stands out, but that’s what makes it cool. It is uniquely ‘Survive’, with clean lines and superb functionality. [7.5/10]
• Collectability: It’s not much of a showpiece, but if you like well-built knives that work, then a Survive knife is for you. I don’t ever plan on parting with this blade, it’s too perfect for me. It does have similarities to a number of blades on the market. [7.5/10]
• Value: There’s no doubt this is a great knife, but there are many competitive options, some priced considerably less. [7/10]

Overall Likability

The GSO-3.5 has become my go-to task knife replacing a handful of similar blades from my stash. If you’re in the market for a capable task knife, and your hands aren’t too big, then look no further. If you’re looking for a knife that just works, consider any of the Survive Knives GSO series knives. But the GSO-3.5 is a remarkable daily task knife. [83/100]

A Word of Caution

If you want a SURVIVE! knife of your own, I would strongly suggest the secondary market. Unfortunately, The great quality of SURVIVE! Knives can be overshadowed by their extremely long wait times. If you don’t mind the wait, just make sure you put the knife in your will in case you pass on before delivery.

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