Few knives can claim to be good for just about anything needed. Then again, all knives are not the Peacemaker by 5.11 Tactical. This beefy tactical blade offers the best of all worlds, whether you’re adding to your bugout bag, taking it on your camping trip, or carrying it into your next mission. The Peacemaker definitely looks like the real deal, based on its specs and photos. However, now it’s time for me to test the mettle of its metal, first hand, to see if it backs up its bold claims.
5.11 Tactical Peacemaker: A Perfect Balance
Upon opening the peacemaker’s box, I immediately noticed the size of this tactical tool. Though it was quite large visually, in-hand it offered an excellent size-to-functionality ratio. Even before making a single cut, the Peacemaker exhibited a well-balanced body that was beefy and easily controllable in hand.
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This is a rarity I’ve found with hefty knives. For many, practical use is secondary to the oversized and sometimes cumbersome design. The Peacemaker, when gripped, became an extension of my hand. It felt both comfortable and controllable. These characteristics are a sign of a knife you can trust in the field.
Design and Specs
The 5.11’s Peacemaker offered impressive specs. Most notable is its full-tang design, sandwiching one-quarter inch of SCM 435 steel between twin tan polymer, sure-grip handle scales. Its overall design, at first glance, is one of simplicity. Yet, upon closer examination, the Peacemaker reveals subtle features that could be easily overlooked at first.
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Twin blade perforations cut down on the knife’s total weight, while improving its overall balance. Jimping at the top of the handle, running to the lower last inch of the spine, gives the wielder better control. Likewise, its tactical pommel tip (excellent for striking or pounding) is both functional and aesthetically pronounced. Not to mention, it balances out the Peacemaker’s contrast of color design.
Peacemaker Performance
The Peacemaker’s seven-inch blade (58-60RC hardness) features a drop point tip with a hollow grind. This makes it ideal for both rural and urban applications. Taking this beast of a blade into the nearby woods, it made short work of one-to-two-inch saplings, hacking through them with relative ease. When you don’t have your trusty hatchet, the Peacemaker can step up to the plate and take over.
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Shaving tinder was also a breeze. The handle and grip design allowed me to “choke-up” on the knife for controlled, precision slicing. As a hunting knife, a survival knife, or an all-around camping knife, you can’t go wrong with the Peacemaker.
On the urban front, it tackles tactical needs without missing a beat. Cordage and vehicle straps are no match for its sharp edge. Likewise, drywall and lightweight interior door material succumb to its power when pierced and gutted. The quarter-inch steel allows for more brutal use without fear of damage or failure.
Carrying in Peace
Though the Peacemaker knife may be the star of the show, 5.11 didn’t forget about the supporting sheath. This durable nylon holder offers both left- and right-hand mounting ability and durable hard-shell construction. Four integrated holes at the lower end of the sheath allow versatility when attaching the Peacemaker to your body, pack, or anywhere nearby.
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The knife conforms to the molded nylon sheath perfectly and “locks” into place. So, you can rest assured that it won’t release unexpectedly while you’re active. The sheath, for me, was both simple and effective without being cumbersome while on my body.
Pack the 5.11 Tactical Peacemaker Today!
Never handling it before, the Peacemaker was new to me for this review. But it must be noted that even after a short time using it, it became very natural within my grip. This is vitally important with any knife that you may need to trust with your very life.
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From its weight and balance to its cutting ability and overall durability, the Peacemaker checked off every box with the term, “just right.” This knife feels great in-hand and performs like a pro, in the field.
Should you pull the trigger and purchase this tactical powerhouse? My answer is…what are you waiting for?
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5.11 Tactical Peacemaker Specs
| Overall Length | 13.00 inches |
| Blade Length | 7.00 inches |
| Blade Steel | SCM 435 |
| Blade Thickness | 0.25 inches |
| Blade Style | Drop point |
| Sheath | Nylon ambidextrous mount |
| MSRP | $125.00 |
