In a market full of excellent budget knife options, the Real Steel H6 Plus still manages to stand out. In fact, I am willing to make the case that it is the most compelling budget, hard-use folder on the market right now. I think this knife should get a lot more attention and it is absolutely mind boggling how little it costs.
Overview
Blade Length: 3.75″ (95mm)
Cutting Edge: 3.75″ (95mm)
Closed Length: 4.75″ (120mm)
Overall Length: 8.5″ (215mm)
Blade Material: 14C28N
Blade Thickness: 0.136″ (3.5mm)
Blade Style: Drop Point
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade Finish: Stonewash
Handle Material: Black G10
Handle Thickness: 0.46″
Liner Material: Stainless Steel
Locking Mechanism: Frame Lock
Pivot Assembly: Washers
Pocket Clip: Tip-Up, Right
Carry Weight: 5 oz. (145g)
Observations from Use
I have owned several iterations of the Real Steel H6 over the years. In fact, I reviewed one on these very pages that I like a lot and often gave as a gift. I have a long history with this knife and, because of that, I can say that the H6 Plus is the most compelling entry in the H6 lineup to date. This is true in part because of the pricing and in part because of the use of washers (not bearings) in the pivot which is increasingly unusual in this knife market.
Expanding further on the above, it is important to point out that this knife sells for $36.50 (or less, there is currently a 15% coupon that knocks the price down to $31.02. That is an incredible price for a knife with the materials, features, and size of this one.
The Real Steel H6 Plus also runs on washers which is a GREAT choice for a work knife and something Real Steel does more than most value brands. Washers are less susceptible the ingress of dust, dirt, and grime while still being able to offer a smooth action if done well… and these are done well. The action is oily smooth and the detent is great, allowing me to easily thumb flick and reverse flick this knife open.
The H6 Plus’ broad, 3.75″ blade is ground from 14C28N steel which is a tremendous steel at any price point. It has a roughly 3/4 height flat grind with a long swedge. The result is a useful shape that cuts well (it is surprisingly thin behind the edge) and a fine, but strong point.
I have owned several Real Steel knives with steel frame locks and they have all been excellent. This is no different. It locks up strong and early with no play in any direction. The included Beta Plus secondary lock is a nice addition whether you use it or not. It functions like any other frame lock overtravel stop when unsued but it can also be pushed forward to a position that actually locks the frame lock tab into place preventing you from accidentally disengaging the lock.
There are a lot of other niceties in this knife that I will mention but not drag on about. The thumb studs are very comfortable and accessible. The steel frame lock scale actually has a deep pocket milled into it to reduce weight. The back spacer is machined G-10 with a great chunky grip texture. The clip is very strong with a TON of space and clearance for thicker materials like work pants. The locking tab is machined to provide both texture and easy access.
Wrap Up
In reading what Real Steel has said about the H6 Plus, it is clear they made this to be the ultimate entry in the H6 line. Reading between the lines, it seems they were also trying to engineer a lot of the cost out of the line because this is also the most affordable entry. This knife not only offers excellent value, the use of washers makes it somewhat unique in today’s value knife market.
The H6 was a great value when it used to cost $50. Now that it is closer to $35, it is an absolute bargain.
I purchased the Real Steel H6 Plus on Amazon where it is currently on sale for 15% off: Real Steel H6 Plus on Amazon.com
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