ANV Knives M500 ANTHROPOID DLC – KYDEX SHEATH: A Tactical Blade with Unparalleled Performance

By: Jacob Kelly

Unboxing the M500 ANTHROPOID: First Impressions

The ANV Knives M500 ANTHROPOID DLC arrives in a rugged yet minimalistic package, reflecting its no-nonsense design. Inside, the knife is securely housed in a custom-molded Kydex sheath with MOLLE system clips for easy attachment to tactical gear. As soon as it is unboxed, the sheer size and weight of the M500 become apparent, exuding durability and power. The DLC-coated Elmax steel blade gleams ominously under the light, hinting at its deadly precision.

*Opening the box reveals a knife designed for high-performance tactical applications, featuring a sleek black DLC-coated blade and an aggressively textured G10 handle.*

Design and Build Quality: A Tribute to Functionality

This full-tang combat knife is engineered with a 6mm thick blade, prioritizing toughness and penetration over fine slicing. The blade length of 190mm (7.5 inches) and an overall length of 340mm (13.4 inches) make it a formidable tool for both combat and survival applications. The DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating not only enhances corrosion resistance but also reduces glare, essential for stealth operations. The handle, constructed from 3D-machined G10, features aggressive texturing, ensuring a secure grip even in wet or gloved conditions. The addition of a solid stainless steel guard enhances safety during thrusting motions.

Ergonomics: Commanding Control and Comfort

The 115mm (4.5-inch) handle fits comfortably in most hand sizes, providing a balanced and controlled feel. The indentations along the perimeter allow for a natural and confident grip, preventing slippage during strenuous tasks. A notable feature is the sharp pommel spike, which adds functionality for breaking glass or delivering powerful blunt-force impacts. The knife’s substantial 0.7 kg weight contributes to its robust feel, yet its design ensures a comfortable wield over extended periods.

*Designed for the battlefield, the M500 ANTHROPOID provides exceptional control with its thoughtfully sculpted grip.*

Performance Testing: Pushing the M500 ANTHROPOID to its Limits

1. Hair Shave Test – Razor-Edge Precision

Right out of the box, the M500 effortlessly removes fine arm hairs. While it’s not designed as a razor-fine slicer, the keen edge shows excellent precision.

2. Denim Cut Test – Slicing Through Tough Fabric

The thick 6mm blade slices through multiple layers of denim with minimal resistance. While not as quick as a thinner blade, the M500 still delivers clean, controlled cuts.

3. Hardened Plastic Cutting Test – Strength Over Sharpness

Here, the M500’s thick grind and robust Elmax steel construction excel. It powers through tough plastic, proving its effectiveness in demanding situations.

*Testing the knife’s ability to cut through rigid plastic materials.*

4. Wood Shaving Test – Survival Readiness

Surprisingly, the thickness of the blade doesn’t hinder its ability to shave wood. While not as refined as a bushcraft knife, it creates fine wood curls suitable for fire-starting or crafting stakes.

5. Cardboard Cut Test – Edge Retention Over Time

Despite its grind optimized for penetration rather than slicing, the M500 performs admirably on cardboard, with minimal edge degradation after multiple layers.

6. Nylon/Rope Cut Test – Tactical Utility at Work

The aggressive edge easily cuts through thick nylon ropes in a single stroke, proving its effectiveness for field tasks and emergency situations.

7. Paper Cut Test – Examining the Fine Edge

As expected, the M500 is not a fine slicer, but with the right angle, it still slices through paper cleanly. This highlights the excellent heat-treated Elmax steel’s edge integrity.

8. Can Test – Blade Durability Under Pressure

A true test of durability, the M500 easily punctures and slices through an aluminum can without any visible damage, proving the resilience of the Elmax steel and DLC coating.

Sheath and Carry: Secure and Accessible

The Kydex sheath is a standout feature, offering versatile mounting with MOLLE-compatible clips. It allows ambidextrous insertion, ensuring a quick and effortless draw. Retention is solid, keeping the M500 firmly secured during movement.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
• Durable Elmax Steel Blade (60 HRC hardness for superior strength)
• DLC Coating (Enhanced corrosion resistance and reduced glare)
• Full-Tang Construction (Maximized strength and reliability)
• Aggressive G10 Handle (Excellent grip in all conditions)
• Versatile Kydex Sheath (Secure MOLLE-compatible carry options)
• Sharp Pommel Spike (Added tactical functionality)

Cons:
• Not optimized for fine slicing (Grind prioritizes penetration over slicing precision)
• Heavy for extended carry (0.7 kg weight may not be ideal for all users)
• Premium pricing (High-quality materials and craftsmanship come at a cost)

Final Verdict: A Tactical Powerhouse

The ANV Knives M500 ANTHROPOID DLC is a rugged, durable, and tactically efficient combat knife that pays homage to the classic FS knife while integrating modern enhancements. It’s built for penetration, durability, and heavy-duty use, excelling in combat and survival scenarios. While it may not be the ideal choice for delicate slicing, its robust Elmax steel blade, secure grip, and Kydex sheath make it an excellent investment for military personnel, outdoor enthusiasts, and collectors.

For more details or to purchase the ANV Knives M500 ANTHROPOID DLC, visit their official website: ANV Knives.