By: Adrian Gonzalez
The Tenable Parr Fixed Blade Knife – G011B3 is a refined example of how thoughtful design and real-world functionality can come together in a compact everyday carry blade. Designed by Jonathan Styles, this knife takes inspiration from the parr—the young, agile stage of a salmon—symbolizing readiness, efficiency, and adaptability. Built as a small but capable fixed blade, the Parr is engineered for utility cutting, light outdoor tasks, and dependable daily carry.
With its 3.12-inch reverse tanto blade, lightweight construction, and striking Tiffany Blue G10 handle, the Parr stands out both visually and functionally. It is a knife made for users who want confidence in their carry without unnecessary bulk.
Design Philosophy: Small, Functional, and Purpose-Built
The Parr is intentionally compact, designed to fit seamlessly into an EDC lifestyle while maintaining the strength and reliability of a fixed blade. Its reverse tanto blade features a straight cutting edge that excels in utility work, controlled slicing, and even light game processing.
Despite its size, the knife feels substantial and well-balanced in hand. The streamlined profile allows for precise cuts in tight spaces, while the flat grind enhances cutting efficiency across a wide range of materials. This is a knife that prioritizes control, accuracy, and practicality.
About the Designer: Jonathan Styles
Jonathan Styles is a knife designer from Newfoundland, Canada, whose lifelong connection to the outdoors deeply influences his work. A hunter, fisherman, hiker, and explorer, Jonathan draws inspiration directly from nature. His philosophy centers on functional art—tools that are not only visually appealing but built to perform reliably in real environments.
With a background in various artistic disciplines such as painting, woodworking, carving, and design, knife making became a natural extension of his creative expression. The Parr reflects this blend of artistry and purpose, resulting in a blade that feels organic, efficient, and thoughtfully engineered.
Blade Performance: 14C28N Steel Done Right
At the heart of the Parr is a 3.12-inch blade forged from 14C28N stainless steel, a material known for its excellent balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
The flat grind promotes clean slicing, while the blackwash finish helps hide wear and minor scratches from regular use. The reverse tanto tip provides added strength for detailed work, making it ideal for tasks that require precision and durability.
Handle and Ergonomics
The Tiffany Blue G10 handle scales are both visually striking and highly functional. G10 is known for its durability, resistance to moisture, and ability to maintain grip in varying conditions.
The handle is contoured for comfort, allowing it to accommodate both small and large hands comfortably. Strategic jimping along the spine enhances control during push cuts and fine work, making the Parr easy to handle even during extended use. Despite weighing only 2.34 ounces, the knife feels secure and confidence-inspiring.
Carry System: Precision-Molded Kydex Sheath
Included with the Parr is a custom-molded Kydex sheath, designed for secure retention and quick access. Lightweight and discreet, the sheath allows for belt or pack carry and keeps the blade protected when not in use.
The sheath’s slim profile complements the knife’s compact design, making it ideal for everyday carry without discomfort or excess bulk.
Performance Cut Testing (Detailed Evaluation)
To fully assess the real-world capability of the Tenable Parr Fixed Blade Knife (G011B3), the blade was put through a comprehensive series of cutting tests designed to simulate everyday carry, utility, and light outdoor use. Each test highlights how the 3.12” reverse tanto 14C28N blade performs across different materials.
- Paper Cut Test
Result: Excellent The Parr glided cleanly through standard printer paper using both push cuts and slicing motions.
Comment: The flat grind and straight cutting edge produce crisp, controlled cuts with no tearing, indicating a well-executed factory edge and excellent blade geometry.
- Hair Shaving Test
Result: Passed The blade easily shaved arm hair without snagging or pressure.
Comment: This confirms a keen edge right out of the box and demonstrates the blade’s ability to handle fine, precise cutting tasks.
- Cardboard Cut Test
Result: Very Good The knife sliced through single- and double-wall corrugated cardboard efficiently.
Comment: The reverse tanto design keeps the cutting edge stable and predictable, making the Parr ideal for repeated utility cuts such as box breakdown and packaging work.
- Rope Cut Test
Result: Excellent Nylon rope and paracord were cut cleanly using both snap cuts and controlled slicing.
Comment: The 14C28N steel maintains edge integrity when cutting fibrous materials, showing strong edge retention and minimal drag.
- Denim Cut Test
Result: Very Good The blade cut through folded denim with steady pressure and minimal resistance.
Comment: The straight edge and flat grind bite well into dense fabrics, proving effective for tougher everyday materials like jeans, canvas, or workwear.
- Hardened Plastic (White Straw) Shaving Test
Result: Passed The Parr shaved thin curls from a rigid white plastic straw.
Comment: This test highlights edge refinement and sharpness consistency, showing the blade can perform detailed slicing without slipping.
- Wood Cut Test
Result: Good The knife handled light wood cutting and notching effectively.
Comment: While not a heavy bushcraft blade, the Parr performs well for light carving, camp prep, and utility wood tasks thanks to its rigid spine and ergonomic handle.
- Can Cut Test
Result: Passed (Controlled Use) The knife punctured and cut aluminum can material successfully.
Comment: The reinforced reverse tanto tip provides confidence during piercing tasks, though this test confirms durability rather than recommended daily use.
Specifications
- Overall Length: 6.38″ / 162mm
- Blade Length: 3.12″ / 79.2mm
- Blade Thickness: 0.137″ / 3.5mm
- Blade Material: 14C28N Stainless Steel
- Blade Style: Reverse Tanto
- Blade Grind: Flat Grind
- Blade Finish: Blackwash
- Handle Material: G10
- Color: Tiffany Blue
- Lock Type: Fixed Blade
- Weight: 2.34 oz / 66.3 g
- Model Name: Parr
- Model Number: G011B3
- Designer: Jonathan Styles
- Bonus: Kydex Sheath
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Excellent Blade Steel (14C28N) Offers a great balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and easy sharpening—ideal for everyday carry and outdoor use.
- Compact and Lightweight Design At just 2.34 oz, the Parr is easy to carry all day without fatigue, making it a true pocket-friendly fixed blade.
- Reverse Tanto Blade Geometry The straight cutting edge excels at utility tasks, cardboard breakdown, rope cutting, and precise control work.
- Strong, Confidence-Inspiring Fixed Blade No moving parts means superior strength and reliability compared to folding knives in similar size ranges.
- Ergonomic G10 Handle The contoured handle provides a secure, comfortable grip for both small and large hands, even during extended use.
- Excellent Control and Precision Spine jimping and thoughtful handle shaping allow for fine cutting tasks, feathering, and detailed work.
- Quality Kydex Sheath Included Lightweight, secure, and versatile for belt or pack carry, offering quick access and solid blade retention.
- Great Value for Performance Delivers premium materials and thoughtful design at an accessible price point.
- Designed by an Experienced Outdoorsman Jonathan Styles’ real-world outdoor background is clearly reflected in the knife’s practical design.
❌ Cons
- Limited Blade Length for Heavy Tasks The 3.12″ blade is excellent for EDC but may feel short for larger bushcraft or heavy chopping tasks.
- No Finger Guard While the handle is secure, users performing hard thrust cuts should remain mindful of hand placement.
- Not Designed for Heavy Batoning Best suited for light wood work rather than aggressive batoning or survival-level abuse.
- Color May Not Suit All Users The Tiffany Blue G10, while eye-catching, may not appeal to those who prefer a more subdued tactical look.
- Fixed Blade Carry Not for Everyone Some users may prefer the discretion and convenience of a folding knife depending on local carry laws.
Final Verdict
The Tenable Parr Fixed Blade Knife – G011B3 proves that a small knife can deliver big performance. With its nature-inspired design, premium materials, excellent cutting efficiency, and lightweight carry profile, it stands out as an exceptional EDC fixed blade.
Whether you’re handling daily utility tasks, heading outdoors, or simply appreciating thoughtful knife design, the Parr offers reliability, precision, and style in one compact package.
For more information and other designs, visit https://www.tenableknives.com/.
Sin City Press 