Best fixed blade hunting knives according to redditors
We found 944 Reddit comments discussing the best fixed blade hunting knives. We ranked the 347 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 944 Reddit comments discussing the best fixed blade hunting knives. We ranked the 347 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
![Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Knife, Serrated Edge [31-000751]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/410zcwxCPXL.jpg)
The classic Companion is a sore dick deal - you just can't beat it!!
I have had a shitty week so I treated myself to a grab bag. Probably won't get anything super great, but I hear it is fun to sort it all out. Thanks Op.
Edit: Thanks for whoever gave me gold! Long story short, this knife will cut the nerve in your finger with the slightest slip up and will require surgical repair.
I wouldn't recommend a "titanium" knife, firstly because for $10, it's not titanium. It's probably some chinesium knife that won't hold an edge very well. Secondly I don't recall Camillus having a great reputation due to materials and QC.
If you're looking for a good budget knife, I know Ka-Bar and Becker make good ones, and if you can swing an Izula, that would be my choice. Here are some links. Izula Ka-Bar 1 Ka-Bar 2 Ka-Bar 3.
The reason I'm recommending Ka-Bar and ESEE is that they both use 1095 carbon steel which is an excellent choice in toughness and edge retention. I almost forgot Mora, a superb Swedish knife that is renowned for its steel and edge retention, and used worldwide by folks in the workforce and outdoors communities.
The ESEE and Ka-Bars will run you $40-$60, and the mora will run you about $15. You can get Moras and Izulas at Cabelas, but Amazon is also great. Good luck.
Anything else I need to know to care for them? I just ordered one of these and an Opinel aside from keeping them dry anything else they need?
You're asking a very broad question while looking for specifics, making it very hard to pinpoint an answer. I'll give my advice on bug out bag items.
The bag itself - Should be a solid backpacking bag. Keep it light enough that it's manageable. For a very fit individual, the max weight should be your body weight divided by 3. Most of us are not that fit, so adjust accordingly. It should have hip support, well stitched straps, several compartments and a way to attach things to the outside (molle webbing, carabiner loops or exterior straps). Should be weatherproof.
Water - Depends entirely on your location. I live in Canada - Land of lakes and rivers. I wont need to carry a ton of water all the time. I've got a sawyer squeeze as my primary water filter. The collapsible water bottles it comes with work great for water storage as well. Wife and daughter carry a lifestraw as backups. We have some iodine drops as well.
As far as water carrying devices go, i find nalgene bottles work great. Theyre light and strong, and come in various sizes. A canteen is great if you want to use it to cook over a fire. Its not a bad idea either to have a large (5 litre+) collapsible water container. They're plastic and light. I havn't used mine extensively enough to recommend.
Sharp Things - I've got a Kabar as my primary fixed blade. It's tried and true. Good metal, full tang. I've got a leatherman wave multitool. Carry it everyday on my belt. Super handy. I should really add a 3-4" folding knife to my pack as sometimes the kabar is too big, and the multitool is hard to clean.
I also carry a Cold steel shovel. I looked into folding shovels, and they didnt seem reliable. Moving parts means they're more likely to fail. I haven't used this one extensively, but the few times i have tried it, its done an excellent job. If your pack's too heavy, put this one in your car.
Food - Your typical protein bars, dried rice/bean mix, snickers, small jar of PB, oatmeal and dehydrated fruit. A small bit of olive oil packs a ton of calories and adds flavour. It's good to have a small container of salt and pepper, or other spices to add flavour. You can grab MRE's or those mountainhouse dried meals, but theyre expensive. If you regularly buy pepperettes or jerkey, stick some in your bag and rotate it out when you buy it next. Multivitamins can keep you up if youre not getting a ton of food, but dont rely on them. Bring any meds you need, as well as tylenol or aspirin.
Hygiene - Pack a couple rolls of TP. Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant (chuck if too much weight), wash cloth, soap, soap for clothing, feminine products (if applicable), couple garbage bags (can separate dirty clothes), wet wipes, lip balm, hand sanitizer. Sun screen and bug spray in small bottles.
Clothing - Carry at least 7 pairs of good socks. Some warm ones if the location's cold. Extra shirts, underwear are essential. Pants/shorts and sweater are optional (besides whatever you're wearing). Stick your clothing in a waterproof sack. Try to keep only clean, dry clothes in there (no airflow + damp = mold).
-Paracord and rope
-Carabiners
-Sewing kit
-Tent patching kit (if you have a tent or a tarp)
-Tarp (who saw that coming). Doesn't have to be massive. Just know how to set it up to keep you dry.
-Fire Source. Have many. Lighters are cheap, stash away a bunch (7?). The lighter leash is awesome. You should be able to find that cheap at a corner store. Storm matches, for when its rainy. I think these are what I got. You can light them in any weather, put them under water, and they'll still be lit. Not a bad idea to carry regualr matches in a waterproof container. Firestarter packets are great. I just soak cotton balls in Vaseline. Flint and steel is cool, but only useful if youve exhausted all other fire starting methods.
-Super Glue
-Safety pins
-Zip ties
-Light. Hand crank flashlight is awesome. If you have a battery powered one, carry spare batteries. The mini maglite has a belt holster. Those small LED flashlights are great too. Grab a few glowsticks.
-fork and spoon
-emergency blanket or emergency sleeping bag. Only useful if you're SOL.
-poncho
-sleeping bag for your location. If its warm you don't need this. Can use a hammock or sleeping pad. Try and keep these small as they take up a ton of space.
-Compass. Useful if you have a map.
-Map of your location/where youre going.
-Signal mirror and a good whistle.
-Fishing supplies. I've got an emmrod. You can put a fairly small cheap reel on here. I've got the shimano ix2000. It casts a pretty good distance. Hooks, weights, bobs etc. Can all fit in small waterproof containers or camera film containers. Dont forget line! Mines already on the reel. A fishing vest gives you lots of little pockets to keep things in arms reach.
-First Aid kit. There's extensive lists online depending on how large you want it. Some gauze, band aids, polysporin, burn cream are a good start. Try and build it yourself, don't buy the gimmikey premade ones. Keep yours in a waterproof Tupperware container.
-Tiny roll of Gorilla Tape
-Games. Some dice and a deck of cards go a long way. Don't underestimate the value of laughter. If a sudden collapse ever happens, these might save you from depression.
-Headlamp. I've got this rayovac one (i think). Seems easy on batteries and has lasted a few camping trips. Haven't put serious use on it tho.
-Eating equipment. A mug and a small plate go a long way. A folding pan goes a long way, but is heavy. I would love to learn to use a pressure cooker over fires.
-Handkerchief or travel kleenex
-Bandanas. 3 of them.
-Bungee cords can be useful, but they run the risk of snapping and taking out an eye.
-Ziplock bags are handy. Keeps a lot of small things organized and dry.
-Pencils, Pens, notepad/book, sharpie.
-Hatchet is useful, but heavy. Take one if you can. The sven saw is awesome and hasn't broke on me yet.
-Spare pair of glasses (if applicable)
-Some sort of firearm is almost necessary. I don't have one yet, but i was planning on a 10/22 takedown. It's small and easy to pack. Bullets are light. If you need more stopping power than a .22, you're in a heap of trouble. Guns are not my specialty (can you guess), so ill leave it up to you
-In lieu of a firearm, you could grab a crossbow. If that's still too much, a good slingshot will do great.
-phone booklet and address's. In case your phone craps out and you cant charge it.
-A small windable clock is great. A solar watch is better. I think thats the one i have.
All this stuff is useless unless you know how to use it. Do your research, take some courses. Learn the necessary skills to survive, because that's what's really necessary. I like Les Stroud's (survivorman) book Survive!. Learn to tie knots, fish, hunt, forage, fight, build a fire in all conditions, etc.
If you have questions on the use of any of the above items, ask away. Any advice or suggestions, I welcome those too.
A knife specifically for defensive use needs some unique features that a typical EDC knife designed for opening boxes and stuff won't have. Specifically, you need to be able to take it, bare-handed, and slam it down on something hard like a piece of wood as hard as you can.
Most knives can't do that because your hand will slip onto the blade and you'll slice your hand open (unless you're using what I'd call an unnatural grip). So a defensive knife needs a finger choil or a guard. It should also be fixed-blade. The assumption that I think you should make when looking for a defensive knife is that your attacker is already on top of you, and you'll only have one hand and fairly limited dexterity to deploy it, so a folding knife won't work well. Plus, folding knives don't typically have a guard or choil.
As you can imagine, it's tough to get a guard on a knife that's small enough for EDC, especially concealed. (Really, who wants to walk around open-carrying a giant knife?)
Here are three recommendations, in descending order of price:
Spyderco's Street Beat
ShivWorks Clinch Pick
Ka-Bar TDI
None of them are quite as badass or tacticool as a giant 5" serrated tanto, but there's a reason that serious trained self-defense instructors will recommend stuff like these.
Dude my bear grylls knife put a hole in my undies when I had it shoved into my waist band (no sheath b/c I am la ultralight).
BTW, I am another 1 kilo/2.2lb lighter because I didnt notice how sharp that knife is....
Here is the list of gear. It is meant for both myself and my wife, so I doubled up in some places. (Links where I have them)
Total Combined weight 27.4969375 Lbs (assuming my measurements are correct, couldn't get a good read on the tent so I had to use manufacturer info)
Stuff I don't have yet, but which I plan to include as I get them:
As noted, this might be worth a look OP. Personally I think you'll be able to use that knife you bought, but you'll find it will wear down or break. Not because it can't cut, but because it isn't designed for heavy use. Just keep that in mind. Anyway here's the Mora people are talking about.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004TNWD40/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1484813998&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=mora+blades&dpPl=1&dpID=31hduVz10IL&ref=plSrch
Edit: and everyone in this sub has bought a knife just like yours (we aren't trying to be assholes, we just are naturally occurring assholes). There's a reason we're recommending something else.
Everyone loves a Morakniv
This kind of folding saw is great for camp-scale stuff. And a nice 4" fixed blade knife that you can baton with is all you need to split it. I've heard this is a good starter knife for bushcrafting but I haven't got to use mine yet.
Condor Tool & Knife, Bushlore Camp Knife, 4-5/16in Blade, Hardwood Handle with Sheath https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_oLEYDb7EX5494
I know this answer gets teased for being ubiquitous...but a great first knife in this arena is a Morakniv Companion. It's very hard to beat in terms of quality-to-price ratio.
Don't worry about a sawback knife....especially since you said you already have a good handsaw. I haven't seen one that saws worth a damn anyway.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
I have this knife and it is well made and reliable and great starter knife.
Here's a few things I've bought off Amazon that I've been really happy with:
Minus33 Merino Wool Day Hiker Sock
Magnesium Fire Starter
Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Carbon Steel Blade
Nalgene Translucent Wide Mouth Bottle With Blue Lid
Outdoor Products 3-Pack Ultimate Dry Sack
Rayovac Sportsman 22 Lumen 1AAA Headlight
Adventure Medical Kits Adventure First Aid 2.0
Suunto M-3 D/L Compass
For the money, it's hard to wrong with a Mora. Amazing value in a darn tough and well-made knife.
Other than the mora those are all pretty poor knives. Also see here.
I believe the regulation is any blade over 2.5" is illegal to carry in Boston. I carry a KABAR TDI shorty which is just under the limit.
http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-KB1480-TDI-Enforcement-Knife/dp/B003IXYW3M
Edit: Here is the City of Boston Law:
16-45.1 Carrying of Weapons Prohibited.
No person, except as provided by law, shall carry on his person, or carry under his control in a vehicle, any knife having any type of blade in excess of two and one-half (2½ ) inches, ice picks, dirks or similar weapons that are likely to penetrate through police officer's ballistic vests, or other object or tool so redesigned, fashioned, prepared or treated that the same may be used to inflict bodily harm or injury to another, except:
a. When actually engaged in hunting or fishing or any employment, trade or lawful recreational or culinary activity which customarily involves the carrying or use of any type of knife, or
b. In going directly to and/or returning directly from such activities, or
c. If the knife is being transported directly to or from a place of purchase, sharpening, or repair, and if packaged in such a manner as not to allow easy access to the knife while it is being transported.
No person, except as provided by law, shall carry on his person, or carry under his control in a vehicle, a machete. For purposes of this section, "machete" means a heavy knife at least eighteen (18) inches in length and having a blade at least one and one-half (1.5) inches wide at its broadest measurement. This subsection shall not apply to carrying a machete on one's person or in a vehicle if the machete is carried for the purpose of cutting vegetation or if the machete is being transported for the purpose of cutting vegetation.
mora companion is an inexpensive and extremely reliable bush knife. You can get it in high carbon steel or stainless depending on your preference. Its really hard to beat for the price. I have take used and abused mine and its still holding up very well.
https://www.amazon.ca/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
The wilderness is probably where you need self-defense tools the least of anywhere in your life, but if that aspect is important to you, I won’t argue it any further.
That said, it’s a bad knife. Just cheap tacticool crap, not meant for any serious use. It’s liable to fall apart mid-use (one of the reviews even mentioned the locking mechanism failed resulting in injury). Can’t imagine much worse than trying to defend yourself and cutting your hand on your own faulty knife.
Something like a Morakniv is cheap but sturdy and well-made. Would work well for both camping uses and self defense (keep it on your belt and you don’t even have to flip the blade open to use it). Saves an ounce or so and is a massive upgrade to practical capability.
Alternately, a SAK Classic and a small thing of pepper spray is similarly cheap, saves 2-3 ounces, and is probably more effective for self-defense than a cheap flippy knife.
Here is what would use for $100 USD. All prices are via Amazon/Wal-mart
Pack: OutLander Lightweight Day Pack - Cheap, Lightweight and would get the job done for a GHB ($18)
Cutting: Morakniv Companion - Cheap and Mora makes some of the best knives ($12)
Combustion: Storm Matches ($6), All-weather matches($0.75), 2 Bic Lighters($2), and some Wetfire($6)
Cover: 3 Emergency Blankets($2)
Container: Back pack listed above, 6 bottles of water ($3), Single layer stainless steel bottle($7)
Cordage: 100 Feet of 550 ($6), Duct tape ($3)
Candlelight: 2 LED Lights ($4-12)
Consumables: 6 Cliff bars ($6), 3 %-Hour Energy ($6), Bag of trail Mix ($6)
Clothing: 2 Extra Pair of socks ($2), 2 pair Gloves ($7), 2 Hats ($10)
Communication: 3 Road Flares ($6) Signaling Mirror ($3)
Cash: $40-100 is recommended but this is optional.
Everything I have there (Cash excluded) should cost around $120. You can save money by making your own Wetfire with cotton balls and petroleum jelly. And the food can probably be replaced with cheaper items. I just put stuff I am comfortable with. Same is true with the flashlights, you could grab 4 of the $1
Wal-mart lights they are great for short term use and would cut out another $8.
Buy stuff in bulk when it is available too this will cut down cost.
Something every car should already have, but it worth the extra $10-20 is a small first aid kit or 2.
Can't beat a $14 Mora Companion, comes in stainless or high carbon. Comes shaving sharp. http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/
Mora Companion. The value on these knives is pretty nuts, I keep thinking that prices will eventually go up because you get so much blade for the money. Great carver and slicer due to the scandi edge, and the carbon steel blade it tough and can take light batoning without issue.
Watch a few reviews online, pretty much all raving, and for good reason.
I'd recommend the Buck 119.
Great USA made bowie style blade with time proven design and classic looks.
I'm sure it will serve you well, whether you choose to use it for hunting or for other tasks.
As you may or may not have recognized, this is the Condor Bushlore. Its blade is .125” thick made from 1075 carbon steel. The handle scales are walnut and the pins are brass (I think). The sheath is leather with stainless pins. These pictures are what it looks like after a weekend of extremely hard use in very damp conditions—I’ll talk more about this later. I took the pictures right after I cleaned it back up, and re-sharpened it.
I have been collecting knives for a while, and have quite a few, but did not own EVEN ONE fixed blade. I had a camping trip in the Finger Lakes region of NY, so I decided to pony up a whopping $31 and order one off amazon. When it arrived, the overwhelmingly positive reviews for the sheath were confirmed (it feels very high quality) as were the so-so reviews for the fit and finish of the knife itself. If you are looking for a fixed blade knife that is great to look at and fun to fondle, this might not be the knife for you. There is noticeable staining on the uneven handle scales, the pins and lanyard holes have grind marks on them (but are smooth to the touch), the grind is not a true Scandi (the blade had a secondary bevel when I received it, but it’s not a big deal, because I re-profiled it anyway), and the primary grind is actually uneven (this was brought out when I re-profiled it, one of the pictures shows this), and it came incredibly dull (hence the re-profiling).
So, how did it perform in the field? Very well! On two consecutive nights, in very damp conditions, it batoned through logs almost as thick as the blade is long, split about 9 bundles worth of wood (no-one had a hatchet) and performed other, less strenuous tasks like making wood shavings for kindling, carving tent stakes, and opening food packages etc. It was very comfortable to use, and held a good working edge for all of this. Now because it is carbon steel it did develop some significant surface rust, but that cleaned up very easily in just a few minutes.
In closing, this is a great camp knife for an incredible value. If you can get past the cosmetic imperfections, it’s an awesome little knife.
Let me know if you guys have any questions!
Edit: Just realized your looking for an EDC Knife. To split kindling? My post revolves around your first knife to go out into the bush. An EDC knife should just a small folder for when you open those fancy amazon boxes. Don't need a fixed blade knife for EDC purposes, but if your gonna be out in the woods messing around I'd follow what I said.
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IMO a Mora companion should be your first knife. They are 10 bucks. The one linked is a carbon steel version, if you are gonna be around water a lot get the stainless steel version. The stainless steel version will
rustdull quicker. Edit: Was a typo, it definitely wont rust quicker lol. Get it if you are around water because it WONT rust, but the edge will dull quicker, this is why knowing how to sharpen in the field is important. I mean you can get through a day with a dull knife, but it's never fun.This won't be the best knife in the world, but it's the best beginners knife, it can do all the basic tasks and work well for $10, so if you smack a rock, chip it somehow or end up messing it up when sharpening you can buy another one. Practice sharpening! This is a big one, you don't want to get a $100 knife and mess up sharpening it - anything is fixable but you don't want to do that with an expensive knife and start taking off too much steel and what not.
I'd recommend a Mora companion, and whatever sharpening method you want. A decent, cheap stone is the Fallkniven DC3. There are better stones - but they require oils (or water) and you have to go through two or three types of stones and all these other things. Not to mention they are heavy and bulky. DC3 is small and you can take it with you.
If someone else wants to go more indepth on other sharpening methods and stones, please do so, I've had the same ones for a few decades and am not up-to-date on the tech.
Also strops, I had a local leatherworking shop make one for me, I've never found good ones online, or good leather to make your own. If you are familiar with good ones, feel free to link them.
-This was generous gift from my SO's mom. It may not be the best tent out there, but at free it can't be beat.
-Got this for its small size and light weight. Future winter camping trips are a possibility, in which case I plan on snagging a wool blanket of sleeping bag liner.
-Simple basic sleeping pad, I've been using these since scouts and have wanted for nothing more, especially because of its light weight.
-In the event of winter camping, is this enough to insulate from the ground? If not, what could be added to my sleep system to keep me insulated from the ground?
-Lightweight and simple, these were cheap and seemed straight forward.
-They stack with the majority of either piece's empty space facing each other, allowing for decently dry storage for matches etc. inside.
-Comes with a tight fitting mesh ditty bag
-Another straight forward and cheap piece,
-This is really an optional piece, I plan on bringing it along on trips with big groups or when cooking meat is in the cards.
-These are the camping gold standard in my book, been using them since scouts.
-Came in a decently affordable combo pack, plan on using them for food/toiletries storage and bear bags.
-Love this little knife, cheap but durable and was a shaver straight out of the box.
-Came with a super thick plastic sheath
9)Hatchet: Estwing Hatchet - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004TNWD40?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00
-Heard this was a classic, people say they've still got the one's their grandfather's used. It's heavy, but I'm happy with the tradeoff.
-Got it sharpened well enough to cleanly slice through paper at the moment
-Great sharpener, pretty much the go to field sharpener from what I've gathered.
-Only took a couple minutes to learn how to use, the only hard part is consistently following the bevel through each stroke, but it gets easier.
-Very great, medium size towels with their own tote
-Seems great, picked it up at REI physical store then read reviews and got spooked, we'll see though, a minority of the reviewers swear by it.
-Just in case it sucks, any suggestions for a collapsible water container of equal size/price?
-These came free with my water filter, and they have many good reviews. If they do well, I may buy some extras.
-More showing of my primitivist ass, and I thought I could take some weight off of my SO by carrying enough water for the two of us.
-Got these a long time ago when I knew less, they are pretty bulky and my first item I want to replace
-SO's mom gifted this this Christmas, so amazing and thoughtful, one of the best gifts I've ever gotten and I love the color
-Pack of flashlights (might not bring all four) - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00V639BNC?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01
Items not shown:
-Always a tin or bag of Drum Tobacco and papers
-Kindle, old generation one
-Collapsible trowel
-Paracord
-Burlap shoulder bag for gathering kindling etc
Items still wanted (suggestions greatly appreciated):
-Knife for SO
-Work gloves
-Plastic flasks for booze
-Belt pouch
-Higher quality tarp
-Knife Sharpener
-Sleeping bag liner or wool blanket
-Any food suggestions!
-Rain cover for pack
-Smell proof food bags
I don't have much experience outside of scouts, so I'm very open to critique of my setup. I will warn that I am very much into primitivism, and camping for me is a gateway to a backcountry, esthetic lifestyle I one day I hope to live, so some of my gear choices may not always be the most efficient. Any advice from a primitivist or purist standpoint is doubly appreciated.
You should add a few basic tools, screw driver, wrench, and fixed blade knife if this is for a VEDC. I also always keep duct tape and a few zipties in my car. Zipties are super handy for quick fixes and repairs like engine hoses coming lose etc.
A sturdy inexpensive knife to add would be something like a morakniv http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
Mora all the way. If you want to spend more, upgrade to the
Morakniv Bushcraft with a 50% thicker blade, firesteel, and sharpener.
EDIT - another excellent value (I'd argue highly undervalued) knife is the Gerber Strongarm. Check reviews online. Gerber hit a home run... even the sheath is top notch and multifunction. (MOLLE, vertical or horizontal belt attachment, you name it)
Disclosure: I have a Mora "Light My Fire" as my camp kitchen knife and two Strongarms for general camp use. The Light My Fire is more like the $15 Mora with + firesteel. The Morakniv Bushcraft is a much heavier duty blade.
Some people are very particular about their knives and what they use them for but I think that everyone should own a Mora. It is a very sharp knife that can be used for food prep all the way to just carving or whittling. The plus side is that they are light weight and they are cheap! Do yourself a favor and pick one up (it doesn't necessarily have to be the one that I linked).
The one I use.
I have had this Buck Knife for years. It has never let me down...
You don't need a permit or background check to buy this either: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00NZ8O1AY/ref=redir_mdp_mobile/186-1579615-2750736
But it is also a lethal weapon, not a toy. Same with this: http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M
So I don't think that a background check is what makes the difference between a toy and a weapon.
It is true that kids typically don't get shot for holding a baseball bat or ball, but they can get shot for making a sudden movement which the officer interprets as agression, even if they are unarmed. Brightly colored guns are no replacement for knowing how to act properly around police to avoid being seen as an imminent threat.
Kabar. This thing rocks. http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1/179-0098751-3301458?ie=UTF8&qid=1382740719&sr=8-1&keywords=kabar
I have the esee 5 (very similar to the BK2) and it is a big bad boy. the quarter inch thick makes it a beast at spliting via batoning or chopping. down side... it has a big fat edge that can kinda feel bulky when doing finer work... Honestly, I would look into a cheaper (yet very good blades) like a Mora or a Condor Bushlore... my pick would be the bushlore b/c of the grind and full tang but Moras are very good.
Then from there after using those blades a lot you'll get an idea of what you really want in your next blade.
the skyline is a great choice.
Spyderco persistance is another great choice. 29$ below.
http://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Persistence-C136GP-Plain-Knife/dp/B002IWWYS4
Are you primarily just interested in folders? if fixed blade knives appeal to you Becker bk14 is another wonderful knife for 34$
http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-BK14-Becker-Knife-Eskabar/dp/B004CIQY6K
Even cheaper in Carbon Steel
Edit: or carbon with a thicker blade
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
Now personally I would sy you dont need a firestarter. What I've always carried is a zippo lighter, with a butane insert from thunderbird.
http://www.amazon.com/Zippo-236-Black-Crackle-Lighter/dp/B0006L8MTY/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1459002537&sr=1-1&keywords=zippo+black+crackle 13$
http://www.amazon.com/Thunderbird-Vector-Lighter-Insert-Regular/dp/B009Z2GB16/ref=pd_sim_121_3?ie=UTF8&dpID=31pq1fa90ML&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR118%2C160_&refRID=1PQJGAE9NZ4JFTX7E6YS 13$
The butane insert isnt really necessary, but I prefer butane over the liquid that zippos typically use because they don't evaporate.
I agree with the BK2, but for something closer to your price range, add 5 bucks to it and get a Buck 119..I love this knife...Perfect for hunting, fishing and general shanking.
Buck 119
You might consider the Condor Bushlore, especially if he's just getting into bushcraft, or even at an intermediate level. http://www.amazon.com/Condor-Bushlore-4-375-Inch-Walnut-Leather/dp/B002CC6BPM
Edit: I also agree that the Mora Classic is excellent and at the right price point, but I think the Condor Bushlore is also an excellent value and is in a few ways a step-up from the Mora. Its full tang, larger, and has an excellent leather sheath.
condor bushlore
If you're willing to spend 200 then go custom although at that point you're only getting style.
It is actually more expensive than the Bear Grylls' knife
Get a new knife, mate. Bear Grylls series knives are incredibly horrible and sooner or later you'll be using it and it'll break when you need it the most- quite possibly hurting you in the process. As a matter of fact, almost all Gerber knives are garbage. For a similar knife but actually good check out the Kabar Eskabar. Sorry to be rude, but I'm a big believer in trying to prevent people from hurting themselves.
You can find super reviews on just about any Mora knife at Amazon, but here's one example:
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
Honestly, just get this Mora for a fraction of the price. It's an incredible knife.
Especially when you can get an actually good knife for not that much more.
A Mora Companion is 14 bucks, and pretty solid.
If you want a cheap folder that doesn't suck, there's the 3.95 Tan Flipper from Wal-mart.
Ben perso j'ai beaucoup appris de youtubeurs comme Survival Lilly, TA Outdoors et MCQ Bushcraft, il y aussi des français comme Chartreuse Nature ou Blackwolf Chris (plus brut de décoffrage, mais que je recommande pour les gueuletons qu'il se bricole dans la forêt), et on trouve de nombreux sites et ouvrages sur le sujet.
Question matos si tu randonne sérieux tu devrais avoir le plus important, mais il faut surtout un bon couteau (ce qui ne veut pas forcement dire cher, le MoraKniv Companion est un classique très robuste qui coute environ 15 boules), voire une hachette si tu veux beaucoup construire, et les essentiels de la rando (trousse de secours, popotte, tente ou hamac, tapis de sol, etc...). Perso je m'équipe beaucoup en surplus militaire, c'est bien moins cher, souvent plus robuste et plus pratique que du Décathlon de luxe. Après tout dépend de ce que tu veux faire, si t'a des questions n'hésites pas!
Definitely don't get that.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-4-1-Inch-Military/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=mora&psc=1&qid=1572336720&sr=8-3
Mora is the best budget knife you can get. It will take a beating and it's affordable.
Not sure about folder brands if that's what you're looking for.
It's not exactly Ultralight but at 3.8 oz / 110 gr. You get a good quality fixed blade thats inexpensive. Morakniv Companion
Columbia River Knife and Tool 2805 Civet Bowie Straight Edge Fixed Blade Knife https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BAJIUDI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_NzhyybH17SRD2
But I also bought this one for my wife if I had to choose, I'd get that instead:
Columbia River Knife and Tool 2388 Folts S.P.E.W Fixed Blade Razor Edge Knife https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006SK0SP8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_IAhyybBT96CGY
Well, it's a bit out of your price range, but it's tough to go wrong with the Condor Heavy Duty Kukri.
For significantly less, you can try the Cold Steel Kukri Machete.
I understand that the OKC Kukri is very nice, too.
Happy hunting!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mora_knife
http://www.moraofsweden.se/products/adventure
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1376643555&sr=1-1&keywords=mora+knife
And 3. This one is about a Mora:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/review/B004TNWD40/RSJ70KJINV3ML/ref=aw_cr_R2IM3JBBZAZV8R?cursor=12
Cant go wrong with a Kukri https://www.amazon.com/1064206-Ontario-Knife-OKC-Kukri/dp/B00519UT42
Ka-Bar Becker BK2
Ontario RAT-3
Becker BK-16
Depending how big of a knife you want
If you really want a monster sized knife, sure. But I'd definitely get the carbon steel version that some others have suggested as well. It sounds like their quality isn't too bad.
However, I don't know if I'd really want to take something that huge hiking. Maybe SHTF-type hiking I suppose.
A couple of knives that I'd think would be similar priced or less (and have proven reputations) and would slightly more practically fall into the "only 1" category:
Good luck regardless!
Mora is coming out with two full tang knives soon, I'm not sure how soon you're wanting to purchase this knife, but if you've got time, Mora currently has a lot of really really cheap options for smaller companion knives that may not be exactly what you're looking for, but since they're like 10$ I had to say something about them, I have four and use them all more than any expensive knife I own.
The BK10 has many variations, a lot of which do come with secondary handle scales included, not sure what specifically you don't like about the scales, just thought I'd let you know.
The RD6 is a good option, I would consider the little things with this knife, Esee is supposed to be an upgrade from Ontario as its founder designed the RAT series by Ontario and left to make better knives. The Ranger series has a lot of options, and if you like all the small things about this knife (the pommel, grind, choil, thickness), I would look at smaller knives in the ranger series. I spend a lot of time using knives outside, and I always prefer a knife between 3-4". The RD6 is pretty massive, a lot of people buy an Esee 6 (similar size to the RD6) and say they can really only use it for dicking around. I have a Benchmade 162 and even that feels a little too big for me, and that's coming from a big guy. That's not to say you wouldn't be able to use it effectively, but there's a happy medium for outdoor fixed blade size, and this steps out of that medium. The RD4 is probably a much better option IF you like this design.
I came here to advise you to get an Esee instead of the ranger, but 5160 steel is a great steel and I honestly didn't know much about the ranger series. I don't know anything about their heat treat, and I do know that Esee's heat treat has a great reputation, so I would consider that if you're planning on really using the knife you purchase to it's fullest. I personally don't care for this style of knife (RAT, Ranger, Esee, Becker) because they all generally are flat grind knives with a coating (nothing wrong with flat grind its just a personal opinion), this coating is great to stop corrosion, at the cost of creating drag when working with wood. If you plan on cutting up a lot of sticks and making fires and whatnot, I would look at the Condor Bushlore, if you just want a companion knife to have with you, the RAT 3is much more cost effective than most Esee knives, and the difference is marginal. One of the smaller ka bar beckers, or the Ontario Tak 1are great options. I cannot find the RD4 on amazon, if you can find it somewhere else it is also a great choice.
$63 on amazon, prime shipping any day of the week.
And it won't take a month to get to you either. Massdrop is great for certain things but 90% of their drops are trash.
How about this one?? The few tests on youtube I've seen have been fairly positive.
https://www.amazon.ca/Condor-Tools-Knives-Heavy-10-Inch/dp/B007QUVJ84/ref=pd_sbs_200_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=D1RTS2Q6WKY259MPJ2W7
If you get it from Amazon you could have it by Tuesday.
Always check more than one site.
While I don't have experience with either one, I'd probably go with the CRKT by virtue of it being mass-produced.
If you'd want to get them a good fixed-blade knife instead, I'd check out the Mora Kansbol
Mora No. 2 Classic. Light, cheap, and great quality.
If you want something a little heavier get the 2000. This is a heavy duty knife, don't let the plastic handle fool you.
There are a lot of Ka Bar knockoffs. Even the new ones are very solid
Think most TWD knives are customs. That said its a USMC Ka-bar with a tanto blade. http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M
The Condor bushlore might be the sort of thing you're looking for.
Condor Bushlore
Morakniv Companion HD
You can also buy a 1075 Carbon Steel Condor Bushlore for $35.82 on Amazon.
It's a little less brittle than 1095, but that just means you'll get a little more practice with sharpening, and your blade will be less likely to chip or break.
Really, it depends on your preference of Stainless vs. Carbon Steel. Boker makes good knives, Stainless is just a bit more difficult to sharpen, but it won't rust.
The Condor Bushlore is another great knife in the thirty-forty dollar range. Heavier and more robust than a Mora, but still a pleasant looking, non threatening blade. The leather sheath is a nice bonus too. I love my moras, but i can't help but think of them as a little disposable.
As an avid Becker fan and owner, I have to say that the BK11 was a low point for the Brand.
I recommend going for a BK14 instead.
Lol, alright for example:
There are a LOT more suggestions I could add...
I'm pretty happy with my choices, and they come in right under $200:
EDC:
Camping/Survival:
I bought a Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Carbon Steel Blade, Military Green, 4.1-Inch a few years ago. I use it for meal prep because it's fixed blade and about the size of a kitchen prep knife. The Amazon site shows its use for camping tasks, too.
EDIT - just saw this has been recommended a few times already. Must be good!
Aye, it's such a shame I was so young when my grandfather passed. He had a stunning over-under that could've easily been mine, but I hadn't gotten into firearms at that point. Sucks he couldn't see me get older and grow a passion for it, and there aren't many other people in my family that are into that sort of thing. He was only in his 50's. Lucky I still have his Buck Special that I use regularly.
This is over 15, so it's not giftable in this contest, but my weirdest item is this fighting knife. I just want it because I feel like a knife is a useful thing to have. Not as a weapon, just as a tool. I like to camp. Also I'm afraid of bears. And zombies. (You never do know.)
My fave April Fool's prank I played was on my dad. First I stuck a funnel in the front of my jeans and a quarter on my head, and told my dad, "I bet I can get this quarter down the funnel." Then I tilted my head forward and it went into the funnel and down my pants. I did this a couple of times then told him, "Bet you can't do it!"
So he puts the funnel in his pants and the quarter on his head. ...And then I pour a glass of ice water down the funnel and into his pants. XDD
He was SO FREAKING MAD. oh my god. Hahahaha. He lost it. My mom and I were dying laughing and he was furious with both of us. He couldn't admit it'd been funny for four or five years. XDD
An embarrassing fact about me is that I once didn't have a pad with me in high school when my period started, so I used a folded paper towel. Later on I was walking down the hall and the bloody towel fell out of my underwear (I was wearing a skirt) and onto the floor in front of everyone at class time change. Egads!
That is a very large knife, almost 17" long, which is a bit big for my tastes. My favorite at the moment is a Gerber LMF II but the ubiquitous KA-BAR is also hard to beat.
Aw fuck, you just sicked Boooohjoke on me, must feel nice to be out of the crosshairs for once.
I will contribute a prize. To anyone who can take my tags 7 times (the number of times I took soundnerd's tags) in a match without being knifed by me, I offer a brand new KA-Bar to commemorate the occasion.
This one and a whole bunch of others like it.
Condor Bushlore
$150 is plenty of budget for a good knife. This one is just slightly over that budget but will last you the rest of your life. It's kind of my dream survival knife.
The Fallkniven F1 is very popular as well and right in your price range.
Currently I use this knife which is also very good.
If you want to go a little less expensive still, Becker makes some good ones such as the Bk16. I know the Becker doesn't look anything like "hand made", but I have the BK2- I used paint remover to take the black coating off the blade, replaced the plastic handles with micarta and stained it to look more like wood, and built a leather sheath for it. It's a beautiful knife now. Too bad it's so goddamn heavy.
You could also go with something like the Mora bushcraft. I have that one also, very decent knife.
You could even just get a regular Mora or a Condor bushlore which are even more economical options.
Not a big fan of a knife with a concave belly for any of the tasks you need in scouting. I think a drop point or scandi will see you much better. I'm a big fan of either a Morakniv or (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002CC6BPM/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468198196&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=Condor+Tools+%26+Knives&dpPl=1&dpID=41dcdqwt7QL&ref=plSrch)[this].
Here is the Amazon link with info
For fixed blade if you are gonna be using the knife for hard use then I would not recommend a folder. I'm more knowledgeable on folders so someone else may find a better choice. If they don't, this is still a very solid choice, I have never had one, but I did have an izula (which is very similar).
For folder I would go with the Ontario rat, they make this is d2 blade steel which would be better and they make a smaller version (rat 2) but any version of this knife you choose will be the best for the money.
Another fixed blade that is similar to picture is this Schrade. Schrade usually isn't the best company but 1095 is definitely a cheap, good steel. With the blade thickness and steel, I would trust this knife any day.
i have a BK2. It is insanely stout and thick. Quite heavy. Can be used as a pry bar. Butt could be used for smashing rocks. It will probably outlast me. I decided to mount it in my vehicle because it is too heavy to carry comfortably for long periods of time. But will be very handy for all sorts of hard tasks when I need it. It can chop wood and do pretty much anything you want it to. But it is more of a "jack of all trades, master of none." there are other knives that specialize in certain tasks and will perform better. For a dedicated wood chopper, it is a little bit too short. It is heavy enough but the weight is balanced towards the center of the full tang, not where it hits wood. It can do it. But a longer Becker would be a better chopper. I don't recall the model numbers but Becker has a lot of options. Also I cant speak to rust issues. Its very dry here.
​
I also have a SCHF9 which is a bit longer, with better shape and weight distribution for chopping. It is a cheap knife, yet very solid. Thickness is very close to the BK2. If it rusts or gets lost I would just buy a new one. The sheath is not great but there are options out there.
https://www.amazon.com/Schrade-SCHF9-Stainless-Survival-Everyday/dp/B0033H7VI6
Schrade SCHF9:
Bang for the buck if I ever saw it.
I carry this one: http://www.amazon.com/Bud-K-KB1480-Enforcement-Knife/dp/B003IXYW3M
It's designed specifically as a handgun retention blade to be generally worn on the opposite side of your gun so it can be accessed by your weak hand. Strong hand would be used to help retain the firearm from someone attempting to steal it from you, weak hand would be able to quickly grab the knife and "do work" to get the guy off your gun.
Just keep a gun or a knife on you at all times. It could save your life or others.
Throw this https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Enforcement-Knife-Fixed-Blade/dp/B003IXYW3M
on your belt and start swinging if you need to defend yourself. Aim for the head/neck and get to safety.
Consider the purpose of a defensive blade. A blade is deadly force. That means that if you're justified in using a knife, you're justified in using a gun. A gun is a much better defensive tool than a knife under almost every circumstance, including at knife distances. The only time a knife has the advantage over a gun is in the clinch, i.e. when you are not just close but actually entangled with your adversary. Under those extreme conditions a small fixed blade is best, as it's easier to access and deploy than a folder. Two of the best designs for this purpose are the ShivWorks Clinch Pick with a good sheath, and the KA-BAR TDI, also with a good sheath.
You, however, are in a special situation. One, you're in a state that flagrantly violates the U.S. Constitution. And two, you won't do the right thing and bear arms in defiance of unconstitutional state laws. You could spend money on a compromise knife that is meant as a poor substitute for a gun, or you could just get one of the good knives I recommended above while waiting on your state-issued piece of plastic. Given your same constraints, I would choose the latter.
Good luck behind enemy lines.
We discourage discussion of self-defense here (see the sidebar) but we can always suggest a good quality knife.
The legal aspect is twofold - many states restrict push-daggers, and many restrict double-edged blades, which is a common push-dagger feature.
You might consider the kabar TDI, this is the smaller of the two sizes offered:
https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Enforcement-Knife-Fixed-Blade/dp/B003IXYW3M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497047861&sr=8-1&keywords=kabar+tdi
EDC LIST
(A helpful redditor pointed out that r/EDC doesn't endorse using knives in defense. I wanted to be clear the ka-bar is used for utilitarian purposes and never on anything animate.)
[From top to bottom][I know 'techno-utilitarian' makes me sound 'techno'-cally like a tool.]
The vitamins are technically EDC, too, but I didn't mean for them to sneak into the shot. ANIMAL PAK. No big deal.
E: I'm upgrading the Ka-Bar 'McStabby' with a slightly safer Ka-Bar TDI LE fixed blade, but I'd take other recs. Thanks guys!
first and foremost, find a hunter safety class and take it. there is an online option now but I really recommend going to an in-person class. I did this when I was 11 or 12 and remember some very experienced old timey hunters explaining everything. we even got hands-on experience with some old 22's and got to shoot them at a range.
they will cover most of your questions, and will go over gun safety and how to hunt safely (identifying your target, whats behind your target, etc). They should also cover the basics of field dressing (removing the organs out in the field).
If you want to hunt deer you're going to want a rifle of at very minimum .243 caliber (preferably higher, i hunt with .30-06). Hunting rifles as of this moment cannot be semi-automatic although there is a real possibility this will be changed by next hunting season. (Even so the most common AR-15 which is .223 caliber is too small for hunting deer.) A .270 is a common whitetail caliber, big enough to take down a deer but not going to kick as hard as .30-06 or .308.
When you buy your hunting license, it comes with one tag to harvest an antlered deer. The rules of what makes a deer count as "antlered" vary from region to region but for most of PA it requires at least 3 points on one side. The paperwork you receive will also have a form you must mail in to your county treasurer to apply for a doe tag. The doe permits are limited and the earlier you apply the better your chances are. A doe tag is only good for the zone you applied in.
If you want to hunt rabbits and birds such as pheasants or turkey you'll want a shotgun. Most people would hunt with a 12 gauge but if you've got a smaller frame you might want a smaller gun (16 or 20 gauge). Turkey requires a tag similar to a buck, which are included in your regular hunting license.
Ducks require a special stamp you can buy when you purchase your license, and there are rules about the metal in the shot shells when you hunt waterfowl (it can't contain lead).
if you're interested in squirrel hunting you can use a shotgun, but the more challenging way to do it is with a 22 rifle. This is a very small and inexpensive bullet.
If you've never handled a gun you're going to be nervous carrying it around with a shell in the chamber. The best thing you can do is take it a range (such as these) and go through a few boxes of shells practicing. A State Game Lands range is free to use as long as you have a hunting license. The one by me usually has a game commission officer there who would be happy to answer questions. Just practice, learn where your safety is, be aware of where the muzzle is pointed, and keep your finger out of the trigger guard. Also protect your hearing! You will need hearing and eye protection at the range!
you need to wear orange on your head and chest/back for most seasons in PA, the exception being some archery/muzzleloader and turkey hunting. Just get a hat and vest and you'll be fine.
Other gear: knife (I prefer a small fixed blade knife to a folder for cleaning deer; less places to get hair and gunk stuck), lighter, maps, emergency whistle, emergency blanket, drag rope (to get the deer out of the woods), rubber gloves (so you aren't a mess after cleaning a deer), and I bring a spare phone battery.
Like any other adventure in the wild make sure people know where you're going and when you should be home.
Well, I have an idea for now. I travel for a living, and spend a lot of time in hotels. I'm going to be building a cooking kit for my car that just sits in the truck for times like this.
Currently I have (1) 12" cast iron pan, 1 coffee maker, 1 Morakniv, a cutting board, and a pair of tongs.
I'm missing about 99% of the shit I need, but hey, gotta start somewhere.
Personally I wouldn't head into the woods without a fixed blade knife. That's just my personal preference.
The obvious answer that a lot of people will give you is a Mora. These people are correct. It's a crazy sharp knife, well made and for $14 you could use it for one hiking trip and it'd be worth it.
If you're looking for a folder to carry all the time. Any of those you listed would be good. There are like a million choices for folders in the $20-40 range. Just stick to a good brand and find one you like the looks of.
On the cheaper side, Gerber MP 600.
Gerber MP600 Multi-Plier, Needle Nose, Black [47550] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VORS1E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ylfCDbQQFGQJM
I also recently purchased a Leatherman Wave as a bday present for me it's nice, though I found a new in box on Ebay so a little savings.
I do agree with others your gonna want a fix blade as well, Check out the Mora line affordable reliabable.
Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Carbon Steel Blade, 4.1-Inch, Military Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_bBfCDbZHX4RA0
Petzl e+LITE headlamp
Katadyn Micropur water purification tablets
Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system
Titanium Shepherd stakes
Victorinox Swiss Army classic
Morakniv Companion knife
Darn Tough Merino wool socks
My two cents, I'm sure others will pick on these opinions...
Traditional SAR, the teams you will find around the country operate in a whole different world than the military. For the most part you can sort of look to volunteer firefighters as an analogy, even then they tend to be more regimented than SAR. There are some SAR teams out there that have more of a military structure to them, but most of what you will find will feel more like SAR clubs (think chess clubs, hiking clubs, etc). My unit meets once a month, we have a business meeting with the whole review last month's minutes, reports on events since the last meeting, old business, new business, etc. After that we conduct a classroom training session on topics like Lost Person Behavior, Medical Techniques, Navigation, etc. We also conduct regular field trainings to bring it all together. We don't have ranks, we have a list of skillsets and we are each typed according to our ability in each skill. Our unit and all the units I know don't work with weapons, sure we carry knives, but the biggest blade most of us work with is one of these, not some giant thing that rambo would carry, no machetes, no hatchets. If there is a situation where SAR skills are needed for say a fugitive, we stay home. We have done evidence searches for things criminals have tossed into the woods, but they were already in jail.
SAR in the military is their own thing and while we can and do work together on missions they are a unit that stays a unit. When we ask for military assets we indicate what needs to be done and they tell us what they are sending and what it will do. If I show up on a mission with 5 other people from my unit we might be on a team together or I might get put in with members of a different unit.
When it comes to the actual searching it is simply a lot of covering ground. We walk, and we walk, and we walk. 99% of the time we get nothing, there are only so many clues out there. There is one really awesome clue (the person or thing you were out to look for) and tons of acreage to cover. We often start from a last known point and try to move that further along in time. An example we were out looking for a mushroom hunter, when I showed up they new where he started into the woods, we then found a clearly picked mushroom and a couple of boot prints. That advanced the last known point a few hundred feet and gave us a second breadcrumb to work with. It takes a certain type of person to do that effectively. I have seen plenty of people bow out because they had been on maybe a dozen searches over several years and never found a thing. One of our radio operators has been on 8 missions, each ended in a recovery. My hope when I got in was to find a clue at some point, and Oh Boy my first time out I got the find, I found the 24yro woman who had hanged herself. We don't have an obligation to respond to one call or another, but you also don't get to decide who gets lost and when. You also have to get along real well with the others on your team. I've been on all sorts of teams and there are people that I know I don't want to go out with, and certain combinations of people that I won't go out with.
With every one of your responses I feel more and more that SAR wouldn't be a good fit for you now. Most units welcome visitors, I would say that you might consider finding one of the local unit's meetings and checking it out. Attend a few meetings before even considering applying, and talk to the people there and be honest about what you are looking for. Once you get started into it there is a substantial investment in time, energy, gear, and training on the part of you and your team. It isn't worth it to go through a bunch of training and getting geared up to not be a productive member of a team (remember finding nothing is something). I'm not sure what exactly you are looking for, but I don't think SAR is it. There is always a "who knows?" aspect and if you spend some time around a unit you may find that it is a good fit, or that your outlook might change. Our mountain rescue unit has people "hang out" around them for several months before offering them an application, in their world they have to trust their lives to their team. While the regular old SAR doesn't require the same standard it is very easy for someone (as good at it as they may be) to be more of a distraction than a help.
TL;DR
I don't think SAR is going to get you what you want. If you do feel like continuing down this path talk to the people in the unit(s) in your area, be honest, and don't take it personally if they tell you "no".
Any Mora knife. They are fantastic values.
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452089632&sr=8-1&keywords=morakniv
Here's a great buck/camp knife, carbon fixed blade, 3/4 tang (full tangs are $50-$75), 4-6 in long (longer and it gets in the way) Mora Companion HDK
I've found that the Companion makes a very good general purpose knife. I used mine last November to skin and butcher a deer, and it was well up to the task.
Edit: This is the one I use.
I'll second the Mora blades. I have a couple like http://www.amazon.com/New-Swedish-Mil-Mora-Knife/dp/B004TNWD40 this one. If you poke around, you should find different colors in the $12-15 range. Very good steel on that blade - used it to field dress a couple deer and was still sharp.
Since space may be at a premium - many butcher shops in grocery stores will sharpen non-serrated blades for free.
I'd skip the flashlight and get a headlamp. The simpler ones without the battery pack on the back side of the head work nicely and double as a hand held light if you need it too.
For general survival/bushcraft purposes (though not for breaking a car window):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004TNWD40/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485034514&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=morakniv&dpPl=1&dpID=31hduVz10IL&ref=plSrch
(Great quality/price ratio from Sweden)
For EDC/general cutting purposes(and gorgeous old-school looks), a small high-quality folding knife from France:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004AMY6GS/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1485034837&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=opinel+carbon&dpPl=1&dpID=51baQV0eVVL&ref=plSrch
If you want a more "modern" pocket knife that is still affordable, I recommend something from the American masters of Cold Steel like:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00U1I875Q/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8
(Gotta give some lovin' to that Aus8A japanese steel and the Scandinavian grind)
I can recommend all three, though I own only the first 2. Have fun and stay sharp!
I recommend this one. It has I nice grip and it is still one of the cheapest mora knives.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004TNWD40?pc_redir=1395426251&robot_redir=1
I'm sure most people know most of these knives but I figured I'd list them anyways.
Top:
Morakniv 4.1 inch carbon
Left:
Boker Plus Urban Trapper Knife Black G-10
Benchmade 531
Zero Tolerance 0350
Spyderco Delica 4
Higo no Kami 7
Right:
Really old Leatherman Wave
Kershaw Emerson CQC-6K
Benchmade Presidio
Kershaw Skyline
Case Sodbuster Jr.
I would avoid all of the ones you linked, they are all low quality brands except the last one you linked but it's a ceramic knife that can't be easily sharpened. I linked some better option bellow.
https://www.amazon.com/Columbia-River-Knife-Minimalist-2387/dp/B0030IT76C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487532167&sr=8-1&keywords=crkt+neck+knife
https://www.amazon.com/Columbia-River-Knife-Tool-2388/dp/B006SK0SP8/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1487532167&sr=8-3&keywords=crkt+neck+knife
https://www.amazon.com/Columbia-River-Knife-Tool-2805/dp/B01BAJIUDI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1487532167&sr=8-2&keywords=crkt+neck+knife
BK-16or ESEE 4 are both very well rounded and flexible with a finger choil on the ESEE allowing for more precise cuts and the BK16 with lower price. If you want a low price you cant beat a mora.
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Personally I have been eyeing the ESEE PR4 Camp Lore which is very similar to theKA-BAR Becker Kephart
for that price, i think the bk16 would be a good choice, 4 3/8" blade, 1095 cro-van.
EDIT: it's not under 60 but right at it
Also for sale on Amazon Prime for $63.
Himalayan Imports and KhuKuri House are the ones I'm familiar with for traditional kukris. I have a Condor Heavy Duty Kukri, and have been pretty happy with it.
Here
Benchmade Knife 15016-2 Hidden Canyon Hunter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I90HWYU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_LwLCybJXR6S46
I second Mora. Below average pricing, Above average quality and performance for their price range. Also the Gerber Strongarm. Has an ambidextrous sheath that will strap to your backpack straps or horizontally as well as the traditional vertical waist carry. I don't yet own one but from what I've gathered it is apparently one of the last great knives out of Gerber in recent years. Schrade SCHF9 has been touted as a do it all survival knife. Better to grab one fast because according knife center it is now discontinued. Cold Steel SRK is another all around knife. Its been in the cold steel line for a number of years.
Mora Kansbol
https://www.lamnia.com/en/p/14568/knives-and-folding-knives/morakniv-kansbol-bushcraft-knife-multi-mount-sheath
Gerber Strongarm
https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-StrongArm-Fixed-Blade-30-001038N/dp/B00U0ILXGC
Schrade SCHF9 Survival Knife
https://www.knife-depot.com/knife-438866.html
Cold Steel SRK
http://www.coldsteel.com/products/fixed-knives/srk-sk-5.html?___SID=U
I just bought the Esee 4 today but after doing more research I came across this Gerber.. http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-StrongArm-Fixed-Blade-30-001038/dp/B00U0ILXGC/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1451958023&sr=8-8&keywords=gerber+knives
It's something to consider for you I think, fits your criteria and won't break the bank, I think I'll be getting one later this year.
Mora kansbol is a great stainless high value option that's pretty much good at everything.
Morakniv Kansbol Fixed Blade Knife with Sandvik Stainless Steel Blade and Plastic Sheath, 4.3-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M23QMPO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_FfH9BbF8HA6Y3
I don't think you could find someone with something bad to say about it. From kitchen to crafting it's got you covered with extremely low maintenance.
I really like Mora. They make the Companion which is a really great fixed blade knife for only $15. Hands down the best knife for camping for the price. https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1505417935&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=morakniv
Thank you for your service.
Hard to beat a Mora for the price though, right?
Could you provide your favorites at different prices? I don't know much about what real world experienced people would use.
I use a Fallkniven but I'm a total keyboard commando and I just like knives so I don't know much. I hear esee5 is nice too.
This Mora knife? Can't argue with a $15 knife, looks fairly nice.
Get a mora! Fixed blade super cheap super sharp. Easy to sharpen and if you lose it your out 11 dollars
MORA
Link
If this is for a BOB and you're willing to consider a fixed blade utility knife, you might want to consider the Morakniv Companion:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004TNWD40/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_9?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
I have one in my vehicle bag. I haven't used it extensively but it's quality construction, inexpensive, and has a ton of great reviews.
I generally carry a pocketknife, as I have since the 4th grade. A knife is a great tool, in the woods or not. I couldn't imagine going into the woods without one, tho. I always smh when someone gets snarky about carrying knives in the woods. You will only regret not having one when you need it. Lately I have been carrying a Mora on my pack. Super light weight and sharp. Oh, and cheap
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004TNWD40?pc_redir=1414528943&robot_redir=1
I have a Gerber and a Mora that I like, though I would not baton(?) wood with either if that is a requirement.
Check out the CRKT Folts, I’d wager you’d enjoy it. I love carrying it, and it blends in great.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006SK0SP8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1518038933&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=crkt+spew&dpPl=1&dpID=31GtQKynZoL&ref=plSrch
Kabar Becker. They're tanks with a reputation. Good luck with your travels as well.
what's the context here? Camping/survival? EDC? Truck knife?
What will you be using it for?
Lots of options but each blade is designed (typically) with a purpose in mind.
If you want a solid all-around fixed blade option for about $50: https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Tool-Knife-Kephart-Hardwood/dp/B007QUVIX0
I just got my Condor Kephart https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Tools-Knives-Kephart-2-Inch/dp/B007QUVIX0
It comes with a beautiful leather sheath and has quickly become one of my favorites. And at that price, I have no reservations about beating it up.
But most people would probably recommend a Mora.
That's a crapton of money for a Chinese-made knife in 440. For $5 less, you could get
thisthis.https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Tools-Knives-Heavy-10-Inch/dp/B007QUVJ84/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1474270902&sr=8-1&keywords=condor+heavy+duty+kukri
this thing was used by the winner of the first season of ALONE. it was his only cutting tool iirc.
Is it a real Gorilla, or an OP who_would_win gorilla which can likely take Galactus in a straight figth?
If its a real gorilla, I take all rounds.
Why? Because I'd make a spear with a crossbar.
I'd spend my first few hours building a pump drill for fire-starting and hole drilling. They're harder to build than bowdrills, but much easier to use. I can build good cordage for it.
Once I had the fire, and the drill, I'd fire harden the tip of the spear, and drill a hole through the center of it with my pump drill. I'd then place a cross bar through the spear, and secure it with more cordage.
With a long spear and crossbar, the gorilla is screwed.
EDIT: The tool I'd take for rd 2 is a condor tools heavy duty kukri.
http://www.amazon.com/Condor-Tools-Knives-Heavy-10-Inch/dp/B007QUVJ84
Kukri are versitle tools. Can chop and hatchet down small branches, do fine carving, and act as a planer. Looks cool too. If you watched "Alone" its the knife that Alan brought with him. If you haven't watched "Alone" for fuck's sake, go watch it.
Schrade SCHF14 Full Tang Drop Point Fixed Blade G-10 Handle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BM9GHJQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_XCSGyb5WW64H8
Schrade SCHF16 Full Tang Neck Knife Clip Point Fixed Blade G-10 Handle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BMAFOKS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_bFSGybTZ39J0T
I have the latter, but I would recommend the first one because it is bigger. Try and break it.
Looks like the SCHF14. Thinking about trying it out myself.
Few ideas. I don't have any of them but they are all decent. You're really not getting anything absolutely amazing for under $50. (This is a except of my other comment)
Blade quality wise the Ka-Bar and IZULA both use high carbon steel 1095. This means it holds an edge better but is also a little harder to sharpen. The Mora doesn't have a lot of information on its steel and the Camillus uses AUS-8 which is decent. Less carbon but acts similar to steel with more carbon because of some magic. The Schrade is 8Cr13 and is again nothing special. Honestly I think any of them should be fine. Then again I am NOT an expert on this. If you are worried about the blade hit up /r/knives
Benchmade 15016-2 Hidden Canyon Hunter https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00I90HWYU/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_80Ecub1DSZGHW
Benchmade 162 Bushcrafter https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00B0E1MB6/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_-1Ecub0GQPFNK
I just picked one up and got the regular (non-flex) one. It still has some flex but is a good medium. This stays at home for butchering.
Victorinox Swiss Army Cutlery... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0019WX6H2?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I’m my pack I carry either my Spiderco Bow River fixed blade or benchmade hidden canyon hunter. The benchmade saddle mountain skinner is also great too.
https://www.bladehq.com/item--Spyderco-Bow-River-Fixed-Blade--85407
https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-Hidden-15016-2-Hunting-Drop-Point/dp/B00I90HWYU/ref=mp_s_a_1_12?adgrpid=58883930827&gclid=CjwKCAjw3c_tBRA4EiwAICs8CkoYdHvvUlESAZqiVSKbRHZpQQLtkkh7WV0idXCx5RvnzS76M00CRxoCiV8QAvD_BwE&hvadid=274715390375&hvdev=m&hvlocphy=9009619&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=16751360973126049935&hvtargid=kwd-302380599510&hydadcr=9850_9624875&keywords=benchmade+fixed+blade&qid=1572097579&sr=8-12
Get a Gerber Strongarm. It's a nice tactical knife with great value. Only $50 but it can beat most $200 knives in durability and is just slightly lower in sharpness. You can use it to chop shit, break stones, knife BLUFOR.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00U0ILXGC?keywords=gerber%20strongarm&qid=1450377646&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1
Not a great knife.
I'd recommend one of the following:
Morakniv $16
Buck 119 $48
The knife you've chosen isn't going to hold a good edge as long and will be harder to sharpen well. I'm not one to spend stupid amounts of money on high end knives, but a decent knife makes a big difference.
Get a buck 119. They're on sale right now on amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Buck-0119BKS-B-Special-Fixed-Blade/dp/B000EHWWJQ
My dad has one of those Buck 119s and I really love it. They are $75 on Amazon and seem to be what OP is looking for, if that price isn't too high.
Edit: I found them for $55
So some will be a little more then 40 but the performance and customer service is worth it.
Cold Steel Extra Large Voyager Clip Pt. Plain https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DPW4LJG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_x3eXDbMZTEMNN
Buck Knives 119 Special Fixed Blade Knife with Leather Sheath - Black Handle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000EHWWJQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_H4eXDbKPRCS8H
Cold Steel Peace Maker II https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BD57RZW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Z5eXDbFY372C4
Ontario Knife Company 8667 Rat-5, Plain Edge with Black Nylon Sheath https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075NNXMSC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_06eXDbRS3PEXY
Buck Knives 620 Reaper Black Fixed Blade Survival Knife https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RQ7WQ2K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_e.eXDbT0Y0DW9
It's not wood-handled, but I'm sure you can order one that way for a little extra money. You simply can't go wrong with the Buck 119 for a decent fixed blade. The price is right, the warranty great. You can pay a lot more for a knife, but this one more than does the job.
Mora, hands down. As you can see here, the Mora 2000, probably has a thicker and longer tang, if that's a consideration of yours.
If you have the cheese, I've been salivating over the Habilis Bush tool, or it's bigger brother, the S.R.T. Self Reliance Tool.
I've convinced myself that I'd buy one when my old Mora wore out, but it has been going strong for long enough now that I doubt that'll be anytime soon.
I meant to add this to the FreeForm thing but, yet again, screwed it up. I do think that camping, hiking, trail cams, portable records, video recorders are relevant for the obvious reason that if one is out researching it's nice to get ideas on trustworthy gear.
I get the wariness of a chinese blade but, so far and fingers crossed, this one has been a bargain and has stood some pretty rough treatment.
There are absolutely better knives out there but this one is super cheap, the Fallkniven is far superior. I just can't see myself hitting a $180 Falllkniven A1 (https://www.amazon.com/Fallkniven-Survival-Kraton-Handle-Sheath/dp/B001DZM482) with a hammer/mallet/big assed log while batoning wood.
The cheapie Schrade isn't the only sharp I bring but it has thus far proven to be reliable.
The Fallkniven A1 and A1L are laminated VG10 stainless and FANTASTIC options at around $140 new...
https://www.amazon.com/Fallkniven-Fixed-Blade-Knife-Black/dp/B001DZM482
If I know I am going to be in a survival situation?
Phone + Battery, 50 Flares, vehicle with a full tank of gas would be my top 3.
More serious you say? Just limiting myself to ordering online, mostly amazon -
Given a more specific survival situation, a budget, weight limit or other constraints, I may adjust my list accordingly.
Under $60?
http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1408282070&sr=1-1&keywords=kabar+knife
Big knife, everyone recognizes it, black blade. BUT: $61.99
:/
Check out the USMC Ka-bar as well, its a tried and true survival knife.
I have one of these. Great knife, great sheath. Can't complain. It's also 1095 which is a great carbon steel. Same applies about rust as was stated above, about the ESEE-3-MIL, though no laser etched logo to deal with. Can't go wrong with $56, but it's rather much larger than the ESEE-3-MIL -- all depends on what you want to use it for and your personal preferences.
Mine batons like a champ. Check amazon.com. I picked up mine for 50 bucks there. I also picked up a plastic sheath for about ten bucks, as it comes in a leather one which probably shouldn't get wet.
http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370297639&sr=8-1&keywords=kabar
What knife should I get that is similar to a Ka-Bar(https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M), but stainless steel?
That makes more sense. I was thinking of the old-school USMC Ka-Bar. http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M
Don't be a pussy, USMC Fighting knife
https://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M
Ka-bar and Higo no Kami Daidai
I use the USMC ka-bar it is a bit on the large and heavy side but it can do everything just about from food to use as a hatchet to make kindling. If I don't carry that I will carry a Leatherman.
Condor Bushlore is a great knife and it's cheaper than the Gerber. I started with a Mora but I like the Beefier Bushlore and it comes with a nice leather sheath. Only problem is I didn't like the edge on it so I had to do some work getting it sharp the way I like it. I didn't mind cause I enjoy sharpening my knives.
http://www.amazon.com/Condor-Bushlore-4-375-Inch-Walnut-Leather/dp/B002CC6BPM
You gotta be more specific in your original questions buddy.
First of all, there are 2 reasons to remove an animal from a trap. To rescue (and minimize harm to the animal), or to harvest (and minimize damage to the trap). Here in bushcrafter land, I wouldn't usually assume you aren't planning on eating what was caught in the trap.....
It does sound like you are looking for the rescue side of things, and this is for a film, and you are looking for realism..
A swiss army knife or basic folding pocketknife are fairly realistic options for what a typical person might have with them with just a general plan of being 'prepared'. Something like 4-5inch Condor Bushlore is a decent approximation for what a more bushcraft oriented person might have with them in a wilderness setting. Someone who is going out intentionally to rescue animals from traps though, that is an entirely different question! For that you'd want a blunt tip, the type found in rescue knives, and/or EMT scissors.
For realism, most of us here know enough about the various types of knife that we could likely give you good answers - but you really should explain what kind of realism you are actually going for.
Average outdoorsy person with basic 'preparedness' is likely to have something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Swiss-Army-Huntsman-Leather/dp/B000IOI0NC/
Or this:
https://www.amazon.com/Gerber-Spine-Fixed-Blade-Camping/dp/B07DDCG3HD
Average Joe who has no idea of what makes a knife good or useful is likely to have something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Tac-Force-Police-Assisted-Tactical-Rescue/dp/B01LZ0T3N9
Average bushcraft subreddit user probably has something similar to:
https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Tool-Knife-Bushlore-Hardwood/dp/B002CC6BPM
but wishes they had:
https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-162-Bushcrafter-Drop-Point/dp/B00B0E1MB6
Someone going out with them intention of rescuing persons or animals would probably be carrying something like this though:
https://www.amazon.com/Victorinox-Rescue-Tool-Pocket-Fluorescent/dp/B000PX0LKG
https://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Assist-Orange-Handle-Rescue/dp/B0012G6KI2
https://www.amazon.com/LEATHERMAN-832590-Raptor-Shears/dp/B07N6P2RCB
https://www.amazon.com/DGX-Titanium-Coated-Stainless-Shears/dp/B01B2YF0AM
And then finally, I'll say this - pretty much anything sharper than a butter knife can be used to safely rescue an animal from most situations. Hell I could probably do it with a can opener or nail clippers. So just decide what sort of situation you expect your characters to have intentionally been prepared for, and go from there.
https://www.amazon.com/GI-P-38-Can-Opener-5-pack/dp/B005EAIXAU
My knife was made in El Salvador, it's high grade carbon steel.
Nice!
My Condor Bushlore knife really reminds me of the Hunting Knife:
https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Bushlore-Hardwood-Handle-Sheath/dp/B002CC6BPM/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=condor+knife&qid=1574275915&sr=8-1
Is this the one you have?
Condor Tool & Knife, Bushlore Camp Knife, 4-5/16in Blade, Hardwood Handle with Sheath https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_XxGXDbEGH9XNT
http://www.amazon.com/Condor-Bushlore-4-375-Inch-Walnut-Leather/dp/B002CC6BPM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449015699&sr=8-1&keywords=condor+bushlore
the condor bushlore is by far my favorite knife. thats after moras, ka bars, opinels, and esee. condor is the way to go imo
This answer assumes 1) you want a few knives to cover different uses and 2) you can dig in the couch cushions for $3.53 or you can wait for Amazon's prices to fluctuate just a little bit. The price on the Kershaw jumped $3 just while I am typing this up...
EDC: Kershaw Blur, $54.17. I'm a little goofy, and I like the serrated tanto even though it looks like ass. I assume for most people, they'd prefer the straight blade. I've had one for a few years, and it works great. Just the right size, comfortable grippy handle, and I love the opening mechanism.
Camping knife: Condor Tool and Knife Bushlore 4.375-Inch Drop Point Blade, $36.41. The QA on fit and finish is apparently an issue with this company, but I didn't notice any problem on mine. It's not going to win a beauty competition, but its a hard worker. One of the comments on Amazon says it's the AK-47 of the knife world. I'm inclined to agree.
Inconspicuous Folder: Opinel #8, $12.95. I don't actually own one of these, so caveat emptor, but they come highly recommended by the hive mind. It's a classy looking folder that you could carry around in your suit's jacket pocket or your briefcase.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002CC6BPM/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_7?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
This or the swamp romper is probably a good starting point. Invest in a good sharpening kit (Lansky) I promise it will make a huge difference, especially for cooking. Even the nicest knife isn't worth a damn when it gets dull.
Condor bush lore fits the bill as well.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002CC6BPM
I know Gerber isn't the best... BUT, I have been throwing this thing around for a while, it's a beater and it is sturdy enough for the tasks you plan on doing:
http://www.amazon.com/Grylls-Ultimate-Knife-Fixed-Blade/dp/B009XMYKOI/ref=sr_1_23?s=hunting-fishing&ie=UTF8&qid=1398715605&sr=1-23&keywords=gerber+knives
The only problem with that is that it is at your price limit, and it probably isn't the best you can get for the money (you're paying for that sweet Bear Grylls sponsorship ;) )
Because of that, I also would recommend this:
http://www.amazon.com/Schrade-SCHF9-Extreme-Survival-Carbon/dp/B0033H7VI6/ref=sr_1_2?s=hunting-fishing&ie=UTF8&qid=1398715810&sr=1-2&keywords=Cold+Steel
The only thing with this knife is that it is made of a high carbon steel, which means you'll need to care for it just a teeeeeny bit. You will need to occasionally treat the blade with a light oil or a corrosion inhibitor to keep it from rusting. This really isn't a big deal, it would only take ~5 minutes after every time you use it before you put it into storage.
I've heard good things about the Schrade Schf-9. Comes with a nylon sheath, and i've seen a review where a guy managed to fit a basic survival kit in the sheath's pouch
I'm assuming you're not talking about the little red knife. The fixed blade is a Schrade SCHF10, not too bad for the price.
There's also the SCHF9 which is a little bigger, they are both worth looking into.
http://www.amazon.com/Schrade-SCHF10-Drop-Point-Fixed-Blade/dp/B00BM94JJQ
http://www.amazon.com/Schrade-SCHF9-Extreme-Survival-Carbon/dp/B0033H7VI6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1382900003&sr=8-2&keywords=schrade+schf10
and here's a video of the two in case you're interested: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPFyyJTNWUE
You should pick up a few high value knives for the money. Here are a few that are worth way more than their price tag:
Mora Companion - this blade is incredibly useful for camp tasks and bushcraft projects, very strong even though it's not full tang (I've never heard of one breaking).
Ontario RAT Model 1 - This is one of the best folders I've used, at any price. For $26 you won't find a better knife.
Utilitac 2 - This knife comes in a ton of different styles, made by Ontario like the RAT, and of equally high quality. These knives are built like tanks, and can take abuse.
Schrade SCHF9 - Unlike the Mora, this knife is a huge chunk of steel. I doubt you could break it with a hammer to be honest, so if you're tastes run towards the bigger camp knife, this is it.
I would also recommend a Schrade SCHF9 or another in the Schrade series. They make some great quality knives for great prices. I said I would prefer the SCHF9 because I own it and I like it a lot, but I would also recommend looking at some other Schrades. The SCHF9 is not stainless steel so there's a little more upkeep than one that isn't, but mostly just keeping it dry and clean. Here it is: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0033H7VI6/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I don't have one myself but I hear a lot of good things about Condor knives, they can be had for ~$30-$60 on amazon and they come with a great looking leather sheath. I've been eyeing them for a while myself, this one specifically: https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Bushlore-4-375-Inch-Micarta-Leather/dp/B003D9ORT0/ref=sr_1_9?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1464781096&sr=1-9&keywords=condor+knife
Gerber is like one notch above if not the same really. You don't have to spend a fortune, although you definitely can if you can afford it and get something really awesome, to get a solid EDC knife. You can get a nice Spyderco, Cold Steel, SOG, or CRKT in the lower price ranges that would serve you well.
You could even just get a nice fixed blade like the ESEE Izula-II. Nutnfancy has a playlist of edc folders for under $40 as well that you might want to check out. Uf you've never watched one of his reviews before, he's extremely thorough and should mention the clip.
I'm also a big proponent of carrying a small fixed blade on your off side to aid in weapon retention in case of a gun grab. I carry a Ka-Bar TDI LE which a sweet knife (strong AUS-8a steel) for a great price. The only thing lacking is the sheath that you can always choose to replace later with the PHLster TDI sheath. If you want something smaller and cheaper they also have the Ka-Bar TDI LE Last Ditch knife.
This is what my current EDC consist of...
1 5.11 Tactical Operator belt
2 Lumia 920 Unlocked
3 Ipod 2nd Gen 8GB
4 Cassani leather Wallet.
5 Nike Skylon Ace Swift Sunglasses. With hard case
6 Hand made paracord bracelet with D sackle.
7 Streamlight 88030 Protac Tactical Flashlight 1L with White LED 1 CR123A with velcro holster, not original holster.
8 House keys with Paracord 'chain'
9 Blistex medicated lip balm
10 Ka Bar TDI Law enforcement knife, with belt clip sheath, with extra paracord.
11 Small swiss army knife with red LED. And an extra CR123A battery in a Waterproof Airtight Pill Fob Holder Keychain, the battery is wrapped in plastic wrap.
12 Trendy Military Fitted Cap
13 Sony MDREX38iP/WHI EX Earbud with iPod Remote Control (White)
This
This knife has helped me in many different wilderness situations, and the striker is awesome to start fires with.
I have at least three "knives" in my truck. In the middle console I keep a Leatherman Skeletool and an EOD Breacher Bar. The breacher bar would be great for breaking a window, using as a pry bar, make shift shovel, I've even used it to mix concrete for a post hole when I couldn't find anything else.
In my GHB in the "trunk" (Honda Ridgeline), I also have a Gerber Bear Grylls fixed blade I got on clearance at Wally World.
I almost always also have a knife on me as well, usually a locking folder but sometimes a swiss army.
PS...If I wanted to be Bear Grylls I would carry this.
Speaking of knives, I'm in the market to get a new one. Considering this for the fun of it but I might just swing by a surplus store instead
the BK14 is a legitimate colab between ESEE and Kabar/Ethan Becker so if you want a knife with the same handle, but a bigger blade, that's your best bet. Also you can buy Orange Zytel scales for it as well if you wanted.
http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-BK14-Becker-Knife-Eskabar/dp/B004CIQY6K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405386912&sr=8-1&keywords=bk14
http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Becker-Scales-Handles-Orange/dp/B0073GZSM4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405386912&sr=8-2&keywords=bk14
This is the knife that always comes with me whenever I do pretty much anything outside. Becker Necker Eskabar
get an eskabar http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004CIQY6K/ref=asc_df_B004CIQY6K1991620?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=asn&creative=395093&creativeASIN=B004CIQY6K&hvpos=1o1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1466207221276845999&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=
If you're doing hard use on the trail, I'd recommend a fixed blade, not a folder. I'd recommend a kabar bk14 or a bk24. You'd have enough money left over to get the scales for either of them.
Congrats on starting the journey that is bushcraft and woodsmanship. It's such a rewarding pastime. Since you seem to be loading up on gear I have on huge piece of advise for you. I beg you BEG YOU to invest a little bit of money on a good belt knife. Nothing to fancy. Some thing like an Old Hickory butcher knife or a good quality Mora . Both are relatively inexpensive and quality products. When I started out I bought a cheap "survival knife" which wasn't worth the cardboard packaging it came in and then eventually upgraded to the Bear Grylls ultimate survival knife which promptly broke after about 3 overnights of use. Budget bushcraft is fine for most things however spending 15 dollars on a mora you will have to replace MAYBE every 3 or 4 years if you take care of it certainly beats spending 10 dollars 3 or 4 times a year on junk. Good luck and remember... in the famous words of Ray Mears "If you're in the woods and you're 'roughing it' you're doing something wrong"
This one. http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410197933&sr=8-1&keywords=mora+knife
This is my second. They are great knives for the price. I keep them in my hunting packs.
This one.
I really really like a $13 Mora. Rugged, sharp as heck, solid...so cheap you don't feel bad really really using it and beating the piss out of it. A real been-there-done-that guy I know recommended them to me and after using one (and having lots of other fixed blades, I truly love it)
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
They make a serrated also:
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Bushcraft-Serrated-4-3-Inch-Stainless/dp/B00K70MLK0/ref=sr_1_10?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1509940703&sr=1-10&keywords=mora+black
If I was going to pick anything maybe one of these:
http://www.jayfisher.com/USAF_Pararescue_Knives.htm
This with an aftermarket sheath:
https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Snody-Handle-Included-Purple/dp/B00ILFNAYY
Actually what am I smoking. This: 100x this. If you've held it in your hand you know that it is the most comfortable knife I've ever held.
http://www.benchmade.com/bushcrafter-family.html
Although the Busse I'm evaluating now is pretty dope.... I still want a Benchmade Bushcrafter.
If it was for overall survival/utility I'd want a Himalayan Imports Khukuri.
For Search/Rescue specifically... give me a tanto-point, combo-edge...honking chunk of steel.
https://www.topsknives.com/knives/tactical/tops-pry-knife-ppp-tool
https://www.topsknives.com/knives/survival/smoke-jumper
Could be persuaded to try these
http://www.benchmade.com/fixed-blade-knives.html?blade_style_shape=861
something stupid and overbuilt (in the best way)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Axt6pJERJ38
Day Packs are abundant. There are dozens that fit the 'hydro port' requirement. It really depends on what other features you need. Most specifically - size. You say 'day pack' slash 'one night pack'. In my experience those are 2 very different bags. A day pack is generally 15-30 liters, depending on how much technical gear you plan to carry (or how cold / snowy it gets). An overnight pack is generally 50-65 liters. I warn against picking an overnight pack based on the number of nights you'll be out. 1 night requires the exact same gear as 10 nights, other than food (which is generally 1 liter per person per day). So if you want a day pack, focus on that. If you want a overnight pack, focus on that. Trying to get 1 that does both jobs well will end up awkward both ways.
​
Mora is a classic fixed blade bushcraft knife. Quality and cheap. $14
​
Sleeping Bags are another BIG category. The most important factor is temp rating. What low temp do you plan to sleep in? 20F is what I normally recommend for the vast majority of campers. It will keep you comfortable down to freezing temps, which is when most people stop going out. You can open it up for warmer weather. If you'll only be out in summer conditions - a 40F bag is even better (cheaper, lighter, smaller). A quilt is another option compared to a traditional mummy bag. Once I went to a quilt for 3-season trips I never went back. Make sure you have a good sleeping pad too, you need insulation under your body.
This deal was posted yesterday, a steal at $90: https://www.campsaver.com/kelty-cosmic-20-sleeping-bag-600-dridown.html
​
Life Vests from NRS are quality. I like mine.
They also make a knife that attaches to the PFD. Mine is perfect.
The man that sharpens my knives locally, explained to me that all dish washing detergents have abrasives in them to clean your dishes better. Abrasives are bed for a keen edge. Personally I have been using
Morakniv Companions as steak knives. I chose these knives because my buddy who is a survival instructor and search and rescue personnel swears by them for anything, outdoors or indoors. The blade lasts forever and the edge on the carbon steel lasts longer than stainless because carbon steel is harder. I bought three and they are pretty amazing. They are carbon steel, so they will acquire their own amazing colors as you use them.
EDIT: Find them here: http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1408767946&sr=1-1
I recently picked up a Mora for some "light" canoeing. I honestly didn't use it for much, but it seems like a solid knife.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-4-1-Inch-Military/dp/B004TNWD40
or, if you prefer a wood handle:
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Classic-Handle-Utility-4-2-Inch/dp/B004D6H1WC/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&qid=1540401595&sr=8-21&keywords=mora
The knife in the green sheath is a Mora, a very well known outdoor knife. https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
It could be used as a weapon, but that's not what they're known for.
Not sure what the thing that says bang is.
For a cheap brilliant bushcraft knife:
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Bushcraft-Tactical-4-3-Inch-Plastic/dp/B009O01H0Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422126084&sr=8-1&keywords=mora+bushcraft
For a cheap brilliant bushcraft knife in wet conditions:
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Bushcraft-Sandvik-Stainless-4-3-Inch/dp/B00B90H1T8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1422126084&sr=8-4&keywords=mora+bushcraft
For a very cheap good bushcraft knife:
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422126275&sr=8-1&keywords=mora
For a very cheap good bushcraft knife in wet conditions:
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B005EOJAKI/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1422126315&sr=8-3&keywords=mora+orange
The delica is a pretty great option for whittling. It's a high carbon blade, so it holds up to wood fibers and hard use pretty well. It's got a solid lockup and zero blade play, so control and safety are taken care of. But honestly, it's a better EDC tool than a carving knife.
Another good option I'd throw out for you are high carbon mora blades.
You might also dig this. It's specially made for wood work.
here's the holy trinity I suggest to everyone with this question. Cheapest: https://www.amazon.com/Wesson-SWHRT9B-Outdoor-Tactical-Survival/dp/B07THMKS3B Best for a "weapon": https://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B07KFNLPDZ/ref=pd_sbs_200_1/134-8730811-3738123?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07KFNLPDZ&pd_rd_r=2462612e-cbab-4572-becc-1bc13e89858f&pd_rd_w=zo5L0&pd_rd_wg=TY5xV&pf_rd_p=43281256-7633-49c8-b909-7ffd7d8cb21e&pf_rd_r=97ZT1BGE29JARD4RPTVF&refRID=97ZT1BGE29JARD4RPTVF Nicest looking and best for a dedicated tool: https://www.amazon.com/Knives-Special-Fixed-Leather-Sheath/dp/B000EHWWJQ/ref=wsdps_2?cv_ct_pg=detail&cv_ct_wn=woodstock-detail&linkCode=oad&cv_ct_id=ws&pf_rd_r=TD6J7MD9SFQE37WW9D7T&pd_rd_wg=AuCCX&pd_rd_w=axkeg&pd_rd_r=a9447115-06e9-4e31-92a6-522146ba1a51&th=1
Buck 119
I've broken the blades on two Bushlores before I gave up on them. They're very brittle steel for some reason.
You dont have to bother with it, honestly. I think i might have found one, and i dont want to take up your time. I might just buy it at the reenactment. if not...http://www.amazon.com/Buck-0119BKS-B-Special-Fixed-Blade/dp/B000EHWWJQ/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=5GMPSHFP41R3&coliid=I1BANATUJDVRT2
at the distance of inspection i will have, it should pass.
Hunter/fisherman/camper here. I have had the Buck 119 for 12 years now and have used this knife for EVERYTHING. I have cleaned/skinned game/fish, cut firewood, used it for cooking; you name it. For the price it is a fantastic knife. I can't think of a task it would not handle and even if there was one, it is so inexpensive it would not break the bank to replace it. http://www.amazon.com/Buck-119BKS-Spec-Hunting-6/dp/B000EHWWJQ
The knife does not always hold the best edge but it is a snap to sharpen and I can put a real nice edge on it in no time.
Edit; wanted to add the part about sharpening.
A Buck 119 is $50 or so, and infinitely better.
Morakniv Companion and Buck 119 are awesome choices.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00EF2RUD4
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000EHWWJQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502984683&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=buck+119+knife&dpPl=1&dpID=315rFijBsPL&ref=plSrch
If you dont know already, that's a Buck 119 Special. They're pretty cheap and is a great knife. Pick one up, you won't regret it.
Get a Leatherman multi-tool for EDC (Wave is the best all around but the Wingman is a solid alternative if you find the Wave to be too large) and a heavy duty outdoors knife that can be used to baton wood (like the Mod 4 or RAT-5). Get a solid hunk of steel and make sure it's full tang.
Personally I would go with something like a Buck hunting knife . They are a nice compromise between the smaller knives and excessivley heavy bowies.
a Mora 2000, 30-40 bucks gets you a sweet knife that'll last a life time
https://www.amazon.ca/Morakniv-Outdoor-Sandvik-Stainless-4-3-Inch/dp/B000NJSCH6?ie=UTF8&SubscriptionId=AKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B000NJSCH6&linkCode=xm2&tag=duckduckgo-d-20
OK
or this one, which is quite well reviewed and popular but it's over $30. If you gotta buy me one, i'd prefer this one.
If you are going to spend that much, do yourself a huge favor and just get a Fällkniven A1 instead. I have 2 varieties of SRK and an A1, and there is just no comparison.
https://www.amazon.com/Fallkniven-Fixed-Blade-Knife-Black/dp/B001DZM482/
Nowadays the A1 is actually cheaper than the 3V SRK, which just makes this a no-brainer.
But, to answer your question, I like the SRK, especially for the price (SK5 version.) It serves a variety of roles well.
Amazon
https://www.amazon.ca/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/
There are a bunch of different versions if you just search for Ka Bar, black, serrated, etc. The black sheath I also got from Amazon, figure I'll attach it to my hunting bag or something, I prefer the leather one for wearing.
They are sub-par knifes
Not all of them.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KA-BAR
Check out the reviews: http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/
My father was in the marines in the 70s and came home when I was somewhere between 1 or 2. April 22 was his birthday and I always have a hard time finding a present for the old bastard. I stumbled across this on amazon one night trying to get ideas. http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1462620162&sr=1-1&keywords=ka+bar I have never seen his eyes light up like they did that day. He looked like a little kid on christmas. Apparently before he went in one of my grandfathers friends gave him his kbar that he used in ww2 island hopping in the pacific and he had etched the places he had been in the blade. Some scumbag stole that knife from him just before he was to leave to come home. Definitely one of the best reactions I have ever gotten from anyone I have bought a present for.
amazon has em for 44 i think...
oops - 52 - my bad. I know you can get em for 46 out there if you look..
http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Fighting-Knife-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1313448808&sr=8-1
That's a very broad question…
Any other info would help.
Do you want folding? Fixed blade?
An idea of your price range would also help us make suggestions.
Without any other information, the classic fighting knife is:
KA-BAR Full Size US Marine Corps Fighting Knife, Straight
Another option (I personally recommend)
Glock KB17281 81 Field Knife
USMC Kabar
http://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Becker-BK7-Combat-Utility/dp/B001IPMG8K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1330734429&sr=8-1
http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Fighting-Knife-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1330741585&sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=k-bar&qid=1568318527&s=gateway&sr=8-1
This tried and true classic will get the job done I absolutely guarantee it.
Watch out, a brand new one available on amazon for $71 here:
(http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1457575852&sr=8-1&keywords=usmc+k+bar)
https://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=pd_aw_lpo_200_bs_tr_img_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=4ASA1P7NNET9M2YSPGCB
This one unless it looks identical
Hell yeah!
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1H6GTQFSC7ZYZ&coliid=I3QO7CRIGD6QYE
Amazon link here. The reviews speak for themselves.
they are mostly the most expensive part of the knife. and no I have never really heard of replaceable blades.if you are looking for a similar knife that will last you a life time and will go up against all you give it, see the [ka-bar] (http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373867953&sr=8-1&keywords=ka+bar). its only $50 and you will have it the rest of your life if you take care of it (oil it and sharpen it on a regular basis)
That knife is probably for decorative purposes only and would break chopping a steak. Real fighting knives are made by KA-BAR
Do you have to pay import taxes or anything? I can go grab you a new KaBar at the damn knife store here and ship it to you. I'm happy to help any way I can.
Edit: Amazon has them new for $65.09 with free shipping (to me) with Prime. I can then ship it to you. Should come in under your budget. Let me know if you're interested.
KA-BAR Full Size US Marine Corps Fighting Knife, Straight https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_12lUAbHERFVKJ
What would be a fair price for these. I see them for about 100
Im also looking at this https://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=pd_sim_200_9?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B001H53Q6M&pd_rd_r=P19CMAPTDJDWYET7DZG3&pd_rd_w=QRVXy&pd_rd_wg=44qV2&psc=1&refRID=P19CMAPTDJDWYET7DZG3 The KA Bar I like a little better and is a tad bit cheaper.
Oh yeah? this is a cooking utensil? KA-BAR shouldn't be held liable if somebody buys this off of Amazon, without a background check no less, and kills somebody but Colt should be held liable when somebody buys an AR-15 and kills someone?
I'm glad to share my experiences.
Oh one last thing. I pretty confident that KA-BAR is the real deal and not fake.
I started looking at the "bad" reviews a little closer. Look at this:
Scrolll to the second "bad" review of that KA-BAR, by "Brandon" - his complaint is that the knife was not sharp...His friend experienced the same thing and they called KA-BAR and got a new knife.
If it was a fake, I don't think KA-BAR would send back a new knife.
Or if it was fake and KA-BAR still replaced knife just because they are awesome...
Either way you win.
By the way, I have had no problems with the sharpness of my knife.
It's hard to beat a KA-BAR. Trusted by Marines since 1942!
The standard Full-size straight edged. Don't want it to cut paper it's just quite dull out of the box.
The Condor Bushlore is an inexpensive option, and weighs about 12.3oz. If you're planning on batoning wood with your knife, you'll want it thick enough to withstand the force, and long enough to be able to hit the tip-side of the spine poking out from the other side of the log. Since your budget is a lot higher than that, you might want to shop around for something higher-quality.
Check out the Blind Horse Bushcrafter or Woodsman. Not sure what they weigh, but I'd be happy to lug around the extra weight of one of those beauties.
EDIT: Also note that O1 tool steel rusts very easily. Be prepared to maintain those blades quite a bit. It's very tough, though, and decently easy to sharpen. I read somewhere that, when polled, most knifemakers would choose O1 for their personal blades. It's the same steel as in the Ray Mears Woodlore knife.
I'll remember that for next time. I've already packed it all away, but I might drag it out and take some pics. My foot is pretty banged up so it'll be a minute. But Ill give you a short list :)
Pack: Osprey Exos 58
Sleeping Bag: Teton Sports Tracker
Tent: ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1
Tarp: Ultimate Survival Hex tarp
Mess kit: Mess kit and Mug
Water Filtration: Sawyer Mini
Tools/Defense: Note: Normally I would only take one knife, but I wasn't sure which I would prefer as they're two quite different blades. Ka-Bar Becker BK2, Condor Bushlore, and Bear Spray
Stove: MSR PocketRocket
First Aid: I had the Adventure Medical Kits Day Tripper, and then added to that with Celox and an Israeli Bandage
Trekking Poles: Cascade Mountain Tech CF with Cork Grips
In addition I had a few little things in a small kit; Ferro rod, duct tape, trail blazes, chemical water purifiers in case my Sawyer failed, bug spray, a small thing of sunscreen (which I didn't end up needing as it was overcast), deodorant, TP, etc.
This,
http://www.amazon.com/Condor-Bushlore-4-375-Inch-Walnut-Leather/dp/B002CC6BPM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_npd?ie=UTF8&coliid=I5SMOC4CF93VY&colid=2RWIYGI2LVXDJ
and
http://www.amazon.com/Old-Hickory-76-7-Cleaver-Chopper/dp/B000MF7LFU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_T1?ie=UTF8&coliid=IT1OWSPNBG088&colid=2RWIYGI2LVXDJ
The Condor Bushlore is a great inexpensive knife. Carbon steel, full tang, etc. The old ones were not that great but there have been many improvements so the new ones are a fantastic value. You can baton firewood with it all day long. Get a knife pro to put a Scandi grind on it and you'll be set for a long time.
Secondly, get a set of Japanese water stones and learn how to use them.
Even the most expensive unobtanium-carbon quantum hattori hanzo japanese nanosteel knife can be ruined by improper maintenance (e.g. pull-through carbide blade destroyers).
Start with 1000 grit. You can also get 800 grit for fixing chips and other damage. The K-80 is a good starter set. If you want to sharpen your kitchen knives 'shaving sharp' then pick up an additional 4000/6000 grit stone for fine polishing.
Search /r/bushcraft for further knife and sharpening advice.
Surprised it hasn't been mentioned. I recommend the Condor Bushlore
https://www.amazon.com/Condor-CTK232-4-3HC-Walnut-Bushlore-Knife/dp/B002CC6BPM
I was in a similar spot recently, I went for a Condor Bushlore, though it's on the shorter end, though it all depends on what you're looking for. The Becker Bk-14 is another option, and a cheaper alternative to the Izula-II
Bushlore
Becker
I love my small forest axe. Best survival purchase i've made. I wouldn't stray from that idea, unless you decide to refurbish an antique hatchet. I've seen people fix up sixty year old plumb scout hatchets to gransfors quality.
For knives, i use my moraknive survival and the condor bushlore. The bushlore a hardy-ass knife and it's only about thirty bucks. I use the mora regularly. That particular one is what i have, i picked it up based on the thickness of the blade, but they have far cheaper ones if you don't want to throw down that much. I believe you can get an almost identicle knife without the firesteel for around 15 bucks cheaper.
Good Review on the bushlore
Machete-wise, i love my Condor Parang. It's giant, it sharpens well, it holds an edge, and it's tough as nails. The thing is 1/4 inch thick. It's big. It also comes with a sexy leather sheath of equally high quality and durability.
I've also played around with the full size bear grylls Parang by gerber. Thing cuts like you wouldn't believe, with great weight length and balance. I use the condor, my survival bud uses the gerber. They're about equal in different ways.
If you want a fixed knife beware of this:
If you mean by Condor Bushknife something like this: https://www.amazon.de/Condor-60004-Bushlore-Knife/dp/B002CC6BPM/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481920914&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Condor+bushknife
This is be legal to carry and own and won't be taken from you without special circumstances.Strictly speaking, the knife OP uses is also legal but some features are in a gray zone.
My fav low cost camp knife Condor Bushlore. The knife is awesome and the leather sheath rivals knives that cost 3x the money.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002CC6BPM?pc_redir=1404826492&robot_redir=1
I have a Mora and a Condor Bushlore. The Mora is a light, fixed knife for general use, though the blade isn't very thick. The flat grind (scandi?) is very easy to sharpen, and you can get it in stainless or carbon steel. The Bushlore is for funsies. I like throwing it, and it was very cheap for such a robust, high carbon knife. Heavy as all get-out, though.
Edit: Link to Amazon for Bushlore, since Mora was already linked.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002CC6BPM/ref=pd_aw_lpo_200_tr_img_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=GR55ZR4H7T6DHD4B2NBN
Love this knife, great craftsmanship and just feels nice. Totally worth the 55$. Just keep the blade clean and wipe off any debris (it's best to oil it).
how do you like the paklite? been eying it for my camping gear as a lightweight knife. for $20 its hard to beat. carry this guy in the woods - http://www.amazon.com/Schrade-SCHF9-Extreme-Survival-Carbon/dp/B0033H7VI6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1395235259&sr=8-2&keywords=schrade+knife
Y'all are dangerous. This came from just a little bit of browsing this sub and some searching and review reading and whatnot. Amazon links for convenience:
Leatherman Crater c33Tx
Kershaw Leek
Schrade SCHF9 Extreme Survival Knife
CRKT 2020 AG Russell Sting
Any advice or substitutions anybody care to offer? I think for the money this is a pretty damn fine set of 4 knives. The Leatherman might get some funny looks but I had its younger brother for many years and it would probably replace my current EDC (Kershaw Skyline)
Edit: Will definitely take lots of pictures when I pull the trigger.
If you want it just for batoning, take a look at the Schrade SCHF9 . 6" long, 1/4 inch thick 1095 steel for $36 delivered.
Not full tang but what I recommend: here
Full tang recommendation: here
It depends on what you need. I enjoy Schrade knives, and some good options are:
Only thing to look out for: Schrade sheaths aren't super good. They work, but they're not as nice as premium brands.
Ok so I looked a bit and for your budget they have quite a few knifes that fit the bill.
This is the one has great reviews and I personally love the design.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0033H7VI6/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1397075251&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40
What do you think?
*EDIT- here's a review with some field testing. For this price point it does work http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9EQk4vO94s
I picked up the Condor Bushlore knife w/ Micarta handle last month right before I went elk hunting. It worked out really well. I used it to debone two elk quarters while it was snowing. The micarta handle did not get slick even when wet and it handled meat/wood/random camp jobs with ease. I also carried it on my belt for 20 miles over 4 days in it’s leather sheath and it stayed secure with quick access when I needed it. My only con is that the knife blade was a little short for some of the field dressing jobs but that’s why you carry multiple knifes! Otherwise it will definitely be my primary knife for camping this summer and my next hunting trip. Great knife for $65. I was looking at an ESEE but they were too expensive.
https://www.amazon.com/Condor-Tool-Knife-60005-Bushlore/dp/B003D9ORT0
The Condor Bushlore in micarta is a great choice for a tough, budget bushcraft knife. Just around $10 over budget: http://www.amazon.com/Condor-Bushlore-4-375-Inch-Micarta-Leather/dp/B003D9ORT0
Here
It's about $20 more for the micarta, but worth it imo.
I'm a big fan of Condor's carbon steel knives. Scandi grind, well made and the price is great.
This one with the micarta is quite a bit more than the wood, but it's pretty sweet.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003D9ORT0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
[Why spend $300??](ka-bar tdi law enforcement knife fixed blade https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003IXYW3M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4v4JBbFZDCJ53)
I dunno what you're looking for, but this is what I carry on my offhand.
https://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Enforcement-Knife-Fixed-Blade/dp/B003IXYW3M/
It's small and discreet, great concealability and quick to access. comes with a left/right draw kydex sheath with good retention.
If you're just looking for something to cut clothing for tourniquets or seat belts they also have a serrated version.
My brother is coming to visit with me and my wife for the first time since we got married. We're gonna go shooting and then have a video game marathon! So stoked!
Thanks for the contest! Wow $50 is huge!
1.21 Gigawatts
MARTTTTYYYYYY!!!!!!
Link
This seems to be a pretty popular option among the self-defense world. Not sure what purpose you're wanting, but I'm sure this would be more than sufficient.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B003IXYW3M/ref=dp_olp_0?ie=UTF8&condition=all
I've bee looking at #this http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003IXYW3M/ref=aw_1st_sims_2?pi=SL500_SS115
My guesses:
Bear Grylls : his gerber knife!
Pee-Wee : his bad ass bike?
It's the Gerber 31-000751 and runs about $40 on Amazon. It's obviously too big for my EDC, so I haven't used it much, but it feels solidly constructed. The grip is... grippy. I've tried the firestarter/whistle, and they work as expected. The cover is also well constructed and could be hung from a belt, if you're into that kind of thing.
All said, despite being branded by Bear Grylls, I'd still recommend it. :)
just this
I don't know if this is what you were looking for but this knife matches most of your criteria and price range: http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-31-000751-Survival-Ultimate-Serrated/dp/B003R0LSMO/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
It is $32 on amazon but $60 in all my local camping stores. The blade steel is alright, nothing spectacular but for the money it's a good knife. I like mine. The serrated edge will come in great for cutting line quickly. Plus some of the safety features are great for a backpacking knife such as a whistle, a sharpener, and a fire starter. It also comes with a survival booklet. I doubt your brother needs it, but hey, never hurts to read up on some stuff.
Personally I have this
I don't know how real survivalists would rate it, but for going camping and being my first fixed blade knife, I really enjoy it.
Well the actual price would be like 100 bucks right? (at least it is in Euro)
Theres one for sale for 40 Euros right now, should I get it?
http://www.amazon.de/Gerber-Grylls-Survival-Ultimate-GE31-000751/dp/B003R0LSMO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1425314802&sr=8-2&keywords=gerber+bg+knife
I should probably check on this. I have this zipped to the strap on my hydro pack... Brought it on a bike-camping trip to the Mountains, and just left it there (not for local rides).
Best Price!
http://charts.camelcamelcamel.com/us/B003R0LSMO/amazon.png?force=1&zero=0&w=725&h=440&desired=false&legend=1&ilt=1&tp=all&fo=0&lang=en
This isn't a good deal. It's been about that price on Amazon for a while.
https://camelcamelcamel.com/Gerber-Grylls-Ultimate-Serrated-31-000751/product/B003R0LSMO?context=search
I have the the cold steel spike its like $20-$30. its a fine knife. im not a huge fan of cold steel but i have no problem with the spike yet. it comes in a couple different blade cuts. Tanto, bowie,tokyo , drop point
if you are willing to go a couple bucks higher id go with the Ka-bar Eskabar. its a little heftier. and i love Ka-bar. it comes incredibly sharp. i almost cut my finger off with it actually.
Unless you MUST have red or pink the Becker BK11 (aka Necker) and the Eskabar are just about half the price of the Izula for damn near the same thing.
If you like KaBar, their Becker line is better for camping. The old USMC fighting knife is for that, fighting. They are also known to break at the handle under hard use.
I love my Eskabar. Wrap the handle in paracord for a better grip, and some emergency cordage.
I'd second that. This Ka-Bar is reasonably priced, with good reviews. You could even consider the small size a feature, since that means it's light.
I was just coming here to ask if i should get a bk14 or izula.
Has anyone tried both and come to a conclusion?
The Companion is probably their best seller. They have a Heavy Duty version with a heavier blade, and they have many different knives if you want something different. They are all very similar though, with the only real difference being carbon steel or stainless. They're all well made and worth your money.
holy crap those are expensive. may I suggest a wetterlings and a mora, and a ka-bar primary?
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dsporting&field-keywords=KA-BAR
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1407815295&sr=1-1&keywords=mora+knife
http://www.amazon.com/Wetterlings-Large-Hunting-overall-cutting/dp/B00ALQKQ0M/ref=sr_1_13?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1407815318&sr=1-13&keywords=gransfors+bruks+small+forest+axe
Heck, this smaller wetterlings is even cheaper and more in line with those kits. http://www.amazon.com/Wetterlings-119-Backcountry-Axe/dp/B00A0ADV6U/ref=sr_1_6?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1407815595&sr=1-6&keywords=gransfors+bruks+small+forest+axe
The cheapest one you can find on Amazon. Actually, just buy two.
Throw one in your trunk and forget about it until you need a knife one day.
Throw the other in your toolbox and use it for random jobs.
After a few months of using it you'll realize it's a great little thing and get another to take camping.
Edit:
I like this one because it's ~$8.50 and your fingers won't slip onto the blade under any circumstances. It's a little on the small side if you have big hands though.
For camping I like this one.
Here's the knife plus a couple of bucks, buy a few gallons of water and hope for good weather.
The best knives and best prices for knives is on the internet. http://www.amazon.com/New-Swedish-Mil-Mora-Knife/dp/B004TNWD40
It's a great knife for under $30. Strong blade, amazing grip on the handle.
Honestly Im not crazy about the fire starter as I keep plenty in my camping kit, so this will be redundant. But they didn't any Mora's available without it so I bought one anyway.
If you are looking for the fire starter/knife combo than it's great. other wise just get the basic Mora for half the price.
Morakniv, in carbon.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-4-1-Inch-Military/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=morakniv+carbon&qid=1567806292&s=gateway&sr=8-6
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Craftline-Allround-Combi-Sheath-3-6-inch/dp/B00T3DNELW/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=morakniv+carbon&qid=1567806292&s=gateway&sr=8-7
If it rusts, he knows he's not taking care of it.
It's really important that you get a tool that's right for you. As you notice, I don't recommend planes, the other guy did.
I have reasons but they are mostly my own. For eexample I wouldn't recommend planes because they will only work when working on straight grain. The moment you encounter a knot, you'll be struggling. And on top of it, planes are expensive and only the expensive ones are worth getting. A cheap drawknife or rasp works fine but a cheap plane is gonna make you cry.
Now, you were saying you don't wanna file for 10 hours. I think you're a little bit mistaken about rasps. You will probably be surprised how quick a good, coarse rasp is. They can devour wood. The reason why you need a rasp is because there will be spots in wood where the grain is running off. A cutting tool will struggle to cut when grain runs off but a rasp will still work.
Alright, I recommend the following. Get yourself a rasp. I have no particular recommendation. Check out ebay and see if you can get one there. If not, get one from harbor freight. Look for a big one. Possibly these 4-in-1s.
Then, get a Morakniv knife. The company is famous for making high quality bushcrafting knives. These knives are absolutely amazing for working on wood.
And a knife is better than a plane or drawknife if you don't have a workbench. Just place the wood against the ground and your foot and use the knife.
On Amazon for $14, the companion. https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
It's one of their cheapest and great. They come with a scandi grind. It's the best grind for woodworking and easiest to resharpen.
I own each of these. The Mora Bushcraft Triflex is what I carry in the field. The others are still fantastic.
Morakniv Companion
Morakniv Craftline HighQ
Mora Bushcraft Triflex (seems out of stock at Amazon)
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/
I like carbon steel blades, but I also like sharpening knives....
Is that the most awesome knife ever made?
Mora Companion
With that one you are paying a large premium for the sheath. This has a thinner blade 2.5mm vs 3.2mm, but is arguably not as tough.
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40
Mora. The end.
Survival knives are meant to be used, not babied.
like u/kimste2 said for the money you really can't go wrong with a Mora. If you insist on a full tang I also have a couple of the Survivor HK-106 knives and have been very impressed considering the price, they also come with a fire starter.
Mora
Mora - Light My Fire
Survivor HK-106
morakniv is the way to go
Edit: they have other variations, but all of their knives are excellent for price points
well im not an expert in any of those categories. but ive been doing a lot of heavy research into bushcrafting (ie watching all the top dogs on youtube and studyign their gear) and ill tell you knives are ultra important. the one you have listed is seen as a joke though it is a good one but without the serrated edge. you should add the mora $10 knife thats on amazon right now. https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480303187&sr=8-1&keywords=mora+knife
Get a pair of Mora Companions for $14 each and if you find out that you want something more then you can look for something more focused for your type of outdoors use. Most "survival" knives are lumped together in one category that makes it difficult to distinguish what their type design is for. KaBar Becker BK2 is basically a sharpened pry-bar. The thing is practically bomb-proof but its thick blade and obtuse grind means that it won't be very easy to cut with. Esee knives are also tough, and feature more functional grinds and and a great warranty, but 1095 steel they use is still going to be inferior in edge retention and edge stability to premium CPM-3v or Vanadis 4-Extra that you see on stuff like a GSO-4.7 or the ZT-0180. Then you have knives like Falknivens that use high-end stainless laminated steels which are price because the process for laminating is expensive and complicated and provides a stainless blade with some of the impact absorption that normally is attributed to carbon blades while still maintaining a harder edge. The reason I suggest a Mora is that for someone new to the fixed blade game, it's an option that won't break the bank and is also probably the highest value for the price of any fixed blade available. It's the Timex of knives. Not fancy but it works and is easy to replace if you lose or break(which is still pretty unlikely) it.
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Military-4-1-Inch/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=pd_sim_468_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=31RSOV7Bn4L&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=0QT33JYXQS3ZD772EAFD
If you're looking for a plain and simple, fixed-blade knife, get a Mora. They're cheap as shit, razor sharp, and hold up damn well. Just keep them clean and oiled or they tend to rust.
If you're looking for a multi-tool type knife, go with Leatherman. They're more expensive, and the model I have is discontinued so I can't give you a recommendation, but they've got a version for everyone.
And listen to everyone telling you not to use a knife for self defense. The best tools for self defense are open eyes and fast feet. If you feel like you need something else, there are much better options than a knife.
A Mora Companion MG Carbon Steel has everything you want except for the rubber handle.
So I am going to get a Mora blade, it is between these three, that are all close to each other!
http://www.amazon.com/New-Swedish-Mil-Mora-Knife/dp/B004TNWD40
http://www.amazon.com/Mora-Companion-Heavy-Duty-Knife/dp/B009NZVZ3E/ref=pd_sbs_sg_2
http://www.amazon.com/Mora-HighQ-Robust-Knife-Carbon/dp/B00816PZ8W/ref=pd_sim_sg_1
At this point the $5 differences aren't an issue, what would be my best bet of those three?
The Morakniv Companion seems like a good starting point. Pretty cheap where I'm at ordering from Amazon.
Granted, I have a couple Gerbers. Mostly paraframe folders, and for the price, you're better off with a Chinese Kershaw, like the Oso Sweet
I have a Kellam, Helle is going to be my next puuko addition.
Pretty knife! I've found myself admiring my Kellam more often than using it.
Just as a tip, this knife has lasted me amazingly in the outdoors (I mainly do a lot of fishing and camping) and complements my wood-handled Kellam rather nicely for wet environments! Anyways, great gift.
I think I'll be grabbing a few of these.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B004TNWD40/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A36ZAOEPX7I0P8
First of all this is the item i think you will purchase with this order - http://amzn.com/B00006IE7L
Now for my list.... prepare to get wood ;)
Thank you so much for the contest, I had alot of fun putting this together. Happy Happy cake day /u/ask_seek_knock! and good luck to everyone!
Split the difference. Get a Kukri. Here is the one I plan on getting after a little research. I normally carry a classic KA-BAR and really like it but a good Kukri would remove the need for a hatchet.
Take a look at www.himalayan-imports.com or www.thekhukurihouse.com/ for kukris.
I bought an Ontario 6420 Kukri for clearing brush and chopping through limbs and I'm really satisfied with it.
I don't know anything about Kukris that are actually made in Nepal. the impression that I got was that a lot of them are touristy junk. Like Samurai swords that you find in the mall. That isn't to say that any of the ones that you linked aren't good though.
I have a Cold Steel Kukri Machete. Made in South Africa. I can't find the video any more, but I got it after watching a torture test of the thing. Took a guy like 15 minutes of abuse to get the kukri to a point where it wasn't safe to keep using. I'm talking chopping through steel beams, clamping the blade down and jumping on the handle like a diving board, thing is a tank. I've seen it get below $20 on Amazon.
That's the only one that I own, but if I were to buy another, it would be the Ontario Knife Company Kukri. Made in America. The steel should take an edge better and the handle should be more comfortable. Not sure that it will stand up to the abuse that the cold steel machete can, but you shouldn't ever have to submit it to that abuse unless you're trying to break out of jail with it or something.
> kataner
Functional and cheap can be had. Musashi and Masahiro are good candidates for your budget:
http://www.kultofathena.com/musashi.asp
http://www.kultofathena.com/masahiro.asp
> machete (kukuri)
For a khukuri, the various Nepali khukuri houses will have some in your budget. You can buy direct from their websites, or through Amazon (Kult of Athena as linked above has some). Some possibilities:
https://www.amazon.com/Authentic-Kukri-12-Survival-Khukuri-House-Nepal/dp/B018ZXQEG2/
http://kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=EKHGACI23
There are cheaper options (typically Indian or Pakistani made), but they're not as good. E.g., https://www.amazon.com/Snake-Eye-Tactical-17-BKSZ2103/dp/B00F2ISW32/
Then there are kukri-shaped machetes:
https://www.amazon.com/4007254-Cold-Steel-Machete-Sheath/dp/B00AL1DELK/
and various kukri-shaped knives:
https://www.amazon.com/1064206-Ontario-Knife-OKC-Kukri/dp/B00519UT42/
Plenty to choose from.
CRKT S.P.E.W.. Inexpensive and pretty, I wear it every day and love it.
http://www.amazon.com/Condor-Tools-Knives-Kephart-2-Inch/dp/B007QUVIX0/ref=pd_sbs_200_2?ie=UTF8&dpID=31QMnJx7frL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR156%2C160_&refRID=0ZMYAX2FRTG1N62YJB7K
Awesome! Then the world is your oyster. As I mentioned before, the Jeff White Nessmuk has been, for me, a terrific skinner. And it'll also do regular fieldcraft tasks with ease. However, I think I would get the Trekker model if I were only going to carry one. It might be right at the top of your budget, but it's an excellent knife. It's a convex grind just like the Nessmuk, but it's longer and not quite as sharply swept. If that's too large a blade, then check out the Bush Knife or one of the French Trade knives.
Here's the Trekker
Here's the French Trade Knife
The Bush One is close in length to your Enzo and is a bit less expensive.
The Condor Kephart is a flat grind with a secondary bevel and works really well. It's also very affordable and comes with the best sheath you'll ever see for its price point.
http://www.amazon.com/Schrade-SCHF14-Drop-Point-Fixed-Sheath/dp/B00BM9GHJQ
nvm it's $30 but still that is one hell of a deal for what you're getting. The reason why of course is that they're manufactured over seas but they finally have good control over the quality of the steel and the fit & finish.
Schrade schf14.. Owned mine for 2.5 years, no problems.
http://www.amazon.com/Schrade-SCHF14-Drop-Point-Fixed-Sheath/dp/B00BM9GHJQ
Hey man, just so you know the BM hidden canyon Hunter is a little cheaper brand new from Amazon right now at 117 I believe. With that being said it's a really good knife and glws
Source: BM hidden canyon Hunter
Since you like Benchmades- https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-15016-2-Hunting-Drop-Point-Stabilized/dp/B00I90HWYU/ref=mp_s_a_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1538444412&sr=8-15&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=skinning+knife&dpPl=1&dpID=51hLkihSQwL&ref=plSrch
https://www.amazon.com/Benchmade-15016-2-Hunting-Drop-Point-Stabilized/dp/B00I90HWYU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1539701355&sr=8-1&keywords=hidden+canyon
Another vote for Benchmade, but I love the Hidden Canyon.
IMO, you need 2 knives, 1 for bushcraft that can get dinged up and dull if necessary... The other should be your animal processing knife which never touches anything but flesh/hide.
Not a "knife", but the other aspect of that is you may need a bone saw.
Hi awindsor1980 ,
Whats the condition of that BM HC? I see them new on amazon for $117. Used for under a buck.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I90HWYU/ref=ox_sc_act_title_7?smid=A2TVEI9VP255CC&psc=1
Consider something like a Leatherman Skeletool for general use. The Mora knives are fantastic and I have the Light My Fire version in my car camping kitchen kit.
If I were doing seriously batoning, the Mora Bushcraft is much thicker and more suited than the thinner ones.
Have a look at the Gerber Strongarm. It's ridiculously undervalued, IMO. Fantastic, multi-adaptable sheath, thick, strong blade, full tang with a pommel end and lanyard loop. It's also not stupid-large or a stereotypical "sharpened prybar." It has some finesse to it.
I'm a bit torn though: I'd be tempted to leave that at home and just bring a hatchet if I were doing any kind of heavy wood processing.
Christ, I didn't know other people did this! Quickest and most painful way to lose a toe nail at the same time, having to dig dirt and plant matter out of your cuticles and off of where the toenail used to be is a pain in the ass, especially when you're on half a tab of lsd and the only tool you have for the job is this monstrosity .
If it is helpful - this is the exact sheath and option I chose (from canadian amazon):
https://www.amazon.ca/Morakniv-Kansbol-Sandvik-Stainless-4-3-Inch/dp/B01M23QMPO/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=kansbol&qid=1562866392&s=gateway&sr=8-1
This one seems to be the first result on american amazon. It has a MUCH different styled handle and sheath - I can't speak to the quality of either.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Bushcraft-Outdoor-Stainless-4-3-Inch/dp/B003FYJU9A/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=kansbol&qid=1562866354&s=gateway&sr=8-1
Maybe see if you can find the other style, or if you can order it from canada without much hassle?
Morakniv Kansbol for $33 on Amazon. It’s great for both food prep and wood because of the two different grinds on the knife. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M23QMPO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_YFv.zbEBEHSMC
I have been looking at them for a while now and cant find a ton of info on them that are in the under $100 range. I haven't had the money to spend on one willy-nilly but I think I have it narrowed down to two that I'm interested in the Ka-bar and the Ontario.
Consider: http://www.amazon.com/Buck-0119BKS-B-Special-Fixed-Blade/dp/B000EHWWJQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1320989368&sr=1-1
Is there a big advantage to the Companion versus the Morakniv 2000?
I'm new to knives. My guess is that the Companion is cheaper and slightly lighter.
What I'm really curious about is how the UL community feels about Carbon Steel vs Stainless Steel. I've read that CS dulls, but also sharpens, quicker. I can't decide if that's an advantage or disadvantage in a backpacking knife.
No, this!
>6.4" blade, 5.6" handle
>1095 High Carbon Steel
>Kraton handle
>15.9 ounces
$35. Took about 5 seconds to copy and paste into Amazon.
Just a bit larger, but not by much, the BK 14.
https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-BK14-Becker-Knife-Eskabar/dp/B004CIQY6K
it fits perfect in this sheath.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004RIEJA8/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Get this one http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004CIQY6K/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?qid=1375939394&sr=8-7&pi=SL75
http://www.amazon.com/KA-BAR-Marine-Corps-Fighting-Straight/dp/B001H53Q6M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371761844&sr=8-1&keywords=USMC+KA+Bar
fixed blade survival knife. I like gerber, here is one example from Bear Grylls:
http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-31-000751-Survival-Ultimate-Serrated/dp/B003R0LSMO/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1395438205&sr=8-4&keywords=gerber+knife#productDetails
a true man's knife