:help:
If I were to look for one knife to keep in my pack for field-dressing, skinning, deboning.... If you could have one knife to "do it all", what would it be?
I'm not looking to spend "my next bow" kind of money, but I'd spend a few extra dollars to get something nice.
Thoughts and suggestions?
Thanks folks,
Rusty
Gerber, Buck or Kershaw would be the brands I would look at.
Not sure your budget, but if you can handle $50-$60, the Outdoor Edge's swing blade is another great choice.
Just like most anything these days, you don't have to spend a lot for adequate quality. Don't get cuaght up too much on the fancy things.
BTW, do as I say, not as I do! hehehehehehehe
I can highly recommend the knives at BlindHorse Knives. I've been using them for a couple years. Their work horse is an all around great knife and would suite your needs just fine. Don't know what you're planning on spending but their knives are roughly around $130. Did I mention... 100% AMERICAN MADE!
Blackjack in A2 tool steel.....micarta handle and made in the U.S. My current favorite...about $160
A 4 inch drop point hunter is what I carry.
Swing-Blade from outdoor edge...
Everybody likes something different. Some like small drop points, others like up swept skinners. I really like a large knife, not a bowie but something with some backbone. Like a Ka-Bar Marine. I also carry more than one knife!
Hmmmm. Skinning is a lot different vs. deboning. The closest I have to a do it all is a dumb little Uncle Henry 154 UH "Staglon" scaled Badger. 3-3/16" blade that holds a great edge.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v169/Stumpkiller/Bowhunting/HPIM2403.jpg)
And the reason it works well for field dressing and skinning . . . .
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v169/Stumpkiller/Bowhunting/HPIM1030-1.jpg)
Thanks for the input, folks. That swing blade looks pretty darn cool. Does the handle feel better than it looks in the photos I've seen? And how does it hold an edge? I see it's made in the USA (Very Important IMO).
Anyone have experience with the Buck Omni Hunter or Vanguard?
As for my price range, I'd prefer to stay under $100 but again, if I'm spending more than that on something I can give to my kids, I don't have a problem spending a bit more. And if I'm spending $50-60 on something I'll replace in a couple years, I'd rather not. ;)
Thanks again for all the input.
Rusty
Case makes a nice hunter model for around 50 bucks
My favorite:
(http://www.heinnie.com/uploads/images_products_large/1686.jpg)
My definition of "do-all" may be different than yours, but this is by far my favorite knife to carry outdoors (In a pack, on my belt, or around my neck)
I've seen these called Sypderco Morans or Spyderco Featherweights. They are light, have an extremely comfortable handle, and the blade is VG10. Less than $70 when I bought mine. Comes with a great Tek-lock sheath as well.
A "Fingerling" type knife, such as suggested by stumpkiller, would be a great all-around choice as well. Schrades is a popular maker, but I'd stay away from the new ones *IF* your willing to put down some money. The new Schrades just aren't what the old ones use to be IMO. Not a bad knife...but not what made Schrade famous either.
For a great knife that can do it all, I prefer a 3-4" drop point. However, some can be pretty pricey.. Therefore, I would recommend a "Knives of Alaska" Yukon model as seen in this picture [knife on left] these are my favorites. L-R:
The Yukon, a custom by Ed Schempp, a 3" damascus drop point By Doug Campbell, a 1915 Pat. Marbles and my Jeff Springer [aka, Tippit] arm guard knife [ with A/G by Tim Roberts of Farr West Leathers ]
A great alternative is knife or a set of 2 hunting knives by "Outdoor Edge"... Very reasonable price-wise and take and hold a good edge. [ Look very simialr to the "Knives of AK.]
BTW, no matter what knife is on my belt, that Yukon is "Always" in the day pack. :thumbsup: ;)
Hope this helps
Gene
(http://i753.photobucket.com/albums/xx177/BrokenArrow-03/DSCF0004-2.jpg)
I can't tell you how many custom knives I have.A bunch,maybe a dozen or so.I'm a taxidermist by trade and have been one for over 4 decades and a trapper longer than that.I use knives almost daily.
All those hundreds of dollars worth of custom knives are gathering dust in a cabinet.This is what I use now and carry hunting to skin and cut up big game.The Piranta.
(http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a140/jbrandenburg/TurkeyHeads028.jpg)
I have many many knives . Many of those are customs , some semi production and others out and out production. I always seem to have a couple on me for various tasks but know full well the reality that a well made drop point folder would likely cover all bases .
Many of our sponsors carry and/or make knives .
Myself i always carry a Grohmann drop point folder and custom Gossman Tusker 4". allthogh lately I have been putting all the ESEE knives through their paces and man do they stand up ! brilliant warranty too .
spend the extra , get something you like toting afield and will want to hand on to your kids .
Ray Hammond Knife...
(http://i124.photobucket.com/albums/p31/smallwood1972/Misc/SmallwoodDamascus.jpg)
My favourite all around knive is the Eka JoF7 from Sweden. Holds a great edge, versatile blade and the little depression in the back of the blade is great for youre finger while skinning.
(blade is only 7 cm)
(http://i711.photobucket.com/albums/ww119/g_reiner/EKA_JoF7Bubinga.jpg)
My favorite is a USA made Schrade ph2. They can still be found for sale for less than $50. Once in a while you can find one new in the box.
K-Bar
For about $35, you can get either of these KaBar Becker neck knives (shown in varying stages of newness / customization). As far as I'm concerned, this is the ideal size for cleaning deer. Also use them all the time for ... whatever you need knives for. I have larger knives and smaller but man, are these useful.
New (BK14 on left and BK11 on right)...
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/GingivitisKahn/goodies_from_ethan/20110328_IMG_0110-1.jpg)
Unwrapped BK11 with freshly cleaned doe...
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/GingivitisKahn/black_friday_2010_doe/20101126_ac_11.jpg)
Wrapped and stripped (well - BK11 is stripped)...
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/GingivitisKahn/img_0198-1.jpg)
Becker family picture. Thats a BK14, two BK11s, BK2 and BK9...
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/GingivitisKahn/goodies_from_ethan/20110328_IMG_0113.jpg)
Can't go wrong with Becker. By the way - if you want the perfect all-around camp knife, BK2 is (IMO) the answer. It wouldn't be my top pick for cleaning game - though it obviously could - it's fantastic for general camp life.
The experience of the guy using the knife is a lot more important than the knife. A piece of unhafted broken rock works fine if you know what you're doing and a $400 Randall will make an ungodly mess if you don't...
Ging... I love my Beckers .... great value for money !
Buck Folding Hunter.
I can't live without mine!
Buck are very good for the money and #1 choice for American sprtmen,but you can buy something more personal if you make a research here on the knife forum,attention it is addicting!
QuoteOriginally posted by cacciatore:
Buck are very good for the money and #1 choice for American sprtmen,but you can buy something more personal if you make a research here on the knife forum,attention it is addicting!
My dad gave me that knife and it's been a good one. I don't see another knife being more personal than it. lol!
Holds a razor edge.
Buck 110 is a great deal and just a all around good blade .
QuoteOriginally posted by Rusty Snuffers:
Thanks for the input, folks. That swing blade looks pretty darn cool. Does the handle feel better than it looks in the photos I've seen? And how does it hold an edge? I see it's made in the USA (Very Important IMO).
Anyone have experience with the Buck Omni Hunter or Vanguard?
As for my price range, I'd prefer to stay under $100 but again, if I'm spending more than that on something I can give to my kids, I don't have a problem spending a bit more. And if I'm spending $50-60 on something I'll replace in a couple years, I'd rather not. ;)
Thanks again for all the input.
Rusty
A few years ago when I was living in New Jersey I used a broth-in-laws swing-blade and it did feel better then it looks and it kept it's edge nicely. We skinned and butchered 2 deer with it and it was still good for another 1 or 2..
I don't have a swing blade, but have used one. They are excellent knives for the price. I skinned a gater with one and it was still as sharp as ever. I have skinned deer with them, nothing bigger but wouldn't have a problem tackling anything with the swingblade.
Great thread....The only thing I like better than bows....Knives! Some real nice ones shown and mentioned so far,all great tools!
There are about 15 knives in my shop, but I have been using a Buck Omni Hunter for about 6 months. Like it much. 3 1/8 blade, nice handle. Not to big, not to small. Nice belly to it, holds an edge, but easy to resharpen. It will not break the bank.
I like sharp things also. The vanguard is a great knife (I own both the drop point and the guthook "Zipper" models). The rubber textured grip feels real good in my larger hands.
In your price range, also check out Helle. They make a excellent laminated blade that gets scary sharp and holds a edge. I had Skullworks (check out the blade forum) put a Helle together for me and it turned out real nice.
This site is blessed with quite a few quaility knife builders and bladesmith's. Take a look at the Knife and sponcer forums and see some of the knives these guys build. Prepare yourself to be blown away! I'm always on the hunt to add another of our fine bladesmiths wares to my collection. Get a idea of what you want talk to these guys and they will hook you up...
JL
Besides traditional bows I've always had a "thing" for knives. Over the years I've had and used a hundred of them. I don't believe that there's one knife that will do it all, or maybe that's just my excuse for owning and carrying more than one. But if I had to choose only one knife it would probably be my LaClair Skinner that I designed and had Blacksmith C.L. Matteo make for me.
(http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/LaClair_Skinner1.JPG)
Here's the link to the site.
http://shrewbows.com/laclair_skinner/index.html
Man, I love this site. Lots of folks with lots of experience makes for lots of information.
I checked out the sponsor links and there are so many talented bowyers and bladesmiths and craftsmen it's hard to keep my mouth from hanging open as I browse through the web pages. My wife tells me I'm obsessed with tradgang.com and I think she's right. :D
Back to knives, I've been looking at drop points in the 3"-4" range and there seems to be about a million to choose from in prices ranging from $10 to $1000. Thankfully, with help from you guys, I can make a more educated decision.
Thanks Gang!
Rusty
GingivitisKahn, I have the same Becker 'Knife System'. Those Beckers are awesome knives.
Form follows function, but sometimes function is form...Here is my Autumn Hunter model. Note how the knife conforms to the hand no matter which field dressing position you are using. All of my knife models are as comfortable and secure to hold upside down as rightside up. That is why my knives have no finger grooves or sharp corners on the grip. The design features and premium heat treating are what you pay for with a custom knife. That and the pretty woods :cool: . Please excuse the dirty fingers, I just came in from the shop. :o
(http://fototime.com/30840D91B96013B/standard.jpg)
(http://fototime.com/D9D00A203D6ACB8/standard.jpg)
(http://fototime.com/CE67319C3E1198D/standard.jpg)
I too am in awe of all the talent displayed here.
My next knife might be a helle. I've heard nothing but good things about them and they are not very expensive. I hear they stay sharp too.
I take two knives with me when I'm deer hunting. Always have this little neck knife...6-1/2" long with 3-1/2" blade. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v71/Iflytrout/Pictures/th_knife-ft_1.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v71/Iflytrout/Pictures/knife-ft_1.jpg) and have been carrying this Gerber pocket knife a friend gave me for birthday. (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v71/Iflytrout/Pictures/th_gb8447.jpg) (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v71/Iflytrout/Pictures/gb8447.jpg)
I don't like the saw part on the blade, but it gets sharpe as a razor as does the neck knife and both are easy to touch up.
They do what I need done...take what hide off I need to and bone out for packing out. Click on images for bigger pictures.
My vote would be for the LaClair Skinner or that style of blade and size. Also, the price on that knife is very reasonable
If you want functionality, you have lots of options. If you want beauty, you should look for something that pleases your eye. If you want collectability, that's a whole nuther matter.
For me, my Buck Crosslock has served me well for a hunting knife. It has a guthook and 3" drop point blade, sharpens pretty easily and keeps an edge for a good while.
For a camp knife, I like something more rugged and in a fixed blade, hanging on my hip in a sheath. I've 3 of those. A Holme Made drop point, a Doug Campbell damascus, and a knife I got in trade that is tougher than heck.
I also have a multi-tool in my pocket almost all the time.
I guess it all depends on what you plan on cutting up.
Different knives for different jobs.
I guess for Deer you could use a buck skinner or Western.
For Elephants, well you may need a bowie.
QuoteOriginally posted by cacciatore:
Buck are very good for the money and #1 choice for American sprtmen,but you can buy something more personal if you make a research here on the knife forum,attention it is addicting!
By the way, my response to your thread wasn't meant in a smart you know what way. Wanted you to know that! (Insert a thumbs up here!)
There are some beautiful knives displayed on here.
@Ringneck
That knife is gorgeous! The shape is really nice and just seems to make sense when I look at it in your dirty hand. ;)
Now I just need to figure out how to get my hands on one without the missus finding out what I spent on it.... :thumbsup:
i love my original buffalo skinner.
perfect size for everything i ever had to do in the field or the back yard
QuoteOriginally posted by Rusty Snuffers:
@Ringneck
Now I just need to figure out how to get my hands on one without the missus finding out what I spent on it.... :thumbsup:
Thank you! You just need to tell your wife that fathers day is coming up ;)
and you also need to make sure your brother-in-law is'nt looking at your thread !
maybe we can get 2 together and I would be sworn to silence then !
QuoteOriginally posted by hogdancer:
and you also need to make sure your brother-in-law is'nt looking at your thread !
maybe we can get 2 together and I would be sworn to silence then !
Rusty = :knothead:
I won't tell if you don't. :bigsmyl:
For several years now I've been using a folding design by Tim Wegner at Bladetech. Check em out
I really like my Helle Harding for all around hunting use.
But, I end up carrying my Spyderco Bill Moran (same one as pics on page 1 of this post via Soilarch) the most just because it's so functional and easy to carry on my belt or in a pack. I can field dress a deer or fillet out a turkey breast with ease with this knife.
If you really want total function for very little money, get a Mora Clipper for literally $12 or so..
Rusty Helle knives have been mentioned but price is good.Rob Lee sent the dropoff from my riser when he made my bow and I made the handle with this drop point.
(http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p191/Kip_album/2007_0212Image0058.jpg)
Very sharp and they have a wide selection of blades.Were in La.are you fromKip
That looks really nice Kip,
Kip, that's some kinda fine! Which blade is that? I'm actually considering buying a blank and making my own grip. :eek: Scary thought, but it sounds fun and shouldn't cost too much, as long as I keep my fingers away from the business end. I was considering the Helle Odel.
Fine bow you've got there, too, BTW!
Oh, and I'm in Hammond, LA.
Kip, that is cool! What a matched set.
Rusty I think it was the Harding.Your brother-in-law is a killer as you well know.Thomas see you in about a month.Guys thanks for the kind words.Kip
QuoteOriginally posted by GingivitisKahn:
For about $35, you can get either of these KaBar Becker neck knives (shown in varying stages of newness / customization). As far as I'm concerned, this is the ideal size for cleaning deer. Also use them all the time for ... whatever you need knives for. I have larger knives and smaller but man, are these useful.
New (BK14 on left and BK11 on right)...
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/GingivitisKahn/goodies_from_ethan/20110328_IMG_0110-1.jpg)
Unwrapped BK11 with freshly cleaned doe...
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/GingivitisKahn/black_friday_2010_doe/20101126_ac_11.jpg)
Wrapped and stripped (well - BK11 is stripped)...
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/GingivitisKahn/img_0198-1.jpg)
Becker family picture. Thats a BK14, two BK11s, BK2 and BK9...
(http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff187/GingivitisKahn/goodies_from_ethan/20110328_IMG_0113.jpg)
Can't go wrong with Becker. By the way - if you want the perfect all-around camp knife, BK2 is (IMO) the answer. It wouldn't be my top pick for cleaning game - though it obviously could - it's fantastic for general camp life.
I second that
One knife, no one can have just one knife.
Thats like expecting your VW bug to take the family to church on Sunday morning and then haul a livestock trailer in the afternoon.
That being said my favorite would be a Buck Crosslok with a 3" drop blade and a combo saw/guthook blade. Or a Outdoor Edge 3" folding skinner or a OE 5" folding filet knife or a ?????
Each knife has a specialty.
I just boughy a Gohrman #2 belt knife. Haven't used it yet but Ithink this may be my new #1. My old Case I have carried for 25 yrs is getting ready to retire (too many sharpings)
I like knives and have used everything from a big fixed blade skinner to a keychain Victronix to field dress a deer.... I actually like a catttleman or trapper style pocket knife for most dressing chores...
For fixed blades i think a 3-3 1/2 in blade is plenty and it seems many folks on here do as well...
If I were to buy another knife for the pack it'd be a Boker trapper (I left one at a kill site a few years back and couldn't find it a week later...) I like the skinnier blades of a pocket knife for my dressing duties.. It seems the bigger the knife, the quicker I am to the dressing duties...
If I were hunting Elk or bigger, it'd be a different story...
Thanks again for all the input, folks. I decided to be brave and ordered a Helle blank, some striped ebony and a couple threaded pins. Browsing the knife forum, there's quite a bit of info there including a nice pictorial by Lin Rhea that makes me think (foolishly?) that I might be able to make something nice for myself. (not that it'll be anywhere NEAR as fine as Lin's work :notworthy: ) It'll likely take me a while but I'll be sure to post pics when I can.
Wish me luck! :pray:
Rusty
For several years now I've been using a Dozier K-16,Yukon Pro Skinner. It's got a 3 1/2" blade made of D-2 tool steel. Bob Dozier uses his own heat treatment process which makes for a scary sharp blade. It holds a great edge. After much use it still shaves hair. It also comes in a kydex horizontal sheath They can be bought from AG Russell knives for around $200.....DaveP
I like the Swing-Blaze by Outdoor edge. It is two fixed knives on one blade that swivel in a orange handle. You can get the black handle (Swing-Blade) model also. I got the orange handle just because it is easy to keep track of, when you lay it down in the field. The one blade is for gutting and leg cuts and is different than the old "Gut Hook" the other is a utility blade for skinning and camp chores. Cost is around $60.00 and the blades really hold an edge. I have used mine on a large hog and a bull elk and it still kept it's edge. Light weight and a nylon sheath. A good value for the money.
I like my Buck woodsman (#102). Nothing fancy, but a good all around knife and can be had for around $40.
All around? Any good 3 blade stockman's knife. Fits in the pocket, take it to work without drawing stares, $25 at any hardware store. I'm carrying an American made Bear brand right now, but I've had many over the years--Schrade, Buck, Kabar, Camillus, Case. I like blue steel over stainless because it's easier to sharpen and less likely to break in my experience.
Now, what do I carry for deer hunting? It's a medium thick bladed, 3" neck knife just pointy enough to clean my fingernails or pick a splinter, and blue steel. About $25 at most any western rendezvous. They have an antique look and a canoe stamped on the blade. The guy that makes them is named Dean something or other. He's great and has been around aa long time. You can spend a thousand dollars , but can't get a better knife for field dressing.
i like my drop point from cutco. holds an edge for a long time. don
QuoteOriginally posted by Rusty Snuffers:
Thanks again for all the input, folks. I decided to be brave and ordered a Helle blank, some striped ebony and a couple threaded pins. Browsing the knife forum, there's quite a bit of info there including a nice pictorial by Lin Rhea that makes me think (foolishly?) that I might be able to make something nice for myself. (not that it'll be anywhere NEAR as fine as Lin's work :notworthy: ) It'll likely take me a while but I'll be sure to post pics when I can.
Wish me luck! :pray:
Rusty
Awesome! That is something I have been wantingto do myself but time is a issue right now. I think when I have some spare time, I'm gonna give it a whirl. I'm sure just about every guy out there started the same way. Give it your best and let us see what you come up with. Which Helle blank did you go with?
Here's a little eye candy for ya. Top one is a custom drop point made by Bryan Baker from Boise. This guy is being compaired to Bob Loveless (not bad company to be in with...)
Bottom is a JRJ custom that mirrors my Randall 25-5. John is a world class bladesmith;
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v75/Rugerfan/IMG_3774.jpg)
JL,
those are awesome. My custom should be finished soon and ill post pics.
Everyday carry pocket knife is a Buck Cadet
I didn't read all the replies but for the money you can't beat a Mora. For about 10 bucks you'll have a laminated blade that you can literally pound through other wood. They come with a cheesy plastic sheath that will out perform any leather sheath hands down. That said I don't own a mora but someday I'll get around to getting one.
Ive always heard the praise of Mora knives, but was always sceptical. So i bought one and i must say i wouldnt recommend it to anyone who can sped more than 10$. It doesnt hold an edge as good as id like it to and is overall not my cup of tea.
That said, for rough work it might be fine, for fine cutting work i wouldnt want to use it.
Perhaps it is just me, no offence meant.
Cool knives JL, what is the scale material on the Baker ? Looks great, that knife would be a pretty close shape to the Loveless 4" too wouldn't it.
Cheers
Knives come in all shapes and sizes, some practical and some not so practical. Here's my latest acquisition I don't think you'd want to carry a knife like this on a deer hunt but it sure is beautiful. Here's the write up on the De la ronhe web site
QuoteThis knife was created to replicate one recently found in Old Mexico, in the desert of Casas grandes, Chihuahua at the Hacienda de San Diego formerly owned by Don Luis Terrazas. The overall knife is approximately 14 inches long; the blade is 10 inches long with the unique double bolster handle which is 4" long and made of antiqued bone.
(http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Belduque%203.jpg)
(http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Belduque%202.jpg)
(http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Belduque%201.jpg)
Now thats a good looking knife.
JL,
I went with the Helle Harding blank after looking at several pics online and a couple comments in this thread from guys that have them. I'll be sure to post pics of the process. Luckily, I'm not easily embarrassed, so if it doesn't come out very good, I'll just try again. ;)
Those two are beauties, by the way. :thumbsup:
Rusty
That is one awesome period knife Ron! Truely a work of art. You should do a current group shot of your blade collection Ron. Bet some jaws will be hittin the deck. We have simular taste and I love the stuff you get!
I'll post a pic of my Helle when I get a chance Rusty. Skullwork's built it for me and it may give you some ideas...
I own a couple of Bryan's knives. He has tweeked his design/grind a bit and I want to keep a running collection of his stuff. I really think he's flying way under the radar but he will get his due one day. He has some serious talent when it comes to blades...
JL
Some really nice looking knives guys. I'll have me a cudtom knife made one day. Right now I carry a Gerber Gator Mate and it has always preformed well in whatever situation I need him for.....Randy
Here is the Helle Clarance twisted up for me...man, I love that knife...
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c154/Skullworks02/KNIVES/HelleIronwoodAntler.jpg)
2 from Duke Dudley at Virginia Blade....
(http://vablade.com/agora/picserve.cgi?picserve=/00021.jpg)
Lightfoot I w/ sheath - $30
(http://vablade.com/agora/picserve.cgi?picserve=/00022.jpg)
Lightfoot II Guthook w/ sheath - $35
The plan is laid out. I'll post back in a year or two once it's been implemented. ;)
(http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/rpmahony/6ff8585c-1.jpg)
The drawing is a general shape and right at 8 1/2" OAL. I'm sure I'll tweak the proportions as I go. I'll be playing around with some scrap wood before I try using the striped ebony. The Helle Harding blade is very nice, BTW. Thanks to all who suggested going with Helle. I can't wait to see how it comes out... or maybe I can. :D
QuoteOriginally posted by JL:
Here is the Helle Clarance twisted up for me...man, I love that knife...
(http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c154/Skullworks02/KNIVES/HelleIronwoodAntler.jpg)
.... and if my own handle doesn't come out, I know at least ONE man to contact. Very nice!
Rusty, I have a couple of Helle Knives, one of them I even did myself, same model as yours from the look of it, with osage and bloodwood, pretty easy to do, mine is very basic.
Good choice !
I'm a fan of the OLD Pumas or my D.H. Russell-Grohmann belt knife.
(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p213/BowNow/IMG_1549.jpg)
The most I've ever spent for a knife is $42.99.
I don't like the idea they are made in China (Browning) But ,It cuts and holds an edge, The Gut look knife was $19.95. I found it at Gander Mountain, As you can see it's a national brand. I was just looking for a gut hook and I did not want to pay $50 bucks. This came along and it looked just fine. They all hold a very good edge.
For years & years I used *only* a 110 Buck folder that my grandfather gave me - for everything!
Then in addition to the 110, I started carrying a Chicago Cutlery 106S that I made a sheath for.
Now on my extended elk hunts I also carry a fixed blade Gerber.
No matter what the blade, I have found that the key for me is in being able to restore/sharpen the blade to a razors edge as necessary....
Shoot straight, Shinken
:archer2:
I don't understand why people who would spend hundreds of dollars on bows will then scrimp on the cost of a knife.. :readit:
I think we owe it to ourselves to have at least one very good knife to carry with us on our hunts, although I don't understand the concept of only one.. :confused:
Some of us have more than we really need and have a hard time deciding what to carry on those hunts.. :dunno:
(http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/knives.jpg)
(http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Blades.JPG)
The Helle is a great choice. I often take my old K-Bar. It is large but while in the Marines we learned to use this knife as tool for just about any job. I have split breast on deer using a baton method and skinning is no problem. I can shave hair with just a light stroke when she is good and sharp. There were some nice knives here. Thanks for all the pictures that were shared.
Like alot of us, I have alot of knives, from kabar, to cold steel, to skinners to bowies. I love them all, and remember you get what you pay for. I mainly hunt whitetail deer and turkeys, so I found that the Swiss army knife (hunter) is great. Wear it around my neck, the blade holds an edge real well. The gut hook, is really a seat belt cutter design and works amazing. It was around 40 dollars and well worth it.
QuoteThe Helle is a great choice
I agree, there's one in the top picture, lower left..
Them is some nice knives Ron. When you gonna post the rest of your collection? :p
CTT
My Dad, years ago, instilled in me that you did not need a "big" knife to get the job done. All these 60 some years later I still think he is right.
Here is the knife I do most gutting and skinning with. It was made by a gentelman who's name I can not remember but I think he was from KY. Its a forged file blade and holds an edge like you would not believe. The shiny spot in the picture is a quater.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/Huntschool/Picture.jpg)
Less is sometimes more.....
QuoteThem is some nice knives Ron. When you gonna post the rest of your collection? :p
CTT
When I get a bigger camera with a wide lens.. :D
Thats what I thought Ron.
Bruce, That is a cool looking knife. Thanks
Huntschool,
Joe Keeslar lives in Kentucky. I bet that's one of his forged blades. He taught me to forge my first forged blade.
Lin:
Yep, thats him.... touche mark is a Hammer...
He did some really neet prim. stuff years ago.
You might be interested, I have a cople of Jim Rubleys early works....
Huntschool, here's a shot of Mr Keeslar not long ago. I bet his hair was not so white back when you got your knife.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3165/3001365096_028da6edb9_z.jpg?zz=1)
Huntschool, my dad told me the same thing. He bought me this knife from Black Widow.
(http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n140/ryanita/DSCN3392.jpg)
Bark River scalpel or pro scalpel series. Reminds me of my KaBar 7" OL w/3" drop point blade I've used for decades. Good for everything IMO & always very sharp.
(http://i.imgur.com/mm5rul.jpg)
I need a bigger towel........for wiping up all the drool.....I agree, a small knife can do what a large knife can do, most of the time.
I love them all. Must admit I have a preferance for large knives. I've got quite a few Bowies, I guess they're my favorites. That 2nd pic of Ron's looks like my kinda layout. :bigsmyl:
However, none compare to Lin's work. he is a true master :notworthy: .
Lin:
Thanks so much for that pic. Yea, there was "a bit less grey." Man, its good to know he is still at it. Don't guess I could even aford one of his now. I guess ya know the House boys from KY also...
I know myself and several of the AMM and buckskin guys from the Nashville TN area bought several of his works.
Next time you see him tell him Bruce and Marilyn Hering (Terripan Ridge Lean-to and Tepee Co/Shawnee Trading Post said Howdy.. and that I still have that knife...
Joe... she's a sweet one, thats for sure..
Rhino... yep
OK... for Joe and all who like their blades a bit bigger... As you can tell, I like more historical type knives. The first two were made by Jim Rubley of Indiana. (Jim made some of the finest chefs blades I have ever worked with)
Blade is 7.5" forgred, worked hilt. A more refined rifelmans knife...
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/Huntschool/RubleyFineknife.jpg)
Blade is 8.5" forged. Designed as more of a prim riflemans knife
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/Huntschool/Rubleyprimknife.jpg)
This one was mad by an SF buddy of mine who was just playing around with the idea of building knives. Blade is 8.5" made with the removal method
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/Huntschool/Tanglefootknife.jpg)
Huntschool,
Mr Joe Keeslar taught me how to forge his style blades. Great guy, Mastersmith, and I believe 70yrs young this year. He still swings a 10lb hammer but he said he had to drop weight on his Harrison longbow from 80# to 74# :eek:
My forged blades are of his style...tippit
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v110/tippit/Knives/ForgingProgression003.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v110/tippit/Knives/KeeslarStylewithDesertIronwood013.jpg)
Doc:
Those are sweet. I sent ya an email.....
May seem a bit strange, but I use the leatherman with the regular blade plus serrated blade. I have found none better, plus I have alot of extra tools at my side. I have skinned and butchered alot of Elk with my Leatherman.
Ron---Do you know, or can you speculate, as to the purpose of the small loop at the choil---sorta like the lanyard loop of a handgun---but I don't think that would work to well for knife.
I've got a knife that was a gift from Bill Bagwell. Bill and I were planning a Longbow bear hunt in Ontario back in the early 80's and he ask me if I had a "Bear knife". I told him I had knives but not specifically a "Bear knife". When he showed up at Camp he gave me one of his Damascus Bowies as a gift. I still have that knife today.
(http://www.shrewbows.com/rons_linkpics/Bagwells_%20Bowie.JPG)
Well, we have shown some pretty sweet knives and have had some awsome bladesmiths post some info.. Great thread.
Ron, I assume you remember Orville (or something like that) "Crickett" Hulvey from Friendship? Oh yea, and Darrel Meyer.... The hawk forger
He is the guy that did the colored damascuss Flag knife for Pres. Bush (the first one)
QuoteRon, I assume you remember Orville (or something like that) "Crickett" Hulvey from Friendship? Oh yea, and Darrel Meyer.... The hawk forger
He is the guy that did the colored damascuss Flag knife for Pres. Bush (the first one)
Yes I do, Crickett Hulvey was a hawk throwing wizard, I think the hawk range at Friendship is named after him....and Darrel Meyer is the Master of Damascus steel
Everyone has a favorite. I have done every chore related to hunting and camping with my good ol' Buck model 110.
Ron:
I forgot to mention, Those are some great knives...
Well, if I had to pick just one all around hunting knife to carry forever and ever amen, I would have to give the Randall 25-5 the nod. To me, a 5" blade made of good carbon steel is about perfect. Now, if I was hunting big critters....
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v75/Rugerfan/ResizeofDSC_0269-1.jpg)
Holy moly. I need to get out of my cave more often. That's some serious steel, you guys.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v11/rbfree/129.jpg)
I would recommend trying an older model Buck. I have a high carbon model 119 that I absolutely love.
Forgot to add my Boker drop point. I carry it alot hunting. It's not a big knife but it can do everything an more than you ask it to.
ESSE Izula II. Not terribly trad looking with a Kydex sheath, but beauty is as beauty does! If you want to save a few $ you can get the Izula I, but I much prefer the micarta handle slabs and length. I don't care for parachord wrap, once it's been inside a deer's chest cavity you'll know why.
Check the buck knives out here. I have one of the Nighthawk series and it will cut your eyes if ya stare at it....a good knife for the money.
Buck Nighthawk (http://www2.knifecenter.com/item/BU0650BKSTP/tops-buck-650-nighthawk-combat-knife-fixed)
Wow, someone resurrected this thread, eh? Might as well update it then. :)
I opted to "make" a knife and have since made a few using blade blanks and scales. Here's the one I made for myself using a Helle hidden tang blade. I actually finally put it to use on a deer this past Sunday and it performed very well. Sorry for the iPhone pic.
(http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll101/rpmahony/cac5ffe8.jpg)
Thanks again for all the input, Gang.
Rusty
General duty knife from kellam also marketed by Martinni knives called their "bait knife" both are made by kellam. Razor sharp out of the box, the same excellent steel they use in all their knives and all for a grand total of......$10.00. Without a doubt the best knife out their for the money IMO.
I Vote for this set.....I am kinda partial? A Randall 11-5 anda Case Hunter Trapper.
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e44/Suty15/5e3e8a59.jpg)
Tippit,these knifes look great, I like there shape and the "guard" on them!
I love the way my Buck Vanguard fits me. I ordered another one today with S30V steel. The first one has 420 HC and it does everything I need it to.