PDA

View Full Version : If you were going to pick 1 fixed blade knife...



Hawkeye
08-05-07, 19:55
If you were going to pick 1 fixed blade knife, to be used from anything from a woods/survival knife, fighting knife, etc., what would you pick? A high end like a Strider, Zero Tolerance, Chris Reeve, or some other custom maker? Or a lower end like a Gerber LMF, Ontario RAT, etc..??

Don Robison
08-05-07, 20:11
I just had Mark Goldsworthy make this for me, so I would have to say currently this is the knife I would choose. It fits me like a glove and has a left hand chisel grind.

bradb55
08-05-07, 20:19
I like the wilson tactical "cop tool"http://www.wilsontactical.com/images/m22-1_1_xl.jpg


It might not be a fighting tool, but does EVERYTHING else.

Foxandreed
08-05-07, 20:28
I have used the Kabar and M-7 bayonet as issued. When I have bought for myself I have used Randall(Airman), Strider(MT-10), and an Al Mar(Fighter). That having been said I really used the hell out of multitools alot more.

rob_s
08-05-07, 21:26
One for all time and we can't replace it if we lose it, or one at a time with an infinite number of replacements?:D

Either way, I think I might opt for the USAF pilot's "survival" knife. Even more so if I have to pay for the replacements.

Razorhunter
08-05-07, 21:33
Strider D9-SS or BN-SS if you like a Tanto blade. Simply bad-ass.

http://www.tadgear.com/edged%20tools/d9_ss.htm

http://www.tadgear.com/edged%20tools/bt_afsoc.htm

Haji
08-05-07, 22:48
I guess in this theoretical world, I have no budget constraints. That being the case, I'll have my friend Bill Harsey build me what he tells me I need.

olds442tyguy
08-05-07, 23:13
http://www.topsknives.com/images/107d_pic2.jpg
http://www.topsknives.com/images/107d.jpg
http://www.topsknives.com/images/107d_add1.jpg

If that's not enough blade for you, they make an 11" model.

http://www.topsknives.com/product_info.php?products_id=137

sproc
08-06-07, 00:39
olds442tyguy, your pics aren't showing up because that site doesn't allow hotlinking. Hit Refresh on your browser and you'll see what I mean.

Haji
08-06-07, 08:40
Hotlinking is theft, apparently. Guess I don't want a TOPS then, if they don't allow their pics to be shared. ;) They're priced rather high now considering the materials they use. Still a fine knife, but nowhere near the value they were a few years ago. They've gotten rather proud of their stuff in the meantime.

ST911
08-06-07, 11:28
If you were going to pick 1 fixed blade knife, to be used from anything from a woods/survival knife, fighting knife, etc., what would you pick? A high end like a Strider, Zero Tolerance, Chris Reeve, or some other custom maker? Or a lower end like a Gerber LMF, Ontario RAT, etc..??

The only ones I seem to use anymore are my Glock field knives and the Benchmade Nimravus Cub.

CPR
08-06-07, 12:31
Strider EBLT SS.

Gunfighter13
08-06-07, 13:04
Randall Model 1 for me.

Bonk2029
08-06-07, 18:50
I carried one of the Ontario Knife copies of the Navy EOD knife (heresy as a jarhead, I know) for a couple of years when I was in the Corps, and it did me well. Tough as nails, held an edge well, and only $30.

olds442tyguy
08-06-07, 19:50
Here's a pic of the knife I was trying to post above.
http://www.knifecenter.com/knifecenter/tops/images/107d.jpg


They're priced rather high now considering the materials they use. Still a fine knife, but nowhere near the value they were a few years ago. They've gotten rather proud of their stuff in the meantime.

I like this particular model for the features. Sure it's not going to shave the hair off your arm forever, sure the handle wasn't specifically designed for stabbing two legged prey, sure it may not have the precision of a razor blade, but I think it would make an excellent survival knife that can hold it's own in any arena.

I don't own one, but the testimonials of owners I've read all say the sawback blade spine cuts through wood like soft butter. Typical serrations clog up extremely fast, the hammer cutting method gets old quick, and it's not always practical to carry around a wood saw or an axe. Their sawback design is based off of the common modern chainsaw, so I'd hope it's just as the majority of owners say.

I really like that the blade is 1/4" thick. I also like that the pommel is exposed metal to avoid any problems associated with striking hard objects and the stress it puts on the handles. The handles may be indestructible, but very rarely can the same be said for the bushings and screws.

I'd like to get one in the future to put through it's paces. They're built like tanks, and I think they look about as menacing as a knife can get with out gaudy unnecessary flare.

18b2v
08-06-07, 20:48
Thats a hard decision. I think a MOD ATAC mark 5, Nightwing, or a Chris Reeve's knife.

M4Guru
08-06-07, 20:56
Strider DB!

Stephen_H
08-07-07, 10:08
Strider DB!

+1 Except I prefer the DB-L. Second place is a good Swiss Army knife or "Multi-Tool" (I prefer the Gerber).

Stephen

PALADIN-hgwt
08-07-07, 20:56
xxxxx

Kisara
08-08-07, 00:59
For a fixed blade, I'd pick a Strider or Chris Reeve. I dislike paracord grips. Of course, you should pick what works for you.

http://i16.tinypic.com/4qpujwg.jpg

Marc
08-08-07, 05:01
For me: Chris Reeves aviator and Jeroboam with serrated top.
Marc.
Belgium.

Evan_O
08-10-07, 18:20
The only fixed blade I own is a Strider DB-L.

Great knife and damn strong!

militarymoron
08-11-07, 00:23
out in the woods, camping etc, the MT-MOD10 (one on the right):
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v483/militarymoron/kimber.jpg
anywhere else - DB-GG
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v483/militarymoron/DB-GG-S.jpg

Boris
08-11-07, 20:48
It's not the most tacti-cool (and neither am I) but my search for an all-around fixed blade resulted in the SOG Gov-Tac.

http://sogknives.com/store/S21T.html

I shopped for features and cost and this fit the bill. I got it for $84.00 at a gun show and Christened it on my first 9-point buck last December. Yum!!!

-B

toddackerman
08-17-07, 19:13
Mad Dog ATAK for a fixed Blade.

Chris Reeves Sebenza for a folder.

Impact
08-17-07, 19:16
Trident/ crusader forge knives.

Submariner
08-19-07, 04:35
I have used a Strider BT for four years now. Works great.

Of course, my $14 USGI KABAR does, too. For most things.

So does a Strider AR.;) If I had to do it all over, I would skip the fixed blade and go with a Strider folder.

Hawkeye
08-19-07, 14:37
I have a little something on the way to check out and evaluate... pics when its here.

Yojimbo
08-21-07, 10:42
I went through this same dilemma a couple of years back. I wanted a very hard use survial/utilty knife that could be used for fighting if needed. I needed it to be able to chop, pry, dig, hammer, etc.. Basically do things other tools would normally do.

After looking at several different knives I settled on a Busse/Swamprat Rat Mastiff. It has a 9", 1/4" thick blade made of SR101 steel which is basically 52100 with the super secret 40 hour Busse heat treat done to it. The handle is made of black/green canvas micarta.

If you know anything about Busse knives you know they make nuclear proof knives tha can take brutal beatings and continue to function.

I remember seeing a vid or pics of a Swamp Rat knife with it's handle shoved into the trailer hitch of a F150 and the truck was jacked up using the knife as the support!:eek:

Check them out at http://www.swampratknives.com.

Here's my Rat Mastiff.

http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95P1110011_Large_.JPG

A close up of the "Penetrator Tip".

http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95P1110018_Large_.JPG

Here's some pics of torture testing.

http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95115849SRBlockImpactshot1-med.jpg
http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95115745concreteblockchop1.jpg
http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95114535Nodamageoutside-med.jpg
http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95torture.jpg

Here's a cool pic of a Swamp Rat blade with the paint stripped off. You can actually see a Hamon or temper line caused by the heat treat.

http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95dccamptramp.jpg

Hawkeye
08-21-07, 10:58
Yojimbo, I had completely forgotten about Busse. Man, I do like the looks of that one. VERY nice.

olds442tyguy
08-21-07, 16:08
Now that's a knife Yojimbo!

losbronces
08-21-07, 16:41
Strider VB is what I have.

tinman44
08-21-07, 17:16
Check them out at http://www.swampratknives.com.


so do they have a catalog, that just seams to be a way to contact them.

Yojimbo
08-21-07, 17:25
tinman44,

Checkout their forums at link below. There should be able to find pricing and availability info posted there.

http://www.swampratknifeworks.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi

BTW, www.bladeforums.com also has a Swamp Rat/Busse/Scrap Yard for sale section. See the link below.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=804

tinman44
08-22-07, 07:47
those busse knives are awesome and i think i'm going to get one. they do not make it easy to buy them, unless you live near a dealer, i also couldnt find any dealer locations.

Grey
09-09-07, 21:24
I think I would use one from my small family of RATS.

http://grey-matter.smugmug.com/photos/156260923-M.jpg

http://grey-matter.smugmug.com/photos/156260927-M.jpg

http://grey-matter.smugmug.com/photos/156260935-M.jpg

Or perhaps my Eagle talon. Not the most practical item in my kit but cool none the less. This was a gift from a dear friend.

http://grey-matter.smugmug.com/photos/52823108-M.jpg

http://grey-matter.smugmug.com/photos/52823114-M.jpg

http://grey-matter.smugmug.com/photos/52823148-M.jpg

http://grey-matter.smugmug.com/photos/52823158-M.jpg

http://grey-matter.smugmug.com/photos/52823137-M.jpg

mtbr
09-30-07, 23:37
For all around versatility, Chris Reeve Project 1 all the way.
You can use it for chopping, hammering, and as a makeshift spear when the end cap is removed and a stick is inserted into the hollow handle.

Combat_Medic
10-04-07, 19:10
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/1003/DocMinster/Colt10mm.jpg

rob_s
10-04-07, 19:23
Anybody try Ranger Knives (http://rangerknives.com/Knives/index.html)?

nationwide
10-04-07, 22:51
When I have the cash, I plan on getting a Chris Reeves Yarborough :cool:http://www.chrisreeve.com/greenberet.htm

Shrike9
10-05-07, 01:05
Mad Dog ATAK for a fixed Blade.



They are still in production?????

Harmp, learn something new every day :p :p :p

Shrike9
10-05-07, 01:12
Don't have any pictures of the knife I'd grab, but right now I've got a old Stride MT sitting next to me & in the BOB I've got one of the original old style a Strider MT mod 10 serrated blade.

Busse and Swamp Rat are superb blades, have several Busse blades along with a Rinaldi Warhawk Trace made before my last overseas deployment & it accompanied me to the UAE.

Grey, I'd love to have a Eagle talon & before I retired I almost got one, but could not justify it. Really like the history of em and how they came about, especially since I was USAF SF.

Street Survival
01-05-08, 19:08
Strider BT all the way.
I just ordered a DGG SMF Tanto 4" blade, can't wait to take delivery next week.

offroad_nomad
01-06-08, 23:47
My Camillus knife hasn't let me down since I bought it new in late 1981. It's a great knife that I still use and is currently attached to my SAR pack.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v516/DC_Magoo/DSC05010.jpg

cohiba
01-07-08, 10:03
Can't go wrong with the Striders, Reeves or Busses but here's another choice:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/conndcj/DSCN0006-3.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/conndcj/DSCN0004-3.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/conndcj/DSCN0003-3.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/conndcj/DSCN0002-4.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/conndcj/DSCN0001-4.jpg

tugsus
01-07-08, 17:55
I still have my issued "Ka-Bar".

It was probably already 20 years old when I got it, and 20 years later it still my go to knife for the field.

If you lose it, you don't have to fork out $300+ for another one either.:D

offroad_nomad
01-08-08, 16:19
They're great knives you can beat the hell out of them and not worry about it.


I still have my issued "Ka-Bar".

It was probably already 20 years old when I got it, and 20 years later it still my go to knife for the field.

If you lose it, you don't have to fork out $300+ for another one either.:D

Street Survival
01-08-08, 17:43
Everything, with the La Rue name on it is the Cream Of The Crop.

Redhat
01-08-08, 20:52
+1 Ka-bar USMC

Also like the RAT 7

heijutsu
01-10-08, 10:09
http://www.mercworx.com/images/ProductImages/Knives/mwEquatorian.jpg

Mercworx Equatorian is my do it all knife. A true Beast.

Failure2Stop
01-11-08, 10:58
For me the question comes down to use. What I would choose if I was going to into a knife fight and I couldn't bring a gun is very different than what I would choose if I knew I was going to be dropped into the middle of a forest and would need to survive for weeks.

All those cool chisel tips are great for stabbing a person, but are a serious disadvantage when it comes to actually using a knife for what a knife is useful for.

I carry guns for interpersonal issues. When it comes to fighting people a long sharp stick beats the hell out of anything shorter, unless it launches projectiles.

Look at what outdoor survival experts/professionals use in the bush. The blades are ususally thinly ground, which allows the knife to work as a survival tool. Bushcraft knives are the hands-down best knives for performing as knives.

Paulinski
01-11-08, 13:28
Busse Combat for me. Fat Fusion Battle Mistress for my fixed blade fix. :D

woody d
01-15-08, 19:17
thats a hard one...my chris reeve aviator is the fixed blade i searched for at gun shows and finally found one. i am NOT dissapointed one bit, but a four inch blade isnt ideal for all chores(combat,survival). my becker k&t campanion is a BRUTE(!), but a little large for some chores, so im gonna say i ll take them both. i have other fixed blades from various manufacturers(benchmade,case,and an old camillus), but i trust the becker and chris reeve never to let me down

sjc3081
01-15-08, 20:10
My choice
www.coldsteel.com/outdoorsman.html

kihnspiracy
01-23-08, 18:01
Chris Reeves 7 inch Green Beret knife. Cause thats what I have in my go to bag at the moment.;)

nickdrak
01-23-08, 22:09
I am really diggin' the Chris Reeve Pacific: http://www.chrisreeve.com/pacific.htm

Lumpy196
01-23-08, 22:40
Yojimbo, I had completely forgotten about Busse. Man, I do like the looks of that one. VERY nice.


You could always get a Busse knife/Busse 1911 combo ;)

http://www.lesbaer.com/busse.html

Cold Zero
01-23-08, 23:29
For woods/survival use:

Newt Livesay R.C.M.

or

John Greco Explorer.

Hawkeye
01-24-08, 05:17
You could always get a Busse knife/Busse 1911 combo ;)

http://www.lesbaer.com/busse.html

That is wrong. :eek:

KevinB
01-24-08, 10:34
One knife - Strider MFS


fits on my 6004 and is my "daily driver".

Dave L.
01-24-08, 12:32
Strider EB-LS has served me well- little heavy for a 6004 though...

rob_s
01-24-08, 13:07
You could always get a Busse knife/Busse 1911 combo ;)

http://www.lesbaer.com/busse.html

I saw that setup at SHOT last year and then never heard anything more about it. Guess they finally released them.

Joe Mamma
01-25-08, 11:34
If you were going to pick 1 fixed blade knife, to be used from anything from a woods/survival knife, fighting knife, etc., what would you pick? A high end like a Strider, Zero Tolerance, Chris Reeve, or some other custom maker? Or a lower end like a Gerber LMF, Ontario RAT, etc..??

I'd probably go with a Ka-Bar. Mine is 20+ years old and still going strong.

Joe Mamma

Batt 57
01-25-08, 19:50
Strider EB-LT SS.

BigTinVA
01-25-08, 20:48
Does anyone here use an Entrek knife? I have the Badger and the Companion, they are smaller fixed blades that I wanted for my collection, but I rarely ever carry a fixed blade knife.
http://www.ennis-entrekusa.com/

fabulous45s
01-31-08, 20:50
Only one knife?...*shudder*

We've been testing a whole mess of knives in the effort to replace the airmans survival knife. Let me tell you, we've given out more thumbs down than thumbs up.
The Gerber ASEK is one of the better ones we've tested. So is the Onatrio
Rat-3, which is also one of my go-to knives.

I'm SOOO glad you narrowed it down to fixed blade. One large hurdle we're trying to scale right now is a significant number tac-air guys want a folder as their primary blade. I think we've talked them into going with a smaller fixed blade...ala Rat-3.

Shrike9
01-31-08, 22:10
For woods/survival use:

Newt Livesay R.C.M.

or

John Greco Explorer.

Newt is no longer producing knives, he's had some problems and last I knew was not even living in America any more.

However, ifin ya can find one of his blades at a gunshow.............

Lympago
02-01-08, 01:06
If only one I'd prefer a custom, but if I was to buy a new production fixed blade tommorrow it would be a Entrek Commando actually.
All the Entrek's I've seen were top quality with the Commando being my favorite of them.
http://www.ennis-entrekusa.com/tnp/commando.htm

I do have a Cold Steel Military Classic filling the role of my current BO fixed blade though, but I will end up getting a Commando one of these days and have a custom made.

Army Chief
02-01-08, 03:05
I went this route ...

http://www.eliteknives.com/images/fighterelite.jpg

I simply cannot recommend John Horrigan's work (http://www.eliteknives.com/fighterelite.htm) highly enough.

Chief

RyanB
02-01-08, 04:46
I carry a Benchmade ti mini skirmish daily. Some days I also carry a four inch fixed blade from Newt Livesay, appendix style. If I had to go outdoors I would take a Strider BT.

The only three knives I own. Although I ought to get a carbon fiber knife for bars.

Cold Zero
02-01-08, 06:27
Newt is no longer producing knives, he's had some problems and last I knew was not even living in America any more.

However, ifin ya can find one of his blades at a gunshow.............


RIGHT YOU ARE. When Newt was in business, the wait times were very long. I am not sure what happened to his business. I bought mine from Newt's son, new on ebay.;)

kbrdann
02-01-08, 16:09
Blackhawk mark II folder. It has been with me from Afganistan to Iraq.

rob_s
02-04-08, 16:03
The Gerber ASEK

I'm likin' that!

Since you've seen one in person, is the seatbelt-cutter somehow attached? To the knife? To the sheath?

Alaskagrown
02-06-08, 00:08
I'm likin' that!

Since you've seen one in person, is the seatbelt-cutter somehow attached? To the knife? To the sheath?


I can't speak to the attatchement method of the seatbelt cutter but I know it is attatched to the sheath I thought that it was too large so instead I got the LMF II Infantry and then lashed a Benchmade rescue hook to the sheath

Don Robison
02-06-08, 00:23
I'm likin' that!

Since you've seen one in person, is the seatbelt-cutter somehow attached? To the knife? To the sheath?


I've got one Rob, it attaches to the outside of the sheath with two velcro straps. The stitching on the pouch was crap and came loose within a week of use. I didn't care for the sheath in general but the knife was good if you like half serrated blades. Not one of my favorites, but not total crap either. If nothing else it's rugged.
I use a Benchmade Rescue knife on my PC.

fabulous45s
02-06-08, 09:06
The hook blade on our ASEK tester has its' own molle sheath. The intent is based on our recommendation that the hook blade and knife be seperate. We've found that the best place for a hook blade and strobe light be mounted high on the torso and VERY quick and easy to get to. In most cases, the knife isn't as time critical and comfort plays a big part.

I'm working hard on getting a decent sized knife in a comfortable position rather than others recommendation of a small folder in leu of a good fixed blade as the primary survival tool.

Shihan
02-06-08, 15:34
I went through this same dilemma a couple of years back. I wanted a very hard use survial/utilty knife that could be used for fighting if needed. I needed it to be able to chop, pry, dig, hammer, etc.. Basically do things other tools would normally do.

After looking at several different knives I settled on a Busse/Swamprat Rat Mastiff. It has a 9", 1/4" thick blade made of SR101 steel which is basically 52100 with the super secret 40 hour Busse heat treat done to it. The handle is made of black/green canvas micarta.

If you know anything about Busse knives you know they make nuclear proof knives tha can take brutal beatings and continue to function.

I remember seeing a vid or pics of a Swamp Rat knife with it's handle shoved into the trailer hitch of a F150 and the truck was jacked up using the knife as the support!:eek:

Check them out at http://www.swampratknives.com.

Here's my Rat Mastiff.

http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95P1110011_Large_.JPG

A close up of the "Penetrator Tip".

http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95P1110018_Large_.JPG

Here's some pics of torture testing.

http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95115849SRBlockImpactshot1-med.jpg
http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95115745concreteblockchop1.jpg
http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95114535Nodamageoutside-med.jpg
http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95torture.jpg

Here's a cool pic of a Swamp Rat blade with the paint stripped off. You can actually see a Hamon or temper line caused by the heat treat.

http://www.huntingpictures.net/data/560/95dccamptramp.jpg

I couldnt find a single knife on their website?

twodollarbill
02-06-08, 19:16
For my last birthday my wife game me a Gerber Trident....
I kissed her and then went for some bandaids.
Sharpest knife I've ever owned.

Yojimbo
02-07-08, 10:19
I couldnt find a single knife on their website?

Shihan,

Sadly, this is an issue with Busse/Swamp Rat/Scrap Yard knives. Like smaller gun compaines, such as BCM, they tend to make small runs of their products at different times so getting one has much to do with timing and luck.

I also saw some posts on the Swamp Rat board saying certain knives like the one I posted may not be made again. However, they generally design new ones that have the same specs with a few changes.

They make great knives but it's hard to get them.:(

The link below will show the Swamp Rat knives that are in stock and for sale.

http://www.shop.ratknives.com/main.sc

chris1280
02-07-08, 13:24
anyone have any feedback on Grayman Knives...Ive read a thread on another site in regards to this company and just wanted to know if anyone here has any personal experience with any of their models

http://www.graymanknives.com/dinka.html

Shihan
02-07-08, 19:28
Shihan,

Sadly, this is an issue with Busse/Swamp Rat/Scrap Yard knives. Like smaller gun compaines, such as BCM, they tend to make small runs of their products at different times so getting one has much to do with timing and luck.

I also saw some posts on the Swamp Rat board saying certain knives like the one I posted may not be made again. However, they generally design new ones that have the same specs with a few changes.

They make great knives but it's hard to get them.:(

The link below will show the Swamp Rat knives that are in stock and for sale.

http://www.shop.ratknives.com/main.sc

Thanks im digging that Tan Chopper. Its about time for me to retire the old Buckmaster.

KintlaLake
02-11-08, 15:56
After years using fixed Bucks and other such mass-market pieces, I finally sucked it up and did this:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v337/kintlalake/BRKTBravo1-08.jpg

:D

woody d
02-11-08, 22:14
After years using fixed Bucks and other such mass-market pieces, I finally sucked it up and did this:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v337/kintlalake/BRKTBravo1-08.jpg

:D
very nice

SuicideHz
02-11-08, 22:54
IIRC I have seen those Gerber ASEK knives on super discount at a few places. I ran across them while looking for a padded Molle belt.

MX5
02-15-08, 09:00
Ka-Bar TDI LE knife - the big one.

bones
02-15-08, 13:21
I,ve had Great Luck with Chris Reeve fix blade knives.

m700m
02-20-08, 18:22
Colin Cox, M25 old style, a better mod,14 ''attack'' in my opinion

triplenickel
02-26-08, 18:53
I`ve read all of the posts and haven`t heard anybody mention Grayman Knives! You`ve got to check his stuff out! I`ve purchased the Merdeka and swear by it! It`s big but will serve you well in the bad bush!! You really should see his website Graymanknives.com He`s the real deal fighting in the Sudan!

Redhat
02-27-08, 19:15
Check out the Rob Patton Integral Foxbat.:)

mic214
05-25-08, 23:35
Picking one would be a tough choice..... It would, no doubt, be one of my Randalls. On the left is a Model 16 with a stainless blade with sawteeth and double brass hilt. Next to that is my Model 12-9 Bowie with a carbon steel blade. Next to that is my Model 14 with a carbon blade and sawteeth.

I use the Model 16 when I am out on my kayak and the Model 14 is my main camp knife. I just got the Model 12-9 Bowie and have not had a chance to get it out in the field. I am thinking my Bowie will be my new "Outback" blade when I am at the ranch checking fences:

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y71/mic214/Knives/DSCN0270_edited.jpg

WillC
05-26-08, 11:24
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v452/dasoahc/MadDog.jpg

El Cid
06-01-08, 19:05
If you were going to pick 1 fixed blade knife, to be used from anything from a woods/survival knife, fighting knife, etc., what would you pick? A high end like a Strider, Zero Tolerance, Chris Reeve, or some other custom maker? Or a lower end like a Gerber LMF, Ontario RAT, etc..??

Just one to do everything?

Combat Smatchet
Here is a pic of the Al Mar version: http://cutlerscove.com/fighting-knives/images/smachet.jpg

I have two of the limited run (#212/1200 and 1000/1200) from Boker with the nice micarta scales and gray finish. Better than the cheap plastic scales on the "plain" models. Looks like this one:
http://www.bellum.nu/armoury/CombatSmatchet.html

KintlaLake
06-02-08, 05:49
"The best bushcraft knife is the one you have with you and is best suited your needs and style of use -- not the needs of somebody that wrote a book on bushcrafting." (Mike Stewart, Bark River Knife & Tool)

Just stumbled across that quote in another forum (http://www.knifeforums.com/forums/). Good advice, I think...and on more than just fixed-blade knives. ;)

Gutshot John
06-02-08, 10:38
Just stumbled across that quote in another forum (http://www.knifeforums.com/forums/). Good advice, I think...and on more than just fixed-blade knives. ;)

I agree. I don't understand why someone will drop five bills on a handgun and then get stingy when buying a knife.

If you don't find one that meets your needs, find a bladesmith to make you one that does. For the price of a handgun you will get a custom-made piece of kit, that you will hopefully use a LOT more.

I can't remember who said it (maybe Jeff Cooper) but it was "if you go outside without a gun, you're only half-dressed, and that's if you've already got a knife."

KintlaLake
06-02-08, 11:17
I don't understand why someone will drop five bills on a handgun and then get stingy when buying a knife.

Understood and agreed, 'John, although I took a different take on what Mike Stewart said. Since we're quoting Col. Cooper :cool: :


"You are no more armed because you own a gun than you are a musician because you own a piano."

A knife can be no more "go-to" or "survival" than a bookstore can be "religious." ;) A tool's ultimate utility and capability depend on what the user brings to the dance.

Some knives are (ultimately) more capable than others, and The Right Stuff often is worth the price. Few of us, however, are packing our go-to kit 100% of the time.

As Stewart intimated, whatever knife one carries into a situation calling for bushcraft becomes, by default, "the best bushcraft knife" -- no matter what it is, no matter what it cost.

Skills matter. Tools help.

Did I hear someone say, "Singer, not song"?

Gutshot John
06-02-08, 12:54
Understood and agreed, 'John, although I took a different take on what Mike Stewart said. Since we're quoting Col. Cooper :cool: :



A knife can be no more "go-to" or "survival" than a bookstore can be "religious." ;) A tool's ultimate utility and capability depend on what the user brings to the dance.

Some knives are (ultimately) more capable than others, and The Right Stuff often is worth the price. Few of us, however, are packing our go-to kit 100% of the time.

As Stewart intimated, whatever knife one carries into a situation calling for bushcraft becomes, by default, "the best bushcraft knife" -- no matter what it is, no matter what it cost.

Skills matter. Tools help.

Did I hear someone say, "Singer, not song"?

I am humbly and graciously corrected.

You are a gentleman sir. :cool:

PS. FWIW I had mine made by Dennis Phillips, but I'm a huge fan of Randall knives.

Fringe
06-02-08, 12:58
Hell yes to Grayman Knives.
I bought a Ground Pounder and after marveling at its simplicity and all business and putting it through its paces, I purchased a Mega Ground Pounder and it is the King.
Mike at Grayman is awesome and his service is tier one.
I strongly advise anyone looking for a workhorse knife to check out Grayman, you will not be sorry.

KintlaLake
06-02-08, 13:07
You are a gentleman sir. :cool:

Thank you. I've found that being a twit is overrated. :D

Gutshot John
06-02-08, 13:13
Thank you. I've found that being a twit is overrated. :D

Ain't that the truth. ;)

mattjmcd
06-18-08, 19:11
I've only had very minimal training in the use of knives as weapons, so it's hard for me to make an educated choice about a knife that'd be a good fighter.

Having said that, I think I'd take a CRK Pacific. It seems to have enough heft to be a decent chopper but it's not so big/unwieldly as to make it an ungainly weapon if push came to shove. Not sure how good it'd be for skinning, though.

CLHC
06-18-08, 19:57
Well, I'm guessing that the all around purposeful fixed bladed knife in my case, may have to be the Dozier KM-1 Ranger for now.

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g124/ClarenceLadd/IMG_0767.jpg

tinman44
06-18-08, 20:40
I like the wilson tactical "cop tool"http://www.wilsontactical.com/images/m22-1_1_xl.jpg


It might not be a fighting tool, but does EVERYTHING else.

i want one, too bad they are WAY over priced

m4shooter
06-22-08, 17:11
Got to go with a STrider EBt

Armati
06-22-08, 21:26
In most situations you will need a good utility tool. Smaller knives are generally better as work knives.

I like the Ontario TAK-1 and Benchmade Nimravus 140BK or 140SBK. There are also quite a few knives that follow this same classic shape. You will find it throughout the history of knife making because it is such a useful shape.

In most cases your most bad assed 'tactical' knives are too big for 90% of the jobs you will need it for.

Almost anything is a better weapon than just about ANY knife. An empty rifle with no bayonet is still a better weapon than your best tactical tanto.

Victor
06-25-08, 19:04
Randall, nough said.

deltaARman
06-28-08, 20:04
I have owned a lot of knives, and the best knife out there is a Chris Reeves knives. There a little pricey compared to kershaw, benchmade, sog etc. but not as expensive as some Randals. They hold an edge great, and overall there built tougher than nails. One knife inparticular that I love is his hollowed handled knife, unlike most HH knifes with pins that hold the knife blade to the handle or screw ons, his is one peice of steel that has been machined out to make the HH, and then does the blade. A+

JSantoro
07-07-08, 23:40
I'm one of those Marines that can be accused of minor blasphemy, in that I think the best use for a Ka-Bar is that of 'tent peg.' I bought a Colt Combat Commander for $40 one day. I don't like the thick handles on a fixed-blade, and I thought this looked like a sensible alternative.

http://img60.imageshack.us/img60/7743/ct0041sw1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

It's been through 15 years of abuse, to include combat deployments. It's nice and low-profile, doesn't stick off my vest too far. I've used it as a pry bar, a spoon, a hammer, for cutting chain-link fences and heavy gauge wire, for cutting open plastic bags, and (almost accidentally, it seems) for it's intended purpose when I ran dry with both firearms at the worst possible time during my last deployment.

Good damned knife.

msap
07-08-08, 13:02
I'd go with the Strider HT tanto. Very stout blade....I love it.

jjw
07-14-08, 11:13
been carrying Randall's for almost35 yrs #15 was the 1st. my father gave it to me when i left for my 2nd tour in "Nam" air force medic puke stole it when i was medevacd to japan. have looked for him for a long time,scum bag doped me up and stole it while i was out.

since then its a #1/6 or a #14 always has been always will be
never needed more cant imagine why i would. even got into collecting.

cheers

Klear Above
07-14-08, 14:43
Kiku Matsuda "Aoba". Clean Design, Rock Solid Construction...One Knife...My Knife...

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q73/EP75/CIMG0160crop.jpg (http://www.greygrouptraining.biz/SearchResults.asp?mfg=Kiku+Matsuda)

tinman44
07-17-08, 03:22
http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/8081/dsc01648largemo1.jpg

POF.Ops
07-18-08, 00:52
Wilson Tactical M3 for civilian concealed carry. That's pretty arrogant of that knife company on pg 1 to not even allow a link to a picture of their knife. It must not be a very good knife. They won't earn my business. Oh well, I guess they don't care about me anyway.

KintlaLake
08-11-08, 08:44
This isn't really a recommendation for a one-and-only fixed-blade knife, but at last weekend's Columbus Gun Show I discovered Blind Horse Knives (http://blindhorseknives.com/), a knifemaker out of Steubenville, Ohio.

After spending a good bit of time talking sharps with Dan and L.T. of BHK, I decided on a "Small Work Horse (http://blindhorseknives.com/product-002.htm)." I haven't worked the knife yet, but I think it might just be a winner. If it is, I may pick up the larger version.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v337/kintlalake/KLBlog66.jpg

Drummer
08-12-08, 18:54
Knives are task specific tools, somewhat like firearms.

But, keeping in mind that only sharp knives are fun, and big ones are better than small ones if you only have one, I'd go for a bowie from Matt Lamey or Jason Knight.

RogerinTPA
08-14-08, 15:19
I own one, the Military Tactical LMF II, and for the price ($59.99), they are a good value. Here's a link to one on sale.http://www.lapolicegear.com/lmfiiasek.html;)

That said, I am seriously considering one of the Greyman Knives .:cool:


IIRC I have seen those Gerber ASEK knives on super discount at a few places. I ran across them while looking for a padded Molle belt.

Fringe
08-14-08, 15:51
This isn't really a recommendation for a one-and-only fixed-blade knife, but at last weekend's Columbus Gun Show I discovered Blind Horse Knives (http://blindhorseknives.com/), a knifemaker out of Steubenville, Ohio.

After spending a good bit of time talking sharps with Dan and L.T. of BHK, I decided on a "Small Work Horse (http://blindhorseknives.com/product-002.htm)." I haven't worked the knife yet, but I think it might just be a winner. If it is, I may pick up the larger version.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v337/kintlalake/KLBlog66.jpg

Man,
I ordered one of these, same one actually, after reading your post and checking their sight. I just got it today and am VERY impressed so far. This seems like it will be a great little cutter for the money and it came razor sharp. Feels great in the hand and as you, I look forward to putting it through its paces.
Thanks a bunch for the heads up! I am sure I am going to enjoy this little guy.

PS- Did you see their "Patch Knives," for $50.00? These scream a deal! I might have to pick one of these up too.

PRGGodfather
08-14-08, 16:45
Strider man, all the way. Partial to the MT clip-point Bowie style, for all around use. Mick made me a custom MT with a 7" belly before he started tiger striping the blades. Great knife and virtually indestructable.

trunkmonkey
08-15-08, 01:47
Gerbers, Wilsons, and Benchmades? Are you kidding? Good generic knives but far from the best out there.

Seems like there are some real uneducated guys out there when it comes to what a good, quality knife is.

Randall, any model, just pick one for the task. The quality and craftsmanship do not get higher.

Have fun waiting 58 months for it or pay more to a dealer.

http://www.randallknives.com/


my choice http://www.agrussell.com/randall-standard-model-14-attack-o-1-blade/p/RAhhhM14/

KintlaLake
08-15-08, 06:36
I ordered one of these, same one actually, after reading your post and checking their sight. I just got it today and am VERY impressed so far. This seems like it will be a great little cutter for the money and it came razor sharp. Feels great in the hand and as you, I look forward to putting it through its paces.
Thanks a bunch for the heads up! I am sure I am going to enjoy this little guy.

PS- Did you see their "Patch Knives," for $50.00? These scream a deal! I might have to pick one of these up too.

:cool: Glad to hear you're having the same reaction that I am, Fringe.

Yup, the "patch knives" definitely appear to be good values, as are the small "Tiger Knapp" knives at $20 and $30. Note that all three are made from reclaimed saw-blade steel, as is the new Bushcrafter (http://blindhorseknives.com/BHK-Bushcrafter.htm) -- I handled a proto last Saturday, and at a hundred bucks it may be the best deal of all.

I'm not saying that BHKs are comparable to thousand-dollar über knives or anything, but I'm very, very impressed -- and it sure is nice to be using a high-quality piece crafted by a coupla guys who live right down the road. :)

K.L. Davis
08-16-08, 11:40
There are a lot of choices that I would be perfectly comfortable with... OK RAT, "old" Blackjack, Randall, Gerber ASEK, Fallkniven TK and a half dozen or so hand mades; but if I had to take only one knife with me and thought that there may never be a chance to replace it, I am sure I would pick up the DB Goddard (G10) -- this is, from a what a few of the more trusted names in the industry say, the best blade made... period.

Rule303
08-16-08, 11:58
Yup, the "patch knives" definitely appear to be good values, as are the small "Tiger Knapp" knives at $20 and $30. Note that all three are made from reclaimed saw-blade steel...

Did you get a chance to handle either of the "Tiger Knapp" knives? If so, did they feel fairly solid?

sewvacman
08-16-08, 13:43
Randall Model 1 for me.

If I could only have one.
Ask a lot of the WW2, Korea and Vietnam Vets, that was a very popular design throughout a lot of wars. I am certain other manufacturers make the same design, without the wait. I personally will not buy another due to the crappy customer service I received. The knives are beautiful though, and well made.
That being said I have two, A #2 and #27. One for fighting, one for everything else. Unless you are willing to pay twice what they are worth, I think it's almost a 4 year wait.
Benchmade makes nice looking crap, don't put your life on the line with one of these. If you can't spend the money go with spyderco. I haven't found a bad one yet.

VANCE
08-16-08, 19:28
scrap yard "urban mutt" or one of the more readily available "dumpster mutts"
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y146/TUCKERGUN/SCRAPYARD/bedbbdf6.jpg

No.6
08-16-08, 20:49
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa66/No_6/IMG_2126.jpg

OK, so it's two knives. Hard to choose between them. Top one is a Razel and the lower one is a Wharncliffe, both by Graham Brothers.

KintlaLake
08-17-08, 13:50
Did you get a chance to handle either of the "Tiger Knapp" knives? If so, did they feel fairly solid?

Solid as a stone cutter's saw. :D Pretty simple knives.

Easy enough to do a cord-wrap on the tang, if you're so inclined.

tango-papa
08-18-08, 00:08
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa66/No_6/IMG_2126.jpg

OK, so it's two knives. Hard to choose between them. Top one is a Razel and the lower one is a Wharncliffe, both by Graham Brothers.

Very, very nice. Custom ordered I assume?
Details please.

~tp

No.6
08-19-08, 01:09
Very, very nice. Custom ordered I assume?
Details please.

~tp

http://www.grahamknives.com/

Yes, custom. Yes, I had to wait about 7~8 months. Yes, it was worth it! These are some of the best made knives I've ever seen, without a doubt! Precise grinds (by hand), symmetrical blade, outstanding fit and finish.

Both are S30V, Paul Bos heat treated, approximately 4.5 inch blades on each (IIRC), green linen micarta scales, black micarta pins, subdued finish, scary sharp, incredibly well balanced (just slightly blade heavy-my request). The odd, chisel one is called a Razel and trust me, you've got to try it for yourself. I was very skeptical at first, but I'm a believer now. If you go to the website, you'll find one that's been driven though a steel panel door, by hand. Also, I think there may be a couple of pictures showing the striking/slashing capabilities on a piece of pork. Never would have guessed that the odd knife with the odd name could inflict so much damage on both steel and flesh. There are several models of Razel to choose from, this one is called the "Tactical Razel".

tango-papa
08-24-08, 11:26
http://www.grahamknives.com/

Yes, custom. Yes, I had to wait about 7~8 months. Yes, it was worth it! These are some of the best made knives I've ever seen, without a doubt! Precise grinds (by hand), symmetrical blade, outstanding fit and finish.

Both are S30V, Paul Bos heat treated, approximately 4.5 inch blades on each (IIRC), green linen micarta scales, black micarta pins, subdued finish, scary sharp, incredibly well balanced (just slightly blade heavy-my request). The odd, chisel one is called a Razel and trust me, you've got to try it for yourself. I was very skeptical at first, but I'm a believer now. If you go to the website, you'll find one that's been driven though a steel panel door, by hand. Also, I think there may be a couple of pictures showing the striking/slashing capabilities on a piece of pork. Never would have guessed that the odd knife with the odd name could inflict so much damage on both steel and flesh. There are several models of Razel to choose from, this one is called the "Tactical Razel".

Appreciate the info - they're not accepting orders right now.
Have thought about getting a razel on and off, but never seen/handled one, so wasn't sure.
Yours look fantastic - have you had an opportunity to put the Razel to use yet?
Which type sheath did you go with (leather or kydex) and how are they working for you?
Thanks again for the info.

~tp

jjc155
08-26-08, 11:35
I have a Swamp Rat fixed blade, think it is called the Ratwiler, not to big or small, just right.

J-

bgoode
08-30-08, 11:05
Picking 1 is haed as hell for me!!! BUt this last camping trip I went on I would up grabbibg this baby most of the time. Just worked in EVERY task with joy!
Blade is 5 1/2" long 11" overall.
Steel on these are 3/16" D2 at 59RC - black and green micarta with a red liner.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v454/bgoode/Fathers-Day3.jpg

The other go to single knife situation knife I have is what I call my Combat pattern. Does it all well too. Green Micarta handled knife.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v454/bgoode/Combatroughgreen.jpg

Fringe
08-30-08, 16:26
bgoode,
Nice knives for sure. I can't wait till my number comes up and I can see the end of the tunel on that sweet little knife to the left!

HAMMERDROP
09-01-08, 01:33
You guys have all seen one no need to send pic, my choice end all fixed blade and it seems this knife may sum up the the thread! I have had in my possession over half of my life a ...Gerber Guardian double edge that I bought in '81 and its has been everywhere and looks it and still holds an edge, in fact and I cant count the number of times it has bitten me.
" Ralphie put that thing down you'll poke out your eyes ! " :D
At the time it was considered the 'Cadillac' of fighting knives and the F-250 being the Ka-bar. Its a solid hunk of iron close to a foot long that I have cut down small trees with it of course blistered my hand in the process.
And I cant bring myself to buy another 'Fixed Blade' these are some nice ones you guys posted pics of Thank You. I have a couple of MicroTechs I'll plop the money down but dont see a need to get a new fixed blade ... she aint pretty anymore but I'll bet I could pry up a sewer lid with her and she wouldn't snap !

Michael

wichaka
09-01-08, 08:02
I pack Gerber's LMF II

Steel
09-01-08, 12:44
I've seen some nice blades. Some good for Combat, some good for Bushcraft or Survival in the woods. I have one I think would work well for combat and for a fact works very well in the woods.


http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y62/Steel85/DSC00820.jpg

redsox20
09-15-08, 19:50
quick question does anyone have any experince with this http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=140

mattpittinger
09-16-08, 11:17
My old Mad Dog ATAK. It is the best fixed blade I've ever owned. A close second would be my Randall #1.

DWood
09-26-08, 09:46
I have several Randal knives, but I also like the Microtech Currahee (center) for a reasonably priced, fixed blade that is available without a long wait. It's a good size and rugged.

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h264/DWood13/DSC_0234.jpg