Might I add this...for outdoor/landscaping/camping ect...don't ever doubt the value of a good machete. Good machetes are CHEAP and handier than a shirt pocket!
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Might I add this...for outdoor/landscaping/camping ect...don't ever doubt the value of a good machete. Good machetes are CHEAP and handier than a shirt pocket!
You should consider your terrain and what other tools you plan to take with you. For example, in New England winters I'd want an axe or saw with me as well, so I wouldn't want a large knife to baton as an axe/hatchet works better.
Generally speaking I'm happy with a 3.5-6" fixed blade with a good plain edge, thinner grind (flat or scandi ground not hollow, 1/8 or 3/16 thick spine), and comfortable handle. Single edge only, no false rear edge grind, spear point or drop point, no blade coatings (they grab when splitting wood).
For a nicer blade, I like the Tops Dragonfly. For a budget option, a Mora LMF or something like that works just fine. While most Mora's aren't full tang, you'll struggle to find anyone in real life whose ever broken one.
Most of the "fighting" knives on the market are designed by people who've never killed anyone with them, as evidenced by their sheath designs and blade geometry. The same tends to go with survival knives. The guys who actually do live outdoors with their knives tend to prefer pretty basic (not sexy) knives that aren't nearly as flashy or appealing to the masses looking for something cool.
I was doing more research and found this youtube channel, which is very entertaining:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKlcBpKbAvM
Check out some of Fred Perrin's work at, https://www.spyderco.com/catalog/det...hp?product=129
And if you are interested training see Michael Janich at, http://www.martialbladeconcepts.com/
He teaches classes all over the place just check the MBC site for this schedule...he is an outstanding instructor.
...great quote from RAH btw.
-Later
Yes, bright orange is my first choice on gear like that for several reasons.
It's highly visible. When you are dehydrated, have not eaten food for two days, and fuzzy-headed, you need stuff that does not get easily lost. Or if lost, is easily spotted. My days of wandering the landscape avoiding angry people are long past. Camo I honestly do not need.
It does not scream tactical. I have a GHB in my vehicle, as well as one locked up at work. If they are searched, they are going to look a lot more like emergency preparations than an active shooter gear stash. And yes, I have had that conversation with authorities.
I use Mora knives more than any other for a while now. I have dressed out multiple elk and mule deer, as well as doing basic stuff.
In fact I keep a couple in the kitchen, as they have such nice handling characteristics, and are extremely easy to sharpen.