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gusstrand
10-25-2009, 03:47 PM
I have to start this topic, as I have a thing for sharp things. Moreso even than sticks or string holders... I can have a knife or three on me 90% of the time, unlike a fly rod.

I have a few favorites, and have had many more... This is most of the current pocket rotation, but there are of course others in the stable. These are all "true" lefty versions. Chris Reeve, Strider and Emerson...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/Lefty_Sharp.jpg

Care to share any of your favorites?

gusstrand
10-25-2009, 03:49 PM
Oh, and today is Sunday, so I have my Sunday knife on, of course...

http://www.gusstrand.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/ferrksept09003_450.jpg

adam
10-25-2009, 05:50 PM
Gus, got any ideas for a survival knife?

Cross Creek
10-25-2009, 06:03 PM
One of my favorite subjects, but my choices are typically less "tactical" (whatever that means) than most. I managed to get through operations in more than 70 countries over 22 years with nothing more lethal than a SAK (Soldier model) until my last tour in the Middle East, when I carried a Benchmade 350 (predecessor to the current 530), a Mel Pardue-designed ultra-light, ultra-tough folding dagger--still used my Soldier the most, though. Since retiring, I find the alox version of the Bantam (main blade and "combo" tool) to be all that I need, day to day, and much less noticeable in civy pockets. I also have a real weakness for vintage penknives, especially the little two-blade models by Case and other American companies, long-departed from the scene.

terry
10-26-2009, 10:50 AM
My new favorite is a Helle Eggen. Some of my others are, anything from RAT cutlery, Kershaw Leek, Byrd Meadowlark, and Victorinox one handed trekker.

gusstrand
10-26-2009, 11:41 AM
Sweet! That Eggen is a really nice upscale traditional scandi. Love those... A friend in Sweden just sent me a Mora as part of a personal survival kit he made. always wanted one... the ultimate beater knife!

Rat makes some good users, for sure. A friend is a dealer, and he keeps trying to get me to buy the mil spec RC3...

Cross Creek, I tossed one of my Case Stockmen in the pocket this morning, just for you. 8-) Of course, my CQC-7 lefty is on the other pocket, but I'm thinking I need to break out the slipjoints more often. I'm a big fan of the traditional stockman and canoe patterns...

terry
10-26-2009, 12:20 PM
The stockman is a classic pattern and for good reason. I have tried EDCing one a few times, but I can't get over not having one handed opening and locking ability.

gusstrand
10-26-2009, 12:30 PM
Agree - a traditional pocket knife has some good feeling to it... like using a safety razor instead of one of those plastic things... But yes, one gets used to one handed especially with the Emerson "wave feature" - I can fully my tool faster than a normal person could use an automatic... er... "switchblade."

Of course, fixed blades are good, too. :) I often have a Strider SLCC tucked in to my wardrobe somewhere or a La Griffe 'round my neck. My wife calls it my "man jewelry."

adam
10-26-2009, 01:23 PM
Gus, got any ideas for a survival knife?

Gus, wasn't kidding, got any ideas for a compact fixed blade?

Something I can pound on the back and not worry about hurting it?

Inexpensive helps.

gusstrand
10-26-2009, 01:37 PM
http://www.ratcutlery.com/RC-3MIL-lowres.jpg

Sorry, missed that. IMHO, RAT Cutlery is your tool. They're tough, and made for survival... http://www.ratcutlery.com/

I know it's ugly, but a part serrated blade is useful as well. Low cost is relative, I would call them low to midrange. Right around a c-note.

RC-3 ( http://www.ratcutlery.com/rc-3mil.htm )is nice and small, RC-4 might be right up your alley depending on weight.

...and James has plenty of them, at good prices (actionconcepts.biz)

terry
10-26-2009, 01:59 PM
Adam, I second RAT cutlery. Great blades, and you will not find a better company. Read about their policies on the website, these guys are for real.

Gus, if you like the mora's, try a Helle. Awesome blades!

gusstrand
10-26-2009, 02:21 PM
Gus, got any ideas for a survival knife?

Gus, wasn't kidding, got any ideas for a compact fixed blade?

Something I can pound on the back and not worry about hurting it?

Inexpensive helps.

RAT are good knives and great people. For sure.

Oh, for the record... My absolute favorite "sort of compact" (there is lots of handle) fixed blade is my Strider HT-T. I gave most all of my other fixed blades to my son after I got it, including the Kershaw Amphibian I got in High School (in like, '84?) and a KaBar... They are not cheap by any stretch (luckily I traded in to it), but it's a real beast. One big honking piece of S30v.

Here's a youtube of a guy putting one through tome torture:

[youtube:2stc1hdt]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xudu3KwhIIc[/youtube:2stc1hdt]

adam
10-26-2009, 02:25 PM
Ok, I just checked out the Izula, it is perfect. I have a knife sort of like it called a "Peck" or something like it. I carry it but it is too petite. Same concept, just a bit too small and not enough of a guard against me slipping and cutting myself on the blade. The Izula is perfect, I'll get a pink one so I won't lose it.

I like the KaBar (Marine) but they are too heavy and I don't need that much knife.

I'll get the Izula, thanks to you guys.

gusstrand
10-26-2009, 02:26 PM
Good choice, and they come in a "survival" model as well...

adam
10-26-2009, 03:23 PM
I already have all that stuff tucked in a altoids size tin, a survival kit. I made a page on it at grassart and I'll try to code it over here. I'll also detail my other things below.

Watching the tanto vid and looking at the catalog, it made me think of when I was in the Army and all my jungle time. I remember going through tracking school in Malaysia, I carried a Gerber. It was a large two sided blade, long, but a good blade with some meat. It was a good chopper but you couldn't pound on it there for it was flawed. I gave it to a Malay soldier, he gave me his prayer beads. It was a gift but he insisted. I still have those beads hanging in the bathroom.

I'm collecting my things to do a little ultra-light backpacking. I'm planning on doing straight through hikes in the 10-20 mile range, two to four days. One is on the Mogollon Rim, the others are in the Grand Canyon. I need a good knife and I'm not interested in breaking the bank and it also needs to be light, hence my choice in the Izula. Already have a wire saw and all the magnesium stick, purification tabs, signal mirror blah blah blah I'm going to do it tarp and ground cloth style with a bug screen just over the top half of my bag. Way light, like 10 pound pack base weight.

Just going through the list, you guys helped keep it light.

Thanks for keeping the light on.

gusstrand
10-26-2009, 03:47 PM
Cool! On another site I spend lots of time at a guy makes titanium fire pistons - no need for matches, firesteel, or anything... :) Just the piston and some cloth...

adam
10-26-2009, 04:12 PM
Nice.

I carry a bits of tinder for my magnesium.

Hey, I have a lot of stuff that I bought building my survival kit.

Send me a PM with your address and I'll send you a little present. A friend of mine gifted me a bunch of little metal skulls that he made, poured at a foundry, small ones, perfect for a bead like I see in your knife images. If you want the survival kit bits, I'll send them on to you, altoid tin size, almost a complete set along with a couple of skull beads.

I would show you an image but I have to allow smallstreams.com to show pictures from grassart.net site. Which reminds me to give permisssions.

:D

Anyway I'll send it on.

Yours.

I would be happy to gift it (them) to you.

terry
10-26-2009, 04:50 PM
Adam, you will be 100% happy with the izula.

greendrake
10-26-2009, 07:35 PM
Adam,
A Kabar from a military surplus store won't cost an arm and a leg.While not as compact or a good looking as the Rat suggested by Gus,there is a reason that the USMC issued them for such a long period of time.
Will

:lol: I should have noticed that there was a second page and read it before making a post about a knife you had already discounted :roll: That'll teach me.

adam
10-26-2009, 08:01 PM
Adam,
A Kabar from a military surplus store won't cost an arm and a leg.While not as compact or a good looking as the Rat suggested by Gus,there is a reason that the USMC issued them for such a long period of time.

I carried a Kabar when I was in the service before I carried the Gerber.

Good knife, a little heavy for what I want to do and besides, they don't make them in pink big boy.

http://www.knifecenter.com/knifecenter/ratknives/images/izulapink.jpg

[youtube:h913ni19]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYEb2G-Axa0&feature=related[/youtube:h913ni19]

http://www.knivestown.com

gusstrand
10-26-2009, 08:15 PM
Yeah... the pink Izula really is HOT. :oops:

adam
10-28-2009, 01:32 PM
I'm becoming partial to the tanto style blade. KaBar makes a nice tanto, actually they make a few tanto style blades. I'll think about it for a while, sleep on it but after some careful consideration, the tanto may be the way to go.

When I am hiking, it will be primarily point a to b, getting there with some stops for fishing prime spots. The overnight will be a minimal campist. I am carrying ultralight gear. Tarp style with a bug screen. A fire will be a great thing for me and I know I can get great service out of the tanto blade vs. Izula. I'm not looking for a hatchet and I know how to make a fire without chopping wood. The Izula is a blade, for cutting but will do service work well. The tanto style blade is, I believe, more servicable, light chopping and such. Because I am ultralight in the woods, the Izula fits more the bill what I want though. I want light and I only want to have a knife, I don't need a skeletool or a light hatchet.

When I think about it, the Izula fits the bill almost to the t but I really like tanto style blades.

I think it's a matter of having a knife along for cutting that is light and the Izula does that and is reviewed well.

Decisions decisions...

Cross Creek
11-02-2009, 06:51 PM
:D

Cross Creek
11-02-2009, 07:01 PM
While the Tanto is a tough blade for chopping and puncturing, it is, at its heart, a blade purpose-built to be a weapon for cutting/stabbing through light armor. For most field use (city use, too), we'd be better served with thin, flat-ground blades made for easy slicing. Early explorers/pioneers/settlers used thin knives that would look a lot like a modern kitchen knife--for skinning and cutting up game, for preparing food, for a backup weapon. For me, the modern answer is one of several Swiss Army knives, but there are other choices.

If I needed an edged weapon, it might very well be a tanto, but it would be a fixed blade, not a folder, which is too short for a great stabbing/slashing weapon and too stout for the slicing tasks at which folders excel. I've owned a lot of folders of various designs, and flat-ground blades are thinner and slice better without binding in the cut than hollow-ground blades, which are, by necessity and design, thicker than needed for the cutting task--pretty grinds, though. In other words, if a hollow-ground blade isn't getting hung up in the cut, the blade is broader than it needed to be to get the job done--a smaller, lighter tool would have done the same job better.

For light chopping, a lightweight, cheap, very effective alternative is a short machete. I've watched native workers in Central America do amazing things with short machetes that cost a fraction of most knives we consider minimum quality for field work (most of them carried SAK's for regular pocketknife work, btw).
-CC

Sean
11-02-2009, 07:07 PM
I'm still a fan of gerbers good knife and affordable.

gusstrand
11-02-2009, 10:20 PM
Like I said, I have knife issues...

This is what's in my pocket at this moment:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/a1/NoahsUSN_3_800.jpg

gusstrand
11-10-2009, 12:34 PM
Today's choice... decided I wanted a fixed blade for the day, so the Mick Strider Custom SLCC went in... This one carries like it's not even there, thus the name Slim Line Concealed Carry...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/a1/800SharpNov012.jpg

Of course, if anyone asks for a knife, I have a Case Canoe (KY Bluegrass Circle C) in the other pocket...

skyphix
11-10-2009, 01:27 PM
Basic, but it works.
http://www.swissarmy.com/images/ProductCatalog/vm/vm_53451_sol_a03.jpg

matsoberg
12-02-2009, 06:06 AM
This is my knife. My friend and scrimshaw knife maker Ulf made it for me and I keep it hanging in the fishing vest.


http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc47/matsoberg/db_Bjornhelrak1.jpg


http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc47/matsoberg/db_Bjornnara1.jpg



The Leatherman Supertool is my "toolbox" and itīs always in my belt.

http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc47/matsoberg/Leatherman_Supertool.jpg

greendrake
12-02-2009, 09:58 AM
WOW Mats,That is one beautiful knife. Just stunning! :shock:
Will

gusstrand
12-03-2009, 08:22 AM
WOW Mats,That is one beautiful knife. Just stunning! :shock:
Will
:thumbup: Totally agree!

matsoberg
12-04-2009, 04:23 AM
Yes, itīs a nice knife and like it a lot. Heīs quite good at it. If you like my knife you might as well check his site: http://www.brandt.info.se/

adam
12-15-2009, 01:05 PM
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product. ... u=11071292 (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=11071292&sourceid=1500000000000003260410&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=11071292)

I bought one of these recently...

[attachment=0:ofvwnswp]Evo_Tanto.jpg[/attachment:ofvwnswp]

gusstrand
12-15-2009, 01:12 PM
Solid working knife adam. Congrats!

There is something to be said for those. Good users!

I've sold off a large number of the high end ones (Striders and Chris Reeve, mainly) - the trip to Oregon and now the transmission in the Expedition, money is better spent elsewhere than steel sitting in a safe collecting dust.

My most recent purchase was an Emerson SOCFK tanto from a friend. I love tantos... My Emersons are some that I will not sell any time soon. :)

Use the heck out of it!

Gerard
12-17-2009, 05:37 AM
A few years back I took a visiting lady to fish one of our trout streams near Cape Town. I found it quite fascinating that she travelled the world alone. But I think she knew how to take care of herself. She gave me a knife as a gift and when I saw it I got the picture. :shock:

The Bear Claws are awesome – I bought another for my wife.

http://www.1sks.com/store/media/crkt/2007/cr-bear-claw-group.jpg

adam
12-17-2009, 07:07 AM
G, I am still in the process of finishing my paragliding kit. I have a lot of interests but very few funds after the family is taken care of but this will be the knife I carry with me. The bottom one, rounded tip and serated for cutting myself away in the event I am being dragged and or what ever reason I want to be cut from my wing.

They are relatively inexpensive.

Like minds.

gusstrand
12-17-2009, 11:00 AM
The CRKT Bear Claw is a good cost effective claw - it was inspired by Fred Perrin's designs. Perrin is a french tool designer who is in to street survival... A little about him here: http://www.donrearic.com/perrin.html

The basic La Griffe is currently produced by Emerson Knives - I have worn one for a couple years now. It's a great utility blade in addition to the SD function, and is concealable in many ways. (more here: http://www.donrearic.com/emersonlagriffe.html)

Adam, for your kite use, they used to produce a "whitewater" version that was serrated and with a blunt tip. The CRKT version will undoubtedly be more fiscally responsible. :)

This is what mine looked like new... (looks better, or worse depending on your perspective, now... :))

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/SharpMay002-1_450.jpg

Gerard
12-19-2009, 04:37 AM
G, I am still in the process of finishing my paragliding kit. I have a lot of interests but very few funds after the family is taken care of but this will be the knife I carry with me. The bottom one, rounded tip and serated for cutting myself away in the event I am being dragged and or what ever reason I want to be cut from my wing.

They are relatively inexpensive.

Like minds.

It will be a good companion Addy. :bigthumb:

I have the sharp tip, serrated version...very very sharp and holds their edge seemingly forever.

Gerard
12-19-2009, 04:41 AM
The CRKT Bear Claw is a good cost effective claw - it was inspired by Fred Perrin's designs. Perrin is a french tool designer who is in to street survival... A little about him here: http://www.donrearic.com/perrin.html

The basic La Griffe is currently produced by Emerson Knives - I have worn one for a couple years now. It's a great utility blade in addition to the SD function, and is concealable in many ways. (more here: http://www.donrearic.com/emersonlagriffe.html)

Adam, for your kite use, they used to produce a "whitewater" version that was serrated and with a blunt tip. The CRKT version will undoubtedly be more fiscally responsible. :)

This is what mine looked like new... (looks better, or worse depending on your perspective, now... :))

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/SharpMay002-1_450.jpg

That's pretty cool...I like its basic look. My only reservation would be the seemingly uncomfortable grip? The BC has a swelled butt which fits quite comfortable in the palm of your hand.

adam
12-30-2009, 01:29 AM
Getting closer to making a decision.

I like the RC-3 and I like the Izula too.

terry
12-30-2009, 09:46 AM
The RC3 is a sweet blade, but the izula is my all time favorite.

adam
12-30-2009, 11:18 AM
Terry, it would help if you told me what you like about the Izula.

I'm really narrowing it down and sometimes it's just the little things you know?

A big part of me wants a little beefier knife, the other part of me wants to go with my initial choice and the ultra-lightness of the Izula. I'm planning on lassoing it to one of the wings of the hip belt if I get the Izula, off the belt if the RC-3.

Everything points to the Izula really, it's probably even more knife than I need.

...and I'm not going to get the pink although I think it is pretty cool.

What do you like about it?

terry
12-30-2009, 12:39 PM
Well as far as thickness, the izula is a thicker knife, and probably a little stronger because of it.

Honestly the thing i like about the izula over the RC3 is its size. Its very handy mainly because its so concealable. It fits in my hand better than any blade that size that I have used before, and its blade shape is very versatile for a lot of task.

Both are great blades. Your decision probably will come down to overall size.

Hope this helps.

gusstrand
12-30-2009, 04:16 PM
Here's a pic from a board I participate on that will help get a feel for the RC-3 (Marked SWAT in the pic) and Izula.

adam
12-30-2009, 05:14 PM
Gus, that really helps. I don't have money to buy two knives, I want one, a knife I'm going to want to carry even when I'm not backpacking but when I fish. I've carried a huge Gerber when I was in the service, didn't like it at first, then I dug having it because I was taught how to utilize it by many different people in different armies of other countries.

A knife in the outdoors is HUGELY important.

I had a SOG Pentagon and sold it. Double edge sticker, huge, too city like for the outdoors and again, double edge. I still miss it because it was a substantial blade.

The Izula looks great, the RC-3 seems more of a "knife" and the picture Gus has posted does a great job for swaying me back on the fence.

The cool thing is, when I pull the trigger, I'll still be happy either way, didn't really find a good second choice that was palatable in the budget department.

The RC-5 (like that one too) comes with an option for a pouch for my little tin survival kit that attaches to the scabbard, that is pretty cool in my book and does double duty. I like that option a lot.

http://www.ratcutlery.com/rc5-6-molle-back-2.jpg

Brooktrout
01-14-2010, 10:49 PM
ah, blades. i love this topic. i carry this one around lately and love it. short but stout. stays in the pocket, razor sharp and quick to open. but for real, serious business i like my katana. i actually train with it, itto tenshin ryu. cool, but maybe not as practical as the lockblade.

matsoberg: that damascus blade is a real classic. awesome.

adam
01-14-2010, 11:19 PM
http://www.musashiswords.com/shop/home.php

S.Brooks, I bought my Ninjitsu sword from the link above and Shay a Bamboo style tsuba Katana.

A quality blade, good price.

My Ninja Sword: http://www.musashiswords.com/shop/produ ... t=0&page=1 (http://www.musashiswords.com/shop/product.php?productid=12&cat=0&page=1)

I thought it was an honorable present for a friend...

Brooktrout
01-19-2010, 01:32 PM
nice blade bro.

JB in SC
01-19-2010, 09:05 PM
My latest acquisition Kerry Hampton Khnutbuster, milled and relieved liners, pivot bushing, D2 blade, with maker dyed and jigged bone scales....his take on the classic Case Sodbuster Jr.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i176/22hunter/kh-bonekhnutbomb-2.jpg

gusstrand
01-19-2010, 09:27 PM
Very sweet slipjoint!

JB in SC
02-03-2010, 01:01 PM
Since we're coming clean on blade addictions, here's another of my favorites.

Jerry Halfrich, CPM 154 CM, carbon fiber scales, no liners.....weighs 2 oz.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i176/22hunter/DSC_1176-1.jpg

gusstrand
02-03-2010, 04:36 PM
Gonna take a lot more than two photos for YOU to come clean...

This one is my latest... I have to take real pics of it...

JB in SC
02-03-2010, 05:29 PM
Gonna take a lot more than two photos for YOU to come clean...

True...but I divest my "holdings" from time to time.

Nice Emerson, Tom does a great re-grind. I was going to get him to re-grind a Mini CQC-7 lefty and remove the wave feature, always wound up cutting myself.

This is a lefty Voorhies 9s flipper, CF scales with Ti liners (.080", more like a frame lock), and a .145" thick CPM 154 CM blade. Chunky little rascal @ 3.6" closed, I will probably be cutting this one from the string (it's a little thick for such a small knife). Nicely made and solid as a rock. Has the IKBS ball bearing system, opens with zero wrist action.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i176/22hunter/DSC_2304.jpg

gusstrand
02-03-2010, 06:20 PM
I divest often as well... but not usually my Emersons.

Lefty's... I have the three Emersons that come that way (Cmdr, 7 and mini7,) and have had ferrrk convert three others... That one I just got from the Cove... Got rid of my lefty Umnumzaan (not sure why, almost bought it back the other day. It's posted...) two lefty SnG's... realized I'm not Highspeed or Hardcore. :)

Anyway, here is a better pic of that 7. I REALLY like it as it's the A blade, kreined, and one of the old ones that is tapped for tip down.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/a1/7A_SOFCK002_800.jpg

...and I added a little "lefty-ness" to the opposite scale to make it more openable...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/a1/7A_SOFCK004_450.jpg

JB in SC
02-03-2010, 06:33 PM
I much prefer the A type blade too. The tip up Emersons bite occasionally, just not quite enough detent to suit me.

gusstrand
02-04-2010, 08:51 AM
They DO bite. I have scars. Many, many times.

greendrake
02-04-2010, 11:07 AM
Gus,
Me thinks you have a knife FETISH. :lol:
Will

gusstrand
02-04-2010, 11:48 AM
Maybe.

I think it's a collector gene (or fetish) that transfers... It was rods and reels at one point. :) I stepped back a couple years ago and realized I had like 25 or 30 pairs of rods and reels and lines... Even with the knives, I've had many, many more than I do at previous points... after a few years or more on journeys like this, be it rods, reels, knives, watches or whatever, you find your niche... and sell the rest. Even from there, I'll end up paring down. Eventually. My knife journey has included major stops at Spyderco, Benchmade, Strider, Chris Reeve and small stops at plenty of others. It started with slipjoints and bird and trout type fixed blades as a kid, moved to balisongs in High School and College, then Spyders...

...and I've landed on Emersons. Production ones. I may eventually end the journey with a couple of customs that I'll use for the rest of my life and pass on after that...

But it's the journey that's the fun part, right? :crazy:

pszy22
02-04-2010, 01:42 PM
deleted

gusstrand
02-04-2010, 01:50 PM
Buck 110 is an awesome knife.

I had one for almost 30 years, and ended up giving it to a soldier in the sandbox as a gift/memento last year.

Ought to get me another one... :)

JB in SC
02-05-2010, 12:27 PM
Not your typical fixed blade...this one is by my friend Tim Wright of Sedona. He makes some fantastic kitchen knives and a take down folder (not for the faint of heart at $3000+) that is as fine a piece of craftsmanship as I've ever seen. AEB-L .070" thick, full convex ground, black linen micarta.

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i176/22hunter/DSC_1109.jpg

adam
02-05-2010, 02:06 PM
I am spending the night in Sedona this weekend.

Does he have a shop?

JB in SC
02-05-2010, 03:05 PM
He doesn't have a shop open to the public. Never owned a car, travels by bike.

He does no commercial advertising...word of mouth only.

His delivery time is probably a year (or more) out.

gusstrand
02-05-2010, 03:17 PM
Looks like a sweet bird and trout.

A friend from the net and now local collects B&T type knives...

Come to think of it, I should invite him over here... :bigthumb:

JB in SC
02-05-2010, 05:04 PM
Gus,

Tim calls it a small wharncliffe, I'd call it a paring knife. AEB-L is a steel normally used for razor blades....very fine carbides. I think the edge is too thin for cutting bones, but it does slice well. Notice the maker's mark is milled, not stamped. Also, it doesn't have a choil. He doesn't like them since they tend to hang up on stuff when cutting.

He is extremely smart and a witty as hell.

Jerry

gusstrand
02-05-2010, 05:20 PM
He is extremely smart and a witty as hell.

Sounds like he and Adam would get along famously. :)

It looks VERY nice. Like a uber-high end filleter... It reminds me of some of the upper crust single blade slipjoints but fixed...

JB in SC
02-05-2010, 05:46 PM
The fixed blades are not out of sight price wise, most are under $400. Although the bolsters are attached, you can't see any joints. The tang stops just a bit past the last corby bolt. You can run your hand over any part of the knife (except the blade edge) and not find a hot spot....even the notches on the spine. My buddy Mike Lovett's knives are as nice, but no one else finishes up a knife as cleanly as Tim.

gusstrand
02-09-2010, 03:58 PM
JB, you're a southpaw, right?

Carried one of my few non-lefty-converted Emerson's today... this one rides in my right pocket. Cut up the lunch apple with it. :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/a1/tools9jan008.jpg

JB in SC
02-09-2010, 04:05 PM
Yes, lifelong member of the sinister sixth.

Who did the pimp? I see a Ti frame....

gusstrand
02-09-2010, 04:35 PM
No pimp... 2006 HD-12

Mostyn
02-09-2010, 05:21 PM
Re, Knives? I have a couple. I use them mostly when out searching for suitable material for : Walking Sticks/Staffs!

I recently purchased a Mora Clipper Fluorescent with a 4 .1/2, inch stainless steel blade! Believe me if you use and abuse your knives? then you need one of these they're Swedish made and very sharp! Here's a link to Heinnie Haynes, they have and stock many makes of knives of all shapes and sizes! Fast delivery - even over seas! The Mora Clipper is a top quality knife at an affordable price! Don't be put off by the inexpensive Ģprice they are exceptional value! I wont recommend rubbish! Here's the link: www.heinnie.com (http://www.heinnie.com) Email : info@heinnie.com

Mostyn

JB in SC
02-09-2010, 05:29 PM
No pimp... 2006 HD-12

Smells like money.....

JB in SC
02-09-2010, 05:37 PM
Mostyn,

The Moras often overlooked because of the inexpensive price, but are tough and take an excellent edge. The bushcraft crowd here seems to like them very much.

Jerry

gusstrand
02-09-2010, 09:25 PM
My son and I each got a Mora from a friend on that knife forum - it's a GREAT toolbox/glovebox/whatever knife.

JB, on the HD, not too much, relatively speaking. I got it used, cost about what a regular production Emerson lists for these days. New they were/are somewhat pricey, in the $4C range.

hootie
02-16-2010, 12:10 PM
I like the Mora knives also,ragweedforge.com is a great place to buy them.I always have a Spyderco Caly 3 clipped in my right front pocket and though I usually prefer a non stainless blade the VG-10 stainless on this knife is good stuff.I have four Randall knives that were all gifts from my father over the years and the Model 26 with the 0-1 tool steel blade and stag handle is my favorite.The Bob Dozier skinning knife I have with a D2 blade will hold its edge longer than any steel I have ever used and is almost as corrosion resistant as a stainless steel.

gusstrand
02-17-2010, 02:26 PM
JB -

I'm selling off half a dozen Emersons. I found and scored "The ONE to rule them all."

Full custom lefty waved CQC-6.

JB in SC
02-19-2010, 01:19 PM
Gus, It was only a matter of time :mrgreen:

Where are the photos?

I went with a G&G Hawk RAZR, in OD G-10, IKBS. Works well with either hand. I'll get a photo posted later. A bigger knife than my usual carry, but light enough.

gusstrand
02-19-2010, 01:27 PM
Photos forthcoming over there... arrived today. :clap:

gusstrand
02-19-2010, 03:06 PM
One picture for here:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/Emerson/CQC6WL018_800.jpg

gusstrand
02-19-2010, 03:08 PM
I went with a G&G Hawk RAZR, in OD G-10, IKBS.

Did you get it from Neil O/TNK? How do those three holes/thumb holes work for you?

JB in SC
02-19-2010, 04:46 PM
Got it from Duane at EDC.

The three holes aren't an issue, they work fine. It doesn't require using them, the locking system slide allows the blade to open with little to no effort with either hand. I was pretty impressed with the design and it's pretty light at 4.6 oz. Time will tell. The blade has a wicked edge. I talked with Gavin before I bought it to be sure it would work as a lefty.

I saw the other photos...very sweet. The liners look very thick in comparison to the production versions. I know you are stoked to get it. It's a real score to get a pristine lefty.

gusstrand
02-19-2010, 04:56 PM
With the IKBS, I'm sure it's smooth and effortless. Very cool. Those two Brazilians have a good thing going. I've always wanted to try an IKBS bali.

On the 6, The lockside liner is beastly. It's seriously like a framelock with scales. Good or bad, it won't stay pristine for long. I can't NOT use it. jbravo says there's like a dozen lefty 6's all together, more not waved than waved. Oddly, I got it from his brother. Of course, with that rarity, I won't lose much if any money if I ever do need to move it. I hope to never need to. My eldest son is a lefty, and a knife guy, too...

JB in SC
02-19-2010, 07:46 PM
I don't own a knife that valuable, but I couldn't fathom not using it. I don't think I've seen a waved lefty Emerson custom before come to think of it.

gusstrand
02-19-2010, 09:39 PM
I never intended to own a lefty custom. The stars and the cove aligned for this one.

stevekiley
02-20-2010, 01:23 AM
my blades are not in the same class as the custom made knifes but have served me well for the past 25+ years and are good friends that never get left home when i go to the woods or water,the top one is made from a norwegian laminated blade,and the bottom is a russell canadian belt knife,thanks steve
http://s271.photobucket.com/albums/jj153/stevekiley/IMGP1756.jpg
http://s271.photobucket.com/albums/jj153/stevekiley/IMGP1755.jpg

hootie
02-20-2010, 06:33 AM
Nice knives Steve.That Canadian Belt Knife actually outclasses many custom knives.I do not own one but I skinned a deer in 1983 with one that was purchased in Labrador in the 50's and still remember how fit the hand so well.

Another good type of old fashioned blades are Opinel knives,most production knives today have blades that are too thick to be good cutters and the thin blades on these ten dollar knives will out perform many knives costing a lot more money.As an added bonus they completely lack any "tactical" features that detract from a knifes true purpose of cutting stuff that needs cut.

gusstrand
02-21-2010, 08:41 PM
Opinels are too cool. I have a little Laiuogle (sp?) penknife I got about twelve years ago that is also a sweet little "daily chore" knife.

terry
02-26-2010, 02:36 PM
Anyone else carry a multitool? I just started carrying my leatherman wave again. Forgot how useful it can be.

JB in SC
02-26-2010, 09:04 PM
I sometimes carry a Micra (I seem to use scissors a lot) and keep a Leatherman Crunch in the car.

wrknapp
03-03-2010, 10:17 PM
Check these out:

http://www.murthasoutdoor.com/

I sold the guy a fly rod and then found out about his work. Beautiful.

Randy

JB in SC
03-03-2010, 11:15 PM
That's nice work.

I don't think I've heard of him. There are lots of less known makers doing some fine work.

adam
04-06-2010, 08:19 PM
Gentlemen, I bought a Buck Woodsman.

I thought long and hard.


I looked at many knives and I looked back at my life and the Buck I had as a kid did the trick.



I have that happy face, a good feeling about this knife.

I did good.

Money was no issue, I had a $150 budget, the Woodsman was less than $50.

[attachment=0:1f70e2up]Buck_Woodsman.jpg[/attachment:1f70e2up]

gusstrand
04-06-2010, 09:26 PM
Sweet. There is a lot to be said for nostalgia... And a tried and true tool!

hootie
04-08-2010, 02:37 AM
The 102 Woodsman is a good knife and will serve you well.I wish I still had the one I bought at the Ft.Campbell PX in 1988.It was laid down on a rock on a creek called Fish Camp Prong in the Great Smoky Mtns in 1992 after gutting a 10 inch brown trout and never seen by me again.It is one of two knives I have ever lost,the other being a Victorinox Climber that fell out of a crappy sheath bought at Ranger Joes in Columbus Geargia and hit the ground somewhere in the Sinai peninsula while serving on a peacekeeping mission while a Rakkasan.

adam
04-08-2010, 09:42 AM
I was just at the "Calvary" store just outside at Gate 4 or somewhere like that.

I have a relative that is there in the Army.

...and it is a very cool knife indeed.

terry
04-09-2010, 10:19 AM
Very cool Adam. I have a pathfinder 105 which is the next size up. Its my favorite hunting knife for whitetails. I have tried others, but keep coming back to the 105.

I also just bought some of the micarta scales for my izula, really add to the coolness of the knife. Well worth the $16

hootie
04-10-2010, 01:28 AM
Yep,US Cavalry right across the street from gate 4.In 2003 while wiring a new super wal mart in Radcliffe Ky I went to the US Cav's headquarters store near Ft Knox,sure brought back some memories.

planettrout
04-13-2010, 01:03 AM
I like these...it just the wait that sucks,,,,

http://www.randallknives.com/

PT/TB :thumbup:

Chalkstream
04-16-2010, 03:26 PM
Crikey you guys live in a different world to us!!

We can only carry a blade of under 3 inches in length and you have to be going about some form of activity that requires it or you could land yourself in trouble with the law.

So I can take my Leatherman Skeletool fishing but by law nowhere else, not that I need to to be honest. Still, it does the job nicely when fishing and the partially serrated blade goes beautifully through a thumb and thumbnail... :oops:

Ben

Brooktrout
04-30-2010, 03:45 PM
adam-sweet knife. bucks are such classics.

hootie
05-05-2010, 03:37 AM
Planettrout there are quite a few Randall dealers who recieve knives on a monthly basis and the price is higher than the cost from RMK but getting the blade without waiting 5 years is worth the extra cost.

gusstrand
05-06-2010, 09:52 AM
Crikey you guys live in a different world to us!!

We can only carry a blade of under 3 inches in length and you have to be going about some form of activity that requires it or you could land yourself in trouble with the law.

So I can take my Leatherman Skeletool fishing but by law nowhere else, not that I need to to be honest. Still, it does the job nicely when fishing and the partially serrated blade goes beautifully through a thumb and thumbnail... :oops:

Ben

Very true... oddly, I've sent plenty of "big" knives to buddies over there. This one (http://www.gusstrand.com/blog/?p=699) is a good example...

You ought to check out the Spyderco UKPK - It's basically a Caly 3 that is a slipjoint rather than locking, made specifically to be legal in the UK...

http://spyderco.com/catalog/details.php?product=324

samhall
10-17-2011, 02:29 PM
I realize this thread is a few years old...but it is new to me.
I really like the Gerber Obsidian with the serrated blade. at close to 5 oz it is a bit heavy, but for a day to day pocket knife it has been very reliable.

adam
10-17-2011, 10:52 PM
ken over at grassart made me a small damascus drop point. It is sweet. I'll get a photo up.

gusstrand
11-10-2011, 03:43 PM
Some good folks in the country of my ancestors hooked me up this week in an incredible gesture... The knife and a wardrobe... They even sent Fallkniven band-aids!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/sharp/F1-2a-800.jpg

hootie
01-17-2012, 08:18 PM
Beautiful knife you got there Gus,I have always admired those Fallknivens even though I never knew how to pronounce it until a recent thread over at Bladeforums.com where the owners of the company posted.

I have recently got to know and admire a guy named Ethan Becker and can recommed Becker Knife and Tool knives which are made by Kabar in thier Olean,NY factory.They are made from 1095crovan steel and are backed by one of the best warranties in the business.I also have an ESEE 3 and an ESEE 4 and they are made in Idaho by Sean Rowen of straight 1095 and are very good knives with an unconditional warranty.

hootie
02-13-2012, 05:44 PM
Examples of Randalls top knife is Model Trout and Bird Francis Gary Powers had one when shot down over USSR in 1960

http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q506/hootie11bravo/2012-01-29_152708.jpg


Examples of Beckers

http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q506/hootie11bravo/2012-01-29_155421-1.jpg

gusstrand
02-13-2012, 09:30 PM
Cool Beckers and Randalls!

adam
03-15-2012, 06:21 AM
Awesome I'm still headed for a E S Junglas, badass tool. It will go well with my pursuit.

Gus, I love that blade, it is sweet.


Just a great grind on it.


This and the "Shooters" thread have my interest.


Spring has sprung, I'm waking up.

adam
03-15-2012, 06:25 AM
Examples of Randalls top knife is Model Trout and Bird Francis Gary Powers had one when shot down over USSR in 1960

http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q506/hootie11bravo/2012-01-29_152708.jpg


Examples of Beckers

http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q506/hootie11bravo/2012-01-29_155421-1.jpg

Hootie, sweet quiver.

Which one did Gary have with him?

Did you make that button lanyard?

Me likey.

gusstrand
03-15-2012, 09:54 AM
Awesome I'm still headed for a E S Junglas, badass tool. It will go well with my pursuit.

Gus, I love that blade, it is sweet.


Just a great grind on it.

The Swedes know how to do a bushcraft scandi grind for sure. It's a no nonsense blade and I really like the utility. It might be the perfect camp/outdoor/utility knife.

hootie
09-15-2012, 04:44 AM
Here is a Landi PSK with a home made sheath to replace the kydex neck sheath it came with.

http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q506/hootie11bravo/0619121848.jpg

gusstrand
01-15-2013, 09:20 PM
Never could carry that Fallkniven because of the special engraving and meaning... It was special to a group more than to me, so I sold it.

This replaced it, and gets used:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v33/piscator/sharp/ESEE4.jpg

terry
07-06-2013, 03:51 PM
Fiddleback forge "Recluse" with a Rick Lowe sheath

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q52/terry13111/P6280544_zpsfa6b8bdb.jpg

adam
07-08-2013, 11:01 PM
That is one sweet knife...

terry
07-10-2013, 07:42 AM
Thanks, it's my main hunting piece.

gusstrand
07-12-2013, 11:28 PM
Fiddleback forge "Recluse" with a Rick Lowe sheath

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q52/terry13111/P6280544_zpsfa6b8bdb.jpg

Very nice tool there!

hootie
04-20-2014, 03:23 AM
3" carbon steel Mora blade I put a handle on.Bolster made from old silver nickel,handle tiger maple stained with potassium permangenate to bring out grain and finished with Danish oil.http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q506/hootie11bravo/20131208_133029_zps0d9bfd8d.jpg (http://s1161.photobucket.com/user/hootie11bravo/media/20131208_133029_zps0d9bfd8d.jpg.html)

hootie
05-05-2014, 11:08 PM
Randall Bird and Trout and a Hardy Angel that was made in England.http://i1161.photobucket.com/albums/q506/hootie11bravo/20140505_155007_zpsoqlq008t.jpg (http://s1161.photobucket.com/user/hootie11bravo/media/20140505_155007_zpsoqlq008t.jpg.html)