Southern California Club Xterra

Southern California Club Xterra => SCCX General Discussion => Topic started by: RBduffer on July 20, 2016, 11:28:20 AM

Title: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: RBduffer on July 20, 2016, 11:28:20 AM: Hey guys, I looking for a good straight blade "Survival" knife. I've been googling? for hours and hears what I know.

I want 5" fixed bladed carbon steel (1050 or so) drop point, with full tang etc. I want durability over razor sharpness. Not sure about serrations or hilt and grip style. I think I would like a thick flat back blade for heavy work. I am looking at the 'Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife' right now. My biggest concern is that almost every 'review' thread leads back to Amazon, so I,m not sure I'm getting to look at everything. I only trust the boys (and girls) of the SCCX ;)

What do you carry? Why? And what have you seen that you would you recommend for best value under $200 with sheath and sharpener?

Thanks, and let the opinions begin
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: knightrider on July 20, 2016, 11:44:59 AM: Now I don't own this knife personally but its on my list of things to buy. SirJohnOfFullerton has this knife and he seems pretty happy with it, I've seen it first hand and it's pretty nice for the price.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=131LAOIPAZ5OC&coliid=IMRNYIIRBWWUL
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: JeffBett on July 20, 2016, 11:47:33 AM: I carry a folding knife clipped in my front pocket.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: Ghost65 on July 20, 2016, 11:51:43 AM: Anything Benchmade Randy.

Sent from Cygnus-X1
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: CVXTERRA on July 20, 2016, 11:56:51 AM: For EDC I typically carry spyderco or ZT that are s30v or s35. good edge retention and durable steel. When it comes to camp knives I have had some pretty good luck with condor. These are inexpensive for the quality you get and have pretty solid reviews. They also come with some pretty nice leather sheaths. As for serrations I say no. If you keep you knife sharp and taken care of you don't need them and they take away from the cutting edge. If you really want to spend the money, bench made has some good fixed blade camp knifes and can never go wrong with the Ka-bar.

also for the money and ease of use the spyderco sharp maker (sharpener) is, in my opinion, one of the best investments you can make to go along with a quality blade.(https://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-Tri-Angle-Sharpmaker-Sharpener-204MF/dp/B000Q9C4AE/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1469040929&sr=1-1&keywords=spyderco+sharpmaker)

some other alternatives I have had my eyes on
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CC6BPM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2K6TLQWS0YRM6&coliid=I1TLVVFCG1MU1A

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003D9RBPW/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2K6TLQWS0YRM6&coliid=IMXLJAC8YS6PR

https://www.amazon.com/Ontario-8627-RAT-5-Knife-Brown/dp/B000R30XAC/ref=sr_1_12?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1469040866&sr=1-12&keywords=ontario+rat

https://www.amazon.com/ESEE-Minus-Plain-Knife-Sheath/dp/B0049U1WN6/ref=sr_1_5?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1469040772&sr=1-5&keywords=esee+6
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: Celt on July 20, 2016, 12:23:34 PM: Quote from: knightrider on July 20, 2016, 11:44:59 AM
Now I don't own this knife personally but its on my list of things to buy. SirJohnOfFullerton has this knife and he seems pretty happy with it, I've seen it first hand and it's pretty nice for the price.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=131LAOIPAZ5OC&coliid=IMRNYIIRBWWUL

Those Mora's are really nice knives. They are basically a fillet Puukko style Finish knife which hold a fantastic edge and are dureable. The downside to them is they are not full tang and are flexible so for things like batoning they don't hold up as well as others. I have one on my backpack I haul around off roading and really like it but it does have it's limitations. For the prices they can't be beat and they function well in a few different roles.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: Celt on July 20, 2016, 12:37:13 PM: The ESEE that CVXTERRA posted a link to is a really nice knife and will surely hold up. As Ghost65 said, Benchmade is another industry standard. Cold Steel makes some decent knives that are also priced reasonable but in my opinion aren't as high of quality as a Benchmade. I have had some fantastic luck with Columbia River (CRKT) folding knives as well as Buck. I have a few hand forged customs as well Duffman if you would like to take a look at those and see some of the differences. In my opinion, stick with something fixed blade, full tang and high carbon steel for what you are describing you are after. They are easier to keep sharp, hold a fantastic edge and will easily throw spark if needed in a pinch to help get a fire going. From what you are describing this: http://www.buckknives.com/product/tops-buck-nighthawk-knife/0650BKSTP-B/ might be a decent start point for you to do your research. I have always liked Buck knives and still have two of them from my childhood. They have a forever warranty and are still made here at home in Idaho after they closed their plant years ago in El Cajon when the gubment started putting the squeeze to businesses.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: PainRoller on July 20, 2016, 12:44:42 PM: I have so many knives, it's hard to choose........ but if this is primarily for camping purposes.....

1. Shouldn't this thread be under Camping? ;)

2. We have 3 Mora's (bought as bundle on Amazon). 1 sits in Pepe at all times. But I'm actually not that fond of this knife. Plastic handle + plastic sheath leaves me unimpressed. Yeah, it's great for camping, dirt, etc. but I'm old school.

3. I prefer a knife with a good grip and a leather sheath ;) so I carry a vintage Western - This is basically what I carry if hiking, camping, etc. It has extra personal attachment as it has been handed down.... and holds a killer sharp edge....
Western Vintage Knife (http://www.ebay.com/itm/VINTAGE-WESTERN-USA-HUNTING-KNIFE-SHEATH/321910106421?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20131003132420%26meid%3D3579fef57088418bb5c97a4051bac4ca%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D232002632078)

Duffman - there is even one currently up for bid, if you don't mind giving it a little TLC Bid here (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Western-USA-L-66-3-Knife/201621086716?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20131003132420%26meid%3Df4ba9061df2f42da83f99dd343098dde%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D5%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D321910106421)

4. Been stalking this one on Amazon tho ('cuz you can never have too many knives) ....... it does has a plastic handle, but I like the extras (nylon holster, fire starter with it's own compartment, full tang blade, and "glass breaker") Survival Knife (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QU5O29E/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1S2PRWMNE6QY0&coliid=ITMY90C751CJ9&psc=1)
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: Ghost65 on July 20, 2016, 01:48:16 PM: Quote from: PainRoller on July 20, 2016, 12:44:42 PM
1. Shouldn't this thread be under Camping? ;)

Yes.

Sent from Cygnus-X1
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: ultrapc40 on July 20, 2016, 03:55:46 PM: I need to remind myself to not piss you guys off when we go camping....

I only carry a kewsaw speedsafe pocket knife and a shovel.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: Celt on July 20, 2016, 04:05:40 PM: Quote from: ultrapc40 on July 20, 2016, 03:55:46 PM
I need to remind myself to not piss you guys off when we go camping....

I only carry a kewsaw speedsafe pocket knife and a shovel.

Ohhhh whoa whoa whoa there mister, you "Have a shovel and not afraid to use it" .................... O0 >:D 8) :o

HAHHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHHA, CLASSIC (Don't worry it's an inside joke, I'm sure somebody will chime in!!) :D
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: Toro on July 20, 2016, 07:05:32 PM: Quote from: knightrider on July 20, 2016, 11:44:59 AM
Now I don't own this knife personally but its on my list of things to buy. SirJohnOfFullerton has this knife and he seems pretty happy with it, I've seen it first hand and it's pretty nice for the price.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004TNWD40/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=131LAOIPAZ5OC&coliid=IMRNYIIRBWWUL
X2
On SirJ's recommendation, I too picked one up. I really like it. The plastic sheath took time to get used to but the knife is nice. On a recent 6 day trip, I used it while grilling, eating, whittled with it and carried it everywhere. I sprung for the SS version and I'd recommend against the black blade. It's a coating that went to crap after a little whittling. The blade did keep its edge and remained sharp.
It's an inexpensive experiment and worth a shot. If it works out...you scored.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: Ghost65 on July 20, 2016, 07:09:14 PM: Quote from: Celt on July 20, 2016, 04:05:40 PM
Ohhhh whoa whoa whoa there mister, you "Have a shovel and not afraid to use it" .................... O0 >:D 8) :o

HAHHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHHA, CLASSIC (Don't worry it's an inside joke, I'm sure somebody will chime in!!) :D

It's an FJ thing...you wouldn't understand.

Sent from Cygnus-X1
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: JCX on July 20, 2016, 09:00:00 PM: Look at the Cold Steel SRK

https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Steel-Kraton-Handle-Concealex/dp/B000BSY9AS/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1469073136&sr=8-4&keywords=cold+steel+srk

I have had this knife for many years and am very happy with it.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: Jayrat on July 20, 2016, 11:04:05 PM: My Daily Knife , not fixed
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Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: RBduffer on July 20, 2016, 11:10:15 PM: Wow! Great input from everybody. This helps a ton, and means I still have a bunch of sorting out to do. I put all the Amazon knives in my 'Cart' and will whittle (pun intended) them down tomorrow. Sir John's knife won't do all the things I'm looking for, but for the price, it WILL stay in my cart when I check out.
I have Spyderco, Kershaw and CRKT folding knives for EDC. I like 'em all. I gonna add Benchmade, Esee and condor to my long-knife search and keep you posted. Thanks
PS Jordan, please move this to Camping. Some BOD I am :o
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: FrankB on July 20, 2016, 11:32:11 PM: The 5" version of the Ka-Bar with Kraton handle and Kydex sheath is nice, and it's reasonably priced. I've had one for several years in the emergency bag in the Xterra, but actually have not needed to use it much. It's US made carbon steel, but it is more of a clip-point than a drop-point, so that may rule it out for you.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: Sage Bromax on July 21, 2016, 06:31:50 AM: Daily carry - Urban: Emerson Super Karambit
(http://ep.yimg.com/ay/knifeart/emerson-super-karambit-bt-black-blade-11.jpg)
Daily carry - Camping/off-road: Zero Tolerance Model 0200
(https://images.knifecenter.com/thumb/1500x1500/knifecenter/zerotolerance/images/ZT0200a.jpg)
Camping/UW sheath knife: Emerson Specwar
(http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/1807/sw2up7.jpg)
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: fourxfunk on July 21, 2016, 06:35:35 AM: My everyday knife is an Zero Tolerance 0550 folder. I've got an Esee 4 for when I'm out in the sticks.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: RBduffer on July 21, 2016, 11:40:59 AM: Boy, I really like the look of that zero tolerance folder Tony.

The Benchmade knives I liked were over $200 :'(

I'm leaning toward the Esee , why the 4 instead of the 5 or 6 FXF?

I'll check out the Ka-Bars again. Thanks, I love shopping for fun stuff.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: RBduffer on July 25, 2016, 01:35:09 PM: Well guys. I've been all over hell and gone in my quest for the perfect knife. I fell in love with exotic steels, stainless and laminates. Checked Bass Pro, REI and places in between. Here is a list of potential 2nd knives, in case I'm not happy with my first. (Mo Money :P)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ONWG8VG/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AHBWDTJH32P7L
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BUWWT8M/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A24XKISZSTLJ1P
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001DZM482/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2UD7Z77KCRU5Q
http://www.swampratknifeworks.com/available-now-ratmandu-cg/

I decided to go with good ole 1095 carbon steel in a great design by Esee in the 6" blade.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0049TYBL2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Thanks for all the input gang.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: fourxfunk on July 25, 2016, 02:02:01 PM: Nice choice! Esee is the real deal.
Title: Re: Camping/Survival Knife
Post by: CVXTERRA on July 25, 2016, 09:06:23 PM: great choice! you will be very happy with it!