Advantages/Disadvantages of a guard on a bush knife

[myright]

I'm interested in hearing opinions on the functionality of a guard on a bushcraft knife, specifically how it helps or hinders during bushcraft work.

I see a lot of pics of knives in the field and don't see very many with guards. Is there a reason why? Personal taste, etc?

Thanks!

 

[fujita yuji]

+ can hold knife more closely to the blade
+ allows more various way to hold handle

These are two main reason I prefer handles without guards.
Just my personal opinion.

 

[CKE2]

Big guards hinder a lot of options while holding the knife. I am a fan of small guards or well contoured handles that prevent the hand from slipping up onto the blade. Not such a problem with "bushcraft" type chores but when using it to clean game, a bit of a guard is nice.

 

[myright]

Big guards hinder a lot of options while holding the knife. I am a fan of small guards or well contoured handles that prevent the hand from slipping up onto the blade. Not such a problem with "bushcraft" type chores but when using it to clean game, a bit of a guard is nice.

That was one of the things I thought of as a good reason to have one. I don't clean game so I don't know for sure. Really, I just like the way it looks.

 

[Big Mike]

True bushcraft designs don’t have a guard for a reason, and offer the utmost flexibility for using the knife in a wide variety of holds and cutting styles.

The classic double quillian guard seen on many Bowie and tactical style knives is definitely a hindrance when it comes to bushcraft chores.

I think we all understand the advantages of being able to apply pressure to the spine of the knife, something that a upper quillian makes problematic.

I have no problem with a small bottom guard, or better yet an integral guard built into the handle.





"If you're not living on the edge, …you're taking up too much space."

Big Mike

Forest & Stream

 

[kgd]

True bushcraft designs don’t have a guard for a reason, and offer the utmost flexibility for using the knife in a wide variety of holds and cutting styles.

The classic double quillian guard seen on many Bowie and tactical style knives is definitely a hindrance when it comes to bushcraft chores.

I think we all understand the advantages of being able to apply pressure to the spine of the knife, something that a upper quillian makes problematic.

I have no problem with a small bottom guard, or better yet an integral guard built into the handle.

I 100% agree with Big Mike's statements here! Push cutting, using your thumbs on the spine immediately above the area of the cut into wood is one of my most frequent types of cuts for notching. Used in trap building, making pot holders and tent stakes. All pretty common knife tasks for camp chores.

 

[stingray4540]

In my eyes, they serve no purpose other than getting in the way. Although, a small built in guard due to handle contouring, or a blade that is wider than the handle is acceptable.

I have never come across a situation were I felt a guard would be good, nor can I think of any, even when cleaning game.

The only reason to have a guard, is if I'm planning on stabbing someone, and even then, I can safely stab without a guard by placing the butt of the knife in your palm. There is no camp, bushcraft, hunting, or fishing task that I can think of that a guard wouldn't be a hindrance to me.

Of course, a lot of this is personal preference, and some people's minds won't allow them to feel comfortable without a guard, so play with both and make up your own mind, but it would help to know how to properly handle a knife before counting out a guardless version.