All-Around Camp Knife

M

Mikul

Joined
Feb 24, 2000
Messages
73
I'm looking for something to carry around the property as a utility knife to cut rope, twigs and small branches. So it'll do some light chopping and needs to have some heft foreward. Something that might function for makeshift defense when the .44 isn't riding along. I'd like something no more than 13" overall because I'd really like to put it in a horizontal sheath accross the back (I have knives that slap my thigh when I walk.

I'd like to keep this under $100, but if you can convince me, I'll push it up a bit.

Ones that I have seen and like are the Becker BK7
bk7.jpg


and the Effingham Blackjack Model 7 which appears too long.
M5_MICARTA_LARGE.jpg


The Swamp Rat knives either look too long, or too light in the blade.

Sheath recommendations are also appreciated.
 
The swamp rat "camp tramp" is the knife for you if you'll go $130. The blade is the same length as the bk7 and has ALOT of heft. Whoever told you it was "light" in the blade has never held one. Seriously .. an awsome camp companion. Do a search on this knife and read what others say - you'll hear nothing but praise. You can also go to the swamprats forum for pics and info. I LOVE mine - great for slicing or chopping.
 
The CT is the heavier blade, but make no mistake the BK7 is a whole lot of knife.

Close to perfect (once you have the removable scales bead blasted).
The BK7 is a true fusion of strength, utility and affordability.

The CS Bush Ranger -carbon, is a very slightly lighter duty version of the BK7. Also very close to perfect. It only weighs 8 ounces. This makes a difference the longer you're carrying it. The handle is excellent. It would be my first choice. The stainless version is even lighter duty still, very finely ground edge and tip. A beautiful - quality knife from Japan.

Oh yea, the Blackjack is gorgeous and would be a fine choice.
 
I've got a stainless CS Bushranger with a custom kydex sheath. Very light knife for it's size and a good chopper because of it's light handle and blade forward balance. Loses it's edge rather easily and is a touch hard to sharpen after it has. The Carbon V version of this would not have such problems I'm sure. I've got a Carbon V SRK and that is the most evil sharp knife I own and it stays that way.

I switched to a BK7 after a year or so because I like carbon steel better. I also wanted to get away from rubber handles, not because the rubber on the bushranger was wearing out - just for aethsetic reasons. The BK7 was heavier (obviusly) but a bit more bombproof and held the edge better.

The becker has served me well and can't imagine it wearing out or breaking in this lifetime. I'm sure it's new owner is enjoying it although I sincerely hope the mongrel slips with it and loses a finger.

The BK7 was stolen from my car a few weeks back and on an impulse I decided to try out the Ontario RAT7 as my new bush camping blade. Acoording to the website it is a touch heavier than the Bk7 so I'll have to get used to that, but otherwise it looks to fit the bill for me.

If weight and all-day carry an an issue I would give the CS some consideration. The kraton (rubber) handle on mine has been durable and I haven't noticed any twisting or sponginess in hot weather like some have experienced
 
Shoot, I use the Ka-Bar Marine fighting knife for camping. It is a good chopper, and stays sharp after alot of use. The best part is the price. You cant beat $40.00 for a work horse. When you camp things come up like flipping burgers, clearing ashes, cutting roap, and dropping your knife on a rock or two. I cant stand nicking a great blade. If I hurt the Ka-Bar I don't loose sleep. Hey thats just my .02 If you need a reason to spend $100.00 on a good knife, camping is one of the best excuses. Have fun!

Chris
 
Hey Mikul,

How did you attach those photos? I've tried but cannot make it work.

Thanks,
Collecter
 
I agree with never2many. I also favor the USMC marine combat knife for camping for exactly the same reasons.

I prefer to spend more money on my fixed blade hunting knives and folders which I take very good care of.

We all have our favorites!

Cheers,
Collecter
 
You might look around for a Becker BK-5 Magnum Camp. Discontinued about a year ago, but if anyone can direct you to one it's the good folks around here.

Same handle as all the Beckers, upswept blade, pronounced finger choil, thinner blade stock than the BK-7 IIRC, but still a solid hunk of knife.
 
Actually, I think your needs may be better served by a 12" khukuri if you haven't considered one yet. They have a great forward balance, chop well and will take an excellent utility edge for other chores. They can be had for well below $100 from Himalayan Imports. The only possible problem you may have is the sheath, and that can be easily remedied with a rig from the Sarki shop (Terry Sisco). Just something to consider if you hadn't thought of them already.
 
You should be able to get a BK7 for around $50, not that much more than a Kabar-style knife. But it will be heavier. I think the Blackjack's blade is 7", like the Kabar & Becker, but the blade on the BK7 is heavier than the other two. So it comes down to price, bulk, and weight. If you really need to chop, the BK7 is probably better, but if serious chopping is in order than a khukri is better still.
 
Getcha a Becker BK7. I love mine! Easy to sharpen, and trust me, I am not very good at sharpening most knives, but I do good on this one for some odd reason. Also, you can stuff all kinds of useful stuff in the sheath's pouch.
 
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