Another - I need help picking a knife thread - this one is slightly different!

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Jan 11, 1999
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Thanks for reading! I am looking for a knife to "compliment" my set up. (Puton the flame suit for this one, huh?)

I have an open area in my set up and need your input. Here is what I currently have and then I wil describe (vaguely) what I would LIKE.

Small Sebbie
E1 (gray)
Springfield Armory XD sub 9mm (custom gray and black finish)
E2e (ha)
Fisher Bullet telescoping pen (silver/gray)
Leatherman WAVE
Leatherman Squirt S2 (gray)

I have other items obviously, but what I am needing is a fixed blade that "matches" my current set up. Does this make sense? The fixed blade might ride in a Maxpedition FatBoy or be used in an outdoor setting, or need to be used in SD if required. This will be the ultimate all purpose blade: survival, camping, self-defense...tought one, huh?

Let me tell you things that I have looked at and/or had before and then why I do or don't like them. I like the "unusual" aspect of knives. I like NICE things and things that are "not off the rack" so-to-speak. I know that some production knives are not CUSTOM, but there are some alittle more unusual than others. I had a Hideaway Knife for awhile, but it was WAY too over the top for my style. Being a pharmaceutical rep, there is an EDC image that I need to have during the day. Also, my style does not allow for the hidden "non-sheeple friendly" black curved blade. I am a father of 2 and a husband of one, so kids and wife will ask questions - want to be prepared, but not appear paranoid.

I have looked at the Busse series of knives (smaller ones) for the fixed blade option. I really like the small CRK Green Beret. I looked at the Zambezi.

I have a few "requirements:"
$250 or less
Gray or black or silver finishes
Fixed blade with sheath (kydex or cordura preferred)

OK - have fun with this one and ask me any clarifying questions if you need. Thanks for you input and I look forward to what you folks suggest.

David
 
What size of blade/OAL are you looking for? As an outdoor/wilderness survival knife, I prefer nothing shorter than 6"... since you don't have a hatchet or axe, I would recommend a blade of at least 6". As per specific knives... have you looked at Swamp Rat? I have heard nothing but good about them and, when it comes to survival equipment, I believe that form definitely follows function. In fact, form is waaaayy ahead :D . Have you looked at Fehrman knives? They also have a great rep and look to be great user knives. What else can I think of... I know they are rather run-of-the-mill, but I have had great experiences and success with Cold Steel fixed blades, the Bushman and the SRK, to be exact. From my POV, the only major drawback to the SRK is its Kraton handle; I would prefer a tough Micarta handle. But, all things considered, it's a great survival knife.

So, there are some general recommendations. If you give more specific desires, particularly regarding your preferred size and materials (carbon vs stainless steel, natural vs mandmade handle, etc) I am sure we can give you more suggestions than you can shake a credit card at :D :cool:

edited to add: are you looking to carry the knife EDC? If so, then carrying it in your bag (as you mentioned) should allow for you to carry a larger knife comfortably and unobtrusively. How long is your Maxpedition bag?
 
CRK Sable III. Not a regular production item, but they put out a few from time to time, and they do show up on the aftermarket. This is the 4" blade.

The sheath is leather of course but even getting kydex later you'll stay under $250.
 
I agree with esav that a chris reeve is probably the way to go. Good knife, great value and most importantly grey.
 
Although it's priced just a hair out of your range, I would go for the 5.5" Green Beret. You like it, so go for it.
 
Perhaps the Swamp Rat Howling Rat, or the soon-to-be-released Satin Rat? The Satin is a little more "unusual" than the Howler, and roughly the same size as the small Green Beret.

If you want a neat little (VERY little) fixed blade, check out the Benchmade Activator (model 210). I finally got a chance to see one in person just a few days ago, and it's now on my list for "next knife to buy".

For your $250, you could get both the Activator and either of the Swamp Rats! :D
 
I think you are looking for a Buck Strider Solution. It has a Very cool lines, a matte gray finish, ATS-34 with Paul Bos heat treat, a kydex lined, cordura sheath with a great pocket for either your Wave or Squirt, great fit & finish, 5" blade. It's not exactly a sheeple friendly knife but then again, what modern looking knife of this size is?
 
Here are some more thoughts and things that I have been looking at:

Camillus CQB 2 or 4 (the 4 is their "black ops" - not sure what that is)
BM Activator
BM Fixed Resistor
Timberline Aviator (or SPECWar - If one could be found)

I like all of these b/c they are the right (aprx) size and they also would "look good" and obviously all would be quality knives...thoughts ot do these make you think of anything else? I am open to suggestions.

I like the idea of maybe a "smaller" blade maybe 3-4-ish inches. That would mean that I could put it in the FatBoy and forget about it.

Someone asked if this would be EDC - yes - but not on my person, just in the bag.

Thanks folks! Keep 'em coming.

David
 
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