Anyone have a Blackjack Model 1- 7 ?

I have three of the M-125's, all in Micarta (both linen and canvas varieties), and I have never had any problems. I have heavily used the ivory one, and the shiny finish on the micarta has completely worn down, but I still think it looks great!



 
The BJ 1-7 (and the Randall it's based on) is probably my favorite fixed blade. I have gone through a few in micarta, stag, and leather. I ended up selling the micarta because the leather stands up fine for my needs, and I kept the stag because it is just pure excellence :D I am always on the hunt for a sub-hilt model 1-7.

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In this photo you can see the difference in swedge length between the BRKT models (center) and the older Effinghams (top and bottom).
 
I want another 125; I hate you guys. Have the Trail Guide (Effingham, IL) and it is a really nice size.
 
I personally like the Sabre grip, but that is personal preference. I have both in the bark river model blackjacks.
 
Trying to decide between Handles Sabre or standard. Micarta or stacked leather leaning towards Micarta because of the weather resistance. Any pics or experiences with this model would be appreciated.

I can't say anything for the standard handle, however I had a Blackjack 1-5 (same handle, just shorter blade) with a Sabre handle and did not like the way it felt. The best way to describe it is that it "flares out". Skinny towards the guard, getting wider towards the butt.

Currently I have a Model 1-7 with a stacked leather handle. It has a "Commando" handle instead of the saber or standard. This is a very comfortable handle that has a nice palm swell right in the middle.

Regarding stacked leather vs. micarta, it comes down to the way it feels. The micarta will be more durable, however on this knife it has a very smooth texture. I prefer the stacked leather. It has better grip and more of a "warm" feeling to it. The leather is waxed, so water damage shouldn't be an issue. If using it regularly, just be sure to apply a bee's wax treatment every now and then.
 
I have had a Blackjack 1-7 Effingham stacked leather for about 25 yrs. It looks like warmed over death now. It has traveled to Kodiak Ak with me on several adventures and is like an old friend. I did remove the leather stacks on the handle one day in AK and came back that afternoon to find some critter took 6 of the disks. Now its half para-cord and half leather. Enjoy your knife:)
 
I can't say anything for the standard handle, however I had a Blackjack 1-5 (same handle, just shorter blade) with a Sabre handle and did not like the way it felt. The best way to describe it is that it "flares out". Skinny towards the guard, getting wider towards the butt.

In case it helps anyone with their decision making, I have a pair of Model 5s and a 1-7, all sabre grip, and both of the model 5s handles are significantly thicker than the 1-7.

These, being more hand made than not, are probably knives that should be held before being purchased.

I do get complimented every time I wear one of the Model 5s, even just "black micarta" looks beautiful when done right.
 
I've got a BJ 1-7 with a leather stacked handle, and honestly couldn't imagine having any other kind. The 125 I had with micarta was just too slick to get a purchase on when you really need it. The knife was great, but the handle...not so much. Still looking for a 125 in leather if any of you fine folks happen to know where I could find one.

Thanks guys, I got my leather 125, and it's as awesome as the 1-7 is. You gotta love these knives...ya just gotta!!
 
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I love the stacked leather. Micarta for this kind of knife seems too hard in the hand to me. And I love the way it looks. A little Neatsfoot oil on it (and the sheath) keeps it happy.

 
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Still looking for a 125 in leather if any of you fine folks happen to know where I could find one.

DLT Trading has a bunch of very nice looking 125s in stock with handles made from stacked leather, stacked wood sections, and big wood or stag chunks with spacers. They really look great, and if I remember correctly are a special run that doesn't happen very often.

I like the 125 because the nut at the end of the handle is up inside of the handle and not sticking out the bottom...
 
I also have the 1-7 and like it a lot. It has the leather handle, which feels organic and nice. Balance is excellent, it feels like a fighter which it in truth is.
 
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