- Joined
- May 14, 2012
- Messages
- 701
Thanks again!
So, a couple thoughts in conclusion:
During my experiment I chopped, batoned, stabbed, and pried with the R7. I pried knots out of frozen mesquite, with zero point damage. Zero edge damage period, while we are at it, while consistently biting 1/4" - 3/4" deep into the hardwood. I beat the snot out of the blade and handle with a baton, the g10 is just as pretty as day one and solid as a rock. I even batoned the knife well into a log, perpendicular to its length, leg locked the log and tried to bend to knife. Remember, the knife is well below freezing temps. Well, it was a humbling experience......I think I got it to flex....maybe just a little bit. I'm 35yrs old, 6'1" tall, and 225lbs. I'm not an athlete by any means, but I'm in decent shape. What I mean to say is that in a bush environment (trees, vines, grass) I believe it to be nearly impossible to put enough leverage on this knife to break it........even if you are trying. I can't speak to an urban environment(metal, concrete) for certain, but it is my "educated guess" that without employing some tools like a vice and a cheater bar, this knife is indestructible using only human strength.
Upon returning to the shop, I have started the process of reprofiling the knife. To my knowledge, there is not a difference in the steel, heat treat, etc. but this particular knife took to the reprofiling much easier than most. I think it is likely that David and I use similar strokes. Regardless, the knife reprofiled beautifully. I do all of my sharpening by hand, no machines. Stock removal happens with 150 aluminum oxide paper. For setting the edge, I use a mouse pad and wet / dry paper(500 -1200). All finishing, sharpening, and touching up happens on strops with diamond compound(40 - .25 micron).
I am only to 500 grit at the moment, but the edge is already impressive. I will probably beat on it a couple more times before I completely polish the edge. Will post a pic in a couple days.
This knife has passed my tests with flying colors, and now has a place in one of my bags. Ladies and Gentleman, if you haven't personally tested the limits of the knives in your gear bags, I highly recommend it!!! Your life may depend on it, and it's a lot of fun too!!
Hit up the Custom Shop - you won't be disappointed!
Thanks for letting me share my weekend with y'all. Have a great day!
So, a couple thoughts in conclusion:
During my experiment I chopped, batoned, stabbed, and pried with the R7. I pried knots out of frozen mesquite, with zero point damage. Zero edge damage period, while we are at it, while consistently biting 1/4" - 3/4" deep into the hardwood. I beat the snot out of the blade and handle with a baton, the g10 is just as pretty as day one and solid as a rock. I even batoned the knife well into a log, perpendicular to its length, leg locked the log and tried to bend to knife. Remember, the knife is well below freezing temps. Well, it was a humbling experience......I think I got it to flex....maybe just a little bit. I'm 35yrs old, 6'1" tall, and 225lbs. I'm not an athlete by any means, but I'm in decent shape. What I mean to say is that in a bush environment (trees, vines, grass) I believe it to be nearly impossible to put enough leverage on this knife to break it........even if you are trying. I can't speak to an urban environment(metal, concrete) for certain, but it is my "educated guess" that without employing some tools like a vice and a cheater bar, this knife is indestructible using only human strength.
Upon returning to the shop, I have started the process of reprofiling the knife. To my knowledge, there is not a difference in the steel, heat treat, etc. but this particular knife took to the reprofiling much easier than most. I think it is likely that David and I use similar strokes. Regardless, the knife reprofiled beautifully. I do all of my sharpening by hand, no machines. Stock removal happens with 150 aluminum oxide paper. For setting the edge, I use a mouse pad and wet / dry paper(500 -1200). All finishing, sharpening, and touching up happens on strops with diamond compound(40 - .25 micron).
I am only to 500 grit at the moment, but the edge is already impressive. I will probably beat on it a couple more times before I completely polish the edge. Will post a pic in a couple days.
This knife has passed my tests with flying colors, and now has a place in one of my bags. Ladies and Gentleman, if you haven't personally tested the limits of the knives in your gear bags, I highly recommend it!!! Your life may depend on it, and it's a lot of fun too!!
Hit up the Custom Shop - you won't be disappointed!
Thanks for letting me share my weekend with y'all. Have a great day!
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