Belt knife recommendations

T

theAntihero

Joined
Nov 11, 2011
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Most of my collection is either huge choppers or pocket folders. I do have a camillus kabar I like but that's my entire belt knife collection.

So here's a super vague idea of what I'm looking for:

5 to 7 inch blade

I would probably prefer a stainless steel to a high carbon but feel free to persuade me either way lol

150 bucks is probably as high as I would like to go

As general purpose as possible


So, help me spend my money!
 
If you want stainless how about an Ontario SK5 Blackbird? It's a nice knife, though I'm not a huge fan of the sheath. Of course, it can be had for about $100 and you could use the other $50 on a custom sheath for it.
 
I've had a wonderful time with my ESEE Izula. I've used and abused it and it's still got its factory edge, popping the hairs right off my arm. That's why I like properly heat treated 1095. :) Their knives are however, also available in 440C. With that warranty, you can never go wrong with an ESEE 6.

Another company with a great warranty is Buck, and their 119 Special is a classic knife. I love mine and I use it a lot more than my other medium to large fixed blades just because there's something about it that asks to be used.
If you get it with the leather sheath, you certainly won't regret it, spectacular quality! Well under your budget, too, even with cocobolo handles. I paid $60 CAN for mine. As a matter of fact, the Buck 119 is the knife I'll recommend over any other for your price range. It's proven and stood the test of time.
 
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Most of the Scrapyard knives are close to your price range and lots of sizes to choose from and the handles are extremely comfortable.
 
Not rustproof, but frighteningly sharp. Keep it oiled, waxed or patina'd.
Svord Deluxe GENERAL PURPOSE 6 1/4,
DSC02089.JPG

Length of Blade (inches) 6 1/4"
Over All Length (inches) 11"
Blade Shape General Purpose
Handle Material Mahogony and Brass
Steel Specifications 15N20
Blade Thickness (mm) 2.2mm
Sheath Leather
http://www.svord.com/index.php?id_product=9&controller=product
 
H&K Feint. It's a little bigger then your asking, but the price is right for a large stainless blade (440c)

It's not overbuilt thick, but still stout enough for versatility in most tasks.
 
In your price and blade length and I would buy an ESEE 6 from The Knife Connection.

1) Buy the ESEE 6 "blade only" ($66.00) 3/16" 1095, 5 3/4" cutting edge
2) Buy The Knife Connection custom ESEE 6 scales ($49.00) Total cost for blade/handle $115.00
3) You still have cash in budget limit for ESEE sheath set up depending on how elaborate you want to go. The basic blade sheath is $19.00 but has no carry attachments. You might exceed the budget by just a few dollars for a molle back or belt loop attachment.

I personally don't think there are too many other production knives out there in this price range with this quality and handles this comfortable. The warranty is outstanding.
 
Becker bk12.

Its very similar to the esee 6 in specs, but without the choil, and with the Becker handle design (which imo is great). Its also manufactured by rowen (same people that make esee), and therefore has the same warranty.

Also, maybe its just me, but when I think belt knife, I think something a bit smaller, like 3-5in in blade length.

Like the esee 3, Becker bk 16, svörd economy hunter,etc.
 
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KABar becker bk15 (discontinued) is another fine versatile option if you can still find one... They were going at great sale prices.
 
+1 Becker BK-15. They're still out there. Second to that, the BK-17. That will give you money left over for a new sheath or a casual dinner.

But if you want real class, go with a custom puukko from our very own knifemaker, Danijel Haramina, known here as Malanika. I am anxiously awaiting my second order from him (the first was a gift to a dear friend so I don't get to see it much). If you search "puukko" and "malanika" on BFC, you'll find quite a few great posts of knives he's sold. Prices range from $140 to $175, shipped, and the knives are outstanding. Durable, handmade, beautiful, and sharp. You won't find stainless, but if you know how to take care of a knife even a little, you'll never have a problem. You will have to wait a bit for him to have something ready to sell here, and you may have to be ready to jump on it quickly as they sell fast, but I suspect if you contact him directly with your specific needs, he will have one ready for you in a short time. Considering you want a minimum of 5', you may have to contact him directly, anyway.

Let us know what you end up with!

Zieg
 
Thanks for all the recommendations so far. I love high carbon for choppers so I'm not totally against it. I was thinking it would be nice for it to be stainless but if it's a spectacular knife deal I'll do high carbon.

I actually have a local leather guy that will make me any sheath I want so sheath isn't a huge concern either
 
Condor Crotalus. Inexpensive but a heavy duty knife with a decent sheath for the price. I have one and really like it. Check out the you tube reviews it is a nice sized blade.

 
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Bravo-1 in A-2 tool steel is an excellent option, and it's in the ballpark on price (~$170 in micarta handles new). I have several, and they're my favorite all-around, multi-purpose, one-tool option.








Comes with a great sheath, too, and matching firesteels are available to complete the set (obviously).

 
Check out Entrek knives. they are very nice for the money. Sheaths are a little weak in my opinion but great knives.
 
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