Welcome to the Cantina Phil, you're going to love the knives and the people you'll encounter here.
How shall I describe the Bilton? Hmmmm, great little knife, incredible bargain, actually one of the best bargains in the knife world today considering you're getting a hand forged, zone hardened, "custom made", knife for a measly thirty five bucks (which includes shipping!). Heck, I had to buy four of 'em just to keep one, the first three went to good friends in my squadron and they just love 'em.
Worried about how they'll hold up? Don't, they're tough little knives, that with proper care and maintenance should easily last a lifetime. I field tested one in Kuwait under fairly harsh conditions, and I mean tested it good. It did everything from cutting food, string, rope, tape, cardboard etc., to giving myself a "Kung Fu" haircut, and I even used it once with a baton to split some two-by-fours. All, with absolutely no damage to the knife, and truthfully no appreciable dulling of the edge.
Do I recommend it as a light belt/utility knife for hiking/camping? Without reservation. Still, to be totally objective, I do have one criticism of the Bilton concerning it's scabbard. The scabbard itself is a classic khukuri scabbard and very well made, but the frog (belt hanger) is more decorative than functional. You'll need to make a stronger frog, or, if you lack leatherworking skills just send it to Terry Sisco at the Sarki Shop and he'll hook it up proper. Want to fix it "on the cheap" so you can throw it on your belt immediately? Just cut a strip of duct tape and give the frog/belt loop attachment a quick wrap (you'll see what I mean when you look it over).
Here's some others for you to consider taking camping;
- JKM-1: A very basic design, but a very stoutly built and useful belt/utility knife, also of a size legal for casual carry on the belt in Texas
-Kumar Karda: About the size and shape of a good butcher knife, this one would make a good all around camp/kitchen/field knife if you're into more conventionally styled knives. Legal to carry on you in Texas only when actually engaged in legitimate outdoor activities.
-Small Khukuri: In the roughly twelve inch range you've got a selection that includes the Bura New Model, Sirupati, Ang Khola, and Pen Knife. All are excellent small khukuris, but for camp chores I'd give a definite edge to the AK and Pen Knife. Again, these are perfectly legal to carry/use in Texas when you're out in the woods camping, etc., just don't be sporting one on your belt when you're walking the dog around the neighborhood or some folks might not understand.
Good luck, have fun, and enjoy your First purchase of a hand forged Nepali knife, it won't be your last.
Sarge
Thank you for your time and patience.
. Thanks again!
. The HI khuks were beautiful, it was almost like love at first sight
