Black 3/4 Kabar?

[Aeneas]

I noticed a thread a while back which asked something like, if you could have only 3 knives for camping, what would they be? Most everyone responded with 1 SAK or multitool, 1 folder and 1 fixed blade. Well, I am thinking the same way. I got a Leatherman Wave and a Buck 110 for Christmas, and now I am thinking about adding the fixed blade.

After some research, both on the 'net and in person, I am thinking about the black Ka-bar 3/4 model, with the 5 1/4" blade and Kraton handle. I tried the full-size Ka-bar and it just seemed like a huge knife. I don't clear brush or build campsites or anything like that, so the 3/4 seems more practical.

A few questions about the black Ka-bar 3/4 model:

1) Does anyone have this knife? Do you recommend it? Anything particular that you like or don't like about it?

2) If I get the knife, should I get the leather sheath or pay c. $10 more for the Kydex sheath?

3) Any other knives that you would suggest instead of this one? (Please remember that this knife is $40-50 and I would basically consider it a beater.)

TIA

 

[bensano]

Alternatives worth considering.

Becker Utility/Combat about $49
Becker Campanion about $63
Greco Companion at Bladeart for about $50.

all good knives.

Ben

 

[W.T. Beck]

I have the 3/4 Kabar and the Greco Companion, and I think the Greco is a better value. For one thing, it is much more stoutly constructed than the Kabar, and it is made from better A2 steel.

I am not sure I think the overall size reduction of the Kabar was a good idea. In particular, I don't like the reduced size of the guard, although the Greco doesn't have one that is any better.

Another two pluses in favor of the Greco - a full tang handle and micarta scales.

One plus for the Kabar - a kydex sheath that can be worn on the left or right side.

 

[W.T. Beck]

One more thing, Aeneas. What part of California do camp in? If it is the northwest, you might want the bigger Kabar, in case you run into a Bigfoot !