Bushcraft or Bushmaster...and don't say BOTH!!!

[I'mGatMan!]

So I have a good 3" blade (with a choil), 4" blade (also with a small choil), 2 5" blades (with big choils) and a 7" blade coming soon (also with a big choil...you should note the theme here. ). All of these have their uses and are awesome blades, however now I'm looking for something without a choil which would make a very good carving/whittling type knife. I had thought I'd found what I needed in the Bushcraft...and then I started noticing the BushMASTER. Now I'm conflicted because I don't think I need another blade in the 5" range, but I feel like I'll be taking shorts (pun intended) if I go with a 3"er. I won't be needing the blade for any chopping, as chances are I'd have the 7" with me anytime I was out, but what are your thoughts?

If I already have a great little 3"er, do I even NEED a Bushcraft? Again, this would be mostly for more delicate work. Thanks in advance.

Jason

 

[Tohatchi NM]

Just for clarification, the Bushcraft has a 4-inch cutting edge. I think the scandi edge carves really well, for a non-dedicated carving knife. The handle is pretty comfortable, though I have big hands. Someone with smaller hands might prefer a smaller handle for carving work (particularly paring-type cuts where you want to control the work with your thumb). The thick spine is comfortable to press into, though the thumb grooves can poke. The Bushmaster hasn't gotten to me yet, but I don't think it will be as useful for carving. The bushcraft is OK for simple carving, and can be pressed into somewhat intricate work if needed. However, I think the blade is a bit too thick for dedicated carving.

If you want a dedicated whittler from Dan, I'd get a pikal paring knife with a thin blade. If it doesn't have to be from Dan, there are plenty of Moras and similar Scandanavian blades which would be excellent.

 

[carrot]

After a bit of experimentation I have found that a 4" blade is about my maximum for anything being used to whittle wood. Anything larger just gets unwieldy. The Bushcraft is perfect, btw.