Canoe Knife: Spyderco Caspian or Aqua Salt

R

razcob

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Feb 4, 2002
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I have been looking for a fixed blade knife for fresh water river canoeing. There is no whitewater, but the current is moderate. I would like to carry it in a sheath and attach it to a lash tab on my life jacket. The uses that come to mind are general cutting and filleting fish. I like the Caspian, Aqua Salt, and the Benchmade 100SH20. Benchmade has stopped using H1 on this knife?!

I do have a few concerns about my selection and would like your recommendation:

1. Serrated, partially serrated, straight edge? I am leaning toward full serration, because it seems to make quick work of rope and would fillet a fish good enough.
2. Balance between security of knife during capsize and access when needed. I thought of attaching an arm length lanyard (paracord)to knife, but this may tangle or get in the way. I was going to attach it upside down, vertically on the front of my life jacket, although it has a lash tab on the back, upper side (near shoulder blade). Will it attach to the lash tab, or may I need some type of attachment?
3. The river is clear, but a yellow handle would help recover a dropped knife.
I've read the Caspian has a thumb hole that improves the security of the grip?

Any other considerations, I haven't mentioned.

Picture of square lash tab:

erez
 
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benchmade no longer uses the h1 on thier knives. i have no experience with their new steel.

seems you cant go wrong with a spyderco salt or jumpmaster. i would also think full serrations would be in order for a boat knife. ive been itching to get a fixed salt, but haven't spent much time on the water lately.
 
There is another h1 spyderco that allows you to loop your fingers through the handle. That might be a better kayaking type knife
 
The Caspian is a specialized dive knive, and may not work as well for general cutting, and filetting fish. I think a yellow SE Aqua Salt would be your best choice.
 
Here's a picture of the Aqua Salt sheath attachment. It looks like you might be able to clip it to the lash tab. I carry it upside down vertically on my left backpack strap when I'm in the outdoors and carrying an axe, machete or large knife on my belt. It's worked well for me carried like this. I'd probably want a pinch more sheath retention if I were using it for more vigorous water activities, but for what you describe it should work well.

img3531uh5.jpg
 
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