Chopper handle preferences?

clampdaddy

clampdaddy

Joined
Aug 31, 2013
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Been thinking about which way I want to go for my next blade. I want to get a big INFI chopper but I'd like some opinions on the different handle styles. I really like the looks of the fusion handle way better than the straight handles but I was wondering if maybe there was an advantage to the straight handle in actual use. Any opinions appreciated.
 
Just a couple of things I have personally found. Note everyone is different. On the fusion handles or the ones that are not exactly straight with the line of the blade tend to be more comfortable over the long term. That 15 or 20 degree tilt from the center line really makes a difference when chopping for a long time. It is like with an axe. Before most axe handles were straight with the head of the axe. Now most of the better ones have an angled handle that helps to put more power into a swing as well as add ease of motion while swinging it over time. If you are going to be using a chopper for a short time, then it does not matter. Also canvas tends to be more grippy when wet compared to G10. Although I love G10 they are both just about equally indestructible. G10 is smooth, Paper is silky, and canvas has a slightly roughness to it.
 
You really need to try them out yourself. Everyone is different. For me it's fusion and Res C.
 
For me, the overall shape of the handle is less important than the shape of the cross-section. A handle that is too round takes more energy to keep it from rotating in hand while chopping, especially if the impact is not ideally placed on target.

A handle that is shaped more like () than ( ) is my preference. I'd love to see a non magnum option offered, but I am in the minority on this for whatever reason. Mags do look cool, and I liked them when I first got into Busse, but I've grown to enjoy using taller, more slender grips. Just my opinion though.
 
Basic 11 for the win.

Now. As far as fusion handles, if I'm using a full tang chopper, I'd like it to be my cgfbm. Simply because if the non magnum scales on the fusion handle. That combination fits my hand like a glove each way I've found to hold it.

I'll add some pictures later today for you.

GL with your decision, let us know what you decide.
 
I have always liked the straight handles and ergo's, probably because that is what I had for so many years before the newer stuff came out. However, I think that the resiprene handles are the best feeling handles of all.
 
I think it depends on the blade stock thickness and height combined with the scale thickness.

The .32 ASHBM fits my hand best. .27 NMFBM fits great. .32 NMFSH is too much handle for me; wish the handle scales weren't so thick. Can still chop with it and love the knife despite that but it honestly isn't as comfortable.

Short answer: it depends on a combination of factors. :confused:
 
^^^^ Yes! Handle is good....

Res c is the most comfortable due to the shock absorption. The basic 11 is realllly hard to beat in that regard. Among the mistress line the fusion handle is Great. The mistress line also weighs more than the basic line giving it better chopping ability. The strait handle with the birds beak pommel will just plain work over your pinky finger with much chopping. Google busse pinky. Ouch

.
 
I have thought about res c but for the most part, I don't like the looks of the choppers that wear them.
 
The only chopper that I own is the NMFBM. The handle works great for me, with or without gloves.

That being said..... I'd put my $$$ on res-c as most comfy.....
 
The Basic handle, most comfy...

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I'd have to throw another vote for Res-C, however if you don't like the look then by all means pick the one you like most. Personally, I love Busse knives in huge part due to their ergonomic handles, you cannot really go wrong. Depending on the size of your hand you might like fatter handles, found on some custom shop variants. I actually love the look of res-c because it looks more understated, and begs you to use the knife, since you don't have a reason for making it your safe queen.
 
I think my problem with the res c is that to my eye they make a blade look machete-ish instead of knifey. If that makes sense.
 
Right now all I have is Res-C in larger blades, which are awesome for me. The Fusion handle is the one I most want to try, but I'm holding out for an FBM of some sort and didn't bite on the WTF.

I do have a DT and Parang on order, so I'm looking forward to trying those out. I also suspect the new 2nd gen Ergo handles may really shine on a chopper and doubt I could pass on an Ergo 2 BM.

Not mention the Gemini handles making their debut on a large chopper blade, or the R9 and M9 Rats, etc... I want to try them all, but it will take some time and I may have to skip a few. That, or we need some meet-ups I can get in on.
 
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