Durable, Fixed Blade For Camping?

I take two FBs for camping (though I don't carry both at the same time). I carry a STIFF KISS CRKT for small stuff (it's very, very affordable) and an HI khukuri for chopping. I don't bring an axe anymore, I just use my khukuri.

If you can afford it, a SWICK is undoubtedly better than the STIFF KISS, although I got mine in the *mall* for 15 dollars, so it's pretty hard to beat a price like that. I'd also really like to try a SPOT, and although I'm learning to love the blade shape, I really like tantos for this kind of stuff.
 
Bark River has a nice selection of fixed-blade knives in the 3.5-5" range, most of A-2 tool steel with convexed edges, but some in SS. All are stoutly built and suitable for backpacking, which is certainly true of the Fallkniven F-1 (also convex) in laminated SS.
 
Scandinavian leukko- will chop and slice real nice for the primary camping or field knife- heavy enough for splitting wood but delicate enough for food prep.
The traditional look and different handle options make this type of knife very classy- especially if it has a traditional leather or antler/leather sheath (although my girlfriend thinks the opposite). On place to start a search is:
www.ragweedforge.com/

Good luck
 
My fixed blade camping knives are a Becker BK-10 and a Russel/Grohmann #1.
The Russell is a more appropriate size for ordinary camping tasks and is comfortable to carry, but the Becker is a helluva lot sharper so it gets taken along more often.
 
If you were willing to up your price a little I would suggest a swamp rat. Otherwise check into the Becker BK-7 or the Ranger knives RD-7.
 
Dave568 said:
In regards to the Benchmade Model 10510 Gamer that was posted... it is described as being a "thin" blade... would it still work for chopping branches and the like? Or would it be too fragile for that sort of thing?
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Dave, it's not at all fragile, but it is light - it doesn't chop real well because it doesn't have much weight in the blade, but its toughness is not a problem. It batons well.

I like my Gamer, but it's more of a slicer than a chopper. It's only a four inch blade.
 
After much contemplation, I have decided to go with a Becker... I'm just not sure of which model yet. It is between the BK-7 and BK-10. Currently, my longest knife is a 4" folder. I'm trying to figure out if I need the extra 1.5", or if 5.5" is enough. The prices are pretty much identical, so the only issue is whether or not I need a 7" blade, or if I could settle for a 5.5".
 
No one has mentioned the Ontario RAT7 yet so I better. It's been my camp knife for a year or so.

RAT7.jpg


Although when I'm going light and fast (which is more often nowdays) I use the sypderco Temperance.

Temperence.jpg


Don't let the plastic handle on the Temperance fool ya. It's FRN (Fibre reinforced Nylon) and mine had hammered in a tent peg or two.
 
Becker is a good choice. It wont break the bank its one of the toughest knives that also cuts well.

If you're concerned about the handles, you can always paracord wrap them, or you can order micarta handles from Camillus. I dont find the handles that bad.
 
The handles are very ergonomic, but big. If you have big hands, like others, you'll like them. If you have medium hands, like me, the micarta grips available from Camillus transform the knife into one that handles great - for me. Either way, it's a very solid knife with a very good steel.

For me, the extra 1.5 inches makes a big difference, I like the 7.
 
Dave568 said:
I was hoping to get some suggestions on some fixed blades for camping/hiking. I have never owned a real fixed blade before, just a bunch of folders. I have decided to go an invest in a good fixed blade knife that will be used only for hiking/camping in the woods. I was hoping to spend somewhere between $50-$100, so I don't want anything too expensive. If anyone has any suggestions, I'd love to hear them. Thanks.
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I've been looking for the same knife. I decided on a Howling Rat by Swamp Rat Knife Works sometime in December 05. You may want to check it out. It looks to fit the bill perfectly. I'm still waiting to get it, however, so no personal, reviews.
 
vinny72xx said:
I've been looking for the same knife. I decided on a Howling Rat by Swamp Rat Knife Works sometime in December 05. You may want to check it out. It looks to fit the bill perfectly. I'm still waiting to get it, however, so no personal, reviews.
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I was going to order a swamp rat, but I decided I didn't want to wait months to receive it, so I went ahead and ordered the Becker BK-7.
 
Ming65 said:
No one has mentioned the Ontario RAT7 yet so I better.
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Uh, I did. :D

Page 1 of the thread. I've been thinking of getting one in D2. Looks to be a heck of a bargain.

Thanks for the cool pic!
 
I'd take a close look at Ranger Knives RD series. Tough built knives at a reasonable price. Ontario's Rat series is another good choice. Although at bit more expensive, Tops Knives are solid knives.
Scott
 
the becker c/u 7 is an extremely good knife for the money . the handles never botherd me ,if they bother you try using a little grip tape . if you chop alot the bigger handles will benefit you more ,trust me . ive got a ranger rd7 that packs a wallop for a good price also and i would highly recomend it .dont get a ka bar because you cant baton with it very well for the narrow spine and top edge . the tang is somewhat narrow also . get something with a flat grind preferably , they just cut better . the bk 7 has held up very well for the price and the performance has been exceptional. good luck.
 
yeah scott you tell'em! btw , the warranty on ranger knives is awesome . you simply cant beat the customer service . you have any problems or suggestions ? call him . justin gingrich, hes the sole maker / owner of ranger knives and stands behind his work100%. hes easy to talk to and will do special mods to your knife upon request. give em a look see.
 
Another one for ranger knives RD series. You could also have Justin make a custom for you. Thom uses his RDs the hardest. Hes phsycho with them things.
 
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