Fixed Blade Help

boobar

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Nov 25, 2002
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I am looking for a fixed blade; I am looking for one with self-defense in mind. This knife will mainly be kept in my truck for emergencies but probably will incure some general cutting duties throughout its life. I am a big Benchmade fan and I have considered the Nimravus in M2 but I am not sure if it is big enough with only a 4.5” blade. I have been looking hard at these 3 knives, Chris Reeve Green Beret, Strider MT, or a Busse Natural Outlaw. The Strider and the Reeve look more like defensive weapons, more so than the Busse NO, not to say that the NO wouldn’t work. I also like the Strider and the Reeve because they use s30v for their blades, I am not familiar with what Busse uses for steel and how good it is. I am looking for a blade length of 6” give or take an inch either way. If anyone has an opinion on any or all of these 3 knives please let me know and if anyone has another knife in mind feel free to list them.
 
I would avoid the Green Berret. It has sharp point on its handle which making it not very comfortable. Strider and Busse are excellent knife. Can't go wrong with either one.
 
Originally posted by boobar
I am looking for a fixed blade; I am looking for one with self-defense in mind.
I think the Busse Satin Jack will fit your requirements better than the Natural Outlaw. It feels quicker in hand, and also works great for cutting/prying duties. INFI is an excellent all-around steel and compares favorably to S30V. The Chris Reeve Green Beret and Strider MT are also solid choices, and I would try to handle each one in person if possible before buying. They are similar enough that aspects such as cost, handle comfort, and sheath will probably be the deciding factors. Good luck with your search!
 
Most of the big thick knives you've mentioned are "combat" blades, i.e. they are tough and built mostly to be able to stand up to all sorts of abuse. They may be a lot more knife than you need for self-defense. also, they aren't strictly fighting knives, since they are heavier & thicker than a knife designed purely for fighting/SD. I know it's not nearly as sexy, or expensive, but a good KABAR design with a sharpened swedge would probably do you just fine for SD and general cutting tasks, and would be much faster in the hand than any 1/4" stock knife. Something in the middle, and also very affordable (while they last) are John Greco's knives, which are super-tough & slightly less thick (.200"). Take a look at the Whisper or MST. The knives you've described are all top-notch, but if you have the $$ I would buy one of them for fun and buy a KABAR or Greco to get used & grimy in the truck.
 
I'm with fishface on this one. Why are you looking to put so much money in a utility knife for your truck? Go for a Ka-Bar or Greco (last chance to get one from him!) or even a Cold Steel SRK. Get an SRK Second for about $35 and come back and tell us when you wear it out. :p You might even check out the Cold Steel Bushman -- toss that in alongside the better knife you do end up buying, for the real dirty jobs.

There is nothing wrong with buying the best, even if it does cost more. But I'd think about spending the money appropriately.
 
Originally posted by boobar
I have considered the Nimravus in M2 but I am not sure if it is big enough with only a 4.5” blade.
^^my sentiments exactly. i wonder if benchmade did any market research?? i've talked to many who feel the same way about this wonderful fixed blade design -- they need to offer it in 6" at least!

i'd have 3 of them by now. personally, i'd like to see it in 7" or 8".. but as it stands, i can just flip out my bigger folders.
 
By "self defense in mind" do you mean that the first option of your choice will be H2H combat? Are you trained on this? Will the blade always stay in your truck? Careful on the US laws (I'm not an expert on them), all state do not accept the same size blade but I think that 4,5" is quiet accepted (but I don't know if it's the same if the blade is on you or accessible in a car or a truck).
If combat is the more important, I'll choose a dagger style blade, and 4,5" can be good.Personally, I like the "guardian" style or the Gerber M1.
Speaking about Chris Reeve, if I had the choice, I'll opt for Project 1 or 2 or Mountaineer 2. Those blades are incredible and can be used and abused in many task. On the other hand, there are a lot of good blade for a more accessible price (cold steel to name only one).
 
You can get a Camillus mil spec MK II on closeout at their website for $26.00. A BK&T C/U7 would fill the bill nicely as well.
 
If it's a "toss in your truck" knife, the SOG Seal 2000 would be a good choice, as the AUS-6 steel is pretty "rust-resistant".
 
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