Recommendation? Fixed blade

How odd that nobody has recommended a Smatchet.

 

Personally, I think too much emphasis is made on using a particular steel.
Ask the smith what he recommends and I would go with that. They know way more about it than me.
Unless you got your heart set on something in particular, that's what I would do.

Most of my stuff is 1095; I'm not picky.

 

For $200 you could buy a Buck 105, 117 & a 119 if you are a good bargain hunter. That should cover any mood you’re in and complete any task you mentioned.

The Cold Steel SRK is a fantastic knife and a real workhorse, as is the Recon Scout. The Master Hunter is also a very good field blade that doesn’t get much attention.

The Grohmann #1 Canadian Belt knife and the #3 Boat knife are my go to fixed blades and well within your budget. You could probably get both for the $200. I have never handled the #4 Survival model but it has great reviews if you want something bigger.

I also really like my Puma Hunters Pal although it is probably considered more of a gentleman’s knife than a workhorse. The Hunters Friend is the bigger version, a friend of mine has had one for decades and still loves it.

 

Same. Unlike my folders, I tend to be heavy handed when using fixed blades, so I really like 1095.

 

With a $200 limit you really have a lot of great options. There is never a shortage of great blades but for me there is always a shortage of handles that fit/are comfortable my hands. If possible I would say get an idea what type of handle shape/size/material you like local shopping. After that I would find your ideal blade based on handle first then the other criteria. Just my 2cents from a guy that has wasted way too much money on knives with too thin or slick handles......

 

Cold Steel SRK