Good&Good looking practical fighter for $200-$300

P

Pergatory

Joined
Aug 15, 2000
Messages
465
Hello; I've come across a bit of a dilemna. I've got a really good friend who is coming home from the army reserves soon. I'd like to find her a practical, but well finished knife for 200-300 bucks. One that would make a good fighter and work knife, but not too slender, either.
The two best options that I've come across are the SOG Bowie and the Chris Reeves one piece line. I don't want anything that has rubber or plastic on the handle, either. (So, no Busses or Cold Steels)
I know most about what's available, and what I'm really looking for are other options, just so I don't miss anything, SO I can make the best possible decision. I think Allen Blade's knives might also fit into that category, but I have to check.
 
Allen Blade's knives would certainly fit, but Allen is pretty backlogged, last I heard, so I don't know how long you would have to wait.

GenO Denning is also very highly-regarded.

I've dealt with Mike Cooper (L6STEEL, here on BFC) before, and have always been impressed with both his work and his whole attitude.

These are but a few of many custom makers in your price range. In my opinion, a custom knife is always a better gift, since it was made specifically for that person.

--JB

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e_utopia@hotmail.com
 
The Busse regular line has Micarta handles not rubber or plastic. There are not too many makers that will replace a blade that breaks from hard use.

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Ed Woo
 
Ron Gaston makes some good fighters.

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have a"knife"day
 
How bout a Randall. Give Chris Stanaback of Sportsmans Services in Kenansville Fl. a call.He is an authorized dealer with a good selection in stock.Phone 407-436-1113. He is a good guy and will set you up with with what you need.
 
There is a Mad Dog ATAK Thing on the "For Sale" forum. Take a look.
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Blades

[This message has been edited by Blades (edited 05-19-2001).]
 
All of the knives listed so far are great. However you also hit the nail one the head with the SOG Bowie, might also look at the Trident, depending on what the person's style. Both of these knives seem to be listed on ebay at all times for $175.00 with the buy it now feature. My other recommendation would be my personal favorite, a Timberline Specwar, if one can be found.

Dark Nemesis

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Crimson Horizon
Nothing but edge baby...
dark.nemesis@home.com
 
Greg Lightfoot or Mission Knives are in the price range. The handles are not rubber and quite tough.

Will

[This message has been edited by Will Kwan (edited 05-20-2001).]
 
I just wanted to comment on the SOG Bowie and Trident. These knives have VERY thick blades (5/32" I believe). Combined with the hollow grind on these knives they do not cut through material very well. I also found the Trident that I had difficult to sharpen. They are both great looking knives, but I think you could find a much better user for the money. A Busse Steel Heart IIe with a Micarta handle would be a great "production" choice along with the Chris Reeves Project (if you like the round checkered handle). As for customs, I am very fond of the Trace Rinaldi Tempest in A2, but there are a number of good makers that could get you a great knife for under $300.00. Good luck with your search.

Kevin
 
Both Busse and Chris Reeve One Piece range Knives are great. They are made by great companies and have great people that stand behind their products. I speak on all counts from personal experience.

CRK uses A2 which is an air hardened carbon tool steel. CRK hardens them to a range that is a compromise between edge holding and resistance to impact damage. His round handles are comfortable, just ask someone who has used them, not just read about them or looked at pictures. His designs are very well thought out and flawlessly executed. For a nominal fee you can have the knife refreshed and looking like new again.

Busse uses INFI in their Combat Series which, as the previously mentioned above, had really nice quilted Micarta slabs (the Basic line has rubber like Resciprine-C). INFI is said to be more corrosion resistant than A2. Busse has what I guess I would call a "don't ask - don't tell" warranty policy.

Busse's blades have a lower aspect ration in that they are wider (edge to spine) for a given blade length.

I do not think any around here would say that you will go wrong with either. They are just two different styles from two very good companies that take a different approach towards knife making.
 
First you need to decide what SHE is most likely to want to carry. I doubt she will want to carry a larger fixed blade, so smethng in the 6 inch blade length would be fitting. I would say that the SOG Bowie and Trident are an excellent choice and an excellent deal at $175. The Trident uses 440C and comes quite sharp.

The new Busse 6 inch knife would be a good choice also.

Falknivin A-1 is another

Timberline Specwar is awesome and would attract all the attention she could ever want.

Of course customs are great if you have the time to wait, or you can check out Les Robertsons site for what he may have in stock currently.
 
Consider also Wilson Tactical Model 2 with
5" or 4" blade. This baby will cost around $200, nice sheath and VERY comfortable handle. D2 steel and great overall looks finish the picture.

You can check it out at Wilson web page

I have 5" model 2. It is one of my favorite fixed blades.

Kris
 
A Strider MH would definitely fit the bill. It has a 6.25" blade with a very useful blade shape. Its comes with one of the best sheaths around and is compact enough to be considered unobtrusive. As for the warranty
this comes straight from their website "All Strider knives carry an unconditional, lifetime guarantee."
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"The greatest of faults, I should say, is to be conscious of none."
Thomas Carlyle
 
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