HELP-Custom folder or Randall fixed blade??

RattlerXX

RattlerXX

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It's time for me to add another one to the collection, and I need help choosing a custom folder, or a Randall. I like natural materials. If I choose the custom folder route, (using it for hunting)which maker and model do you recommend. If I choose the Randall, which model would you prefer. I am an avid hunter, and will use this knife skinning wild hogs, to deer. I like the Randall 01, and Attack. If you have any pics of these, I will appreciate that also.

Thanks,

RattlerXX
 
From my experience, folders don't make great skinning knives. I just prefer the idea of a fixed blade, easier to wipe off, no pivot to clean out, no washers to get wrecked, etc, etc. So if that's your choice, personally, i'd go with the Randall.

Have you considered a custom fixed blade? There is an approx 2 year wait on new Randalls, longer than many custom makers. The prices are almost comparable. Bob Dozier would be a good place to start, there's a nice hunter with a stabilized wood handle exclusive at A.G. Russell.

James

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I have a 3/16", 440c drop point hunter in desert ironwood available for $175.It's 8 7/8" overall with a 4 1/2" satin finished blade and very figural scales. Your choice of a pouch, pancake, or cross draw sheath in natural, medium brown or black,with or without basket weave tooling. I can engrave your name on it at no extra cost if you like.Heres a couple links.
http://members.aol.com/l6steel/ironwooddp.jpg
http://members.aol.com/l6steel/ironwood2.jpg


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Always think of your fellow knife makers as partners in the search for the perfect blade, not as people trying to compete with you and your work!
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[This message has been edited by L6STEEL (edited 04-23-2001).]
 
Kind of a strange decision you have set for yourself. Folder vs Randall fixed blade.

First, Randall's are not necessarily the best fixed blade knives you can buy, particularly the models you mention which are not designed primarily for skinning tasks. Second, custom folders cost considerably more than fixed blades. Assuming your budget is around $300 (approx cost of the Randall), it will be hard to find many suitable custom folders. You will however find that $300 dollars is Plenty to buy a very nice custom fixed blade which will handle all of your tasks extremely well.

Take a look at www.knifeart.com and www.robertsoncustomcutlery.com and the other custom internet knife dealers.

Good luck with the search. I think maybe you will come to the realization that someday you will have a nice custom folder, several Randall's, and maybe a nice custom working knife or two.

I think you should start with utility/skinner custom fixed blades. They will work better than the Randalls for the tasks you mention, and you can probably get something you like much sooner. Happy shopping!

Paracelsus
 
If you had your heart set on a folder,I would say the best folder for the money and type of work you are considering utilizing it for, a Chris Reeve Sebenza would probably be the best option,not much chance of having a problem with crud screwing with the frame lock.You would have to flush the knife out thoroughly when finished.The best option is a fixed blade.I would recommend going to BladeArt website,take a look at Geno Dennings line of fixed blade skinners/hunters.High quality and low cost,nice stag handles and overall finish.Larry at BladeArt is the best on-line dealer,I've dealt with hands down.As far as a Randall goes,there are plenty of models that are suitable for your needs and can be had at numerous on-line dealers with no waiting.IN fact there may be a dealer in Texas if I'm not mistaken,the name escapes for the moment.Good Luck
 
I have had my mind set on one of these or the other, and I think I will look toward the custom folder. I have 122 knives in my collection, and none of them are the cheapos, but I don't have one custom made, that is made from a well known maker and would like to start getting these knives. (one at a time of course) The Randall had caught my eye, but I am going to check out some of your links and maybe come up with a good folder for under $500. Thank you for the help.

RattlerXX


 
easy - get both!

You will probably find that you will come across some chores that the fixed blade can not do effectively and vise verser..you choose an interesting Randall model for 'skinning'?

...hard decision I know, but a worthy one when you are talking the quality of knife you are looking at.

Happy decision making..

Gundy.
 
I highly reccommend what ptpalpha said..............especially since it is me who is selling that knife.

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Art Sigmon
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"
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"For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword"
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Randall 25 carries easily, great blade geometry for just about any task. Go with a fixed blade for hunting and skinning!!
 
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