Howler vs Coot

[FoxholeAtheist]

Hiya all,

I'm thinking about getting a smallish fixed blade to carry up here in moose country (American moving to Canada) since it appears that it would be more favorably viewed than my current EDC of a Benchmade AFCK. I've been looking at the SR line over the past few days and rather like the Bandicoot and Howling Rat... but I can't really see that much of a difference in them based on the photos on the company site. Anyone out there with an example of each care to clue me in on the similarities/differences between these two?

Thanks in advance!
Fox

 

[t1mpani]

The main difference is the Howler is a little easier to do extended slicing with, given its bigger belly which drops below the level of your fingers.

The Bandicoot is a great overall knife, as it still cuts well and also will out-penetrate the Howler, do to the penetrator tip and narrower profile.

Both are sharp, strong, and feel great in your hand. Buy the one you like the most.

 

[FoxholeAtheist]

Thanks, Timpani. I guess the problem is that without access to either, I don't know which one I'll like the most.

 

[t1mpani]

Know what you mean. I just meant that both are comfortable and very serviceable, so if neither seems to specifically fit your likely needs better (i.e. I'm primarily going to be skinning and such, so the Howler's belly will be beneficial) then it's time for a looks contest--which is a very personal choice.

 

[Ian Allomes]

IMHO,
There’s a huge difference, if you just want a knock about knife for around the farm chores or an EDC for urban carry I’d pick the Coot.

For a hunting knife, come skinner, the Howler will walk all over the Coot. It has just about everything in design that you could ever wish for.
Ian.

 

[FoxholeAtheist]

Yah, if I pick up one of these, it will be for EDC to replace my AFCK per the silly Canadian knife laws. (Openly carried fixed blades are fine, but any folder that can conceivably be opened without touching the blade is a weapon.) I'm not a hunter, so the Howling Rat doesn't sound like what I need. On the other hand, I've had to restrain my fiancee a few times from grabbing a sharp stick and attacking when there have been mule deer in our back yard.

Canadian girls are weird.