Hunting/EDC recommendations?

B

bricter

Joined
Oct 26, 2009
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Basically, I'm looking for a knife that can take some abuse while deer/elk hunting, but is still light and small enough to take as a EDC.

My budget is ~$150 and I would prefer a folder over a fixed blade.

I've heard good things about the Benchmade 710, but I'm wondering if it's tough enough for the moderate cutting field dressing involves.
 
bricter said:
...but I'm wondering if it's tough enough for the moderate cutting field dressing involves.
Click to expand...

You're kidding, right? :D

Yes, the 710 *IS* tough enough. A very well-built knife, and cheap if you buy it used but in great condition (see my sig ;))...
 
The 710 is very capable of any and all field dressing chores. The thin blade is perfect for initial cuts around the anus, and the blade is long enough to reach up into the body cavity and sever the animals windpipe. Not only that, it does clean up in a snap with some warm soapy water and a little oil. That said, I still prefer a fixed blade for hunting, but I alway have a backup folder with me. Typically my 710, Spyderco Military or Queen Trapper.

Fred
 
I'd have to recommend a Buck 110 as well. Can't think of a more popular hunting knife. You know it's tough enough if it worked for hundreds of guys before you. :) May be a bit heavy for pocket carry for most, but it comes with a belt sheath, or you could make/buy another if the stock one doesn't cut it.
 
I have no idea why anyone would rather have a folder for the very messy job of field dressing large animals. In your price range you could buy a Beretta Loveless hunter ($40 on the bay) and still have enough left to get a really good EDC folder. The Loveless is the epitome in game knives, far better then a folder IMHO.

You only have to spend so much time at the sink with a toothpick getting all the dried blood and (especially) the fat out of the crevasses of a folder before you decide a fixed blade would be better for the job. Plus, there's no weak point in case you need to split a pelvis or pop a knee joint.

Drop the fixed blade in your pack and clip the folder to your pocket. The extra weight is minimal and you'll appreciate keeping your folder clean once you bloody up the FB.

Just my opinion, but it's based on 20 years of deer hunting.

EDIT: If you really must have a folder, take a look at the Zero Tolerance 0500 MUDD. It's a real tank, and the pivot is sealed so the cleaning job would be a lot easier.
 
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