Hunting/survival/utility knife?

I'm not looking to debate FallKniven vs. Benchmade, especially since the Rant is technically a red box (even though made in the U.S.). But the OP wanted a versatile knife for a variety of chores, and he mentioned abusing the thing for the next 10 years. A U.S. built Benchmade for under $100 sounds about right for the job. I just got this knife and think it's great. I paid about $85 at the NRA Store, which is more than what you can get it at other places. (trying to support my friends at the NRA)
 
I'm not looking to debate FallKniven vs. Benchmade, especially since the Rant is technically a red box (even though made in the U.S.). But the OP wanted a versatile knife for a variety of chores, and he mentioned abusing the thing for the next 10 years. A U.S. built Benchmade for under $100 sounds about right for the job. I just got this knife and think it's great. I paid about $85 at the NRA Store, which is more than what you can get it at other places. (trying to support my friends at the NRA)

If you need a beater user knife for the next 10 years then Fallkniven Lam vg-10 is better than 440C. With it's convex sabre grind it rules the Benchmade Rant any day.
 
As previously mentioned, I don't meaningfully know anything about knives, just that I've destroyed some in the past and that my Victorinox Swiss Army knife is going strong after 15 years. How do I maintain the knife? What do I sharpen it with, etc.?

Also, anyone know the proper pronunciation of Fallkniven? Thanks everyone.
 
Check out the destruction testing too at knifetests.com. No way a 440C would be able to tolerate that.

knifetests.com is impractical. I believe you underestimate BM's 440C. I agree that VG10 is superior, but dont dust off the 440C
 
If you can get by with a 3.5+" edge (RC-3-ish) in a well-made full tang (.140" thick at the blade's spine.) 8.25" OAL knife of D2, consider the Benchmade Snody-designed 'Activator+', #201. It is the ideal size and construction for bushcraft uses - short of splitting out real logs. Face it - you can baton on a micro-scale with just about any knife, if splitting strips/bark/fuzz is the desire. If small trees need to be felled or the upper end of batonning is needed, it's time for a camp hatchet. You don't want to break your one knife off in a log... there are too many uses for a good knife while 'out and about'.

IMG_3355.jpg


One caveat re the 201 - mine came, a year ago last December, dull as a butter knife. My Spydie 'Sharpmaker' improved it - after some time - D2 is tough. It begs to be convex-edged. For $76 + s/h, it was a deal - nice holster, too. Thumb notches are nice - great with a fire-steel, too. US-made, of course.

Stainz
 
Something I thought I should mention if you are considering a Fallkniven, or other knife with VG10 or 3G (SPGS) steel.

Fallkniven recommends using a combination diamond/ceramic whetstone for sharpening their knives.

I have a Fallkniven DC4 whetstone, and a few days ago purchased the Fallkniven D12 diamond steel and C12 ceramic steel. (the larger steels are easier for sharpening a longer blade, but are less portable than the whetstone)

I find they are the easiest way to freshen up the edge on VG10 and 3G steel. A couple quick passes and the edge is back to factory razor sharp.

I would recommend you consider including the cost of a diamond/ceramic sharpening option in your purchase decision. (it doesn't necessarily have to be Fallkniven brand)

Some other forum members may chime in with some other suitable sharpening techniques that they have found to work well, give their suggestions due consideration as well.

My recommendation for the diamond/ceramic combination is based solely on my personal experience, I do find it quick and easy with these knives.

Kevin
 
Something I thought I should mention if you are considering a Fallkniven, or other knife with VG10 or 3G (SPGS) steel.

Fallkniven recommends using a combination diamond/ceramic whetstone for sharpening their knives.

I have a Fallkniven DC4 whetstone, and a few days ago purchased the Fallkniven D12 diamond steel and C12 ceramic steel. (the larger steels are easier for sharpening a longer blade, but are less portable than the whetstone)

I find they are the easiest way to freshen up the edge on VG10 and 3G steel. A couple quick passes and the edge is back to factory razor sharp.

I would recommend you consider including the cost of a diamond/ceramic sharpening option in your purchase decision. (it doesn't necessarily have to be Fallkniven brand)

Some other forum members may chime in with some other suitable sharpening techniques that they have found to work well, give their suggestions due consideration as well.

My recommendation for the diamond/ceramic combination is based solely on my personal experience, I do find it quick and easy with these knives.

Kevin
That was exactly the kind of advice I was hoping for, I wouldn't have learned that lesson on my own. Thanks man, I'll pick one up.

Ordered the knife this morning, can't wait for it to arrive. Thanks everyone.
 
knifetests.com is impractical. I believe you underestimate BM's 440C. I agree that VG10 is superior, but dont dust off the 440C

I agree completely. I have some 440C blades that have been through hell and back and have proven to be tough and dependable. A good all around steel.
 
I just recently bought the rant on ebay new in the box for 50 bucks...i should get it this week..i hope its worth the hype.
 
Just purchased the A-1 from New Graham Knives. It seems from the posts in the various forums this is the one that gets the most praise.
 
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