Insight on a new fixed blade

Joined
Feb 6, 2008
Messages
9
Alright, here goes... I'm looking for a new knife (that's a great way to start things; isn't everyone looking for a new knife?).

I'm looking for a fixed blade that I can attach to the outside of my pack when I'm out hiking, or camping, etc.; not for trips to the grocery store, but only in situations where a fixed blade with quick access would have valid (and legal) purpose, like the wilderness. Here in California, fixed blades aren't so popular with LEOs, as I'm sure many of you might know.

My idea here is something small enough to fit inside the pack, that I can take out and go external with if need be, with not a ton of effort. My pack is a Maxpedition Pygmy Falcon II, with webbing on the front and sides, so MOLLE is one thing I'm thinking about in a sheath.

To list requirements, I guess what I'm looking for, ideally, is:

Smaller fixed blade: under 4-5" blade, under 8" overall maybe?... less is better.
Partial serrations: for obvious outdoor usefullness.
Different carry options: or at least a modifiable sheath for attachment.
Decent corrosion resistence: but maintenance is not a problem with me.

And it shouldn't be scary looking. I know that sounds funny, but with my wife, and small kids around, I don't need it looking like I'm preparing for war when we're just hiking for the day, so I think the size if probably my biggest concern. How small is usefull, without being too small to survive with? I'd like to see something around 3" blade, maybe like 7" overall. I don't need a rambo knife strapped to my back, just something small and usefull.

I was considering a Short Kabar (something like 5.5" blade, 9" overall), and with a cheap price tag (can be had for under $50) it seemed almost perfect; but still a bit large. I've looked at a few SOGs, like the Seal Pup, but have never owned a SOG. Price isn't a huge issue, as I'll spend what is necessary to get quality, but a cheaper knife is more likely to get used/abused like it should, you know. The Kabar isn't throw away cheap, but I wouldn't think twice about hacking at some small branches with it.

Oh, and I've already got a folder I EDC, a Benchmade Mini-Grip, that takes care of anything in my daily life, and never leave my side. So this fixed blade would be reserved for more extreme, heavy-duty tasks.

I'm open to almost anything, and I know there is tons of information available here, but I was hoping that just asking might yeild some usefull opinions. Any insight/criticism is welcomed, thanks ahead of time.
 
I agree that the Fallkniven F1 is a good way to go. (I have 3!)
In addition, why not the BM151 fixed bladed Griptilian?
If around water and are worried about corrosion, why not the BM100SH20 River/Dive knife?

Good luck!
Mike
 
The RAT Cutlery RC 4 sounds like exactly what you are looking for. Easy to field sharpen, durable, and an amazing warranty all for about a hundred bucks.
 
Maybe a Benchmade Fixed Griptilian. Very nice knife. Decent sheath. I don't think it comes in combo blade, but I'd strongly suggest you rethink the combo blade option.

I much prefer the Doug Ritter Mk3 version, but it will run you three times your $50 maximum.

Edit -- I guess it does come in a combo blade, but I'd still recommend against it. At knifecenter.com the non-coated blade version is $100 retail, but sells for about $70.

4.14" long & 0.119" thick 154CM blade, 8.72 overall length, molded handle with "grippy" rubber inserts, 4.60 oz, ballistic nylon/Kydex sheath
 
I've always been all for a plain edge blade personally. Never had any good use in daily life for a serrated. Not to mention the extra effort to keep it sharp. That being said, I guess I'm just thinking that a serrated edge has its uses outdoors. So i've got to ask, why so against a combo edge.

The RAT RC4 sounds good, but what about the RC3? any experience with that. It looks a tad smaller. And I like that the RC3 has a MOLLE compatible sheath. I didn't think of the F1, but that is looking pretty good. With the F1, what are your guy's experience with the different sheaths, the zytel and leather?

I like the BM151 Fixed Grip, and it almost seems like a necesary pair to my Mini-Grip, but I worry that it might be a bit large. I'll have to look into these more. You guys are awesome, thanks so far, and keep em coming if you got 'em!
 
For what you're looking for, how about a Fällkniven F1 or a Busse Game Warden? Both under 4" of blade and more than tough enough to tackle any even remotely likely survival scenario. Neither has serrations, though, but you wouldn't benefit anything from serrations except 1) somewhat higher effectiveness in cutting rope and similar and 2) a part of edge that would cut decently even when extremely dull. The downsides to serrations are much more numerous: they weaken the blade, waste plain cutting edge, create an unclean "ripping" cutting pattern and typically also deprive you of the best part of the blade for precise work, assuming the serrations are near the handle end of the blade.
 
Barkie Woodland Spl. Or go to Ingram knives. Both are very nice choices. Good luck, have fun.
 
The Fallkniven S1 isn't too large and in black looks even smaller.

Here's my black S1.
 
Gerber LMF II is exactly what your looking for. Im thinking of picking one up myself.

A3002-99.jpg
 
Some very good suggestions so far. You could even go with a Bark River Snowy River, which is very light and perfect for backpacking.
 
Check out Ontario's TAK :thumbup: I also think that an Ontario RAT-3 would be good for what you describe.
 
Alright, now I'm sort of questioning the combo edge. I guess the main reason I was thinking about it was that it's the one thing my Mini-Grip doesn't have. So I figured that if I covered myself by having the big blade combo edged, I'd be good for a little more. I don't dissagree at all with what anyone here is saying, I personally hate serrations, but I think they have their purpose. But alright, I think I've been convinced to overlook the combo edges for my personal favorite plain edged knives.

I'm really liking the F1. I had looked before, and didn't even think about it this time around. That's looking more and more like the one. I also REALLY like the Busse Game Warden, but at nearly $200, it might be pushing it slightly. And I really like that Gerber LMF II, especially with the extras (the MOLLE sheath, belt/cord cutter, and even the most likely lame, but still better than nothing sharpening system), but now the combo edge is bugging me.

The Rat RC3 seems like a very close match to the F1, but with the added benefit or having all kinds of carry options (and about +$50 price tag). Has/does anyone own both an F1 and RC3 (or RC4 maybe), to compair the two?

You guys are a great help. Does anyone out there have something negative to say about the Fallkniven F1? I like the size, the steel, everything but the sheath (might be tricky to attach MOLLE style). There's got to be something someone doesn't like about it though. Or is everyone a satisfied customer?

If I end up with an F1, where do you guys suggest getting one? Which site offers the best deals, that you guys trust. It looks like I'm finding them for right around $100, sound right?
 
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