Izula/RC-3-like knife with different steel?

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Kirk_Ferentz

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Feb 16, 2010
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I said "different" because I don't want to say "better" and start a debate about ESEE knives, but basically, I really like the design of the Izula and RC-3 knives, but I am wondering about something with this design (blade and handle dimensions, canvas or linen micarta handle (I would purchase the inserts for the Izula)) with something other than the 1095 ... and here I am talking about steels that some might argue are better steels in terms of general survival/bushcraft type of considerations such as overall blade strength/durability, edge retention, etc.
 
Hi Kirk,
Is there something you dislike about 1095 that makes you look for an alternative?
 
I also think the Izula is a fantastic knife in all respects, you'd be hard pressed to find anything that is noticeably superior in terms or construction and durability. That being said, I do prefer my Swamp Rat Swamp Warden knife. It's $20-$30 more expensive and does not come with a sheath or any cool survival gadgets like the Izula. I para-cord wrapped the handle and bought a kydex sheath off of ebay and absolutely love the overall package. The knife is a a bit bigger than the Izula and fits my hand a bit better. One could argue that SR-101 will hold an edge and be more durable than 1095 but really...... what are you going to do to this knife that would really test the limits of either steel? IMO 1095 is a breeze to sharpen, even for a sharpening challenged 'tard like me.
 
Meh, you really can't beat 1095 for all around use utility knife, IMO.

Sure, steel snobs can always find something better about something else, but 1095 performs admirably in just about every respect except rusting, and even that is completely workable unless you're in a few specific environments.

In my opinion, 1095 represents just about the peak of knife steels for everyday joes.
 
Fallkniven WM1 or, if you're feeling very rich, Fallkniven TK6 are both "Izula-Sized" knives.
 
Fehrman Peacemaker

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You cant go wrong with 1095 steel.

I think i read that ESEE might be making the Izula with a stainless steel in the future.
 
The Bark River Necker knife is 12c27, but I prefer 1095. It's good durable steel that takes a killer edge, and is very easy to sharpen.
 
Hitzy said:
The Bark River Necker knife is 12c27, but I prefer 1095. It's good durable steel that takes a killer edge, and is very easy to sharpen.
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Yeah I looked into that knife, and the 12c27 doesn't sound like it is great steel, and I'd probably prefer the 1095. I would have much preferred Bark River's normal A2.
 
That Fehrman Peacemaker is a nice knife, Sufler. I have heard some really great things about 3V. To answer the questions about why I am questioning the 1095, I don't doubt that it is good enough for a 'bet your life' survival knife, but it does seem like it would be a stretch to put it on the same level as some of the others. I do have to do some more research on it though ...
 
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sambo. said:
Fallkniven WM1 or, if you're feeling very rich, Fallkniven TK6 are both "Izula-Sized" knives.
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I actually saw the TK6 and really liked it when I started searching for a hunting/survival-if-need-be knife but ruled it out due to price ... but I have since decided consider dropping the cash for something like a dozier, so I should probably put the kroner back in the running. Laminated 3G sounds like it's something wonderful.
 
Kirk_Ferentz said:
I actually saw the TK6 and really liked it when I started searching for a hunting/survival-if-need-be knife but ruled it out due to price ... but I have since decided consider dropping the cash for something like a dozier, so I should probably put the kroner back in the running. Laminated 3G sounds like it's something wonderful.
Click to expand...

i am lusting after a TK6.

however with $$$ constraints, i "settled" on a WM1/3G which i'm sure will serve me well (still waiting for it to arrive).

i'll probably still get a TK6 at some point. just not right now.
 
I have an RC3... I just sanded off and scotchbrited the blade. The steel is super bomber. I have ZERO complaints. Honestly, I think it's a steal at what they are going for. The knife is VERY well made. Attention to detail is perfect. The blade performs exceedingly well.... thin & strong.
 
I'll put in another vote for the swamp warden, I've had izula owners say they like it better and the steel is a noticable upgrade. SR-101 is 52100 ball bearing steel, its very fine in grain and will take a exceptional polish and extremely sharp edge at almost any grit. The edge retention will be better and the edge will resist deformations better, plus you can safely use lower edge angles.

All that plus it sharpens similar to rowen 1095 (which is some of the best 1095 I've ever seen).

IIRC the swamp rat HRLM is closer to a ESEE3 but thicker and with a full size handle.

Wanting better usually means a 50-100 dollar price jump from where your at now. You can also go custom and pick whatever steel you want but the price will depend on the maker, steel selection, and level of detail.

I would start doing searches for the styles of blades you want, get 5-10 options and narrow it down. Its usually what I do.
 
I'd like to consider the swamp rat howler, but I have a hell of a time finding any information on these knives, including how to actually buy them...
 
I think the deal breaker may be heat treat and rowen heat treat has had good reviews. to me I really like tool steel's that's the main issue for me. as far as the izula it has alot of plus's but try craftin wood with that for a while. not good on the hand. just my .02 good blade with a good warrenty tho
 
Go to the sub-forum I think the preorder is still open.
 
I have the WM1 and Izula

The WM1 is close to an Izula with a handle and stainless as you can get. Blade shapes are similar - slightly pointier on the WM1.
 
Becker makes the BRAT or Escobrat (???), thats basically a BK11/Izula hybrid. Its made of 1095 Cro-Van steel, so i dosent fit your requirements, but i dont know if theyre going to make it in San Mai. The regular BK11 comes in 1095 or San Mai, so maybe the BRAT will too.
 
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