Ka-bar d2 extreme vs. Swamp Rat m6 vs. Tops 6-7"

D

diversionmary

Joined
Sep 27, 2006
Messages
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I'm trying to make a decision on my next large fixed. I originally picked up a TOPS tracker 2 (the smaller one) but wasn't satisfied that it would be there for me when I needed it. I exchanged it for a Ka-bar d2 extreme but I can return the unused/opened/destickered knife for a full refund.

I have always had my heart set on a TOPS, but from research it looks like I might be better served by SRKW/SR101 steel than c1095/d2. I already have a Ka-bar #1211 that lives in my car.

All that said:

Should I just keep this Ka-bar d2 and be happy? or return it and try to pick up a SRKW m6 or howler via buy/sell forum? Do I need to worry about this d2 blade cracking in half @ the serrate? Is there anything wrong with TOPS other than the price? I can't seem to find many TOPS reviews.

I'd like to:
Split wood/tinder
Fell saplings in a pinch
Hack or saw a whitetail pelvic bone
7" blade, though I'd make a concession for the Howler.

I don't mind:
Price (within reason, the t2 was near $300)
Corrosive properties of c1095
Sheath offered. (After having the t2 in the small of back, I'll hopefully be picking up an aftermarket sheath/system for whatever I end up with.)

Thanks I realize this is pretty rambly/open ended, I appreciate your insights.
 
I've got the Swamp Rat M6 -- love it. Lots of weight forward for chopping, very comfortable handle, well priced. Depending upon your druthers, I'd also look at a CRK Project I, another favorite 7" favorite of mine: http://www.chrisreeve.com/project.htm

Basically indestructible, A2 steel, strongest hollow handle knife on the planet, round handle for grips at any rotation.

Best of luck in your choices.
 
From the list of tasks that you described, the SR M6 is going to serve you better. It is a well made blade, very well suited for those tasks. I think when you hold one and compare it to your KaBar you will be surprised. And delighted. The Howler, while a good blade, is a little small and light for your tasks. An M6 or Camp Tramp would be right up your alley.
 
The Kabar is a fine fighting knife that can make doa s a camp knife. The Swamp Rat and TOPS knives are much better suited to that kind of work. THAT being said, i would take the swamp rat; the TOPS is nice, but i think the swamp rat is better suited, and more value for the money.
 
Well, that seems pretty unanimous, thanks. I had looked @ the CRK P1, but the handle threw me off. One of the things I like the best about TOPS are the micarta/knurled/choil grips.

I was thinking about it while driving: Ideally I'd like a TOPS handle, SRKW blade/steel and Ka-bar reputation.

My next question is, when will the m6 be back in stock? ;)
 
The M6's are in stock right now if you like the ones with logo. The sterile ones are out of stock, but you can probably ask Eric Issacson on the SRKW forum in the manufacturers area when the sterile ones are going to be in. They are listed at the Swamp Rat Co Store website.
 
I just bought a branded m6 with kydex sheath. The sheath has a 'tek-lok' harness which looks like it can be mounted horizontally, though I haven't used one before.
 
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