Karambit questions? Specifically Tarani Journeyman.

Springer45 · Mar 17, 2005

Hello everyone. I have been lurking for a short time and decided to register.

I have recently been bitten by the Karambit bug and would like to explore the option of one. Most of my knowledge regarding this design has come from Karambit.com so far. I am more interested in the design for utility and retention/control than defense at the moment.

The only designs I am familiar with from the manufacturers are the Blade-tech and Strider designs made for Tarani and the Emerson version. For the moment I'd like to avoid the Emerson based on a few reasons, but mostly the chisel grind, liner lock, and price. I like the Tarani Strider fixed blade but do not think it would be very practical for me as an edc. Of the two folding models offered I lean towards the Journeyman because of the price since this is something I am not sure I will end up liking.

I've searched the forums and found a good amount of information on these models which has led me to become comfortable with my current choice of the Journeyman but I have a few questions that I could not find answers to.

1. Does the Tarani Journeyman feature some sort of full length metal liners or is the grip only polymer for some portion?

2. Is the interior surface of the ring one continuous smooth surface or does it have a gap at some point? If so, are the edges uncomfortable?

3. Do you find the thickness of the ring awkward? (interior to exterior)

4. Will the grip/ring flex if force is applied? (I own a polymer handled knife already but the grips flex easily under pressure which is something I would not find acceptable with the karambit design or on a $150 knife.)

5. Do those of you that use the Journeyman for daily tasks find the curve to be too much to comfortably and effectively use it? Also, does the angle of the grind make it seem awkward?

6. What kind of screws are used?

Last but not least, can anyone point me towards a source for an affordable ($200 or under) fixed blade karambit made of a quality steel such as Aus6/8, 440C, or D2? I have seen one on this site made by a custom knife maker but had trouble finding a price.

berzerker · Mar 17, 2005

Hi Springer45, welcome to the forums.

Here's a link to tests of tacticals. Part way down the page are reviews of both Tarani offerings.

http://www.folders-r-us.org/full_tests.htm

I have the Masters model, and it is a beautifully crafted piece. BladeTech--the manufacturer--does outstanding work.

I have found the blade shape to be highly functional (to be expected, given its utility origins).

Best regards.

Springer45 · Mar 17, 2005

Thanks for the link berzerker. I have seen the reviews of both models from that site already which is part of the reason I am leaning towards the Journeyman. It seems the Masters and Journeyman are essentially the same with the exception of the handle and blade materials. I have had good luck with 154CM in the past so I'm not worried about passing on the better steel.

Does your Masters model have some sort of metal liners?
What type of screws are used on your Masters?

Those are my two main concerns after the usefullness of the curved blade. I know the straighter blade on the fixed model would seem more natural to me but I keep hearing that the more drastic curve is not awkward at all.

Where I am I doubt most folks would be intimidated by the folders but just about any good sized or alternative styled fixed blade seems to get attention around here. I plan to use the knife around my place, but also for fishing and hunting. The polymer is obviously waterproof and should clean up nice if I need to gut a deer with it. The extended grips made possible by the ring should make reaching in a little easier to control. I'm just mostly worried that it might fall out a pocket and get stepped on. I'll probably use something thin for a lanyard just in case.

berzerker · Mar 17, 2005

Hi Springer45:

The Masters Model has no liners, but I cannot deflect the G10 handle by squeezing. It is held together with Torx screws going into the backspacer (which continues into the ring).

I've not used a lanyard, but it would not get in the way of utility use. I have experimented with a small carabiner on a belt strap, but I'm going to try another option: To make a double-loop/double-snap strap that could go around the belt and through the loop.

The curve in the folder blade is does not get in the way of reasonable use, although I have not used it on game.

Best regards.

Springer45 · Mar 17, 2005

Thanks you for the responses and the info. I'm not sure if I'm going to go through the ring or not with a lanyard. I might take the pocket clip off and attach some sort of homemade clip in it's place. I'll play around with some ideas when I get my hands on one.