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Larger blade? or just a hatchet or hawk

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Were there orcs near you?

I like using a big blade, because you can carve, hunt, baton, chop and do alot of other things, or at least better than an axe or at least easier. I also like carrying a large knife compared to an axe, mounting on gear, belt etc.
 
Mike which Bark River is that please? I love that handle. Thanks.

That, my friend, is a one of a kind 10” Bowie, from Mike Stewart’s recent run of Big Bowies.

It features a Loveless inspired “Rio Grande” style blade and a Moran style handle.

It might be the nicest (and most functional) big knife I own.





Big Mike

”Scaring the tree huggers.”


Forest & Stream
 
I have to agree with some of our freinds here. I dont really need a big knife. Even my 7.5 inch blades spend most of their time in a collections box. For years I've wandered around with nothing more than an OT 3 blade stockman and a CS LTC and been completly happy. And those 2 have brought me back from some hairy situations. Only recently have I added a ATC V Tac mostly as a demo and digging tool. My current love is a little blade no bigger than PitDogs thats coming from Bryan Breeden..(i'm having to wear a drool bib waiting!!) A Machete type tool and a 2,3 or 4 inch fixed blade and maybe a hawk or hatchet would seem to be all the tools needed for even the most harsh of outdoor climes.
 
The most handy camp tool I have is a hatchet. I use it as much or more than a fixed blade around camp. I have a lot of appreciation for what a big blade can do as well, but it's just not as competent on wood as a hatchet (for me). Hawks are dramatically less useful than either a hatchet or large fixed blade.

I just plain enjoy having an SAK, small fixed blade, and hatchet. But I'd be a happy camper still with the hatchet and either of the other two..
 
For chopping and splitting wood I like the hatchet !
For general chores - a 6'' blade.
And for those really small jobs - a small folder :)
 
My hatchet stayed in the truck so much that I eventually just stopped picking it up for outings. I use my RC-4 much more than just about any blade...
 
I have long thought that all I need is a pocket knife and a hatchet/hawk. The only reason I carry a fixed belt knife is because I like it and it's there for an "oh crap my pack/hatchet fell in the river" moment. If you find the Izula to be comfy for all the carving and work you use it for, I don't think you'll need a bigger knife. YMMV.
 
(Seriously, I haven't bought a knife for myself since I got it , 2 months ,10 days and counting.:thumbup: )

LOL, only this crowd (myself included) would think 2 months etc. would be a long time between knives.:D

I prefer to have a small hatchet but not because big knives won't do the job (they will). I just like axes and hatchets as much as knives and enjoy having and using one when I'm out and about.
 
LOL, only this crowd (myself included) would think 2 months etc. would be a long time between knives.:D

I prefer to have a small hatchet but not because big knives won't do the job (they will). I just like axes and hatchets as much as knives and enjoy having and using one when I'm out and about.

Haha, wholly agreed, on both points. :thumbup:
 
Like kgd and siguy, I don't find most cord wrapped handles to be very comfortable for long periods of work. Unbeatable for lightweight and convenient carry but lacks a little in handle, at least for my big hands. If not needed for heavy work, I like a narrow five inch blade for camp chores and food prep. I hate short blades for slicing and dicing food. They are fine to get by with but not dedicated food work.
 
Like kgd and siguy, I don't find most cord wrapped handles to be very comfortable for long periods of work. Unbeatable for lightweight and convenient carry but lacks a little in handle, at least for my big hands. If not needed for heavy work, I like a narrow five inch blade for camp chores and food prep. I hate short blades for slicing and dicing food. They are fine to get by with but not dedicated food work.


I also don't like the inherent ability to soak up everything from bloosd to water to anything else...makes for a nasty grip...
 
Yeah, that too. You about have to start over since you really an't clean it. Great for wood working and emergenct work.
 
Got back from a campout about an hour ago. I had the following with me on the trip:

Byrd Raven Folder
Western L36 Hunter (3/16" thick 5" long Bowie, in my duffle bag)
SOG Seal Revolver (On the left shoulder strap of my pack)
BK&T BK-9
SOG Powerlock
Medium French Hawk from Great River Forge

The last few campouts I've been carrying my SOG Powerlock, a folder, a 4-5" fixed blade, a 9" Bowie and a Hawk. It seems to work for me. Of course if I was to go backpacking I'd have the Powerlock, a folder and either a 9" Bowie or 15" Khukri (9 to 10" blade).

The trick is to find what works for you. Experimenting is key to discovering what you like and feel comfortable wearing.

Heber
 
I am going to try that for a while and see how I make out.

Tried a woodmans pal for a while, and I love it for car camping and to throw in the truck, but after the wilderness course in Oregon, I think I need more of a hatchet or hawk. Still struggling with the weight of a full blown hatchet, so I will try the Viet hawk and if it doesn't "cut it" (pun intended) I will be off to the Wetterlings store for a hunters axe.

Carl-
 
I am going to try that for a while and see how I make out.

Tried a woodmans pal for a while, and I love it for car camping and to throw in the truck, but after the wilderness course in Oregon, I think I need more of a hatchet or hawk. Still struggling with the weight of a full blown hatchet, so I will try the Viet hawk and if it doesn't "cut it" (pun intended) I will be off to the Wetterlings store for a hunters axe.

Carl-

Check out the GB Mini if weight is an issue. I think you'll be hugely impressed about how much wood it can eat for its size. Very cool little tool. :thumbup:

Noshterostoveandkit042.jpg
 
The most handy camp tool I have is a hatchet. I use it as much or more than a fixed blade around camp. I have a lot of appreciation for what a big blade can do as well, but it's just not as competent on wood as a hatchet (for me). Hawks are dramatically less useful than either a hatchet or large fixed blade.

I just plain enjoy having an SAK, small fixed blade, and hatchet. But I'd be a happy camper still with the hatchet and either of the other two..


I have pretty much the saem thoughts. A hatchet/axe can be your most versatile tool if you know what you are doing.
 
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