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[NJBillK]

There is also S7 (SR-77) if you remember that one L6, D2(stains a little less but stains) I wouldn't put A2 with O1 or 1095 very different A2 is much more complex than the carbon steels...O1, 52100, 5160 are a better grouping. 5160 Makes a Helluva Chopper.

I wasn't trying to group them as similarly reactive alloys, but more like asking which alloy is SR101 similar to, reactivity wise.

I figured with a wide array of alloys, others (and myself) might get a idea of the maintenance that may be required. That is, if we are accustomed to the alloy that may be closest.

 

[BP_]

I think that would help, I would also wouldn't mind seeing the same comparison with INFI. I know what I've learned on the forums so, the more the merrier.

 

[NJBillK]

Well I guess the only thing left is who has a GW in INFI they want to sell me as my very first Busse blade

I think when I do find "the one," I'm going to go with Kydex upside down belt carry. I really enjoy the comfort of carry in that position, and it works well for me and my long arms.

The three on the right might be grabbing of your attention.
Leaner Meaner Street > Active Duty > GW

 

[BP_]

The AD and GW sure are beauties

I've also become quite fond of the Park Ranger (although that is way down the list currently) as well as the SOB (for a bigger, beefier knife).

What is the steel thickness of the GW's? I believe I've read that they come in several different variations, from thick (for a small knife) to thin. Is this accurate?

 

[Busto]

I think that would help, I would also wouldn't mind seeing the same comparison with INFI. I know what I've learned on the forums so, the more the merrier.

The one I would pick to go head to head with INFI is CPM3V....Forum Search is your friend.

I wasn't trying to group them as similarly reactive alloys, but more like asking which alloy is SR101 similar to, reactivity wise.

I figured with a wide array of alloys, others (and myself) might get a idea of the maintenance that may be required. That is, if we are accustomed to the alloy that may be closest.

From a maintenance stand point most High Carbon steel blades need attention. They will all Patina and will show signs of pitting if not cleaned and oiled that's just Routine Maintenance period. Some including INFI will show signs of overnight flash rusting in a WET environment. I have all the usual suspects 1095, 1084, 1075, W2, CPM M4/3V/ 80CRv2 some really good blade steels I don't baby them but I make sure to clean dry and oil after use. I have a Busse B10 that is out in my barn that I clean with WD40 and scotchbrite belt on the grinder and I use it to prune my Pecan trees and it's crazy sharp just not pretty but it gets flash rust....It's a knife that needs routine maintenance.

 

[BP_]

The one I would pick to go head to head with INFI is CPM3V....Forum Search is your friend.

That's a pretty promising comparison. I'm excited to get my hands on one.

 

[Jaxx]

The AD and GW sure are beauties

I've also become quite fond of the Park Ranger (although that is way down the list currently) as well as the SOB (for a bigger, beefier knife).

What is the steel thickness of the GW's? I believe I've read that they come in several different variations, from thick (for a small knife) to thin. Is this accurate?

Common blade thickness sizes include .14", .17", .19"(usually coated .17's) .22", .27". Custom Shop versions may vary.

 

[BP_]

Common blade thickness sizes include .14", .17", .19"(usually coated .17's) .22", .27". Custom Shop versions may vary.

Thank you. I thought I read that somewhere. I bet the .14" and ."17 slice real nice

 

[Jaxx]

They do.

 

[BP_]

The more that common sense and rationale start to set in, the more I realize a coated SR101 GW in thin stock would do me pretty darn good, just as good as INFI for my EDC uses. Not only that, but I don't feel like I would be settling. Food prep is a drawback with the coating, but it's not impossible if I understand what I've read correctly. I finally put my WTB up, wish me luck

 

[SpyderPhreak]

Don't think we've ever had an actual Busse Game Warden in SR-101. INFI and Elmax only I believe.

Would have to look to Swamp Rat or Scrap Yard models for SR-101 in that size, with the exception of some recent O2W part 1 blades (i.e. Battle Grade Active Duty, shown middle between it's INFI and Elmax cousins).

 

[BP_]

Don't think we've ever had an actual Busse Game Warden in SR-101. INFI and Elmax only I believe.

Would have to look to Swamp Rat or Scrap Yard models for SR-101 in that size, with the exception of some recent O2W part 1 blades (i.e. Battle Grade Active Duty, shown middle between it's INFI and Elmax cousins).

View attachment 768912

Interesting, thank you for the info. I still have a LOT to learn about all the models and variations.

I've really been trying to come around to the Active Duty, but I'm just afraid it would be a little too big for my intended uses. I have a 3.75" custom and I feel 3.6" (?) would not be a step far enough back, I am not a very large person and do not wear huge clothes. I also like the rounded handle on the GW over the longer extension on the end of the AD. I think that (and a little belly in the blade) is the biggest thing for me. Don't want it to poke out from under my shirt.

It's tempting, though, because it doesn't seem like anyone is going to want to let go of any GW's. Especially a coated INFI.

 

[SpyderPhreak]

There is a a black/orange Elmax Warden for sale on the exchange as we speak...

 

[BP_]

There is a a black/orange Elmax Warden for sale on the exchange as we speak...

He bought a sheath for it and took it down, we spoke

It was right in my ballpark for price, too. I'd love a flat ground INFI, but we definitely chatted about the Max Warden. I would have done the same though, he snagged a nice sheath for it

 

[SpyderPhreak]

Ah, my bad... Last I saw it was still up. Just keep watching the exchange, you'll find one.

 

[BP_]

Ah, my bad... Last I saw it was still up. Just keep watching the exchange, you'll find one.

No worries, I appreciate the heads up!

 

[Busto]

Keep an eye open for a Swamp Warden they come up more often than INFI GW...and it would probably be in your wheelhouse on price.

 

[SpyderPhreak]

Keep an eye open for a Swamp Warden they come up more often than INFI GW...and it would probably be in your wheelhouse on price.

I posted a pic of one earlier with my 311 and Rodent 3. Skeleton handle without scales.

SYKCO Scrapivore is another similar option, and the SR-101 was run at 60-62 HRC on those, so they'll have better edge retention at the expense of some toughness.

 

[BP_]

I did take a look. Not sure if I'm a fan of skeleton knives, I like scales. Not to say I couldn't get a set put on any knife I want, but for my very first Busse I don't think I want to put it together. I'll already have to get a sheath (more than likely). I'm really planning on putting this thing to the test. From the woods, to the lake, to the shop, and into the warehouse. There are all kinds of uses. I don't think it's as much indecisiveness as it is price/availability, I am definitely searching for a decent deal. If I did have to move away from the GW, which I really don't want to, I think the closest as far as dimensions and aesthetics is the R3. Correct me if I'm wrong (I may have missed one or two I'd really like, and don't even know it).

 

[Busto]

Someone made scales for those once upon a time, but the demand was not there since they are pretty comfy with cord wrap

I made a set of scales and after 2 weeks I took them off....see what I did there
The Swamp Warden wasn't the same with the scales as I thought it would be to match the GW...